Alternative to the Cordalette

A cordelette is a loop of nylon webbing, paracord or Spectra Cord that is between 10 and 20 feet in circumference. The cordelette is a quick and easy-to-set-up anchor that can be safely used in rock climbing and mountaineering. Regardless of the anchor system you choose, it should be "secure, equalized, and redundant with no extension" -- a mantra that climbers shorten to "SERENE."

  1. Web-o-Lette

    • The Web-o-Lette is priced around $20 as of 2010 and is lighter than a traditional cordelette, according to its manufacturer, Mountain Tools. The main difference between a Web-o-Lette and a cordelette is that a Web-o-Lette is constructed from thin tubular webbing that has been sewn, as opposed to tied.

    Trango Alpine Equalizer

    • The Trango Alpine Equalizer is a pre-rigged, self-equalizing anchor. Note that the Alpine Equalizer will extend in the event of the failure of one gear placement unless you tie a large overhand knot in the center. As of 2010, the suggested retail price of the Trango Alpine Equalizer was about $36.

    Climbing Rope

    • The most basic anchor that you can make is constructed out of the climbing rope itself. You can use a section of the rope like a cordelette or tie off to multiple anchors independently. Alternatively, you may simply tie your rope around a bombproof tree and use this large loop as your anchor.