While there is a ton of cool climbing gear out there, your climbing rope is truly your lifeline, so it’s vital that you take the time to choose the best one for you. The main questions you need to ask yourself are, “What kind of climbing will I be doing?” and “How do I plan to use the rope?” Once you’ve established answers to those questions you’ll be able to narrow down the type of rope you’re looking for and what features it needs to have.
To complete your climbing gear kit, make sure to also check out our articles on the best climbing shoes, quickdraws, helmets, and harnesses.
Quick Answer: Best Climbing Ropes
Below is a list of the best rock climbing ropes:
- Mammut Infinity Dry 70m
- Edelrid Swift Pro Dry 70m
- Sterling Evolution Velocity Dry Core 70m
- Edelrid Boa Eco 70m
- Beal Opera Unicore Golden Dry 70m
- Beal Tiger Unicore Dry Cover 70m
- BlueWater Ropes Lightning Pro Double Dry 70m
- Mammut Eternity Classic 70m
- Sterling Marathon Pro 70m
- Beal Stinger Unicore Golden Dry 70m
What to Look for in a Good Climbing Rope
Below are the major considerations you should take into account before buying your new climbing rope.
1. Type of Climbing Rope
- Single: Single ropes are the most common type of dynamic ropes. When you combine a single rope with a quality climbing harness lead falls can be caught without the need for an additional rope. For single pitch and most multi-pitch climbs, single ropes are sufficient.
- Twin: Twin ropes are typically used for ice climbing and alpine climbing. Essentially, two ropes are used as one with both being clipped into gear pieces. Twin ropes allow for long rappels and can lessen the screw impact force when ice climbing.
- Half: If you know your route is going to wander and curve a lot then half ropes may be your best choice. Half ropes are two twin ropes which are usually clipped in every other gear piece. While twin ropes are rated as a pair, half ropes are rated separately, each with its own fall rating. While they do require extra rope management, in some cases (like climbing in a group of three) half ropes can be the best option.
2. Dry Treatment
If you’re willing to invest more upfront then a dry treated rope will pay off in the long run. Ropes that are dry treated repel moisture and water while also resisting dirt and grime. If you only climb indoors then you may not feel the need to pay extra for a dry treated rope, but if you do any outdoor climbing, you’re sure to notice the benefits. Dry treated ropes have a longer lifespan because they don’t soak up water and get heavy when wet and they’re also more resistant to abrasions.
When in the market for a dry treated rope, pay attention to what part of the rope is dry treated. Sometimes the sheath is the only part of the rope which is dry treated. If you see a “double dry” rope, that means both the sheath and core are dry treated. Double dry ropes are typically geared towards mountaineers as well as alpine and ice climbers.
3. Middle Marks and Bi-patterns
Middle marks are helpful reference points. These distinct marks let you know where the middle of the rope is so you can know that your ends are even when repelling, the distance your leader has climbed, and if you can safely lower someone to the ground.
Instead of a middle mark, some ropes have a bi-patterned weave. Bi-pattern ropes have a pattern which changes at the middle of the rope. For some climbers this system works better as it’s often easier to see the pattern change than trying to identify a middle marker. Bi-pattern ropes are more expensive, so you’ll want to think about whether or not the benefits outweigh the costs.
4. Dynamic vs. Static
Dynamic ropes have significantly more stretch than static ropes do. Lead climbing is one case where dynamic ropes are absolutely necessary. A dynamic rope will reduce the impact force on yourself and your gear.
Alternatively, static ropes provide only minimal stretch. Static ropes are typically used as a tagline or pull cord for hauling gear or repelling. You can also use them for top-roping and rigging top-ropes.
5. UIAA Fall Rating
Simply put, UIAA fall rating refers to resiliency. The higher the rating the better you can expect the rope to hold up against standard wear and tear. A rating of six to eight is a pretty good range for single ropes, while eight to ten is excellent. As the number increases so will the weight and thickness of the rope.
6. Diameter
All the different types of numbers and ratings given to ropes can be overwhelming. Generally, a range of diameters are geared toward certain types of climbing, but ultimately it’s up to you to choose what will be the most convenient.
For alpine climbing, multi-pitch, and redpointing, a rope anywhere between 8.5 – 9.2 millimeters is usually ideal. These “skinny ropes” are the lightest while also being the most dynamic.
Medium diameter ropes typically range from 9.2 – 9.9 millimeters and are usually the fan favorite due to their versatility. If you want more durability and aren’t as concerned about weight, then you don’t need a skinny rope. Many climbers believe medium diameter ropes can do it all, everything from multi-pitches to cragging and top-roping.
Anything at or above 10 millimeters will be bulky and heavy, but it’ll also be the least expensive and most durable. These are great for novice climbers as well as projecting and those who prefer to top-rope.
7. Length
People go back and forth about “standard” length of ropes. Some would argue 60 meters while others would say 70. Unless you have a specific climb in mind, a 70-meter rope will likely suite you. If you do have specific climbs in mind then you probably already know what rope length will work best.
There are certain cases where having a specific rope length is beneficial. For example, 40 meters is likely good enough if you’ll only be climbing at the gym, while 60 meters will be the most convenient if you’re doing certain climbs with walk-offs rather than reppels.
Best Climbing Rope Reviews
Now that you know what you should be looking for, here are the best of the best when it comes to climbing ropes on the market today:
Mammut Infinity Dry 70m
Best uses: Cragging, multi-pitch
Diameter: 9.5mm
Weight: 59 g/m
When you combine durability and weight (weighing 59 grams per meter), it’s easy to see why the Mammut Infinity Dry is one of the best climbing ropes on the market. This rope helps you move quickly whether you’re trad, sport, or ice climbing. The Mammut Infinity is resistant to abrasion and has an extended lifespan thanks to its compact yet thick sheath. It does have a new dry treatment which offers a lubricating effect on the rope’s fibers and reduces the friction and allows more falls before going flat. Incorporated in the rope’s dry process are also special heat treatments which increase the tenacity of the nylon fibers. To help with additional security when lowering and rappelling, this rope has a black-dye marker to indicate the middle of the rope. The Mammut Infinity Dry 70-meter rope has a diameter of 9.5 millimeters, and will make a great compliment to your mountain adventures.
Edelrid Swift Pro Dry 70m
Best uses: Alpine climbing, redpointing
Diameter: 8.9mm
Weight: 52 g/m
One of the skinniest certified single ropes on the market, the Edelrid Swift Pro Dry 70-meter is one of the best ropes for sport climbing. It has an 8.9-millimeter diameter and can be used as a half rope for icy ascents or can be paired with another rope for ultralong multi-pitches. It weighs 52 grams per meter and has fall ratings of five as a single and 22 as a half or twin. The Edelrid Swift Pro Dry has additional finishes that make it even more loved – the Thermo Shield treatment enhances handling, Pro Shield offers optimal performance, and a Dry Shield helps resist dirt and water. Along with the 70-meter option, there is also a 60-meter rope for all-around climbing and an 80-meter rope for long multi-pitch routes. The Edelrid Swift Pro Dry is a fan favorite in the climbing industry.
Sterling Evolution Velocity Dry Core 70m
Best uses: Cragging, top roping
Diameter: 9.8mm
Weight: 62 g/m
Once glorified as the world’s best rock climber, Chris Sharma named the Sterling Evolution Velocity Dry Core his rope of choice, so you can be confident it’s one of the greatest rock climbing ropes available. The 9.8-millimeter dry rope has been called the quintessential all-rounder. You can use it for ice or rock, and it has the perfect amount of stiffness so it won’t flop during critical clips. Rope drag is reduced thanks to its silky-smooth sheath, which also helps withstand abrasions. Its core treatment increases the durability of the rope by protecting it from dirt and water. It even has a Kernmantle design which helps with handling and strength because of the stretchy core protected by a durable outer sheath. For a lightweight (62 grams per meter), easy to handle, durable rope, the Sterling Evolution Velocity Dry Core is a great option.
Edelrid Boa Eco 70m
Best uses: Cragging, gym, top roping
Diameter: 9.8mm
Weight: 62 g/m
If traditional-looking ropes just don’t do it for you then you need to consider the Edelrid Boa Eco. This rope is created from leftover yarn, so each rope looks different to the next. Even with its unique look it still maintains the strength and quality of other Edelrid ropes, one of the best climbing rope brands out there. It’s a great all-round rope treated with Thermo Shield (to stabilize the yarn and keep the rope supple) and boasting a Kernmantle design (which helps with strength and handling). The Edelrid Boa Eco is 9.8-millimeters in diameter and is smooth to handle whether you’re taking slack or feeding it. While this rope is especially great for gym climbing, it is also an excellent addition to your travel climbing gear collection.
Beal Opera Unicore Golden Dry 70m
Best uses: Alpine climbing, redpointing
Diameter: 8.5mm
Weight: 48 g/m
Certified as a single, half, or twin, the Beal Opera Unicore Golden Dry 70-meter rope is designed for high-level climbers of all types, ranging from ice mountaineers to sport senders. This versatile rope is loved thanks to its weight and small diameter, weighing in at 48 grams per meter and boasting a diameter of just 8.5 millimeters. Supple performance, abrasion-resistance, and slippage elimination are all increased thanks to the Unicore construction bonds. It also has a Golden Dry water repellent treatment which decreases its water absorption. If you’re not afraid of skinny ropes, then the Beal Opera Unicore Golden Dry is an ideal option because of its versatility.
Beal Tiger Unicore Dry Cover 70m
Best uses: Cragging, top roping, gym
Diameter: 10mm
Weight: 61 g/m
When it comes to outdoor climbing ropes, it’s hard to beat the Beal Tiger Unicore Dry Cover. This rope is the perfect example of a true all-rounder which can be used in every season. It weighs only 61 grams per meter and its 10-millimeter diameter makes it very simple to clip into your quickdraw and ideal for all-around climbing and auto-locking belay devices. Its Unicore construction and Dry Cover treatment mean the rope has a high resistance to dirt, humidity, and water. Plus there won’t be sheath slippage in wet conditions. Soft catches are guaranteed with the Beal Tiger Unicore Dry Cover thanks to its 7.6KN impact force rating. And the 7-8 UIAA fall rating means you’ll get a lot of reliability out of it at the crag. If you want a quality rope that’ll serve you well in every season, the Beal Tiger Unicore Dry Cover is a great option.
BlueWater Ropes Lightning Pro Double Dry 70m
Best uses: Cragging, top roping
Diameter: 9.7mm
Weight: 61 g/m
Compared to other ropes of similar diameters, the Lightning Pro Double Dry outshines its competition with a lower impact force, a high fall rating, and a lighter weight. Weighing 61 grams per meter and with a diameter of 9.7 millimeters, this rope has an 8 UIAA fall rating and a 7.8KN impact force rating. It’s geared towards extreme alpine and sport climbers but is still simple to handle and easy to clip. The fluorescent color and bi-pattern are easily identifiable and make this a fun rope for climbing adventures. Because of its performance, weight, and handling, it should come as no surprise that the 70-meter BlueWater Ropes Lightning Pro Double Dry is one of the best climbing ropes on the market.
Mammut Eternity Classic 70m
Best uses: Cragging, top roping, gym
Diameter: 9.8mm
Weight: 61 g/m
Weight and durability come together to create the incredible Mammut Eternity Classic. The 9.8-millimeter non-dry rope weighs 64 grams per meter to ensure you’re still able to move fast, and it doesn’t weigh down your backpack on the way to your climbs. At 70 meters long this is a great rope for extra long pitches and lowering off longer sport climbs. Its balanced core and sheath enable impressive durability and excellent handling in dry conditions. For extra security when lowering and rappelling, there is a black dye middle marker. A dependable rope for indoor climbing and in dry conditions, be sure to consider the Mammut Eternity Classic.
Sterling Marathon Pro 70m
Best uses: Cragging, top roping, gym
Diameter: 10.1mm
Weight: 63 g/m
Marathon’s thinnest rope proves that its still a quality workhorse. It has a diameter of 10.1 millimeters and weighs 63 grams per meter. This well-built rope is designed to put you at ease when facing a demanding project. Durability is increased thanks to its core treatment which protects the rope from dirt and water. The rope has a sheath percentage of 38, an impact force rating of 8.6KN, and a UIAA fall rating of 6. The Sterling Marathon Pro comes in a variety of exciting colors, but only the non-bipattern options include a middle mark. If you’re looking for a rope that can easily stand up to the wear and tear of strenuous climbing, you can be confident in choosing the 70-meter Sterling Marathon Pro.
Beal Stinger Unicore Golden Dry 70m
Best uses: Cragging, multi-pitch
Diameter: 9.4mm
Weight: 59 g/m
When searching for a good rope for climbing, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll come across the Beal Stinger Unicore Golden Dry. As a solid mountain climbing rope, it’s designed for advanced climbers tackling difficult redpoints on multi-day alpine climbing trips or sport crags. The ultralight rope weighs 59 grams per meter and has a 9.4-millimeter diameter. Outshining most other skinny ropes, the Beal Stinger Unicore Golden Dry has a 7 UIAA fall rating for increased longevity and durability. The Unicore construction also helps with increased longevity and eliminates sheath slippage. The black middle mark helps it stay among the best of the high-quality rappelling ropes. The Beal Stinger Unicore Golden Dry will quickly become your favorite climbing rope.
Choosing your next climbing rope is not a decision to take lightly. It’s also one which is made more difficult by the fact that you typically can’t test ropes out before purchasing. Hopefully this list has made your buying decision easier by including ropes which are both high-quality and well-loved in the climbing community to ensure you can continue to climb safely and in style.
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