January 8, 2001


What's a good rope and helmet for climbing in Thailand?

I've been rock climbing for a couple years now and will be going to climb in Krabi, Thailand for a month this April so it's time for me to invest in a rope and helmet. First, what type of rope would you recommend (I want 60 meters, but I don't know which width or whether static or dry would be better)? And also what which helmet would you suggest? Thanks!

— Susan Heller Bellevue, Washington

Sounds like you have a cool trip planned Susan! And we can help out with the gear.

First, the rope. There's of course a tradeoff when it comes to length. A longer rope may give you that extra bit to hit the top of a route, or the ground on a rappel, but it weighs more. I'd think you'd want at least a 50-meter rope, with a 60-meter being handier if you don't mind the extra pound or so.

As for the other particulars, you'd probably get the best combination of performance and light weight with a rope in the ten-mil range. One good candidate: PMI's 9.7mm Arrete Standard rope ($139). Very light, very stretchy for low impact on a falling climber, and rated to eight falls. Another good rope: Bluewater's Accelerator 10.5mm. Still pretty light, but with that little extra margin (nine-fall rating) that might come in handy. Both of these are standard ropes, not "dry" models. In my view, they'll be fine and save you a few bucks —- the dry ropes are best for use around snow and ice.

The main issue with the helmet is the fact that it's apt to be both warm and humid when you're climbing, so good ventilation will be a must. Even at that, you may find wearing a helmet all but intolerable. Still, you might try Petlz's Meteor ($80). It's designed more like a modern bicycle helmet than a traditional climbing helmet -— very light and well ventilated. It's by far the best choice for what you intended to do.

So there you are. Climb safely, and enjoy the trip.