Comparing Climbing Ropes

Rock climbing rope

A climbing rope is an essential piece of equipment for rock climbing, mountaineering and ice climbing. It is important to select a rope that is best suited for the particular type of climbing you will be enjoying.

Rope Diameter

Single ropes that are used for rock climbing and mountaineering generally have a diameter between 9.7 and 11 millimeters. Ropes that will be used in pairs, such as for ice climbing, generally have a diameter between 7.8 and 9.1 millimeters.

Rope Length

Many modern sport climbs require a 60- or 70-meter rope for climbers to safely rappel without using a second rope. Generally, 50-meter ropes are appropriate for mountaineering and ice climbing use.

Rope Treatments

Ropes that will be used for mountaineering and ice climbing should have a dry treatment to ensure water does not affect their dynamic properties. Ropes for rock climbing generally do not need dry treatment.

Rope Durability

All climbing ropes are tested and rated to be safe for a certain number of International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation or UIAA "falls." Ropes with a higher rating are best used for sport climbing, during which falls are generally more frequent.

References

• UIAA Safety Standards: Dynamic Ropes