The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics) [Paperback]

Clyde Soles (Author)

Book Description

Series: Mountaineers Outdoor Basics | Publication Date: April 1, 2004

A guide to the ropes and knots used in the outdoors by hikers, campers, paddlers, and climbers.

*Guidelines for selecting the best rope and the best knot for the activity at hand
*Knot-tying directions clearly illustrated with photos
*New entry in the Mountaineers Outdoor Basics series

It's fair to say that climber Clyde Soles is obsessed with ropes and knots and their absolute performance--since he regularly entrusts his life to ropes on sheer rock faces. His unique book explains how to select and use ropes, cordage, and webbing for the outdoors. Invaluable information is provided on rope handling techniques (how to avoid dreaded tangles) and the best methods for rope care and maintenance. Step-by-step directions for tying over 40 knots are clearly illustrated with photographs. Other useful features include a glossary and a knot comparison chart activity.

This is the definitive text on ropes and knots for anyone who plays in the outdoors!

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This is a great little book... Read this book before you buy your next rope or new slings. You will save the modest book price ten times over!" -- TraditionalMountaineering.com

A thorough guide. -- Sacramento Bee

[I]t's critical to know how to tie a knot...The Outdoor Knots Book is a great starting point. -- Idaho Falls Post Register

[T]his book has some tried-and-true traditional and relatively new knots. --Salem Statesman Journal

About the Author

Clyde Soles' adventures have taken him around the world and to the top of the Himalayan Gasherbrum II (8,036 meters). A former senior editor for Rock & Ice magazine, he is the author of Rock & Ice Gear: Equipment for the Vertical World; Climbing; Training for Peak Performance; and Climbing: Expedition Planning

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Mountaineers Books (April 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0898869625
• ISBN-13: 978-0898869620
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #34,326 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #35 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Mountaineering > Mountain Climbing
  • #68 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Hiking & Camping > Instructional

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great for climbers and boaters, February 1, 2008

By 

Mtnwmn - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics) (Paperback)

I was looking for a good book to learn the knots needed for climbing and rafting. Of the several that I examined, this had the best descriptions telling you both how to tie them and also why (or why not) to use a particular knot. It also isn't overwhelming like some of the other books that show hundreds of knots I'll never need.

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Superb info on knots and ropes!, August 28, 2004

By 

OutdoorEnthusiast (Washington DC) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics) (Paperback)

This is the best book on knots for climbers available! It's also great for hikers and boaters. There is a lot of information on rope materials and construction (not just climbing ropes but all that are used outdoors). It also has a useful chapter on rope handling, from coiling to tossing, to help prevent tangles. And the selection of knots is large but not overwhelming, with helpful tips on why (or why not) to use a particular knot. Good photos and detailed written instructions make it easy to learn the knots (some knot books are rather confusing). This should be required reading!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great overview, April 13, 2009

By 

A. C. Spradlin "chucwagn" (O-town, UT) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Outdoor Knots Book (Mountaineers Outdoor Basics) (Paperback)

I enjoy this book because of the simple layout and pictures of each knot. Also with all the names included for each knot you will not be left scratching your head on what knots are called by either craggers, sailors, or just plain mountain men.

Great for climbers wanting to freshen up on some knots or beginners looking to get into tying things up.