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Climbing slings & cord

Guide

Climbing slings & cord

Sewn slings, accessory cord and adjustable lanyards have different jobs. Choose for the technique you have learnt and the manufacturer's instructions rather than length or colour alone.

Key points

Check explicit approval for personal protection.
Match material and diameter to the intended technique.
Retire damaged or heavily loaded textile equipment in good time.

What do you need at the crag?

Use	Choose	Bear in mind
Extending protection	ChooseSuitable sewn sling	Bear in mindChoose length and material for the application you have learnt.
Friction knots and systems	ChooseSuitable accessory cord	Bear in mindConsider diameter, material and interaction with the rope.
Positioning at a stance	ChooseApproved lanyard	Bear in mindFollow instructions for attachment and operation, avoiding a fall into it.

What to look for

Question	In brief	Why
Which length?	In briefStart with the task	WhyA long sling adds reach but can hang awkwardly. Plan its application before buying.
Nylon or thin fibres?	In briefConsider knots and handling	WhyMaterials behave differently. Follow the intended products and manufacturer guidance for your technique.
When should I replace it?	In briefCheck condition and history	WhyCuts, abrasion, heat and chemicals can damage textiles. Also follow the service life stated in the instructions.

Common questions

Can all accessory cord be used for climbing?

Personal protection requires equipment explicitly intended for it. Packing and transport cords do other jobs. Read the intended use and technical documents before adding any cord to a safety system.

Can a sling replace a via ferrata lanyard?

Via ferrata requires an appropriate energy-absorbing lanyard. An ordinary sling does not absorb fall energy in the same way. Use slings only for applications you have learnt and that are approved, and avoid falling onto them.

How do I choose cord for friction knots?

Its interaction with the rope depends on material, diameter and the knot. Learn a suitable combination on a course and check the manufacturer's guidance. A randomly chosen thin cord cannot replace that matching process.

How should I store textile equipment?

Keep it dry, away from light, chemicals and sharp edges. Inspect it after trips and record unusual loading. Have damaged equipment or items with an uncertain history assessed by a competent person or replace them.

Last updated: November 2026