The history of rope goes back to ancient times, when reeds and vines were twisted together to form stronger, longer units. After hundreds of years of evolution, rope would come to serve climbers looking to summit previously unreachable destinations. This relationship between climber and rope would ultimately come to revolutionize rope technology in construction and material.
Origins
The first ropes used in climbing were very simple and non-specialized. The first applications of climbing rope were made by mountaineers who used the ropes to help ascend steep rock faces. These ropes were made of animal or plant fibers, woven together by hand or more likely by a form of cordelier, or rope making machine. These ropes had many problems, including bad strength to weight ratio, stiffness, durability and elasticity.
Synthetics
Synthetic materials began to make significant changes to climbing ropes in the mid-20th century. Materials that includede nylon began to be integrated into ropes used for mountaineering and rock climbing, an emerging sport at the time. Synthetic materials had several benefits. They were more elastic, which helped absorb the impact of falling climbers. They were lighter for their given strength rating and they were more durable. In addition to the introduction synthetic materials, cordage machines had also evolved to allow for tighter weaves and stronger ropes.
Kernmantle
The invention of the Kernmantle rope in 1953 by German company Edelrid is perhaps the most significant development in climbing rope history. The Kernmantle rope featured a revolutionary design, which placed a strong synthetic rope core within a braided nylon sheath. Kernmantle ropes had increased elasticity and strength, but they also solved two major problem for rock climbers, namely un-twisting and rope wear. Rock climbers were often faced with the problem of twisting ropes that spun them when they released from hand-holds. Because the Kernmantle rope featured a core and sheath design, un-twisting was all but eliminated. The sheath also solved the problem of rope wear. As ropes rubbed on racks and climbing equipment, the outer sheath protected the inner core which that provided the majority of the rope's strength.
Modern
Modern climbing ropes are available in a wide variety of materials, widths and feature sets. The major evolution with modern rope design is the production of ropes for specific climbing purposes, rather than using one rope for all types of climbing. Modern ropes may be designed to work as a pair, as with twin-style ropes; as ultra-lightweight rope for very long climbs, as with skinny singles; or for specific environmental conditions, as with water-proof or water-resistance ropes.
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