Hi, I'm looking to invest in a rope that...

Mads

Member since  Aug 4, 2010

Posted on April 9, 2012

Hi, I'm looking to invest in a rope that works well for rock climbing (mostly multi-pitch trad, some alpine, some sport) that I could also use for occasional ice climbing and glacier travel. I'm considering the Beal 9.7mm to save weight. I'm worried it may be too skinny because I am a small lady (100 lbs) that typically climbs with guys in the 160-180 lb range. I've quite a bit of experience catching lead falls with the Sterling Evolution Velocity and the Petzl Nomad (both 9.8mm) and have not had any problems (although I end up a few feet in the air). Is there a big difference going from 9.8mm to 9.7mm? I have heard the falls are softer on the Beal Booster even though it's skinnier than the Sterling and Petzl ropes I mentioned above - does anyone have any first hand experience to compare? Finally, I was wondering what the pragmatic difference is between Dry Cover and Golden Dry. Is Golden Dry necessary for snow/ice conditions, or will Dry Cover suffice? Thanks!!!