Knotting
Due to the high loads that rescue systems have to bear, it is important to balance the ease of knotting with the ease of untying after use.
Soft, flexible ropes are easy to tie and can be tightened by hand; however, these knots cannot be untied after load.
Although stiff ropes are difficult to handle and tighten by hand, and may loosen or slip before they are tied, knots tied with stiff ropes are easier to remove after use.
Handling
Handling or handling refers to the ease of using a particular rope. Soft ropes are easier to use and, as mentioned above, are easier to tie and tighten. Softer ropes not only fit into smaller rope bags, but are also easier to store. Rescue team members who do not use ropes frequently usually prefer ropes that are easier to handle.
Despite the advantages of soft ropes, many experienced rescuers prefer stiffer ropes because they are more resistant to wear and tear and provide more control when lowering or rappelling. Mining ropes used in digging holes are deliberately made very stiff to make the rope more efficient when ascending.
