Several climbing knots work well to ascend a single main climbing line. Known as friction knots, they tighten under load to bear the weight of a climber. When the load lifts, the knot loosens. The climber then slides the knot up the main line. This repeated on-and-off tension and sliding allows a climber to ascend a main line. One of the easiest friction knots to use is the Klemheist knot. While you can ascend with one knot for the seat harness and one for a foot, using three knots distributes weight and strength across both legs, making climbing easier.
Step 1
Tie the ends of an 8-foot length of small diameter rope with a double fisherman's knot. Repeat this step with two other 8-foot ropes. This will create three large rope loops.
Step 2
Fold one of the loops flat with the fisherman's knot near one end and a bend in the other end.
Step 3
Wrap the bend around a larger-diameter main line three times. Ensure the lines in the wraps lay flat and do not overlap the rope. Adjust the wraps so they end in a small loop at the top that hangs down to near the bottom of the wraps. Pass the end of the larger loop with the fisherman's knot through the small loop. Grab the wraps and small loop with one hand and pull the larger loop tight. This forms a Klemheist knot. Repeat this procedure with the other two loops. This attaches both the foot loops and seat loop on the main climbing line.
Step 4
Attach the large loop on the uppermost Klemheist knot to your seat harness using a locking carabiner. Put your right foot in the large loop on the middle Klemheist knot and your left foot in the bottom knot loop.
Step 5
Push the top knot up as high as it will go on the main line. Raise your right foot off the ground and slide the middle knot up as high as it will go. Stand up on the loop on the middle knot. Move the bottom knot up against the middle knot and stand on both loops to distribute your weight. You are now ready to ascend.
Step 6
Loosen the top Klemheist knot and slide it up as high as you can. Tighten the knot and rest in your seat harness, letting the knot hold your full weight. Bend your legs and move the middle and bottom Klemheist knots up to the top knot. Stand up on the loops. Continue to repeat this procedure to ascend.
Things You'll Need
- 3 lengths of small-diameter climbing rope, 8 feet each
- Larger-diameter main climbing rope
- Climbing harness
- Locking carabiner
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