The fifi hook is an integral part of aid climbing; used to quickly connect oneself to gear and so provide a third hand. The fifi is also highly useful for technical climbing, alpinism and mixed climbing, although its use comes at a moral price.

The Fifi

A fifi hook is a question mark shaped tool, usually small and generally stamped out of a sheet of steel, or forged out of alloy. It has a large hole at the bottom for connecting to ones harness and a smaller hole at the top for connecting a retrieval cord. It's basic function is to hook into gear and take one's weight. It offers very little strength, and due to its open shape, requires a great deal of care when used. ^[1]

References

1. ^ Andy Kirkpatrick. The Fifi Hook. Psychovertical.com. Retrieved on 2007-02-27.