Rappelling refers to the technique that climbers utilize to progress down the face of the mountain. Even though the basic repelling maneuvers and techniques may seem simple, rappelling remains one of the most dangerous aspects of rock climbing. Allow a rock climbing professional to tie down your anchoring point at the summit of your rappelling location. According to Wilderness Survival, an anchor failure could cause you to plummet to your death. Make sure your safety harness has been properly fastened before commencing with the rappel.
Step 1
Tighten the straps of your protective helmet to ensure it has a snug fit that does not impede your movement. Fold the anchored rope and insert both strands through the large loop of the figure 8 climbing device. Pull the strands of the rope over the smaller loop of the figure 8.
Step 2
Loosen the lock of your rock climbing carabiner and pull back the lever. Fasten the bottom loop of the figure 8 device onto your carabiner. Place your carabiner onto the front loop of your climbing harness. Tighten the lock of your carabiner to secure the rope and figure 8 to your safety harness.
Step 3
Insert your hands into a pair specially designed rappelling gloves. Place your dominant hand around the section of the rope that protrudes out of the bottom of your figure 8. Lean back slowly to put pressure on the rope. Fasten your nondominant hand around the section of the rope that has been tightened.
Step 4
Rotate your body to face the anchored rope while turning your back to the cliff. Loosen the grip of your dominant hand to allow the rope to gradually slide through your fingers. Step back slowly onto the vertical face of the mountain. Tighten the grip of your dominant hand to hold your climbing position.
Step 5
Keep your dominant hand pressed against your corresponding hip throughout the rappelling techniques. Take small steps down the mountain face by releasing the rope a few inches at a time. Lean back to ensure your legs remain perpendicular to the vertical terrain of the mountain. Maintain a balanced rappelling stance by stabilizing the rope with your nondominant hand.
Things You'll Need
- Locking carabiner
- Figure loop
- Climbing rope
- Rappelling gloves
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