Rope Construction Glossary

Here are terms that describe parts of a rope:

•     Sheath: The protective braided cover of the rope. It keeps the core from getting dirty, abraided or cut, and it adds some strength and shock absorption as well. Sheaths comprise between 30-40% of a rope's mass. The thicker the sheath, the more it resists cutting and abrasion, especially over an edge.

•     Core: The inner twisted core strands of the rope. It provides the majority of the strength and shock absorption.

•     Kernmantle: A combination of a pair of German words, kern meaning core and mantle meaning sheath. This type of construction is used as opposed to old climbing ropes that were just 3 to 4 strands twisted together and with no protective sheath.

•     Sheath weave patterns: These different patterns create nuances in handling and durability.

•     Filament: The thinnest thread from which a rope is woven. Usually it's "Nylon 6" and is purchased on spools by the rope companies.

•     Yarns: Twisted groups of 4 to 6 filaments that make up braids.

•     Braids: Yarns bundled together to make the core. Half the braids twist one way, half the other. The sheath is then woven around this bundle.