Learning how to tie rock climbing ropes is essential to a fun and safe rock climbing experience. You want to eventually be able to reach a high level of ability in rope tying so that you’re able to tie these knots quickly and securely both for yourself and for your friends who will be rock climbing with you. Read through the steps below and spend a lot of time practicing.
To tie rock climbing ropes, you will need:
-
Rock climbing rope
-
Karabiner
-
Tie an overhand knot. As a basic knot, it’s vital that you learn how to tie this one so that you have an easier time learning other knot styles. Begin with a loop, otherwise known as a crossing turn. Take the loose end of the rope and insert it in the loop. Pull it through the other side. Now, tighten the knot.
-
Tie a figure eight knot. This is one of the easier knots to both tie and untie. Just like the name of the knot, use your rock climbing rope to make a figure eight. There should be enough rope to make a second figure eight. Now, feed the end through the loop. Pull the end to tighten it.
-
Tie a clove hitch knot. Another essential knot for beginners is this hitch. It’s typically used for attachment to a karabiner. Set up the knot with two crossing turns facing opposite to each other. Put the loops over each other. Now, open the karabiner to insert the combined loop, and then secure it.
-
Tie a bowline knot. Although less secure, this knot is internationally recognized and best used for anchoring such as around a tree. Start by making a loop with your rock climbing rope. Take the hanging end of the rope and pass it through the loop you made. Pass the same end through the loop again but this time through the back of the rope’s standing part. Finish it off by tightening the knot.
-
Tie a Prusik knot. The best way to climb up a rope is by using this knot. Make a loop by tying both ends together. Take this knot and place it behind the rope that you’ll be ascending. Turn it around the rope of ascension two times. For the second turn, the knot should go through the first loop that was created. Be sure to tighten the knot.
