Slip Knot

beginner

The slip knot is a quick-release loop knot — a fixed loop that can be untied by pulling the working end, even under tension.

When to Use

A quick-release adjustable loop. Used in rope work for temporary attachments where the loop needs to be released quickly under tension.

The slip knot is one of the most useful "quick-release" knots in rope work. It creates a fixed loop in the rope, much like a bowline, but with a critical property: pulling the working end (the tail past the knot) releases the entire knot instantly. This makes it ideal for temporary attachments, tow lines, and any rope work where the loop needs to be released quickly under tension.

In climbing, slip knots are not commonly used for primary safety because their quick-release property is the opposite of what climbers want from a tie-in. However, slip knots see secondary use for hauling loads, attaching gear bags temporarily, and other rope work applications around camp or the crag where instant release is useful.

The slip knot has many variations: the running bowline (a bowline tied as a slip knot), the slip noose, and various adjustable loop knots all share the quick-release principle. Learning the basic slip knot first makes the variations easier to pick up.

How to Tie the Slip Knot

Step 1

Form a loop in the standing part of the rope, leaving the working end pointing past the loop.
Step 2

Make a small bight (a U-shape) in the working end and pass it up through the loop from underneath.
Step 3

Pull on the bight to size the loop — the bight becomes the loop you can pull on, while pulling the working end releases the knot.
Step 4

Tighten the knot by pulling on the standing part while holding the bight. The knot will sit clean.

Tips for Tying It Well

Practice the slip knot with thin cord first — it is faster to tie repeatedly.
For climbing applications, do not use a slip knot for any primary safety attachment. The quick-release property is dangerous in a tie-in.
A slip knot is useful for temporarily securing gear during organisation — easy to release once you are ready to move it.

Common Mistakes

Confusing it with a noose. A slip knot has the loop separate from the rope; a noose tightens around itself.
Using it for primary climbing safety. It will untie under load if the working end gets pulled.

Related Knots

Overhand Knot

beginner

The overhand knot is the simplest knot — a single loop with the working end passed through. Used as a stopper, a backup, and the foundation for more complex knots.

Bowline

intermediate

The bowline is a fixed-loop knot used to attach a rope to a hard point. It is famously strong, easy to inspect, and easy to untie after heavy load.

Take it further

Browse the full climbing knots library, or find a climbing gym to practice tying knots in real climbing situations.

All Climbing Knots Find a Gym Beginner's Guide

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