Rope terminology

Do you know your kernmantle from your double braid? This quick guide to rope terminology should help…

Kernmantle rope

Rope constructed with its interior core (the kern) which is made from un-woven parallel strands protected with a woven exterior sheath (mantle) that is designed to optimise strength, durability, and flexibility.

Double Braid

Where you have a braid within a braid which remains round when under tension. Generally the core and cover share equal loads. This rope is generally used for rigging purposes.

Tensile strength

The resistance of a material to a force tending to tear it apart, measured as the maximum tension the material can withstand without tearing.

Rope Type

According to EN 1891 semi-static ropes are classified in type A and B. Type A ropes come up to higher demands than type B.

Static rope

Static ropes are designed to allow relatively little stretch, which is most useful for hauling, rappelling, and other applications.

Dynamic rope

Dynamic rope is used to belay climbers, and is designed to stretch under heavy load to absorb the shock of a falling climber.

Milking

Milking generally occurs on new rope and ropes under 13mm. This is a natural occurrence when using friction hitches which can cause the stands of the outer cover of a rope to elongate over the inner core. This excess can be trimmed off the rope.