Nylon Loop Runners

Nylon loop runners are sewn webbing slings that climbers use to build anchors, set redirects, extend a connection, and organize gear on the saddle. They are light, cheap, and one of the most versatile pieces of soft gear on the harness.

How tree climbers use them

A sewn runner can be girth-hitched or basket-hitched around a limb for a redirect, used to extend a connection past bark, or clipped to a saddle ring to carry tools. Nylon has some stretch and handles knots and hitches well.

Several lengths on the saddle let you adapt to different stem sizes without reaching for rope.

Runners also make simple tool lanyards and gear slings, and a few spares in the kit bag cover a lot of small jobs on the climb.

Care and limits

Webbing is easily cut. Keep runners away from saw chains and sharp edges, and out of sun, chemicals, and fuel. Inspect the stitching and webbing before each use and retire any runner that is cut, faded, stiff, or has damaged stitching. Ratings drop when you tie knots or choke a sling, so follow the marked ratings for each configuration.

Mark each runner with its purchase date and keep track of its age, since webbing loses strength over time even without visible damage. Store runners clean and dry with the rest of your soft gear.

Life-support gear must meet the applicable standard (ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions), be inspected before every use, and be used only by trained climbers. More climbing gear is here.