Meteorology – Relative Humidity
Linked below are a couple pretty good educational videos discussing relative humidity. Relative humidity refers to how much moisture is in the air relative to that air’s capacity. Capacity is based on air temperature. The warmer the air, the greater its capacity to hold moisture. When you understand relative humidity and dew point (and a […]
Meteorology – Air Masses and Fronts
Linked below are two videos describing different types of frontal systems and the kind of weather each is likely to bring. Add cloud recognition to the mix and you have more tools for predicting changes in weather. Warm fronts are likely to form stratus clouds. Cold fronts are more likely to form cumulous clouds. NIMBOSTRATUS […]
CEM Releasable Knot
CEM Releasable Knot Construcción y colapso del Nudo CEM en un arco de roca / “El anclaje recuperable Mexicano” En esta ocasión visitamos el cañón de El Zarco en Zapopan, Jalisco. Un cañón que presenta al inicio formaciones de roca muy peculiares, en especial nos llamó la atención una zona que no presenta gran desnivel […]
Which bend for joining two ropes?
Which bend for joining ropes? Download PDF Tests conducted by Grant Prattley of Over the Edge Rescue comparing several variations of the flat overhand bend for joining two ropes. Answering the question – Is there a bend that is easy to tie, easy to undo after normal loading, has a snag-free surface while having reasonable […]
VT Instructions
Designed by Rich Carlson and manufactured by BlueWater Ropes, the VT Prusik features a super tough, heat resistant Technora aramid sheath over durable nylon core strands. The core in this kernmantle design keeps the VT from flattening and binding up. The VT performs well when used for many tasks, including: ascending self-belay while rappelling as […]
Totem Instructions
Instructions for Rigging the Totem The original Totem is the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of rigging devices. Deceptively simple looking, the Totem is remarkably versatile. Use it for belaying, releasable rigging and hauling systems, or as a rigging plate. Use it for rappelling – it’s simple to add friction mid-rappel and simple to lock off. You […]
Canyoneering – A Primer
Canyon Primer Booklet Download the free PDF This booklet was one of the first projects undertaken by the American Canyoneering Association; within one year of the organization’s inception. Written by Rich Carlson and Matt Smith, with input from many members of the canyoneering community. More than 3,000 copies were printed and distributed thanks to some […]
Canyon Ratings
American Canyon Ratings Download the free PDF Check out the Canyon Ratings episode of the Canyoneering Karma Podcast for a discussion on rating systems and how to use them.
Heuristic Traps
The 6 Heuristic Traps Heuristics are a fundamental part of how humans make decisions and judgements. They are intuitive mental shortcuts used to solve a particular problem. Using trial-and-error and rule-of-thumb are examples. Heuristics are helpful because they allow us to quickly make sense of a complex environment, but there are times when using them […]
VT Prusik Video
Video: VT Prusik In this episode, Rich introduces the VT Prusik, a versatile piece of gear for ropework. He explains its features, including the Technora sheath and nylon core, and its strength in different configurations. Rich demonstrates various hitches that can be tied with the VT Prusik, such as the three over one prusik and […]
Tail Up – Prepared for Rescue
Video: Rigging Tail Up In this episode of the Art of Ropework, Rich discusses rigging for rescue situations where hauling is the most likely method. He explains the concept of tail down and tail up rigging and when each is appropriate. He demonstrates various rigging techniques, including using friction wraps, progress capture devices, and mechanical […]
Static Twin Ropes
Video: Static Twin Rope In this episode of the ART of RopeWork, Rich discusses twin rope systems and how they can increase efficiency in rope work. He explains the difference between double rope systems and twin rope systems, highlighting the benefits of using twin ropes for rappelling in a group. He explores various methods of […]