Archives Glossary Terms

What Is a Carabiner?

A carabiner is a metal loop with a spring-loaded gate used to connect parts of a climbing system quickly and securely. Climbers use them to attach the rope to protection, build anchors, and rack gear. They come in locking and non-locking versions and in shapes optimized for different jobs.

What Is a Clove Hitch?

A clove hitch is an adjustable friction knot that climbers tie directly onto a locking carabiner to attach themselves to an anchor. Its key advantage is that the length can be fine-tuned with one hand after tying, without untying the knot, making it the standard way to clip in at a belay station.