The Variable Controller was one of the first devices to move belay plates onto another level with its wedge shaped design, usable in two performance modes to give more stopping power or less friction depending on circumstance.

This combined the best attributes of ‘flat’ plates with the best of the ‘deep’ plates meaning that when belaying rope could be fed quickly, but when abseiling more friction could be applied.

However, since we now have the even more refined VC Pro 2 we have slightly widened out the slots on this original device to give extra performance on single ropes, making the VC better for indoor walls and single pitch routes.

This means that the VC is most suited for ropes from 9mm to 11mm rather than the more modern super skinny trad ropes where the new VC Pro pulls rank.

The VC is great value remains a solid and reliable tool in any climbers armoury and a great choice for climbers maybe not heading for the most extreme challenges.

Set available with Synergy HMS Karabiners.