Climbing ropes continue to evolve, reducing weight and increasing strength to meet the demands of climbing in nearly every environment on the planet. From climbing in subfreezing alpine conditions to hot and dry sun baked deserts, there are strong and light ropes for the job.
Dynamic or Static
Most ropes used to climb on are known as dynamic. This means they stretch, reducing force impact on the climber as well as the gear that the rope runs through. Static rope will not stretch, making it a poor choice for catching falling climbers. Static lines are generally used for hauling gear or ascending ropes with special devices called ascenders. Ascenders can slide up a rope in one direction, but lock off in the reverse direction.
Single, Double or Twins
Single ropes are the most common ropes used by climbers. They are about 9 to 11 mm in diameter and 50 to 70 meters in length. In more dangerous circumstances, climbers may choose to use double ropes. These ropes are smaller, say 8 to 9 mm, and clipping them into gear can be alternated, ultimately putting less force on each individual rope in the case of a fall. Twin ropes are even smaller and are meant to be used as one single rope. Double and twin ropes are commonly used when protection is in question.
Fat and Heavy or Skinny and Light
Many climbers feel safe with a thick, fat cord, like an 11 mm, for day to day use. Fat ropes provide a solid feel for belays and rappel securely, but today's ropes are becoming smaller, and even workhorses can be in the 9 mm size. These new ropes have easy action and feel, don't tangle as much and retain their properties longer than less advanced ropes. Some newer ropes are densely constructed to reduce diameter but are just as heavy and slow as a rope with a larger diameter, according to spadout.com
Wet or Dry
A dry rope is really a rope that has been treated with a water-repellent coating that reduces saturation and slows absorption when climbing in the elements. Ice climbers and alpine mountaineers exclusively use dry ropes, but today many climbers will choose a dry treated rope for versatility in all conditions. Since dry ropes are treated, they may have prolonged use over nontreated ropes. According to Bluewaterropes.com, a well cared for rope can last five years.
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