| What it is | A sewn loop of webbing |
| Materials | Nylon or Dyneema |
| Uses | Extend gear, anchors, attach, carry |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
A sling, or runner, is a loop of strong nylon or Dyneema webbing used throughout climbing — to extend protection and reduce rope drag, build anchors, attach to the rock, and carry gear. Slings come sewn in standard lengths and are a fundamental, versatile part of any climbing kit.
What it’s for
Extending gear to cut rope drag, linking points into an anchor, attaching to the rock with a girth hitch, and carrying gear. Two carabiners turn a sling into an extendable draw.
Nylon vs Dyneema
Nylon is durable and slightly stretchy; Dyneema is lighter and thinner but stiff and should not be shock-loaded.
Care
Inspect for fraying and retire after a hard fall or at end of life.
Frequently asked questions
What is a sling used for in climbing?
Slings extend pieces of protection to reduce rope drag, link points into an anchor, attach you to the rock or a tree, carry gear over the shoulder, and back up rappels. With two carabiners a sling becomes an extendable quickdraw (an 'alpine draw').
What's the difference between nylon and Dyneema slings?
Nylon slings are cheaper, more abrasion-tolerant, and a bit stretchy. Dyneema (Dynex/Spectra) slings are much lighter, thinner, and water-resistant but stiffer and with almost no stretch, so they shouldn't be shock-loaded. Many climbers carry both.
How long do climbing slings last?
Sewn slings are textiles and degrade with use, UV exposure, and age. Retire them after a major fall, if they show fraying, cuts, or stiffness, or by the manufacturer's recommended lifespan — often up to about ten years from manufacture, sooner with heavy use.
Sources
- Slings and webbing — Petzl