How to Prevent Rope Burn

Heavy duty ropes for climbing or animal herding can abrade the skin, and certain coarse lighter ropes found in your garage also pose rope burn risks. Rope abrasions are caused by friction when a taught rope slides rapidly over the skin, and the fiction causes a warming sensation. The initial jolt of pain feels hot, much like a common burn, however, rope burns take longer to heal as rope fibers can get into the wound, causing infection. With the right precautions, you can protect yourself from this painful inconvenience.

Things You'll Need

• Lotion
• Gloves

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply a light to moderate amount of lotion to your hands. Rope burns are caused by friction, and lotion helps lubricate your hands for less friction. However, the lotion also makes it more difficult to get a tight grip, so this tactic isn't advisable for rock climbing or hauling heavier loads with your rope.

• 2

  Wear gloves. The thicker the glove, the more it will protect your palms from abrasions. The glove's exterior absorbs the heat generated by a rapidly sliding rope, leaving your hands unscathed.

• 3

  Inspect the rope for frayed sections or other visible damage. Loose fibers are more likely to cause rope burns than a solid, sturdy rope.

• 4

  Use a kernmantle nylon rope. These types of woven rope are less abrasive than other rope varieties.

• 5

  Pull several smaller loads rather than one large load if possible. Lessening the weight of the pulled item reduces the strain on your hands. If you can avoid rope slippage in the first place, you reduce your risk for painful rope burns.