information for school assignment

Question
what is the difference between various ropes and what is involved with the care and maintenance. this must inculde storage.

Answer
Dear Ashley----here is a quick answer:

1. The thicker the rope, the less likely it is to be cut.
2. Ropes come as 11 mm, 10.5 mm, 10 mm, 9.8 mm, and for double ropes (using two at the same time) double 9 mmm and double 8 mm.
3. Generally, lighter ropes, like 10 mm, are favored in sport climbing, and thicker ropes and double ropes are used for trad climbing and mountaineering.
4. No rope should be exposed to acids, as in battery, or other chemicals.
5. You should reduce sun exposure too.
6. Ropes are stored in cool-dry places.
7. You may go to rope manufacturer websites, or see the instructions attached to your new ropes for guidance and care directions.
8. Manufacturers include Black Diamond, Mammot, and Sterling.
9. Length is another consideration. Most people favor 60 m ropes, but 50 m and 70m ropes also come into play.



For more on climbing safety and rope selection, please see, my book, "Ultrasafe, A Guide to Safer Rock Climbing," available at Amazon.com.

Good Luck

George Allen