Teufelberger epiCORD 10mm Hitch Cord (By the Foot)

Teufelberger epiCORD is a hitch cord made for tying friction hitches, and this 10mm version is sold by the foot so you can cut exactly the length you need. It is a common choice for climbers who tie their own split tails and want a cord that grips and releases consistently.

Choosing hitch cord

A friction hitch is only as good as the cord it is tied with. Hitch cord needs a cover that grips the climbing line, survives heat from long descents, and releases cleanly when you push the hitch. epiCORD is designed for exactly that job.

Buying by the foot lets you cut a split tail to suit your preferred hitch, whether that is a Distel, VT or a hitch you have tuned to your rope. Match the cord diameter to your climbing line: a 10 mm cord is commonly paired with lines around 11 to 13 mm, but always test on your own rope. Browse other tech cordage for alternatives.

Cutting your own also means you can keep a spare length in the truck and tie a fresh split tail on the job instead of waiting for a replacement.

Tying, testing and care

Finish the ends with knots or terminations recommended by the manufacturer and learn the hitch from a qualified trainer. Test the hitch close to the ground before you climb on it, and adjust the number of wraps if it grabs too hard or slips.

Replace hitch cord when the cover is glazed, fuzzy, stiff or shows core. Hitch cord wears much faster than climbing line. Life-support gear must meet the applicable standard, be used per ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions, and be inspected before every climb by a trained user.