REASONS TO BUY
Classic design
Made of steel
Easy to use
Good value
REASONS TO AVOID
Steel is a little soft
Not available in many places
Kong Fiffi Hook Review
Kong Fiffi Hook
Credit: Kong.it
Our Verdict
The Kong Fiffi is probably the longest selling fifi hook on the market. It's a time-tested design that many Yosemite climbers have used and loved. It was my first fifi hook and I would still reach for it today. I don't know why Kong spells Fiffi with two f's. It makes it confusing when you search for it on the web pretty much everyone else spells fifi with one f.
If I had to buy a fifi today, I would probably get this one because it is one of the cheapest, I have used it a lot and I'm comfortable with it. That said, if the sewn runner on the Black Diamond Fifi Hook is the right length for you, then you might go with that one because it is light and comes in cool colors. I would also give the Petzl Fifi Hook a look.
Our Analysis and Test Results
Likes
It's a classic design that has been around forever. It is made of steel, which gives it a hefty-ish feel. You can almost always find it right away. It has the little hole on top that soloists and people who like to think of big wall hauling trickery will like (I never use it). I have used this fifi hook more than any other and dig it.
Dislikes
The steel is a little soft. It is possible to bend it if you are not careful. This has only happened to me once, but it's something to keep an eye out for. It is also a little hard to find, although they usually stock it in the Yosemite Mountain Shop.
Best Application
Any aid climbing or big wall situation.
Value
This is the best value in a classically designed fifi hook. It is $4.50 cheaper than both the Black Diamond Fifi Hook and the Petzl Fifi Hook. The only cheaper fifi is the Kong Resting Fiffi.
—
Chris McNamara