One of the most important things needed no matter what type of climbing you're going to be doing, is ropes. In fact, learning how to pick out a great rope as well as using them is the first and most important thing! You will want to get a rope that is about 10mm and one that is made of a semi elastic nylon material; it will give you protection as well as a bounce if needed. Then, you will want to decide if you want to use a single rope or a double rope technique.



Most often, single rope slinging is the most common technique used. When used on strenuous straight climbs, using the single rope provides a secure and safe aid. Also, there are bolts and other types of anchors used to connect the rope to the carabiners, as well. Many times climbers will also use a cam, which is a spring loaded device that is put into the rocks for help when climbing. Also, there are a couple different knots that climbers put in there ropes as well. Those knots are the prussic and the klemheist. Because you are only using one rope, you will be replacing them more often because they are being used more often.

The other type of technique is the double rope technique. That is as it is called, using two ropes. Most often the two ropes are put together; however, it is also common for them to be separate as well. With using two ropes you will want to create a zig-zag pattern using cams, nuts, pitons, and other accessories to make it stronger than a single rope. Also, when using two ropes, the thickness can then be 8-9mm; which will also be cheaper. However, you may be spending around the same amount of money after all the wear from the components used on it.

Another variation of the two techniques is the twin rope technique. In the twin rope technique two ropes are being used for a double rope; however, they are both being used in the equipment like the single rope technique. The ropes are even thinner, 7-8mm; however it is double up. However, this technique is slower to use.

No matter what technique you use, you will have to make sure that you learn to rope the system correctly as it is harder than it looks! Before you go out, practice the system first on a very small climb so that nothing goes wrong!! Only practice makes perfect!!