About Rock Climbing Sale Rope

Shopping for a rock-climbing rope differs from most shopping excursions because, in this case, you are in the market for an item that can literally save--or end--your life. However, this doesn't mean that you won't find good deals on safe, quality climbing ropes. With some rock-climbing ropes retailing for more than $250, buying a rope on sale simply makes fiscal sense, so long as you know exactly what to watch out for.

  1. UIAA

    • When considering which rock-climbing rope to buy, choosing a safe and appropriate rope designed and tested specifically for rock climbing tops the list of criteria. The rope must have UIAA certification, which means that it has undergone substantial safety testing, as explained in "A Guide to Buying a Climbing Rope," by Dave Karl. Do not buy a rope without this certification, even if it is advertised as a rock-climbing rope.

    Static

    • Indoor climbing gyms often use static rock-climbing rope sold in lengths cut off a spool, but this type of less-expensive climbing rope is not safe for rock-climbing purposes beyond top-roping. Static rope does not elongate significantly when a leading rock climber falls, which can lead to serious injury or death. More expensive dynamic climbing ropes are designed to stretch out and cushion the climber's fall, making them the safer choice. (see References 2)

    Used

    • Do not buy a used rock-climbing rope, no matter what the previous owner claims. Climbing ropes can undergo severe stresses after only a few uses, yet still look fine. The one exception to this rule involves purchasing a climbing rope used lightly during a climbing event, such as the Red Rock Rendezvous. Aim to purchase a rope used in your clinic only for top-roping that has not run over any rough edges.

    Considerations

    • Before shopping sales for a new dynamic climbing rope, narrow your preferences regarding length, diameter and dry treatment. While you will likely find a cheaper price on a shorter rope with a greater diameter and no dry treatment, make sure before buying such a rope that it will actually suffice for the areas where you plan to rock climb. A good deal means nothing if the climbing rope cannot return you to the ground safely.

    Sales

    • Once you know what you're looking for in a climbing rope, keep an eye out for rock-climbing rope sales at trusted and qualified rock-climbing gear retailers such as REI, EMS and Sierra Trading Post. This allows you to shop with the certainty that the retailer possesses the knowledge and experience to offer you only UIAA-certified climbing ropes manufactured and sold specifically for rock-climbing purposes.