Teufelberger 8mm Ocean Polyester Hitch Cord (By the Foot)

Ocean polyester hitch cord in 8mm is a slim, grippy cord for tying friction hitches on arborist climbing lines. Buy it by the foot to make up a hitch, a short prusik or a spare to keep in the bag.

Choosing hitch cord

An 8mm cord grabs harder than thicker cords on the same climbing line, so it suits climbers on thinner ropes or anyone who likes a positive bite. On thick lines it can grab too hard and get grabby on descent, so test it before you commit.

Buying by the foot lets you cut exactly what your hitch needs. Measure a hitch you already like and add enough for terminations.

Ocean polyester cord is a long-standing choice for footlock prusiks and hitch cords because it is simple, consistent and affordable. Buying it by the foot also makes it easy to keep a spare length in the bag so a worn hitch can be swapped on the job rather than ending the climb. Expect to replace hitch cord more often than any other soft part of your system, especially if you descend fast.

Terminations, wear and care

Eyes on a hitch cord carry your full weight. Have them sewn or spliced by a qualified provider, or use a knot taught and tested in your training. Do not improvise terminations at height.

Life-support gear must meet ANSI Z133 requirements and the manufacturer's instructions, be inspected before every climb, and be used only by trained climbers. Hitch cord is a consumable. Replace it when the cover glazes, fuzzes heavily or stiffens from heat. See more tech cordage.