Semi-Static Rope
You need semi-static rope, 9-10mm, for SRT. Thicker gives more margin for error. Thinner saves weight. Go 10mm if you're new.
What to look for
There's no single right answer with caving rope. The trade-off is simple. Thinner rope is lighter and lets you carry more for the same weight. Thicker rope forgives more mistakes. If you're new to SRT, stay at 9-10mm and lean towards the thicker end.
The rope must be semi-static. Climbing ropes are dynamic. They stretch to catch falls, which is great on a climb but miserable on prusiks. You'll fight every metre.
Don't get hung up on brands. What matters is buying from a reputable UK outlet. Any of the caving shops listed here sell rope that's fit for purpose.
Buying in bulk saves money. Past about 100 metres the per-metre price drops. Get a friend to split a coil.
Rope length changes over time. That 50m rope you bought new might not stay 50m. Factor that in when you rig pitches.
Most manufacturers recommend washing rope before first use. It helps the sheath fibres settle.
What to get first
You need an SRT kit before you need your own rope. The rope is what you rig the cave with, not what you climb on. If you don't have a harness, descender, ascenders, and the skills to use them, start there.
Buying Guide
- Price (New): £££
- Price (Used): £
- Buy online? Yes. Rope is one of the easiest things to buy online. Just make sure it's semi-static at 9-10mm from a reputable brand.
Buying Second Hand
Rope is hard to buy secondhand safely. You don't know how it was stored, if it was shock-loaded, or how much UV it's seen. Some cavers will sell rope they've used for years. For the stuff your life depends on, buy new.
Where you can buy it
Starless River, Inglesport, Up & Under, Bernies/Earthworm, Decathlon.