Is twisting a safety strap to improve grip on slippery poles recommended?

• A. No
• B. Yes
• C. Not specified
• D. Only with a certain type of pole

Answer: (A)

Twisting a safety strap is not recommended because safety equipment must be used as designed, and altering it can compromise strength and reliability. When a strap is twisted, the load is no longer carried evenly along its fibers, which can create stress points, reduce its effective strength, and increase the risk of failure or unpredictable movement during a climb. It can also lead to entanglement or the strap catching on the pole, making the situation more dangerous rather than safer. If grip on a slippery pole is an issue, focus on proper technique and gear usage instead—maintain three points of contact, position your body for solid balance, keep feet and hands dry as allowed, and use footwear and grips that maximize traction. In short, never twist the strap to improve grip; use the equipment as intended and rely on technique to manage slippery surfaces.