Spectra Slings

Slings 

• Shorter slings (12 in. or less): Sometimes used for tying off pitons 
• Single-length slings (24 in.): Good for alpine quickdraws
• Double-length slings (48 in.): Use to reduce rope drag, extend protection, built two-point anchors or as alpine quickdraws 
• Extra-long slings (72-96 in.): Great for looping large rocks and building three-point anchors

Webbing  

• Tubular webbing is standard for climbing
• Modular webbing is used for lashing gear and backpack straps

Climbing cord  

• Available in diameters from 1mm up to 9mm
• Thicker cord is stronger and more load bearing but also heavier

Materials 

• Nylon and Perlon: Affordable, strong, hold knots well, good stretch and high melting temperatures to handle dynamic falls
• Dyneema, Dynex and Spectra: Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, ultralight and highly UV resistant

Types of climbing skin material 

• Synthetic skins: Typically nylon, these skins are durable, provide great traction and cost less than mohair 

• Mohair skins: Mohair provides excellent glide, solid grip and is decently lightweight when compared to nylon 

• Blend skins: A combination of nylon and mohair, these skins offer an excellent compromise on grip, glide, durability, weight and price 

Climbing skin width: 

• Skins are sold in 5mm increments from about 80mm to 145mm 

• Wider skins equal better traction 

• To get maximum base coverage, subtract 5mm to 7mm from the widest point of your ski 

• Some backcountry skiers choose thinner skins to minimize weight 

Climbing skin length: 

• Skins are sold in ranges of length for maximum compatibility 

• Use the skins’ tail attachment system to fine-tune their length to your skis 

• For single-length skins, you can trim to fit before attaching tip loops