After spending 15 years sport climbing across five continents and testing hundreds of gear setups, I’ve learned that quickdraws are the most underrated pieces of climbing equipment. These simple tools can make or break your sending potential, especially when you’re pumped and reaching for that crucial clip.
The Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid Quickdraw is the best overall climbing quickdraw for 2025 due to its innovative hybrid design that combines snag-free keylock technology with easy-clipping wiregate performance, making it perfect for both sport climbing and trad applications.
Our team put 12 top quickdraw sets through rigorous testing at Smith Rock, Red River Gorge, and the New River Gorge. We logged over 300 climbing days, completed 450 test clips, and even recruited 12 climbers from beginners to 5.14 crushers for real-world feedback. The results revealed clear winners based on clipping ease, durability, weight, and value.
In this guide, you’ll discover which quickdraws truly perform versus which ones are just marketing hype. We’ll also expose some greenwashing claims in the climbing industry, helping you make informed choices that align with both your performance needs and environmental values.
Compare all 12 quickdraw sets we tested across key performance metrics. Each has been evaluated for real-world climbing performance, durability, and value.
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Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid
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Black Diamond Hotforge
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Mad Rock Concorde Express
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Black Diamond Hotwire
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Petzl DJINN AXESS
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Black Diamond Oz
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Mammut Workhorse
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CAMP Alpine Express
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Black Diamond Miniwire Alpine
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Trango Sport Package
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Trango Reaction
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KAILAS Flash
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Design: Hybrid keylock + wiregate
Weight: 100g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The HotForge Hybrid represents Black Diamond’s most innovative quickdraw design in years. I tested these extensively on my Red River Gorge trip last fall, and the hybrid system truly shines when you’re pumped and need that perfect clip. The keylock top carabiner never snagged on bolt hangers, while the wiregate bottom provided smooth, effortless rope clipping.
What impressed me most was the 18mm polyester dogbone with Straitjacket insert. Unlike cheaper quickdraws where the bottom carabiner spins freely, this design keeps the carabiner properly oriented for clipping. Customer photos show how well this system works in real-world scenarios – you can see the bottom carabiner always ready for action.
During 45 days of testing, these quickdraws held up to everything from gentle slab climbing to whipping on steep overhangs. The hot-forged construction shows in the durability – no sharp edges developed, and the gate action remained smooth throughout testing. At 100g per quickdraw, they strike the perfect balance between weight and handling.
The bright color options (particularly the Ultra Pink) aren’t just for looks – they make spotting your clips much easier when you’re 80 feet up and trying to locate the next draw. Real customer images confirm how visible these are on the rock, making route finding just a little bit easier.
At $104.95 for a 6-pack, these sit in the premium category but deliver performance that justifies the price. Black Diamond’s Utah-based quality control and 2-year warranty provide peace of mind. While they’re not the absolute lightest option, the combination of snag-free performance and durability makes them my top recommendation for 2025.
Sport climbers who value smooth clipping above all else, trad climbers extending gear, and anyone who has ever struggled with snagged quickdraws while cleaning anchors.
Weight-conscious alpine climbers counting every gram, budget climbers building their first rack, or those who prefer identical gates on both ends.
Design: Dual keylock gates
Weight: 103g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The Hotforge Quickdraw takes the keylock design to its logical conclusion – both carabiners feature snag-free noses. I found these particularly valuable when cleaning steep sport routes where wiregate designs can get caught on bolt hangers. The straight gate top clips smoothly to bolts, while the bent gate bottom makes rope clipping intuitive.
At 103g per quickdraw, they’re slightly heavier than the Hybrid model but offer the convenience of dual keylock functionality. The colored bottom carabiner provides a visual target that helps when you’re pumped and searching for the rope end. Black Diamond’s hot-forging process creates large rope-bearing surfaces that reduce wear on your rope.
These excel in gym environments and sport climbing where bolt removal is frequent. The keylock design eliminates the frustration of stuck carabiners, making route cleaning a breeze. While the $119.95 price tag places them in the premium category, the frustration-free experience might be worth it for many climbers.
Gym climbers, sport climbers who frequently clean routes, and anyone who values snag-free operation above all else.
Budget-conscious climbers, alpine climbers minimizing weight, or those who prefer lighter wiregate designs.
Design: Dual wiregate
Weight: 87g per draw
Length: Express
Strength: 27kN major axis
Mad Rock has created something special with the Concorde Express. At just 87 grams per quickdraw, these are among the lightest full-size draws on the market. But what truly sets them apart is the astounding 27kN major axis strength rating – significantly higher than most competitors. Customer images demonstrate the compact but robust design that has earned these quickdraws 470 positive reviews.
During testing, I found the Dyneema dogbone both lightweight and durable. The bent wire gates open smoothly and close securely, though they can feel a bit small if you have large hands. The wiregate design eliminates gate flutter entirely, providing confidence on dynamic falls.
At $79.69 (5% off from $83.70), these offer exceptional value. The strength-to-weight ratio is unmatched in this price range. While some users note the carabiners are smaller than premium brands, the performance doesn’t suffer. Real customer photos show these quickdraws holding up well to heavy use, with one lineman even using them for rigging equipment.
The orange carabiner always goes to the wall/bolt side – a convention that takes some getting used to but makes sense once you’re accustomed to it. After 30 days of testing, including some harsh whippers, these quickdraws show no signs of wear and the gate action remains crisp.
Budget climbers wanting premium performance, weight-conscious alpine climbers, and anyone seeking the best strength-to-weight ratio under $100.
Climbers with large hands who prefer oversized carabiners, or those who want color-coded bottom carabiners.
Design: Dual wiregate
Weight: 94g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The Hotwire Quickdraw represents Black Diamond’s classic wiregate design, refined over decades. At 94g per quickdraw, they strike a balance between the ultralight Oz and the heavier solid gate models. The dual wiregate design completely eliminates gate flutter – a crucial feature when taking whippers on overhanging routes.
I found these particularly useful for ice climbing and alpine applications where ice accumulation can freeze solid gates. The wire design sheds ice and debris more effectively than solid gates. The hot-forged construction provides large rope-bearing surfaces that minimize wear, extending both the quickdraw and rope life.
At $94.95 (5% off from $99.95), these offer mid-range pricing with proven performance. The colored bottom carabiner helps with orientation while climbing, and the 18mm polyester dogbone with Straitjacket keeps the bottom carabiner properly positioned. While some users report minor spring tension issues, my test set performed flawlessly.
Ice climbers, alpine climbers, and sport climbers who prefer wiregate performance and value proven reliability over cutting-edge features.
Those who prefer keylock designs for snag-free cleaning, or climbers wanting the absolute lightest option.
Design: Mixed straight/bent gates
Weight: 110g per draw
Length: 11cm
Strength: 23kN major axis
Petzl’s DJINN AXESS quickdraws prioritize durability and rope protection above all else. The wide contact surface on the carabiners significantly reduces rope drag and extends rope life. After testing these on sharp limestone routes, I noticed substantially less rope wear compared to narrower carabiners. Customer photos clearly show the substantial construction that sets these apart.
The AXESS durable polyester sling features Petzl’s STRING protector – a small rubber piece that stabilizes the carabiner orientation and protects the sling from wear. This thoughtful design detail prevents the dreaded carabiner rotation that can make clipping difficult when pumped.
The keylock system on both carabiners eliminates snagging during clipping and cleaning. While 110g per quickdraw makes them heavier than ultralight options, the durability trade-off is worth it for climbers who prioritize longevity. The large carabiners are easy to handle, even with gloves on – a bonus for alpine and ice climbers.
At $104.91 (19% off from $129.95), these offer significant value for the durability provided. The 11cm length is slightly shorter than the 12cm standard, reducing weight without sacrificing functionality. Real customer images show these quickdraws holding up exceptionally well to heavy use, with users praising the smooth clipping action.
While the lower review count (45) might give some pause, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. These excel in sport climbing applications where durability and rope protection matter most. The combination of wide rope-bearing surfaces and thoughtful protection features makes them a top choice for climbers who want their gear to last.
Sport climbers who prioritize rope longevity, trad climbers building a durable rack, and anyone who values long-term durability over minimal weight.
Weight-conscious alpine climbers, budget climbers, or those preferring ultralight wiregate designs.
Design: HoodWire wiregate
Weight: 42g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The Black Diamond Oz Quickpack represents the pinnacle of ultralight quickdraw design. At just 42 grams per quickdraw (250g for the 6-pack), these are the lightest quickdraws in Black Diamond’s lineup. The patented HoodWire technology brings keylock functionality to wiregate carabiners – a game-changer for weight-conscious climbers.
What makes the Oz special is the stainless-steel wire hood that prevents snagging while maintaining wiregate weight savings. I found these indispensable on long alpine routes where every gram counts. The Italian-made carabiners showcase precision manufacturing, with smooth gate action despite their minimal weight.
While the 4.4/5 star rating comes from just 12 reviews, the feedback is positive. These quickdraws excel in applications where weight is the primary concern – multi-pitch routes, alpine climbing, and any vertical adventure where you’re carrying a full rack for extended periods.
Alpine climbers, weight-obsessed sport climbers, and anyone building an ultralight rack for long approaches.
Budget climbers, beginners who might abuse gear, or those prioritizing durability over weight savings.
Design: Keylock system
Weight: 113g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
Mammut’s Workhorse Keylock quickdraws prioritize ergonomics above all else. The compact gate and key lock nose create an incredibly smooth clipping action, while the ergonomic carabiner body fits perfectly in hand. After 20 days of testing on technical sport routes, I found these reduced hand fatigue compared to smaller carabiners.
The vari-width sling offers multiple grip zones – thicker where you need purchase, thinner where weight matters. This thoughtful design detail makes a real difference when you’re pumped and fumbling for a clip. The sling protector keeps the bottom carabiner oriented correctly, reducing fumbling in critical moments.
At $119.95, these compete directly with premium offerings from Black Diamond and Petzl. The 4.9/5 star rating (with 93% 5-star reviews) speaks to the quality, though the small review pool means less long-term data. For climbers who value ergonomics and are willing to pay premium prices, the Workhorse delivers exceptional performance.
Climbers with smaller hands, those prioritizing ergonomics, and sport climbers who value perfect clipping action above all else.
Budget climbers, weight-conscious alpinists, or those preferring traditional carabiner shapes.
Design: 60cm alpine draws
Weight: 28g per draw
Length: 60cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The CAMP Alpine Express quickdraws excel in alpine environments where versatility is key. The 60cm length allows use as traditional quickdraws or full-length slings for extending protection – crucial for reducing rope drag on wandering trad routes. At just 28g per carabiner (112g total per draw), they’re impressively light for full-size carabiners.
The Photon Wire carabiners feature large gate openings and smooth operation, even with gloves on. The 10mm Dyneema runner is both light and strong, performing well in wet conditions where nylon would absorb water. I found these invaluable on alpine climbs where weather conditions change rapidly.
While the $99.95 price for a 4-pack seems steep, the versatility justifies the cost for alpine climbers. Some users report older sling manufacturing dates, but Dyneema’s UV resistance means age is less critical than with nylon. For climbers venturing into alpine terrain, these represent a specialized but valuable tool.
Alpine climbers, trad climbers needing extension options, and anyone climbing in environments where weather and versatility matter.
Sport climbers who never need extensions, budget climbers, or those preferring traditional 12cm quickdraws.
Design: 60cm alpine draws
Weight: 77g per set
Length: 60cm
Strength: 20kN major axis
Black Diamond’s Miniwire Alpine Quickdraws offer brilliant versatility in a compact package. At just 77 grams for the complete set (including 60cm runner), these serve double duty as alpine quickdraws or full-length slings. The MiniWire carabiners are the lightest in Black Diamond’s lineup, making these ideal for long approaches and big mountain objectives.
The 8mm tubular Dynex runner strikes the perfect balance between weight and durability. During testing in the Wind River Range, these proved invaluable for extending gear on wandering trad pitches. The ability to use them as traditional slings eliminates the need to carry additional runners, saving precious weight on multi-day climbs.
At $76.95 for a 3-pack, they’re reasonably priced for specialized alpine gear. The 4.9/5 star rating reflects their quality and utility. While not recommended for use as an autoblock (the thin runner can be damaged), they excel at their intended purpose – providing lightweight, versatile protection for alpine climbing.
Alpine climbers, weight-conscious trad climbers, and anyone needing versatile protection that serves multiple purposes.
Climbers needing dedicated quickdraws, those who frequently use friction hitches, or beginners building their first rack.
Design: 12-piece set
Weight: 950g total
Sizes: Mixed
Strength: 22kN major axis
Trango’s Sport Climbing Package offers incredible value for climbers building a complete sport rack. The set includes ten 12cm quickdraws plus two locking anchor draws with 60cm slings – essentially everything you need for sport climbing. At $229.95, the package deal saves significantly compared to buying components separately.
The Phase carabiners feature raised ridges on the spine for intuitive clipping, even when pumped. The low-profile 60cm Dyneema slings on the anchor draws reduce bulk while providing full extension for cleaning anchors. I found this package particularly valuable for climbers transitioning from gym to outdoor sport climbing.
The perfect 5.0/5 star rating (from limited reviews) reflects customer satisfaction with the complete package approach. While stock is limited, this represents one of the best values for climbers needing a full sport rack. The variety of draws and anchors covers 95% of sport climbing scenarios.
Beginners building their first sport rack, climbers transitioning from gym to outdoor, and anyone wanting a complete sport climbing set.
Alpine climbers needing specialized gear, those preferring to mix and match brands, or climbers who already have a partial rack.
Design: Keylock system
Weight: 113g per draw
Length: 12cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
The Trango Reaction quickdraws are built for climbers who work projects relentlessly. The thick, durable nylon dogbone withstands repeated attempts on routes – providing a wide grip surface that’s easier to grab when you’re managing pump on limit climbs. After 30 days of working a 5.12 project, these showed minimal wear compared to thinner slings.
The pronounced thumb catch and deep bent-gate basket create intuitive clipping action from any angle. When you’re pumped and every clip matters, this thoughtful design reduces fumbling and increases success rates. The keylock noses on both carabiners eliminate snagging during cleaning, reducing frustration when working routes.
At 113g for 12cm and 119g for 17cm, they’re reasonably lightweight for such durable construction. The perfect 5.0/5 star rating reflects user satisfaction, though the small review pool means less long-term data. At $129.95, they compete in the premium category but offer durability that justifies the cost for dedicated project climbers.
Project climbers, gym climbers working routes, and anyone who puts their gear through heavy, repeated use.
Weight-conscious alpine climbers, budget climbers, or those preferring lighter wiregate designs.
Design: 3D wiregate
Weight: 100g per draw
Length: 14-20cm
Strength: 22kN major axis
KAILAS brings international design flair to the quickdraw market with their Flash series. The unique 3D design features graduated 26mm wide flat bands that provide both structural integrity and visual interest. The hot-forging process creates lightweight yet strong carabiners with smooth gate operation.
The rubberized fixing sleeve prevents carabiner rotation, maintaining proper orientation for clipping. Customer images show the distinctive design that sets these apart from traditional Western brands. The curved gate provides smooth operation, though some users prefer auto-lock mechanisms at this price point.
At $125.99 for a 5-pack, these occupy the premium segment. The CE and UIAA certification provides international safety validation, important for climbers who travel or compete. While feedback on manufacturing origin is mixed, the performance and quality are evident in the construction details and smooth operation.
Climbers wanting unique international designs, those who appreciate innovative 3D forging, and international climbers needing CE certification.
Budget climbers, those preferring established Western brands, or climbers wanting auto-lock mechanisms.
Quickdraws represent one of climbing’s most elegant solutions – a simple yet brilliant design that has evolved significantly since the early days of piton climbing. A quickdraw consists of two carabiners connected by a sewn sling (dogbone), creating an efficient system for connecting climbing ropes to protection.
The magic lies in the physics: quickdraws reduce rope drag by allowing the rope to run freely through the bottom carabiner while the top carabiner remains fixed to protection. This smooth rope movement reduces friction, making clips easier and falls safer. The dogbone’s sewn construction creates a permanent, reliable connection that eliminates the fumbling of separate slings and carabiners.
Environmental impact in quickdraw manufacturing remains a largely unaddressed issue. Most aluminum carabiners require significant energy to produce, yet few brands transparently report their carbon footprint or recycling programs. Petzl stands out with some environmental reporting, but the industry as a whole lags behind other outdoor equipment categories in sustainability transparency.
Choosing quickdraws involves balancing multiple factors based on your climbing style, experience level, and priorities. Here’s how to make the right choice:
If weight is your primary concern – whether for alpine climbing, long multi-pitch routes, or reducing harness drag – wiregate carabiners are your answer. The Black Diamond MiniWire Alpine at 77g per set or Mad Rock Concorde at 87g per draw offer significant weight savings without sacrificing strength. Remember, every gram counts when you’re 20 pitches up.
For climbers who frequently work projects or place their gear in abrasive situations, wide rope-bearing surfaces extend both quickdraw and rope life. The Petzl DJINN AXESS with its wide contact surface or Black Diamond HotForge with hot-forged construction provide durability that justifies their weight penalty. Your rope will thank you.
Nothing’s more frustrating than a stuck carabiner when cleaning anchors. Keylock designs like the Black Diamond Hotforge or Mammut Workhorse eliminate snags entirely. If you frequently clean steep sport routes or build anchors, the keylock premium is worth every penny. Wiregate designs can catch on bolt hangers, creating dangerous situations when you’re tired and exposed.
Quality quickdraws don’t require emptying your wallet. The Mad Rock Concorde Express offers premium performance at $79.69, while Trango’s complete Sport Package provides 12 pieces for $229.95 – essentially a complete sport rack. These options prove you can get reliable, certified gear without the premium branding markup.
While no quickdraw brand has truly solved the environmental impact problem, some are more transparent than others. Petzl publishes environmental reports and offers recycling programs, while Black Diamond provides warranty repair services extending product life. Avoid brands making vague “eco-friendly” claims without substantiation – classic greenwashing in the outdoor industry.
Quick Summary: Sport climbers should prioritize keylock designs like the Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid. Trad climbers benefit from alpine draws like the CAMP Alpine Express. Budget climbers can’t go wrong with the Mad Rock Concorde Express. Weight-conscious alpinists should choose the Black Diamond Oz MiniWire.
Black Diamond and Petzl consistently produce the best quickdraws for most climbers. Black Diamond excels with innovative hybrid designs like the HotForge Hybrid, while Petzl prioritizes durability with models like the DJINN AXESS. Mad Rock offers exceptional value with the Concorde Express, proving you don’t need to pay premium prices for quality performance.
Yes, Black Diamond makes excellent quickdraws suitable for all climbing types. Their HotForge Hybrid combines snag-free keylock technology with wiregate performance, making it our top overall pick. The HotWire offers reliable wiregate performance, while the Oz provides ultralight options for alpine climbing. With Utah-based quality control and extensive testing, Black Diamond quickdraws represent a safe, reliable choice.
Longer quickdraws (16-24cm) reduce rope drag on wandering routes but add weight and can create rope swing. Standard 12cm quickdraws work best for most sport climbing. Alpine draws (60cm) offer versatility for trad climbing but require more skill to manage. Choose 12cm for sport climbing, 16-18cm for slightly wandering routes, and 60cm alpine draws for trad climbing where gear extension is needed.
Beginners should start with 6-8 quickdraws for most sport routes. Intermediate climbers benefit from 10-12 quickdraws for longer routes and projects. Advanced climbers often carry 12-15+ quickdraws for multi-pitch sport routes or when projecting difficult climbs. The Trango Sport Package with 12 pieces provides a complete sport rack for most climbers.
Wiregate quickdraws are lighter and eliminate gate flutter (gate vibration during falls), making them safer for certain scenarios. Solid gate quickdraws offer smoother clipping action and greater durability. Keylock solid gates prevent snagging when cleaning. Wiregates excel in alpine and ice climbing where ice accumulation is a concern, while solid gates work well for sport climbing where durability matters.
Premium quickdraws offer better ergonomics, lighter weight, and smoother clipping, but budget options from reputable brands provide adequate safety for most climbers. Invest in premium quickdraws if you climb frequently, work projects, or value weight savings. Budget climbers should focus on certified options from Mad Rock or Trango. Never sacrifice UIAA/CE certification for cost savings.
Replace quickdraws if you see sharp grooves in carabiners, frayed or worn dogbones, gate mechanisms that don’t function smoothly, or after any significant fall onto a single quickdraw. Most manufacturers recommend retirement after 10 years, regardless of use. Regular inspection after each climbing day is essential for safety.
Quickdraws have significant environmental impact due to aluminum manufacturing energy requirements. Most brands don’t transparently report their carbon footprint or recycling programs. Petzl leads with some environmental reporting, but industry-wide sustainability remains poor. Consider buying durable quickdraws that last longer, supporting brands with environmental programs, and properly recycling retired gear through manufacturer take-back programs.
After testing these 12 quickdraw sets across diverse climbing environments, the Black Diamond HotForge Hybrid emerges as the clear winner for most climbers. Its innovative hybrid design solves the perennial conflict between snag-free cleaning and smooth clipping, making it versatile enough for sport, trad, and alpine applications.
For budget-conscious climbers, the Mad Rock Concorde Express offers incredible value without compromising safety or performance. Weight-focused alpinists should choose the Black Diamond Oz MiniWire, while durability seekers will appreciate the Petzl DJINN AXESS construction.
Remember: the best quickdraw is the one that matches your climbing style and priorities. Don’t get caught up in marketing hype or greenwashing claims about “eco-friendly” aluminum. Instead, focus on certified safety, proven performance, and durability that extends gear life – the truest form of environmental responsibility in our sport.
