What was recalled
If you are an avid rock climber or a gear enthusiast who shops for high-performance climbing equipment, it is important to know exactly which items are involved in this specific safety alert. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall concerning products manufactured by Salewa USA, specifically those bearing the Wild Country brand name. These are not general outdoor accessories but specialized technical gear known as single cable wire chocks. These devices are critical components in climbing safety systems, designed to be placed into cracks in rock faces to anchor ropes and protect climbers during ascents or descents. The specific products targeted by this recall are the Wild Country Superlight Rocks, identified by the model number 40-RSL, and the corresponding Wild Country Superlight Rocks Set 1-6, which carries the model number 40-RSLSET.
To help you identify whether your gear is part of this issue, it is helpful to understand the physical characteristics and packaging of these recalled items. The Superlight Rocks are single cable wire chocks, a type of protection that relies on a metal cable and cam mechanism to grip rock surfaces. They were marketed in two primary formats: sold individually or as a complete set. When purchased as a set, the package included six distinct units, each differentiated by size and color to help climbers quickly identify the correct piece for specific crack widths. The individual sizes and their corresponding colors were as follows: Size 1 was purple, Size 2 was green, Size 3 was silver, Size 4 was gold, Size 5 was blue, and Size 6 was red.
If you are inspecting your gear to see if it falls under this recall, look closely at the metal body of the chock. The brand name "Wild Country," the product name "Superlight Rocks," and a unique batch code are stamped directly onto the swage—the raised cylindrical part where the cable connects to the cam. This marking is your primary verification point. While the official recall notice does not specify the exact number of units sold or provide a detailed sales timeline, these products were distributed nationally across the United States. The recall was officially announced on July 20, 2023, indicating that any units sold prior to this date may be subject to the safety concern regarding corrosion in seaside conditions.
Understanding the scope of this recall is essential for maintaining safety standards in your climbing activities. These were not inexpensive, disposable items but specialized tools used in serious recreational and professional climbing contexts. The distinction between the individual unit (40-RSL) and the set (40-RSLSET) is crucial because both are included in the remedy program. Whether you bought a single chock years ago or a full kit recently, if it matches the model numbers and branding described above, it is part of this recall. The absence of reported incidents does not diminish the potential risk, making accurate identification of your gear the first critical step in ensuring your safety.
The hazard, explained
When you are hanging off the side of a cliff, every piece of your gear must be trustworthy. The core issue with these recalled Wild Country Superlight Rocks is not a manufacturing defect in how they were originally made, but rather how they react to a specific environmental enemy: salt. These devices are single cable wire chocks designed to be wedged into cracks in rock faces to hold your weight. They rely entirely on the structural integrity of their metal cables to keep you anchored. However, when these particular chocks are exposed to seaside conditions—meaning coastal air that is heavy with salt spray or direct contact with saltwater—a chemical process called corrosion begins to take place.
Corrosion might seem like a slow, surface-level problem, but in the context of high-stress climbing gear, it is dangerous. Salt acts as an electrolyte, accelerating the rusting process far more aggressively than fresh water or humid air alone. Over time, this corrosion eats away at the metal cables from the inside out or along the critical stress points. Because these chocks are designed to be lightweight for climbers who want to carry less weight up a route, they do not have the excess bulk of heavier, more corrosion-resistant alternatives. This makes them particularly vulnerable. As the metal degrades, its tensile strength—the ability to withstand being pulled apart—diminishes silently. You cannot see this weakening with your naked eye until it is too late.
The physical mechanism of failure is sudden and catastrophic. When a climber falls or puts dynamic weight on a compromised chock, the weakened cable may not just bend; it can snap completely. This is what the recall describes as a "fall hazard." If the chock breaks while you are relying on it for support, that anchor point disappears instantly. There is no warning creak or visible sag beforehand. The result is an uncontrolled fall. Even if you are protected by other gear in your system, losing a critical piece of protection can change a manageable slide into a serious accident, potentially leading to injury from hitting the rock face, the ground, or other obstacles. This risk is specific to the interaction between the material composition of these chocks and the corrosive nature of marine environments, which is why the hazard is tied so closely to seaside use.
It is important to understand that this degradation is not immediate. It happens over time as exposure accumulates. A chock used once in a humid garage might be fine for years, but one left on a boat deck or frequently exposed to ocean spray may weaken much faster. The danger lies in the illusion of safety; the chock looks intact on the outside, but its internal structure has been compromised by the salt-induced corrosion, leaving it unable to handle the forces generated during a climb.
Who is most at risk
The individuals most immediately at risk from this recall are active rock climbers who have purchased and use the Wild Country Superlight Rocks or the Superlight Rocks Set 1-6. Specifically, this includes anyone who owns the model number 40-RSL single cable wire chocks or the set with model number 40-RSLSET. These devices are specialized pieces of climbing equipment designed to be placed into cracks in rock formations to secure a climber’s rope. Because their primary function is to hold a person’s weight during a fall, any structural failure can have severe consequences. The risk is not limited to professional athletes; it extends to recreational climbers, weekend enthusiasts, and guide service operators who rely on this specific gear for safety.
A significant factor in the vulnerability of these users is the environmental condition in which the equipment was used. The recall highlights that the hazard arises when the chocks are exposed to seaside conditions. This means that climbers who frequent coastal cliffs, sea stacks, or marine-influenced environments are at a higher risk. Saltwater and high humidity accelerate the corrosion process mentioned in the CPSC report. If a climber has regularly used these chocks on coastal routes, the internal integrity of the cable may have been compromised beyond what is visible to the naked eye. The corrosion weakens the metal, meaning the chock might fail under load even if it appears intact from the outside.
While the recall does not report any incidents in the U.S., the potential for harm is inherently tied to the nature of climbing itself. Climbers are often suspended above the ground or water, relying entirely on their gear to prevent a fall. Unlike a slip on a hiking trail where one might grab onto a tree or rock, a failure in a wire chock during a lead climb can result in a free-fall. This makes the demographic of "active climbers" particularly vulnerable, as they are the ones placing these devices into critical load-bearing positions. There is no distinction in risk based on age or physical strength; if the gear fails, the consequence is determined by the height of the fall and the safety systems in place.
It is also important to note that owners who store this equipment improperly may still be at risk. If chocks were stored in damp garages, near open windows in coastal areas, or in humid environments without proper drying, corrosion could have begun even before use. Therefore, anyone who has owned these specific purple, green, silver, gold, blue, or red chocks since their purchase should consider themselves potentially at risk until they verify the status of their gear. The risk is not just about who uses the gear, but who possesses it in conditions that allow for the described corrosion to occur.
- Climbers using coastal routes: Those who have exposed these chocks to salt spray and high humidity are at the highest risk of structural weakening.
- Owners of model 40-RSL and 40-RSLSET: Only these specific models are affected, but all units should be checked regardless of recent use.
- Lead climbers: Individuals who place this gear to protect their ascent bear the greatest responsibility for its integrity, as a failure directly impacts their safety.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you are an avid rock climber or outdoor enthusiast who has purchased gear from Wild Country in recent years, it is crucial to verify whether your equipment falls within this specific recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a precise range of products that are affected by this safety notice. To ensure you are checking the correct items, you need to look for very specific details on your gear. This is not a broad recall covering all Wild Country products; it targets a particular line of single cable wire chocks known as "Superlight Rocks." If your equipment does not match the exact model numbers and descriptions below, it is likely safe from this specific issue, though always good practice to check general product safety notices for any brand.
The primary identifiers you need to look for are the model numbers. The recall specifically involves Wild Country brand Superlight Rocks with the model number 40-RSL. Additionally, if you purchased a set rather than individual pieces, check for the model number 40-RSLSET, which corresponds to the "Superlight Rocks Set 1-6." These are single cable wire chocks designed for climbing. It is important to distinguish these from other Wild Country products, as only these specific model numbers are subject to this remedy. If your gear has a different model number, it is not part of this recall.
Beyond the model numbers, you can identify the recalled items by their distinctive color-coding system and size indicators. The Superlight Rocks were sold individually in six different sizes, each assigned a specific color to help climbers quickly identify them in the field. You should check your chocks for the following combinations: Size 1 is purple, Size 2 is green, Size 3 is silver, Size 4 is gold, Size 5 is blue, and Size 6 is red. The brand name "Wild Country," the product name "Superlight Rocks," and a unique batch code are located on the swage of the chock. This metal band where the cable connects to the camming mechanism is the key place to look for these markings. If you have a set, it would include one of each of these six colored sizes.
If you are unsure whether you own these items, start by examining the swage on your wire chocks for the "Wild Country" branding and the model numbers 40-RSL or 40-RSLSET. Then, cross-reference the color of your chock with the size guide provided above. If your gear matches these criteria, it is part of the recall. Do not rely solely on the general appearance of the product, as designs can change over time. The model number and the specific batch code are your most reliable verification tools. If you cannot find these markings or if your chocks do not match the described colors and sizes, it is highly probable that your equipment is not included in this recall. However, when in doubt, contacting Wild Country directly with photos of your gear’s markings can provide definitive confirmation.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Wild Country Superlight Rock or a set of them, the most critical first action is to stop using the equipment immediately. This isn’t just a bureaucratic formality; it is a vital safety measure. The recall notice specifies that these cable wire chocks can corrode when exposed to seaside conditions, which weakens the metal and creates a serious risk of breakage. A broken chock while climbing could lead to a fall with potentially severe consequences. Therefore, please take them out of your climbing bag or rack right now and keep them away from any active climbing routes until you have resolved this issue.
Once you have secured the equipment safely at home, your next step is to contact Wild Country directly to initiate the remedy process. The manufacturer has set up specific channels to handle these returns efficiently. You can reach their dedicated support team by calling their toll-free number at 844-412-7013. Please note that this line is operational from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you may also email them directly at SuperlightRockRecall@wildcountry.com. Whether you call or write, have your product details ready, specifically the batch code and model number (40-RSL for individual units or 40-RSLSET for sets), as this will help them verify your eligibility quickly.
After making contact, Wild Country will coordinate a free shipment process for you. You do not need to pay for return shipping or new replacement parts. The company will arrange for a free shipment so that you can send the recalled chocks back to them. This step is designed to be hassle-free, ensuring that financial burden does not prevent you from securing safe gear. Follow their specific instructions carefully when packing and sending the items to ensure they receive your return promptly.
Finally, you will need to decide which replacement option works best for your climbing schedule and needs. When you coordinate with Wild Country, you have two primary choices for your free replacement. You can opt to receive the Wild Country Rocks 40-RWA immediately, which is available for quicker turnaround. Alternatively, if you prefer the newer version, you can choose the new Superlight Rocks, which became available in September 2023. Both options are provided at no cost to you as part of this recall remedy. Choose the one that fits your timeline and contact them again if you have questions about which model is right for you.
If you encounter any difficulties during this process or need further clarification, you can also visit their website at www.wildcountry.com/en-us/product-recalls or navigate to the "Product Recalls" section at the bottom of www.wildcountry.com. These online resources provide additional support and updates regarding the recall status.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own the recalled Wild Country Superlight Rocks or the corresponding set, your primary path forward is straightforward and focused on safety rather than financial loss. The manufacturer, Wild Country, has issued a clear remedy for this recall: they will provide free replacements to any consumer who contacts them. It is important to understand that this is not a standard return-for-refund scenario where you might ship the item back first and wait for a check. Instead, the process is designed to get you safe equipment in your hands as quickly as possible. You are instructed to contact Wild Country directly to coordinate the shipment of your free replacement unit. This direct coordination ensures that the logistics of sending you new gear are handled by their dedicated recall team, minimizing any confusion or delay on your part.
When you reach out to them, you will have two specific options for your replacement, allowing you to choose what best fits your current climbing needs and timeline. First, you can opt to have your recalled Superlight Rocks replaced immediately with the Wild Country Rocks 40-RWA. This model serves as a direct substitute, ensuring that you have functional climbing gear without having to wait for inventory restocks. Alternatively, if you prefer the updated design, you may choose to receive the new version of the Superlight Rocks. Please note that this newer iteration is available starting in September 2023. If you select this option, be aware that there may be a slight delay depending on current stock levels and your location, but it represents the latest iteration of the product line with potential improvements over the recalled model.
To initiate this process, you must reach out to Wild Country using one of their dedicated recall channels. You can call their toll-free number at 844-412-7013, which is staffed from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. This phone line is specifically set up to handle these inquiries efficiently. If you prefer written communication or need to send details about your specific batch code, you can email them directly at SuperlightRockRecall@wildcountry.com. For those who prefer to gather all information before taking action, you can visit their official product recalls page online at www.wildcountry.com/en-us/product-recalls. Alternatively, you can go to the main Wild Country website and click on "Product Recalls" located at the bottom of the page. These digital resources provide comprehensive details about the recall and serve as a central hub for any additional questions you might have before or during the replacement process.
The decision to replace rather than refund is based on the nature of the hazard. Because the issue involves potential structural failure in specific environmental conditions, simply getting your money back does not resolve the safety risk if you continue to use similar gear. By providing a free replacement, Wild Country ensures that climbers have access to certified safe equipment. This approach prioritizes your physical safety over transactional convenience. It is also worth noting that while the recall addresses the corrosion issue in seaside conditions, choosing the newer Superlight Rocks or the Rocks 40-RWA gives you peace of mind knowing you are using gear that has been verified by the manufacturer as safe for use. Do not attempt to repair the corroded cables yourself, as this could compromise the integrity of the chock and lead to dangerous failures during a climb.
In summary, your remedy is free replacement through direct coordination with Wild Country. You have the choice between an immediate substitute (Rocks 40-RWA) or the new Superlight Rocks available from September 2023. Use the provided phone number, email, or website to start this process. This method ensures you are not left without essential climbing gear while maintaining the highest safety standards. The company has made this process as accessible as possible through multiple contact methods and extended customer service hours to accommodate climbers in different time zones who may need assistance outside of standard business times.
What can happen if you ignore it
When you continue to use the recalled Wild Country Superlight Rocks cable wire chocks despite knowing about the potential for corrosion, you are essentially trusting a compromised piece of equipment with your physical safety. The core issue here is not just that the metal might look slightly worn; it is that the structural integrity of the cable has been silently degraded. These specific chocks were identified as hazardous because exposure to seaside conditions—salt spray, high humidity, and corrosive air—can cause internal or external corrosion within the swage area where the wire is secured. If you ignore this warning, you are leaving a critical failure point unchecked.
The most immediate and severe consequence of ignoring this recall is the risk of sudden mechanical failure during a climb. Because the cable can weaken and eventually break under load, the chock may fail to hold your weight or the force of a fall. For a climber, this is not merely an inconvenience; it is a life-threatening situation. A broken chock means a loss of anchor point, which can result in a free fall. Even if you are on a top-rope or lead climb with a belayer present, the sudden shock load from a falling object or climber due to equipment failure can cause serious injury to yourself, your climbing partner, or others nearby.
It is important to understand that this hazard is insidious. Corrosion does not always present obvious visual signs until it is too late. The metal may appear intact on the surface while the internal structure has been compromised by salt infiltration. Therefore, assuming the chock is "fine" because it looks okay is a dangerous gamble. While the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) notes that no incidents have been reported in the United States to date, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the risk is low; it means that, fortunately, no one has yet suffered harm from this specific defect. However, the potential for harm remains real and significant for anyone who continues to use these products in coastal or humid environments.
Beyond the physical danger, ignoring the recall also leaves you without protection or support. By not contacting Wild Country for a free replacement, you are paying full price for equipment that is known to be unsafe. You are also missing out on the opportunity to upgrade to safer alternatives, such as the Wild Country Rocks 40-RWA or the new Superlight Rocks introduced in September 2023. Continuing to use the recalled items means accepting a known risk with no recourse if something goes wrong. Your safety gear is your primary lifeline in the climbing community; treating it with the seriousness it deserves by replacing it immediately is the only way to ensure you stay protected on the rock face.