Prismatic belay glasses for added safety when climbing
I'm sure you're all too familiar with this problem: Your climbing partner has been hanging from the roof for three-quarters of an hour and is bouldering his climbing route. As the belayer, you have to look up the whole time so as not to lose sight of him. This sort of situation guarantees neck pain, maybe even a neck sprain. But thankfully, that is now at an end. For some time now, practical prismatic belaying glasses such as those by Power'n Play have been on the market, making neck-saving belaying a reality.
How does it work?
The principle behind the eyewear is as simple as it is efficient: While the belayer gazes straight ahead in a comfortable position, he is actually seeing what's happening above him. This is achieved by the prismatic shape of the eyewear that creates a reflection of what is going on above the belayer. This allows the belayer to support his climbing partner by securing him as needed, even though he is, in fact, looking in another direction entirely. The eyewear is attached to your head with a strap so it doesn't slip off when you're in a hurry.
Worth it if you climb frequently
Though at first it is rather odd to see the world above you through the eyewear, you get used to it very quickly. Its use soon becomes comfortable and intuitive. The advantages are obvious: Say goodbye to annoying neck pain - troublesome stiffness is now a thing of the past. Belay eyewear is suitable for all types of roped climbers, who climb frequently indoors and out. The eyewear is particularly attractive to anyone who already has trouble bending their necks back enough during training. Once you've tried them, you'll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Health hazard: belaying
Medical experts do not yet agree on the health risks incurred by frequent belaying. But because constantly staring upwards is very exhausting for the neck muscles, belaying is suspected of causing chronic pain and bad posture. If you would rather not risk it - try out belaying glasses.
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