Whether you climb in the Rockies or the Alps, or at an indoor rock climbing facility, the perfect climbing rope will make your mountaineering experience much more enjoyable and a lot safer. There are a lot of different kinds of climbing ropes out there because every summit or rock face is different and you cannot make a rope that is suitable for all conditions. With that said, here are a few pointers to keep in mind so that you will not get overwhelmed when you go to an outdoor shop.
* Snow and rock are very different surfaces and both require a different type of climbing rope. The sheath of a rope designed for snow or ice climbing is specifically treated to repel water. Moisture weakens the core fibers of a climbing rope so this treatment is an extra safety precaution. Rock climbing rope has a tougher sheath meant to resist chafing and abrasion from being dragged over jagged surfaces. You can never switch between the two and expect the same level of performance nor safety.
* If you are a little heavier than average, you have to factor this in your purchase decision. A heavier climber puts more stress on a rope and you have to have a lot of headroom as far as the rated capacity is concerned. Mountain climbing is all about safety and you should always act on the side of caution.
* Add to your budget to get a dynamic rope as opposed to a static rope. As the names imply, a static rope does not stretch and should never be used when the instance of falling is high. In the event of a fall, a dynamic rope will absorb most of the impact and redistribute the force along its entire length. A static rope is unforgiving and if the fall is high enough, it could cause injuries. The only use for static rope in today’s modern outdoor world is for hauling camping supplies up for extended stays.
Camping equipment has to be right for the job. How can your choice of climbing rope be any different? Doing your homework and choosing the right climbing gear now will ensure you peace of mind later.