A climbing rope is the central piece of safety equipment in roped climbing. It is a dynamic kernmantle rope: a strong inner core (kern) protected by a woven outer sheath (mantle). The rope is designed to stretch by 5 to 10 percent under load, gently absorbing the energy of a falling climber rather than transmitting a violent shock to their harness and the protection.
Climbing ropes come in three main types: single ropes (the standard for sport and most trad climbing, used as one rope), half ropes (used in pairs, alternating clips, popular for wandering trad routes), and twin ropes (used in pairs, both clipped through every piece). Most beginners learn on single ropes, typically 9.4 to 10.2 mm in diameter and 60 to 70 metres long.
Ropes are rated by the UIAA for impact force, fall count, and dryness. Indoor gym ropes get heavy daily use and are replaced regularly by gym staff. Personal ropes for outdoor climbing are inspected for damage before each session and retired after a major fall, visible damage, or roughly five to seven years of use depending on intensity.