Yale XTC 16-Strand White Climbing Rope

Yale XTC climbing rope is a 1/2 in. 16-strand line that has been a standard on tree crews for years. The white version is plain and easy to inspect, and the firm braid holds traditional friction hitches well.

A classic 16-strand climbing line

Sixteen-strand climbing line has a braided cover over a core, a slightly larger diameter than modern 24-strand lines and a firm feel. That firmness is why many climbers still like it for doubled-rope work with a Blake's hitch or a Distel: the hitch grabs predictably and releases without drama.

The white colorway is about as plain as rope gets. It shows dirt, sap and pulled strands right away, which helps when you inspect before each climb, and it is easy to tell apart from a crew's colored rigging lines. Pair it with a hitch cord sized for half-inch line.

Many arborists keep a half-inch 16-strand line as a backup or as a dedicated rope for doubled-rope pruning, even after switching their main system to a thinner line.

Use, care and inspection

XTC works for both moving rope and stationary rope systems, though some mechanical devices are built around 11 to 12 mm line, so check the device maker's approved rope list first. Expect it to stiffen a little with use and grime.

Climbing line is life-support equipment. Use it only within the manufacturer's instructions and ANSI Z133, inspect it before every climb, retire it when the cover is cut or glazed or the core feels damaged, and get proper training before you trust it. Browse the rest of our 16-strand climbing rope options to compare colors and lengths.