Climbing ropes are the crucial component to safe climbing. Since the climbing environment is a changing medium, there are several key points to consider when selecting what rope is best for the job. General, moderate mountaineering may call for a light, thin rope, used only in the most extreme cases, while weekend rock climbing would require a thicker, stronger rope to catch slipping climbers as they practice. Some can have multiple uses, and all are the life line in climbing.
Types
All climbing ropes are made of an incredibly strong nylon core, and protected by a sturdy and abrasion-resistant sheath. This "kernmantle" design, according to the website New England Ropes, provides superior handling and protection. Climbing ropes are dynamic, and are designed to stretch when loaded to absorb shock in the event of a fall. Other "static" ropes do not stretch, and are not suitable for climbing, but have other applied climbing uses, like hauling equipment, or in rescue situations.
Single Ropes
Single ropes are the workhorses of climbing as a sport. They are designer to be used in a variety of conditions, and fall somewhere in the middle of light and heavy weight. These ropes are generally 9.7 to 10.5 cm in diameter, leaving them at the thicker end of the rope spectrum. According to REI.com, these ropes are the best all-around ropes, and will meet the needs of most climbers. Thinner single ropes, 9 to 9.5 cm, are much lighter and are a choice of weight-conscious climbers.
Twin Ropes
Twin ropes are two ropes used together as one. They are only 7 to 8 cm in diameter, making them light and easy to handle. When used correctly, they have the highest fall rating of all other rope systems, meaning that they can withstand more force and abuse than other ropes. These ropes are used in situations where it may be necessary to escape or retreat at any given time. They can be tied together, or used independently.
Half Ropes
Half ropes are 8 to 9 cm in diameter, and are a common choice of rope for ice climbers and mountaineers trying to up the safety factor in their outing. With half ropes, climbers alternate clipping them into placed protection along the ascent. This puts less force on each line in the event of a fall. It also insures a back-up line in case one rope is damaged, according to REI.com.
More Rope Considerations
Ropes can come with added treatments that repel water, chemicals and UV rays. Most commonly, ice climbers will choose these options, due to constant saturation and freezing of ropes in winter conditions. Length is another important detail. Many climbers choose 50- to 70-m ropes for all-around use, but others may opt for longer or even shorter, depending on their climbing habits. In general, 60 m is suitable.
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