Can I still use my ropes?

Question
I've seen other answers to this question, but none of them really address my
situation.  I have been climbing for about ten years and my two ropes are
both quite old, one is ten and the other is 7-8 years old.  Both of these ropes
have been used for top-roping only, and have been used infrequently.  (I
mostly trad climbed with my partner and used his stuff.) By infrequently, I
mean anywhere from 3-10 times a summer and some summers I haven't
used them at all.  They are stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, and I
generally take very good care of them--keeping them off the ground as
much as possible, never stepping on them, etc.  Do I really need to get rid of
them simply because they're old, even if they haven't seen much use?

Answer
Jessica,

I would say no, you don't need to get rid of them simply because of age.  There are a few tests you can do to determine if your rope is still good:

1. What does the sheath look like?  Does it look "hairy", or is it still smooth? A hairy sheath is an indication of the rope being well worn.

2. Does it feel like the sheath is separate from the core?  In other words, does the sheath slide on the core?  These 2 should work in conjunction, so if they are separate, this indicates possible internal damage.

3. Are there any abnormally hard or flat spots in the rope?  Think of the features of an old garden hose that has twists and kinks.  Are there any points through the ropes length that are not symmetrical with the rest?  The rope should be the same general size and shape over it's whole length.

Ultimately, its up to what you what you feel comfortable climbing with.  I have a 10 year old rope that has relatively infrequent usage, and I have no problem using it still.  But I also know exactly how it's been cared for and used throughout it's life.  I may not select it if I were climbing a multi pitch route, or a route where it may be subject to severe abrasion potential, but for normal top-roping, it's fine.  If you find yourself thinking more about your ropes ability to catch your fall then you thinking about the climb, trust your instinct.


Happy climbing,
Nick