Overall Rating
- Weight(3.5)
- Carabiners ergonomics(5)
- Safety inspection(4)
- Flexibility and manoeuvrability(5)
Summary
A via ferrata set complete with accessories, which stands out for its ergonomic design and ease of use. The large carabiners, anti-twist swivel and integrated belay loop make progress easier and faster, especially on longer and more challenging routes.
Pros
- Ergonomic carabiners with a wide opening
- Effective swivel
- Integrated belay loop
Cons
- A considerable weight
The Black Diamond Easy Rider is a high-end via ferrata set designed for those who regularly tackle equipped routes and are looking for a product that makes progression smoother and more controlled. Its distinctive features include large, ergonomic carabiners, an anti-twist swivel and an integrated belay loop, features that improve the handling of the set whilst climbing and during rest stops.
Technical features of the Easy Rider
- Weight: 585 g
- Standard: CE EN 958:2017
- User weight: 40 to 120 kg
- Integrated belay loop in the swivel for attaching an additional carabiner
- One size fits all
- Materials: carabiners made from light aluminium alloy, swivel made from stainless steel, and slings made from highly wear-resistant polyester and polyamide
- Made in Europe
- List price: €140
Test mode
I tested the Black Diamond Easy Rider during the spring of 2026 on various via ferratas in the Cuneo Alps, including the Camoglieres via ferrata, the Alpini via ferrata on Monte Oronaye in the Maira Valley, the Funs via ferrata in Entracque in the Gesso Valley, and a number of routes equipped with steel cables. The tests took place in generally favourable weather conditions, allowing me to assess its ergonomics, ease of use and smoothness of movement on the various equipped sections.
Easy Rider Via Ferrata Set on-site test
First impressions
Right from the first time I used it, the Black Diamond Easy Rider conveys a sense of solidity and high-quality construction. The large carabiners, the steel swivel and the compact energy absorber immediately hint at the product’s premium positioning.
Before the test, I checked the actual weight of the set, recording 572 g on my scales compared to the 585 g stated by the manufacturer – a figure perfectly in line with that given in the technical specifications. Once worn, all the components are well organised and easily accessible.
Ergonomics of the carabiners
The large carabiners are one of the Easy Rider’s main strengths. The ergonomic lever and wide opening make clipping in and out quick and easy, even on the steepest sections or when fatigue starts to set in.
During the test, I always used the set whilst wearing gloves, without ever encountering any difficulty in manoeuvring. Even after numerous anchor changes, the grip remains secure and natural.
Anti-twist swivel
The most distinctive feature of the Easy Rider is the steel swivel positioned between the heat sink and the elastic arms. Whilst moving, it keeps the slings neatly organised at all times, minimising the tangles that normally form after numerous changes of direction.
The benefit is particularly evident on traverses and on more complex via ferratas, where the body’s constant movement tends to cause the set to twist. Whilst not essential for safety, it significantly improves the fluidity of movement and reduces minor time losses caused by twisted lanyards.
Integrated belay ring
An interesting feature is the ring integrated directly into the swivel, designed to quickly attach an extra carabiner during belays.
It does not replace a dedicated lanyard, but provides a practical solution for quickly creating a resting point without adding further equipment to the harness.
Bulk and handling on the harness
The chill fin is compact and stays securely in place on the harness without taking up much space. Even after several hours of use, I didn’t notice any interference with the rest of my kit or any discomfort whilst climbing.
Although it is not the lightest set in its category, the 572 grams recorded during the test are fully justified by the presence of the swivel and other technical features.When in use, the weight goes virtually unnoticed.
Elastic arms
The elastic arms offer a wide and well-balanced range of movement, a feature that is particularly appreciated during the more athletic sections or when you need to reach the next cable with your body fully extended.
Once the pull is complete, they quickly return to their original length without getting in the way. In combination with the swivel, they help keep the set tidy at all times and ready for use even after numerous changes of direction.
Final thoughts
After several outings, the Black Diamond Easy Rider has proved to be a well-designed via ferrata set, in which every technical feature serves a real purpose in the field.
None of its features is revolutionary in its own right, but the combination of ergonomic carabiners, an anti-twist swivel and a belay loop makes progression smoother and more organised. It is one of those products which, with repeated use, tends to simplify the small, repetitive movements carried out dozens of times during a via ferrata, enhancing the overall experience without ever drawing attention to itself.
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Recommended for
The Black Diamond Easy Rider is a via ferrata set designed for those who regularly tackle equipped routes and want a product that genuinely enhances the climbing experience.
It is particularly useful for those who regularly tackle via ferratas and technical routes lasting several hours. In such situations, the time and energy savings offered by this set are particularly appreciated.
