The rope is perhaps one of the most important pieces of equipment you will need in climbing. You will need a sturdy rope, because your life will literally depend on it when climbing rock faces.
You will want a lightweight rope, because you will be carrying it throughout your trip. You will want a rope with enough length, so that it will be functional, for those long climbs.
Most of the time, you will need more than one rope, and you might have to assign ropes their own purpose.
Here are a few tips in buying your first climbing rope.
Get a dynamic rope
These are sturdy, yet stretch when necessary, so that they absorb the pull and impact when you fall. The UIAA—the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation—certifies ropes for this purpose.
Get a single dynamic lead rope, which should serve your different needs. Whatever rope you buy, it should be certified by the UIAA to be a climbing rope.
Beginners tend to give much abuse to ropes as they learn the ropes (literally) of climbing. Because a beginner will tend to put his weight on the ropes more than an experienced climber will, one will need a sturdier rope than usual. Get a durable rope which can stand falls and thrashing.
Get a good length
Go for a rope at least 165 feet (or 50 meters) in length. Short ropes can be dangerous, as you might find yourself running out of rope during important climbs.
Be sure to assess the heights you plan to climb so you can get ropes in appropriate lengths.
Get a rope with the proper girth
You should buy a rope that has just the right thickness. 11 mm diameter ropes (about a third of an inch thick) are usually the best for climbing. These give you the best combination of sturdiness and portability.
Go for a stiff rope
When you buy a brand new rope, try to feel for stiffness. If it’s supple and soft outright, then it’s probably not very durable. Go for one that’s stiff out of the box.
Never attempt to climb with a rope that’s not certified, and that’s not meant for climbing. Don’t try to climb using a tow rope, sailing line, fishing line or clothesline. These will surely cause serious injury.
Climbing is a sport that requires the proper equipment, but most importantly, proper training. Don’t attempt to climb without first learning the basics. You can learn and practice climbing at an indoor facility before you start braving rock faces in the wild.
Even when you’re already an experienced indoor climber, you will need to learn the nuances of rock face climbing, which will include how to properly attach your climbing rope onto the rock face, and the like.
When buying a climbing rope, go for durability and utility. Don’t be stingy when buying a rope. Buy one that’s certified for climbing, and certified for your weight. Only with proper equipment and training can you truly enjoy the wonders of climbing.