Boulder & Foghelm
Boulder
So you’re all about old‑school gear, no GPS, right? How do you decide when a rope’s age becomes a risk?
Foghelm
I don’t count the calendar, I read the fibers. If it’s frayed, stained or has been soaked in sun or salt, it’s already past its safe days. Even a neat rope is risky after a few years of harsh use.
Boulder
Good eye. Just remember, rope still wears out even if it looks fine. Treat every line as a possible break‑point and check it after each season. Keep a log of the dates you last inspected and replace before the next storm.
Foghelm
That’s the old rule, though I keep a ledger in my mind and never trust a rope that’s been through a season.
Boulder
Ledger in mind is solid, but write it down too. If a rope’s been through a season, cut it—no surprises on the wall. Keep the record, keep the rope.
Foghelm
You’ve got the right point – write it, then cut it. A clean record is the only thing that keeps a line from slipping on the wall.
Boulder
Yeah, stick to it. A clean line is the only good line.