Provided is a braking system for use with an extension ladder having a base section and a fly section movable relative to the base section via an adjustment rope. The braking system includes a first and a second position. When tension is applied to the rope, the spring mechanism allows upwards or downwards movement of the fly section relative to the base section. When tension is removed from the rope, the spring mechanism slows or resists upwards or downwards movement of the fly section relative to the base section regardless of the fly section's position relative to the base section.