Marlow Altair 11.6mm Arborist Climbing Rope 32-Plait EN1891 ANSI Z133
The Marlow Altair is Marlow’s newest arborist climbing rope, purpose-built for tree care professionals seeking smooth handling, dependable performance, and compatibility with modern mechanical climbing devices. The supple 32-plait polyester cover over a 12-strand polyester core runs effortlessly through hardware, knots easily, and delivers exceptional control. Lightweight yet durable, the Altair combines very good UV resistance and good abrasion and chemical resistance with a refined balance of flexibility and strength. Available in Pink or Purple, in 120, 150, and 200 ft lengths, with a low-profile spliced eye termination.
Key Features
- Mechanical Device Compatible — Engineered for use with modern mechanical climbing devices
- 32-Plait Cover Construction — Supple, smooth-running cover for effortless hardware performance
- Easy to Handle and Knot — Flexible construction for confident knotting and rope management
- Lightweight — 6.9 lbs/100 ft for reduced pack weight and fatigue
- Very Good UV Resistance
- Good Abrasion and Chemical Resistance
- Low-Profile Spliced Eye Termination — Clean, low-bulk end fitting for hardware compatibility
- CE EN 1891 and ANSI Z133 Certified
Performance Data
- Diameter: 11.6mm (29/64")
- Weight: 10.28 kg/100m (6.9 lbs/100 ft)
- Elongation: 2.4%
- Avg. Break Load (Spliced): 21 kN (4,720 lbs)
- Avg. Break Load (Figure-8 Loop): 16.9 kN (3,800 lbs)
- Static Strength: 28.1 kN (6,317 lbs)
Material Properties
- Construction: 12-strand core, 32-plait cover
- Material: Polyester cover, polyester core
- Relative Density: 1.38
- Melting Point: 250°C / 482°F
- UV Resistance: Very good
- Chemical Resistance: Good
- Termination: Low-profile spliced eye with whip
Specifications
- Brand: Marlow
- Certifications: CE EN 1891, ANSI Z133
- Available Colors: Pink, Purple
- Available Lengths: 120 ft, 150 ft, 200 ft
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Marlow Altair compatible with mechanical climbing devices?
Yes — the Altair is specifically engineered for compatibility with modern mechanical climbing devices. The 32-plait polyester cover provides the smooth, consistent surface profile that mechanical hitches and devices require for reliable engagement and controlled descent. Always verify your specific device’s rope diameter and construction requirements against the Altair’s 11.6mm specification before use.
What is the difference between the spliced break load and the figure-8 loop break load?
The spliced break load (21 kN / 4,720 lbs) reflects the strength of the rope terminated with a professionally spliced eye, which retains close to full rope strength. The figure-8 loop break load (16.9 kN / 3,800 lbs) reflects the reduced strength introduced when the rope is knotted — knots create stress concentrations that reduce effective strength by approximately 20–40% depending on knot type. A spliced termination is always the stronger and preferred option for permanent or semi-permanent rigging configurations.
What does EN 1891 certification mean for a climbing rope?
EN 1891 is the European standard for low-stretch kernmantle ropes used in work positioning, fall arrest, and rope access applications. Certification to EN 1891 means the rope has been tested and verified to meet defined minimum strength, elongation, and handling requirements. The Altair meets this standard as well as ANSI Z133, the US arborist industry safety standard for tree care operations.
Can I get the Altair with a splice on one end or both ends?
The Altair is available with a low-profile spliced eye termination. For specific termination requirements or custom configurations, contact us and we can advise on what Marlow offers for this rope.