The Edelrid rope-making machine

Ever wondered how that climbing rope you rely on as a lifesaver is made?

Visitors to four outdoor stores will be able to see how German brand Edelrid creates the ropes that are a vital piece of kit for climbers.

The company, one of the world’s premier climbing rope manufacturers, is bringing its rope-making secrets to partner stores across the country.

The rope-making machine will be on display at outdoor stores in London, Manchester, Hathersage and Edinburgh in the coming weeks.

An Edelrid spokesman said: “In order to make the braiding process as clear as possible the motor on the production machine that will be touring the UK has been modified.

“This throttles the speed, allowing onlookers to watch the bobbins move around the core, braid the sheath and produce a 6mm cord right before their eyes. For those with questions an Edelrid representative will man the machine for the duration of each weekend, including none other than sponsored athlete Robbie Phillips, at both the Derbyshire and Edinburgh events.”

The machine comes directly from Edelrid’s production site in Isny im Allgäu, Germany, where all the brand’s ropes are made, and can be seen at Ellis Brigham in Covent Garden between 23 and 26 April; Cotswold in Manchester between 30 April and 3 May; Outside in Hathersage between 7 and 10 May and finally Tiso at EICA Ratho in Edinburgh from 14 to 17 May.