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
Read full article: How to Choose Climbing Ropes
