Comparing Climbing Ropes

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.

  1. 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.