Let’s Dive into Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are a staple in any climber’s, mountaineer’s, or arborist’s gear bag. These simple, yet incredibly strong sewn slings from Edelweiss provide a versatile and reliable connection point for anchors, extensions, and personal safety systems. I’ve seen them used for everything from building bombproof belay stations on alpine climbs to rigging temporary support systems in urban search and rescue scenarios, and their consistent performance is why they remain a trusted tool.
My journey to these slings began with a need for bombproof anchor building components. I was tired of relying on bulky chains or complex rigging systems that were heavy and time-consuming to deploy. I needed something simple, lightweight, and incredibly strong, and Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, or rather, extracting them from their minimalist packaging, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the nylon webbing. They felt substantial, yet surprisingly light. The stitching was clean and precise, indicating a high level of quality control.
Compared to thinner dyneema slings I’ve used, the Edelweiss slings felt much more confidence-inspiring for applications where abrasion resistance was a concern. In contrast to using a length of rope tied into a loop, these are purpose-built and eliminate any question of knot strength or proper tying technique. I ultimately chose these over similar offerings from Black Diamond and Petzl due to Edelweiss’s reputation for durability and value.
My initial excitement was quickly validated by the sling’s solid construction and inherent versatility. They felt like a tool I could truly depend on, and that’s paramount when your life is on the line.
Real-World Testing: Putting Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings to the Test
First Use Experience
My first foray with the Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings was during a multi-pitch trad climb in the Shawangunks. I used a combination of the 60cm and 120cm lengths to extend placements, equalize anchors, and create a personal anchor system (PAS). The rock was dry and offered plenty of solid features for placements.
The Edelweiss slings performed flawlessly in the diverse conditions encountered on the climb. The webbing was easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands, and the flat profile allowed them to sit nicely in cracks and around flakes. Their rigidity also made them easy to clip into, even when wearing bulky gloves.
The ease of use was immediately apparent; no getting used to was necessary. The slings are intuitive and integrate seamlessly into existing climbing systems. The most significant aspect of their functionality was their resistance to twisting and bunching, a common issue with narrower or more flexible slings.
There were no issues at all, and it was reassuring to know I could place them with full confidence. The only surprise was how quickly I began to appreciate the subtle benefits of the wider webbing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in a variety of environments, including ice climbing in the Adirondacks and canyoning in Utah, the Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings have proven to be incredibly resilient. They have faced exposure to abrasive rock, icy conditions, and constant sun exposure.
Despite the harsh treatment, the slings show only minor signs of wear. There are a few cosmetic scuffs and some slight fading of the color, but the webbing remains structurally sound and the stitching is still intact. Minimal maintenance is required; a quick rinse with water after a particularly dirty outing is usually sufficient.
Compared to some of the cheaper nylon slings I’ve used in the past, the Edelweiss slings have significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and resistance to abrasion. Their lifespan is proving to be considerably longer, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Breaking Down the Features of Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings
Specifications
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are constructed from burly, rigid flat nylon webbing. This woven construction results in a sling that resists abrasion and maintains its shape under load. The sling is rated to a strength of 22kN (kilonewtons). This robust rating offers a high margin of safety for climbing and rigging applications.
The width of the webbing is 18mm/.70″. This width provides a good balance of strength, flexibility, and ease of handling. They are available in various lengths to suit different applications: 30cm (26 grams), 60cm (48 grams), 120cm (92 grams), 180cm (137 grams), and 240cm (181 grams). These varying lengths provide ultimate versitility for many end-user scenarios.
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are CE and UIAA certified EN566. This certification ensures that the slings meet stringent safety standards and have been thoroughly tested.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the safety and performance of the sling in real-world situations. A higher kN rating provides a greater margin of safety, and a wider webbing generally offers better abrasion resistance. Certification provides peace of mind that the product has been rigorously tested and meets industry standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings excel at their primary function: providing a strong and reliable connection point. They are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, including anchor building, extending placements, and creating personal safety systems. The slings’ rigidity makes them easy to clip and unclip, even with gloves on.
The slings’ strength and durability are its greatest strengths. The only area for improvement might be to add a slightly more flexible section on the loops. Despite the rigidity, they fulfill and even exceed expectations of a standard nylon sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings feature a simple, functional design. The flat webbing is comfortable to handle and sits well against the body. The weight is negligible, especially considering the strength and durability offered. The design isn’t flashy, but it’s effective and confidence-inspiring.
The slings are very user-friendly. There’s no learning curve; they are ready to use straight out of the packaging. Even novice climbers can quickly learn to use them safely and effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and use, the Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings should last for years. They are constructed from high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Regular inspection is critical.
Maintenance is minimal. Keep them clean and dry, and retire them if you notice any significant wear or damage. Repair is not possible, and attempting to repair a damaged sling is extremely dangerous.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are a standalone product, and do not include additional accessories. However, they are designed to be compatible with a wide range of climbing hardware, including carabiners, quickdraws, and belay devices. You can use them with any standard climbing carabiner, and they work well with both locking and non-locking models.
The slings cannot be customized, but they are available in multiple lengths to suit different needs. The lack of customization is not a major drawback, as the slings are designed to be a simple, functional tool.
Pros and Cons of Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings
Pros
- High Strength: The 22kN rating provides a significant safety margin for climbing and rigging applications.
- Excellent Durability: The robust nylon webbing is resistant to abrasion and holds up well under repeated use.
- Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of applications, including anchor building, extending placements, and creating personal safety systems.
- Easy to Use: The slings are intuitive and require no special training or expertise.
- Affordable: The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings offer excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Rigidity: The flat webbing can be slightly stiff, which some users may find less comfortable than more flexible slings.
- Minimalist Design: The slings lack any advanced features or customization options.
Who Should Buy Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings?
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are perfect for climbers, mountaineers, arborists, search and rescue personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and strong connection point. These slings are suitable for both beginner and experienced users.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else may want to consider dyneema slings instead, although they come at a higher price point and offer less abrasion resistance. People looking for highly specialized slings with integrated features, such as adjustable length systems, should also skip this product.
Must-have accessories include high-quality locking carabiners for anchor building and non-locking carabiners for extending placements.
Conclusion on Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings
The Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are a solid, reliable, and affordable option for anyone in need of a strong connection point. Their robust construction and versatile design make them a valuable addition to any gear bag. The strength and durability are well worth the purchase price of $4.49.
I would absolutely recommend these slings to anyone looking for a dependable tool for climbing, mountaineering, or other outdoor activities. If you need a sling you can trust your life to, the Edelweiss 18mm Flat Tape Slings are an excellent choice. Don’t head to the crag without them!