Wild Country

Overview

Wild Country manufactures rock climbing equipment, most noted for introducing the Friend spring-loaded camming device in 1977. The company produces a range of climbing gear including harnesses, nuts, carabiners, and belay devices from its base in the UK Peak District. It expanded from camming devices to broader climbing equipment while focusing on incremental innovations.¹²

History

Wild Country was founded in 1977 by British climber Mark Vallance after collaborating with Ray Jardine to manufacture Jardine's spring-loaded camming device prototypes, initially called Friends. The company established a factory in the Peak District and expanded into harnesses, nuts, carabiners, and other gear. In 2012, it was acquired by Italian manufacturer Oberalp.¹²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Most Wild Country products are manufactured in China, with smaller runs of specialized items like the Superlight range made in the UK. The company maintains its design and development base in Tideswell, Peak District.²

Notable Products

• Friend - Original spring-loaded camming device for trad climbing protection.
• Revo - Assisted-braking belay device noted for safety features.
• Helium Friends - Lightweight camming devices for reduced weight.
• Rockcentrics - Hybrid nuts and hexes for versatile placements.
• Zero Cams - Smallest cam devices for micro-cracks.

Reputation

Wild Country is regarded by climbers for reliable, innovative gear stemming from its Friend heritage and Peak District roots. Professionals value its incremental improvements like curved nuts and load-spreading harnesses. Some note production in China for most items, though specialized UK-made pieces maintain quality perception.²³