Climbing Ropes

Dynamic vs. static ropes

• Dynamic: Designed to stretch to absorb the impact of a falling climber
• Static: Stretch very little, so they shouldn't be used in cases where a fall could occur; ideal for rescue, rappelling and hauling

Ropes categories

• Single rope: Most climbers buy single ropes, which are designed to be used by themselves and not with another rope; common for sport and trad climbing
• Half rope: When climbing with half ropes, you use two ropes, clipping alternately for reduced rope drag; common for trad climbing on wandering routes, mountaineering and ice climbing
• Twin ropes: Also a two-rope system, but both strands are clipped through each piece of protection

Diameter and length

• Thinner ropes (about 8.5-9.5mm) are lighter, less durable and require more skill to handle safely
• Thicker ropes are generally more abrasion-resistant; ideal for beginners or frequent use
• Dynamic ropes range in length from 30-80 meters. A 60-meter rope is the standard and will meet your needs most of the time.

Dry treatment

Some ropes include a dry treatment that reduces water absorption. Dry-treated ropes are more expensive than non-dry options.

• Dry-treated: Dry ropes can have a dry core, a dry sheath or both. Ropes with both core and sheath offer the greatest moisture protection.
• Non-dry: A non-dry rope is probably sufficient for sport climbing