| There are two basic types of rope used in climbing: | | | | However, when using a skinny single, one must also |
| static and dynamic. Dynamic is designed to stretch, | | | | use a belay device specially designed for use with a |
| which is typically used during rappelling, lead climbing, | | | | smaller rope. If the route contains rough or sharp |
| and top roping. However, for top roping static rope is | | | | rocks though, a skinny single is not recommended. |
| generally preferred. Below is the list of rope types | | | | Diameter 8.9-9.4mm |
| from the thickest (workhorse singles) to the thinnest | | | | Weight 52-59 g/m |
| (twin ropes). | | | | Half |
| Workhorse Singles | | | | Half ropes have two strands of rope which are good |
| The workhorse single is a thicker rope which gives | | | | for long routes. The two strands of rope reduce the |
| good protection against rough and sharp rocks. With | | | | likelihood of the entire rope being severed due to a |
| combination of a thicker sheath and thicker core, the | | | | fall or a sharp rock face. Half ropes are also good for |
| workhorse single is not only durable but also easier to | | | | rappelling since the two ropes can be tied together |
| grasp for the climber and belayer. Though the | | | | to lengthen the rappel distance. Unfortunately, half |
| workhorse single is heavy and cumbersome, it does | | | | ropes are bulky and weigh more than traditional |
| well for large walls, intense use, and top roping. | | | | ropes and belaying can become tiresome. |
| Diameter 10.1-11mm | | | | Diameter 8-9mm |
| Weight 65-77 g/m | | | | Weight 41-53 g/m |
| All-Around Singles | | | | Twin |
| As the name implies, all-around singles are the best to | | | | Twin ropes are similar to half ropes however have |
| use for all around climbing. All-around singles offer an | | | | the advantages of being lighter and less bulky. Since |
| average thickness, weight, and fall rating and are the | | | | twin ropes have two strands of rope they offer |
| typical ropes used by most climbers. All-around singles | | | | similar advantages of half ropes. However twin ropes |
| are great for traditional and sport climbing. | | | | are lighter which allow for rappelling ease. |
| Diameter 9.5-10mm | | | | Diameter 7-8mm |
| Weight 60-64 g/m | | | | Weight 37-42 g/m |
| Skinny Singles | | | | Static |
| Skinny singles, as one may assume, are skinny, light | | | | Unlike dynamic rope, static rope is designed NOT to |
| weight. They are good for long routes or difficult | | | | stretch. This type of rope is ideal for top roping, |
| sport climbs where the weight can become an issue. | | | | rappelling, or rescue operations. |