Hexes and cams both protect medium-to-wide cracks but work differently. A hex is a cheap, light, passive six-sided wedge that also cams slightly; a cam is an active spring-loaded device that grips parallel cracks and places fast. Cams dominate today, but hexes remain a budget and winter option.
| Aspect | Hexes | Cams |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Passive (slight cam) | Active (spring lobes) |
| Crack type | Constrictions & wide | Parallel & flaring |
| Speed to place | Slower | Fast |
| Cost & weight | Cheap, light | Expensive, heavier |
| Cold / ice | No moving parts to freeze | Can freeze or clog |
Choose hexes when…
- You're building a budget rack
- You need wide-crack protection cheaply
- Conditions are icy or wintry
- You value durability
Choose cams when…
- The crack is parallel-sided
- You need fast placements
- You want maximum convenience
Verdict
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between hexes and cams?
A hex is a passive six-sided metal wedge that holds by wedging (and cams slightly); a cam is an active spring-loaded device whose lobes expand to grip parallel cracks. Cams place faster and protect more crack shapes; hexes are cheaper, lighter, and freeze-proof.
Are hexes still used?
Less than they once were, having been largely replaced by cams, but they remain a valid, economical choice — especially for beginner racks, wide cracks, and icy conditions where moving parts can freeze.
Which is cheaper, hexes or cams?
Hexes are far cheaper than cams, which is a big reason they appeal to beginners building a first rack on a budget. A full set of cams is one of the most expensive parts of a trad kit.
Related: Hexes · Cams · Nut · Passive protection