climbing gear basics
What to look for in an outdoor rock climbing rope?
I got all my basic gear (harness, shoes, etc) now I’d like to transition from the gym to the outdoors and get a rope to to start doing some top rope climbing. <70 ft of wall. Any suggestions? Also, how often does the rope become worn needing a replacement?
Do not get a 70m rope, that is over kill. I have a 60m static line i use for rappelling and it is a beast, regret getting a long rope. 50m would suit you just fine. 50m = 164ft. So the max height of your cliff face can be 80 feet since your rope has to run to the top of the cliff and back down you have to divide the length in half. (164/2=82, but lets keep that 2 feet to play it safe and don’t forget a stopper knot after the belayer!) A 50m rope is definitely plenty your gear will get heavy fast when you have to walk to the face, the difference between 50m and 70m is a lot! If you want to compromise maybe think of getting a 60m rope but don’t forget it`ll weigh more and also cost more. I`d also look for a Dry rope, even if you are not planning on doing ice climbing. It`s extra protection for your rope and will help on days when the rock can be wet from rain or dew. Its hard to say when you should retire a rope. Since you are top roping you won’t need to worry about the rope taking any hard falls, because after the number of falls for which the rope is rated then you must retire it. If you take care of the rope and make sure it doesn’t really rub sharp or abrasive edges on the face then it could last you a long time. Its ok if the sheath is rubbed, just as long as you cant see the white core of the rope. The rope will take some wear but it is important to inspect it.
Inspect the rope from end to end before and after each use. Slide your hand along the rope feeling for any hard or really soft spots both indicating damage. Make sure you store your rope in a cool dry place, never in the trunk of the car or like in a garage or floor of the closet since chemicals can easily get on the rope, severely damaging it.
You are also going to need some equipment for anchors, i`d get some lengths of webbing and some smaller sewn slings along with some `biners. Are you confident in your anchor setup? Don’t forget the acronym ERNEST when setting up your anchors. If you are not comfortable setting them up take a class from REI, EMS or Campmor, their knowledgeable staff will definitely teach you a thing or two.
If you have any questions feel free to email me on the Y!A profile.
How to Do Indoor Rock Climbing : Tips for Indoor Rock Climbing Holds