Climbing knots – 5 essential knots that every climber should know

…well every outdoor climber anyway. If you plan to only climb indoors at climbing walls then you’ll probably never need most of these knots. If you’re an outdoor climber, it is highly recommended that you have these 5 climbing knots in your repertoire.

1. The figure of eight knot

The first climbing knot that everyone is taught when they first learn to climb. It is the knot that most climbers use to tie the end of our climbing rope.

2. The clove hitch

In my opinion, this is the most useful knot for building a belay when you’re leading a climb. The beauty of the clove hitch is that it is adjustable – perfect for getting the right distance between you and your anchor points, and for equalising your anchors.

3. The overhand knot

A really simple and flexible knot. Perfect for building anchors for a top roping session, or for equalising a belay.

4. The Italian hitch

The Italian hitch climbing knot from Rock Climbing UK on Vimeo.

The italian hitch is ideal for use as a belay device if you choose a direct belay and the belay point is above you. It can also be used as a back up for novice abseilers, if they slip you can hold them on the Italian hitch.

5. The humble stopper knot

Use a stopper knot as a backup to prevent another knot from coming undone (and to keep things nice and tidy). Commonly used for the overhand knot, figure of eight knot and bowline knot.

I hope you enjoyed these videos, hopefully the first of many videos from Rock Climbing UK. Stay tuned, and as always your feedback is most welcome…