Kernmantle Rope

Kernmantle Rope

We’ve all heard of kernmantle rope, but how do you know if kernmantle is the right rope for your next tower job site? Let’s talk a bit about what exactly kernmantle rope is and what tower climbing situations it is best suited for. Kernmantle rope consists of twisted parallel fibers (the kern) surrounded by a tightly braided sheath (the mantle). The core fibers provide the majority (about 70%) of the rope’s strength. The sheath is tightly braided providing significantly higher abrasion resistance.

There are two distinct types of kernmantle: dynamic and static. Dynamic is used for recreational climbing due to its high shock absorption capabilities. Static kernmantle has very low stretch and works well for industrial applications. Due to its construction, it remains round through descent devices and allows minimal twist on the rope. The properties of static kernmantle make it ideal for use as a lifeline or descent line.

For more information about the different types of rope, click here to visit our knowledge base.

Have more questions about kernmantle rope, or need a specific kind for a special application click here to contact one of our Gear Experts®.