How to Buy Your First Climbing Rope

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

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The rope is the most important piece of climbing equipment you will own, so choose it well.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Credit Cards And Loans
Climbing Gear
Climbing Harnesses
Climbing Helmets
Climbing Ropes
Climbing Shoes

Step1

Get a "single dynamic lead rope" certified by the UIAA, the International Moutaineering and Climbing Organization. Dynamic ropes are stretchy to help them absorb the impact of falls.

Step2

Buy a durable one that can stand a lot of thrashing - beginners tend to accidentally abuse ropes as they learn the climbing game.

Step3

Buy a rope at least 50 meters (165 feet) long. Ropes shorter than 50 meters are dangerously short.

Step4

Purchase a rope 11 millimeters in diameter. These are best suited for beginners.

Tips & Warnings

Ropes that have a soft, subtle feel when brand-new are not the most durable. A stiff rope will be more durable.
Always use a rope that is certified by the UIAA as a climbing rope.
Never use towropes, clotheslines, sailing lines or any other type of rope for climbing.
Rock climbing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.