Best Budget Climbing Ropes of 2024
Climbing is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires proper equipment, including ropes. However, finding the best climbing rope can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Climbing ropes are essential for your safety, and choosing the wrong one could have disastrous consequences. It’s important to consider factors such as length, diameter, weight, and durability when selecting a climbing rope. In this article, I’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the budget options on the market, to help you make an informed decision without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, we’ve got you covered.
1. Mammut Crag We Care Classic 9.5
Diameter: 9.5mm
Weight: 59 g/m
UIAA Falls: 6-7
Dry Treatment: Non-dry
The Mammut Crag We Care Classic 9.5 is a popular climbing rope among climbers for its exceptional handling and catch. The standout feature of this rope is its smooth and supple handling, which makes it easy to clip and handle while climbing. The rope feels soft and comfortable in your hands, providing excellent grip and control during your climb. The rope is also highly durable, making it an ideal choice for frequent use.
Another standout feature of the Crag We Care Classic 9.5 is its exceptional catch. This rope provides a reliable and consistent catch, making it a safe choice for climbers of all levels. It has a high fall rating, which means it can withstand a significant amount of impact force without breaking. This feature makes it an ideal rope for lead climbing or long multi-pitch routes.
The only downside of the Mammut Crag We Care Classic 9.5 is its weight. At 59 grams per meter, it is not the lightest rope on the market. However, this extra weight can also be seen as an advantage, as it provides more durability and strength to the rope.
What I like: Outstanding handling and catch, a great bargain, and the sheath is made from repurposed yarn
What I don’t: Not available with any dry treatments or as a bi-pattern, heavy
See the Mammut Crag We Care Classic 9.5
2. X XBEN Outdoor Climbing Rope
Diameter: 10.5mm
Weight: 75 g/m
UIAA Falls: Not specified
Dry Treatment: Non-dry
The X XBEN Outdoor Climbing Rope is a popular option for climbers who want a cheap rope that still offers decent performance. One of the standout features of this rope is its affordability, which makes it accessible to climbers on a tight budget. It also has a good weight-to-diameter ratio, which means it’s relatively lightweight for its diameter, making it easy to handle and transport.
However, there are some downsides to this rope. One is that it’s not as durable as some of the more expensive options on the market. It may wear out more quickly with frequent use, especially if not properly cared for. Another downside is that it may not provide as smooth and supple handling as some of the more expensive ropes. It can feel a bit stiff and less comfortable to grip, which may be a concern for some climbers.
Overall, the X XBEN Outdoor Climbing Rope is a decent budget option for climbers who want a reliable rope for occasional use. While it may not offer the same durability or handling as more expensive ropes, it’s still a good choice for climbers on a tight budget or beginners who are just starting.
What I like: Very affordable and professional design
What I don’t: Heavy and not as durable as other expensive options
See the X XBEN Outdoor Climbing Rope
3. Black Diamond Non-Dry
Diameter: 9.9mm
Weight: 65 g/m
UIAA Falls: 6
Dry Treatment: Non-dry
The Black Diamond Non-Dry Rope features exceptional catch, handling, and durability. One of the standout features of this rope is its reliable catch, which provides a reassuring sense of safety while climbing. It has a high fall rating, which means it can withstand significant impact force without breaking. This feature makes it a great choice for lead climbing or long multi-pitch routes.
Another standout feature of the rope is its smooth and supple handling. The rope feels soft and comfortable in your hands, providing excellent grip and control during your climb. It also maintains its handling and suppleness over time, even after repeated use. The Black Diamond Non-Dry Rope is also highly durable, making it a great choice for frequent use. It’s constructed with a thick sheath that provides excellent abrasion resistance, ensuring a long lifespan.
The only disadvantage of this rope is its weight. It’s one of the heavier ropes on the market, weighing 64 grams per meter. However, the extra weight can be viewed as a benefit because it increases the rope’s durability and strength.
What I like: Good handling and catch
What I don’t: Heavy and no dry-option available
4. Sterling VR9
Diameter: 9.8mm
Weight: 62 g/m
UIAA Falls: 6
Dry Treatment: Dry Core
If you are an entry-level climber looking for a decent rope at an affordable price, the Sterling VR9 can be a great option for you. This rope features a core treatment, which protects the rope from water and dirt, increasing its durability. The Kernmantle design incorporates a stretchy core protected by a durable outer sheath, resulting in strength and good handling.
The middle marker on 60 and 70-m ropes indicates the middle of the rope for added security when rappelling and lowering; note that the 40-m rope lacks a middle marker. They are easy to handle and clip, making them a great choice for both beginner and experienced climbers.
One of the downsides of Sterling VR9 climbing ropes is their weight. They are one of the heaviest ropes on the market, which may be a concern for climbers who prioritize lightweight gear. Additionally, some climbers may find the handling to be a bit stiff, which can affect their comfort and grip during climbs.
Overall, Sterling VR9 climbing ropes are a solid choice for climbers who value durability and reliability. While they may be heavier and stiffer than some other ropes on the market, their excellent abrasion resistance and high fall rating make them a significant investment for frequent use. However, climbers who prioritize lightweight gear or supple handling may want to explore other options.
What I like: A solid rope for the price.
What I don’t: Heavier and stiffer than some other ropes on the market.
5. Bluewater Xenon
Diameter: 9.2mm
Weight: 56 g/m
UIAA Falls: 7
Dry Treatment: Dry Core
Bluewater’s Xenon climbing rope is a 9.2mm single rope designed for high-performance climbing. While it offers good handling and weight savings, it lacks any significant advantage over other ropes in the same diameter range. The Xenon’s 2-over-2 weave sheath feels slightly softer and looser compared to other ropes, and the double-dry treatment makes it slippery until it’s broken in. The rope’s durability is sacrificed for its weight savings, which is on the lower end for a rope of its thickness. However, it performs well in catching small lead falls and top-roping with limited stretchiness.
Although the Xenon is priced similarly or higher than other ropes in its category, it becomes a decent value if you can find it on sale. Cost is a crucial factor in the competitive rope market, and Xenon doesn’t provide enough performance benefits to justify its added expense. Overall, the Xenon is a good rope but not exceptional, and climbers may find more affordable options with similar or better performance.
What I like: A nice balance of weight and durability
What I don’t: Average handling and no standout features
6. Beal Joker
Diameter: 9.1mm
Weight: 53 g/m
UIAA Falls: 5
Dry Treatment: Dry Core and Sheath
The Beal Joker is a versatile climbing rope that is great for alpine routes, multi-pitch climbs, or situations where lightness is crucial. The Unicore construction and thin diameter provide added protection from sharp edges or knife-like flakes. However, the sheath’s durability is not up to par for regular cragging, and it shows significant wear after only 80 pitches. The rope’s dry coating makes it slick to handle straight out of the bag, but it softens up over time. The Joker has slightly higher impact forces than the Beal Booster III, but it’s similar to the Sterling Nano IX.
The rope has a 6-7 fall UIAA rating, which is quite a few less than the 10 falls of the 9.8 mm Edelrid Boa Pro Dry. The Joker is one of the lightest ropes available, weighing in at only 53g/m, making it perfect for long hikes and multi-pitch climbs. The Unicore construction ensures that the rope remains intact, even when sliced, which is a significant advantage. Although it retails for less than the Sterling Nano IX, it is not meant for regular cragging, making it a good value only if used for its intended purposes.
What I like: Unicore construction offers more protection against accidental severing
What I don’t: Not a good choice for cragging or top-roping
7. Sterling Velocity Xeros
Diameter: 9.8mm
Weight: 62 g/m
UIAA Falls: 6
Dry Treatment: Dry Core and Sheath
The Sterling Velocity Xeros is a versatile, 9.8mm rope weighing 62 grams per meter. It is suitable for cragging, but not ideal for alpinists who prioritize weight. Its tightly woven sheath and Xeros dry treatment set it apart from other workhorse ropes. Despite being a “thicker” rope, it handles well and clips easily, sliding smoothly through belay devices and rough surfaces. However, compared to thinner ropes, it can feel cumbersome. The rope is rated to an 8.6 kN impact force, with 8.8% static elongation and 28.8% dynamic elongation, providing a soft catch that is not too spongy for top-roping. It weighs slightly less than heavier models and slightly more than some thinner models.
The rope is durable, with a tight weave and Xeros treatment enhancing its performance. Although the bi-pattern version is considerably more expensive, the standard color version offers a decent value, making it a great choice for beginner and experienced climbers who prioritize durability and handling over weight. However, the rope comes factory drum coiled, and improper flaking can make it extra kinky for the first couple of days.
What I like: Tight weave with excellent handling and exceptional PFOA-free dry treatment
What I don’t: Only available with dry treatment and not very budget-friendly
See the Sterling Velocity Xeros
Best Budget Climbing Ropes: Comparison Table
| ROPE | DIAMETER | WEIGHT | UIAA FALLS | DRY TREATMENT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Crag 9.5 | 9.5mm | 59 g/m | 6-7 | Non-dry |
| X XBEN Rope | 10.5mm | 75 g/m | Not specified | Non-dry |
| Black Diamond Non-Dry | 9.9mm | 65 g/m | 6 | Non-dry |
| Sterling VR9 | 9.8mm | 62 g/m | 6 | Dry Core |
| Bluewater Xenon | 9.2mm | 56 g/m | 7 | Dry Core |
| Beal Joker | 9.1mm | 53 g/m | 5 | Dry Core and Sheath |
| Sterling Velocity Xeros | 9.8mm | 62 g/m | 6 | Dry Core and Sheath |
Critical Climbing Rope Consideration
The following are the critical considerations when choosing a climbing rope:
Diameter
When selecting climbing ropes, one of the most important factors to consider is the diameter. The rope’s diameter determines its strength, weight, and durability. Thicker ropes are stronger and more durable, but they are also heavier. Thinner ropes are lighter and easier to handle, but they may not be as strong or long-lasting. The diameter of the rope also influences how well it handles and how easy it is to tie knots. Climbing rope diameters typically range from 8.5mm to 11mm.
Length
Another important factor to consider is the length of the climbing rope. The length of the rope you select will be determined by the type of climbing you intend to do as well as the route or pitch you will be climbing. Shorter ropes are used for single-pitch climbing, while longer ropes are used for multi-pitch climbing. The most common climbing rope lengths are 50m, 60m, and 70m, but shorter and longer ropes are available depending on your needs. When planning your climb, keep the length of the rope in mind to ensure that you have enough rope to complete the climb safely.
Type of Rope (Single, Half, or Twin)
The type of rope you choose will depend on the type of climbing you plan to do. There are three main types of climbing ropes: single ropes, half ropes, and twin ropes.
- Single ropes are the most common type of climbing rope and are designed to be used on their own. They are generally thicker and stronger than half or twin ropes and are suitable for most types of climbing.
- Half ropes, also known as double ropes, are designed to be used in pairs. They are thinner and lighter than single ropes and are ideal for multi-pitch climbing, where the climber needs to alternate between two ropes. Half ropes provide extra protection against rope cuts and are useful for climbs with wandering routes.
- Twin ropes are also used in pairs, but they are thinner than half ropes and must be clipped together at every point of protection. They are ideal for long and difficult routes where the rope needs to be light and easy to handle. Twin ropes are not recommended for use by beginners as they require more skill and experience to use safely.
Material (Nylon or Polyester)
Climbing ropes are typically made from either nylon or polyester.
- Nylon ropes are the most common type of climbing rope. They are known for their high strength and durability, as well as their ability to absorb shock. Nylon ropes are also resistant to water and UV radiation, which makes them ideal for outdoor climbing.
- Polyester ropes are less common than nylon ropes but are known for their low stretch and high abrasion resistance. Polyester ropes are also more resistant to chemicals and have a longer lifespan than nylon ropes. They are often used for industrial applications, but they can also be used for climbing.
Both nylon and polyester ropes have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two will depend on the specific needs of the climber.
Construction (Dynamic or Static)
Climbing ropes are also classified by their construction type, which refers to how much the rope stretches when weighted. There are two main types of construction for climbing ropes:
- Dynamic ropes: Dynamic ropes are designed to stretch when weighted, which helps absorb the force of a fall and reduces the impact on the climber. Dynamic ropes are used for lead climbing, top-roping, and sport climbing.
- Static ropes: Static ropes are designed to have little to no stretch and are primarily used for rappelling and rescue operations. They are not recommended for climbing because they do not absorb the shock of a fall and can put the climber at risk of injury.
When choosing a climbing rope, it is important to consider the type of climbing you will be doing and select a rope with the appropriate construction for that activity.
UIAA Fall Rating
The UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme) fall rating is a standard used to indicate the number of falls a rope can withstand before it loses its strength. This rating is based on a standardized test in which a weight is dropped on the rope from a fixed height.
The UIAA fall rating is typically indicated as a ratio, such as 5:8 or 6:11. The first number indicates the number of falls the rope can withstand under the test conditions without breaking, while the second number indicates the maximum impact force the rope can sustain.
When choosing a climbing rope, it is important to consider the UIAA fall rating and select a rope that is appropriate for the type of climbing you will be doing. A rope with a higher UIAA fall rating is generally stronger and more durable, but may also be heavier and more expensive. It is also important to note that the UIAA fall rating is just one factor to consider when choosing a climbing rope, and should be used in combination with other factors such as diameter and construction type.
Weight
The weight of the rope can affect the ease with which it is handled and carried, as well as the climber’s stamina and energy levels during the climb. Lighter ropes are easier to handle and carry, which can be beneficial for longer climbs or multi-pitch climbs where the climber must carry the rope. Lighter ropes, on the other hand, may not be as durable or long-lasting as heavier ropes, and they may not provide as much protection against falls.
Heavier ropes, on the other hand, are more durable and can provide more fall protection, but they may be more difficult to handle and carry. Heavier ropes are frequently used for top-roping or other types of climbing where weight is less of an issue. When selecting a climbing rope, consider the weight as well as other factors such as diameter, length, and construction type to ensure that the rope meets your specific needs and preferences.
Dry Treatment
Dry treatment is a coating or treatment that is applied to climbing ropes to make them more water and moisture-resistant. This treatment can help keep the rope from becoming waterlogged and heavy, making it difficult to handle and increasing the risk of rope damage.
A dry-treated rope is especially useful for climbers who plan to do a lot of ice climbing or mountaineering in wet or snowy conditions. If you plan to do multi-pitch climbing, where the rope may be exposed to water or moisture for extended periods of time, you may also benefit from a dry-treated rope.
It is important to note, however, that a dry-treated rope is not completely waterproof and may absorb some moisture over time. Furthermore, dry-treated ropes are generally more expensive than non-dry treated ropes.
When selecting a climbing rope, consider whether a dry-treated rope is required for your intended use and whether the extra cost is worth the benefits of the treatment.
Price
The price of a climbing rope can vary depending on a number of factors, including the diameter, length, construction type, material, and any additional features such as dry treatment. Generally speaking, thicker, longer, and more durable ropes will be more expensive than thinner, shorter, and less durable ropes.
While price is an important consideration when choosing a climbing rope, it’s important not to sacrifice quality and safety for cost savings. A high-quality climbing rope is a critical piece of safety equipment, and investing in a high-quality rope can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
It’s also worth noting that while more expensive ropes may have additional features or benefits, such as dry treatment or a higher UIAA fall rating, these features may not be necessary for all climbers or all types of climbing. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a rope, and to select a rope that meets your safety requirements and fits within your budget.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation is another factor that some climbers may consider when choosing a climbing rope. Some climbers may prefer to choose a rope from a well-known and reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality and reliable climbing equipment.
A brand’s reputation can be based on a number of factors, including the quality and performance of their products, their commitment to safety, and their customer service and support. Some well-known climbing rope brands include Mammut, Petzl, Black Diamond, Sterling, and Edelrid, among others.
While brand reputation can be an important consideration for some climbers, it’s important to remember that there are many high-quality climbing ropes available from a variety of brands. It’s also important to consider other factors such as diameter, length, construction type, and price when choosing a rope, and to select a rope that meets your specific needs and preferences, regardless of the brand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing a cheap climbing rope can be a challenging task, but with the right information and considerations, it is possible to find a high-quality rope that fits your budget. When looking for a budget rope, it is important to consider factors such as diameter, length, weight, and construction. It is also important to ensure that the rope meets industry safety standards and is suitable for the type of climbing you will be doing. Ultimately, when choosing a climbing rope, it is important to prioritize safety and quality over price. By investing in a reliable and durable rope, you can enjoy your climbing adventures with peace of mind and confidence.
