Belay devices are used to secure the climber. They help the person belaying to control the safety rope depending on the situation by exerting a braking force. You can find out which device is best for which purpose in climbing courses guided by professionals and in local specialist shops. Special tip: the DAV recommends semi-automatic belaying devices for securing sport climbing in indoor climbing halls and climbing gardens, as they offer additional blocking support. Devices without blocking support (tube, HMS) are called dynamic belaying devices and are advantageous, for example, in high Alpine terrain and with large differences in weight. Basically, every belaying device must be used and handled correctly. Therefore, you need qualified training and a lot of practice which you can best get on a climbing holiday in Ötztal.