Nuts & Cams

Explore our range of climbing nuts and cams, designed for trad climbing and building versatile protection systems. From lightweight passive protection to reliable active cams, find essential gear for different crack sizes, rock types and climbing objectives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are nuts and cams used for in climbing?

Nuts and cams are pieces of removable protection used in trad climbing. They are placed into cracks in the rock to help protect climbers in the event of a fall. They allow climbers to create secure anchor points without permanently altering the rock.

What's the difference between nuts and cams?

Nuts are passive protection that rely on being wedged into constrictions in cracks. Cams are active protection with spring-loaded lobes that expand to grip the rock.

Do I need a full set of nuts and cams?

A starter trad rack often includes a full set of nuts, as they are lightweight and help develop an understanding of rock features, along with a selection of commonly used cam sizes. As you gain experience, you can expand your rack to suit the routes and climbing areas you visit.

Can climbing nuts get stuck?

Yes. Poor placement or heavy falls can make nuts difficult to remove. A nut tool is an essential part of any trad climbing rack for safely removing stuck protection.