nylon that could be used in a manner akin to a fireman's pole. The special ropes used today are braided (plaited), producing a pattern on the outer circumference that is not smooth and so is easier to grip. Originally, each person reaching the bottom would then hold the rope to stabilize it for the next person, but this has been phased out.

Equipment and techniques

Rope

The rope must be thick, typically 40 mm (1.57 in) diameter, to prevent it from being wildly jerked

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