Totems Cams: The One You Can’t Afford to Leave Behind
Trad climbing is all about trusting your gear—and when you’re 50 feet up, staring at a sketchy placement, that trust matters more than ever. If you’ve been climbing for a while, you know not all cams are created equal. Some place well in certain rock types, while others feel like a struggle no matter the conditions.
Enter the Totem Cam—a piece of gear that every serious trad climber needs in their rack. Designed with a unique Direct Loading System, narrow head width, and exceptional holding power, Totem Cams have earned a reputation for being the most reliable and versatile cams on the market. But what makes them so special? Let’s break it down.
1. Superior Holding Power: When Every Placement Counts
What Makes Totem Cams Different?
Most spring-loaded camming devices (SLCDs) distribute force through their lobes in a standard fashion. Totem Cams, however, use a Direct Loading System (DLS), meaning the load is directly applied to each lobe—not just through the axles like in traditional cams.
Why This Matters:
- More even force distribution = better grip in marginal placements
- Higher friction in smooth rock types (like Yosemite granite or Red Rock sandstone)
- Reliable holding power in less-than-perfect cracks
Real-World Example: Ever placed a cam in a flaring, sketchy crack and wondered if it would actually hold? Totem Cams excel in these situations, where standard cams might walk or slip out.
2. Versatility Across Rock Types & Placements
A good cam should work everywhere, from perfect parallel cracks to weird, pin-scarred placements. Totem Cams are known for their versatility, making them ideal for a variety of climbing destinations.
Best for:
✅ Yosemite’s slick granite (where smooth rock requires maximum friction)
✅ The Gunks’ horizontal cracks (thanks to a flexible stem that reduces walking)
✅ Indian Creek splitter cracks (wide range and bomber placements)
✅ Rattly pin scars (places where other cams may not fit well)
Pro Tip: If you only have space for one cam on a tricky route, you’ll want it to be a Totem.
3. Narrow Head Width = More Placement Options
Ever tried to place a cam, only to realize it won’t fit because it’s too wide? That’s a common problem with many traditional cam designs.
The Totems Cams Advantage:
- Narrow head width allows it to fit into thin, shallow, or irregular placements
- Ideal for aid climbing and pin scars
- More placement options mean better protection overall
Bonus: Aid climbers love Totem Cams because they can function with just two lobes engaged, something most cams can’t do.
4. Totems Cams are Easier to Clean (No More Struggles!)
Ask any trad climber, and they’ll tell you: Some cams are a nightmare to remove. Whether it’s because they walk deep into cracks or have awkward trigger mechanisms, certain cams can turn into a battle just to retrieve.
Why Totems Are Different:
- More flexible stem reduces cam walking
- Smooth trigger action = easier control
- Less stuck gear = fewer headaches
Pro Tip: If you’ve ever spent 30 minutes trying to unstick a cam, you’ll appreciate how Totem Cams minimize this frustration.
5. Trusted by Pros & Weekend Warriors Alike
Totem Cams aren’t just a gimmick—they’re used by some of the best climbers in the world, from big-wall crushers in Yosemite to weekend warriors at local crags.
What Climbers Are Saying:
- “My Totem Cams have saved my ass more times than I can count. They fit where nothing else does.” – Sam
- “In marginal placements, Totems are my go-to. They feel more secure in tricky spots.” – Jessie
- “Best cam I’ve ever owned. If I could replace my whole rack with Totems, I would.” – Alex
Want proof? Check out Instagram or YouTube—you’ll see climbers raving about their Totem Cams everywhere.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Totem Cams?
If you’re a trad climber looking for maximum holding power, versatility, and reliability, Totem Cams deserve a place on your rack.
Why Climbers Swear by Them:
✅ Unmatched holding power in marginal placements
✅ Works in shallow cracks, pin scars, and horizontals
✅ Narrow head width fits where other cams won’t
✅ Flexible stem reduces walking & makes cleaning easier
✅ Used by top trad climbers and big-wall adventurers
Where to Buy: Right here
Climbing Tip: If you’re building a new rack, start with a mid-sized Totem (Yellow or Blue)—you’ll quickly see why they’re a favorite among climbers.
Happy climbing, and stay safe out there!
