One of the most vital pieces of equipment for any climber is their rope. It’s responsible for supporting their weight, providing access from one point to the next and can be the difference between falling or reaching the peak of your climb.

So how should you use your rope in the most productive way possible? Well that actually depends on your type of rope. If you’re thinking of using a pully system to abseil a vertical climb, then you’ll want to make sure that your rope is strong enough to hold your weight, as well as being tough enough to take the strain and friction as you climb up and down.

Many climbers prefer to fasten their heavy duty rope to an object at the top of their climb and then either traverse of decline the location. If you’re planning on doing this, then ensure multiple times that your rope is fastened properly at the top. A simple knot won’t do it; you’ll need to implement a complicated knot system to ensure that the rope doesn’t unravel mid-climb.

One of the most important aspects of using ropes is that they aren’t fool-proof. Always carry a spare in case it’s needed and don’t rely on just one rope to support yourself — multiple rope systems are much safer and can provide better climbing options.