Single Ropes

Single ropes are the most popular type of climbing ropes. They are used by themselves and are suited for top-toping, sport, trad, multipitch, and ice climbing. A pretty well-rounded, diverse rope.

Double Ropes

Double rope systems utilize two climbing ropes. They are best suited for multipitch climbing on rock and ice. The two double ropes systems are twin ropes and half ropes.

Twin

Twin ropes are designed to be clipped simultaneously into each piece of protection. The advantages are greater sharp edge protection, lower static elongation, and full length rappels. Disadvantages are rope drag and higher impact forces. Twin ropes are not to be clipped into protection independently, always use them in pairs.

Half Ropes

Half Ropes are designed to be clipped alternately into each piece of protection. The advantages are sharp edgeprotection, significantly reduced impact force, and full length rappels. Disadvantages are difficult rope handling and higher dynamic elongation. Double rope systems are great for multipitching in parties of 3.

Dry Treated Ropes

Dry treatments have many positive benefits to a climbing rope. A dry treated rope will absorb far less water when exposed to wet conditions, making it weigh less, dry faster, prevent icing in freezing conditions, and retain its dynamic properties. A rope can be treated either on the sheath alone or on the sheath and core. Because the sheath is taking a majority of the abuse, the waterproofing on a sheath only treated rope can wear off leaving the core exposed to water. A double dry treatment not only keeps water out, but also prolongs the life of a rope by keeping dirt particles out, and minimizing the amount of friction the core of the rope experiences during a fall. Dry treatments often cost 50-75$ more but are well worth cost.