Sterling Aero 9.2 Xeros Climbing Rope User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Sterling Aero 9.2 Xeros is a high-performance climbing rope designed for sport, mixed, and ice climbing applications. It features a durable sheath combined with a lighter weight core construction, providing a balance of toughness and soft handling characteristics.

Figure 1: The Sterling Aero 9.2 Xeros Blue 60m climbing rope, shown in its coiled, new condition with product labeling.

This rope is UIAA Dry certified with Sterling XEROS technology and is made with bluesign certified raw materials, emphasizing its quality and environmental considerations. Non-bicolor options, such as this 60m blue version, include a middle mark for easier handling and safety.

2. Setup and Initial Inspection

Before first use, and before every subsequent use, a thorough inspection of the rope is critical for safety.

2.1 Uncoiling the Rope

The Aero 9.2 Xeros rope may come with a "Send Ready Coil," meaning it is designed to be used directly from the packaging without needing to be uncoiled to prevent kinking. If your rope is not "Send Ready," carefully uncoil it to avoid twists and kinks. One method is to hold one end and allow the rope to uncoil naturally as you walk away, or to butterfly coil it.

2.2 Pre-Use Inspection

Visually and tactilely inspect the entire length of the rope. Look for:

• Cuts or abrasions: Any damage to the sheath.
• Flat spots or soft spots: Indicates core damage.
• Discoloration or chemical damage: Can weaken the rope fibers.
• Excessive fuzziness: Sign of significant wear.
• Kinks or permanent twists: Can affect handling and strength.

If any significant damage is found, the rope should be retired immediately. Consult a qualified professional if unsure about the rope's condition.

3. Operating Instructions

The Sterling Aero 9.2 Xeros is a dynamic rope intended for climbing. Proper use requires training and adherence to established climbing safety protocols. This manual provides general guidance; it is not a substitute for professional instruction.

3.1 Belaying

Always use a UIAA-approved belay device compatible with 9.2mm ropes. Ensure the rope is correctly threaded through the device and that the belayer maintains control of the brake strand at all times. Practice proper belay techniques, including giving and taking slack, catching falls, and lowering a climber.

3.2 Knot Tying

Familiarize yourself with essential climbing knots. Common knots for rope use include:

• Figure-Eight Follow-Through: For tying into the harness.
• Clove Hitch: For securing to anchors.
• Munter Hitch: For belaying or rappelling (requires a large HMS carabiner).
• Double Fisherman's: For joining two ropes (e.g., for rappelling).

Always double-check knots before use. Ensure sufficient tail length and proper dressing of the knot.

3.3 Climbing Applications

This rope is suitable for:

• Sport Climbing: Its softer handling and durability make it ideal for repeated falls and quickdraw clipping.
• Mixed Climbing: The XEROS dry treatment provides excellent water resistance, crucial in wet or icy conditions.
• Ice Climbing: The dry treatment also helps prevent ice buildup, maintaining rope flexibility in cold environments.

Always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow established climbing safety guidelines. Never use damaged rope.

4. Maintenance

Proper maintenance extends the life of your rope and ensures its safety.

4.1 Cleaning

Clean your rope when it becomes dirty with dust, grit, or other contaminants, as these can abrade the fibers from the inside. Use a specialized rope cleaner or mild, non-detergent soap (e.g., baby shampoo) and lukewarm water. Wash by hand in a bathtub or a large bucket, or use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle without agitation. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

4.2 Drying

After washing, dry the rope completely in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Hang the rope in large coils or spread it out on a clean surface. Drying can take several days. Do not use a dryer or apply direct heat.

4.3 Storage

Store your rope in a cool, dry, dark place, away from chemicals, solvents, acids, and extreme temperatures. A rope bag is recommended to protect it from dirt, UV light, and abrasion during transport and storage.

4.4 Regular Inspection

Perform a detailed inspection of the entire rope before and after each use. Pay close attention to the ends, the middle mark, and any sections that have been subjected to heavy use or falls. Document significant falls or incidents in a rope log.

5. Troubleshooting

Common issues encountered with climbing ropes and their solutions.

5.1 Rope Kinking

Kinking often occurs from improper uncoiling or repeated use of certain belay devices. To reduce kinking, ensure proper uncoiling techniques (e.g., butterfly coil or allowing it to uncoil freely). If kinking persists, run the rope through a belay device without a load, or hang it freely from a high point and allow it to untwist under its own weight.

5.2 Sheath Fuzziness/Abrasion

Minor fuzziness is normal wear. Significant abrasion or cuts exposing the core indicate severe damage. If the core is visible or the sheath is severely damaged, the rope's integrity is compromised, and it must be retired. Avoid dragging the rope over sharp edges or rough surfaces.

5.3 Stiffening Rope

A rope can stiffen due to dirt accumulation or repeated wetting/drying cycles. Cleaning the rope as described in Section 4.1 can restore some of its suppleness. If the rope remains excessively stiff or feels "crunchy," it may indicate internal damage or nearing its retirement age.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Sterling Aero 9.2 Xeros climbing rope, please refer to the official Sterling Ropes website or contact their customer service directly. General product support and safety guidelines can also be found on their official channels.

It is crucial to register your product if required by the manufacturer to ensure full warranty coverage and to receive important safety updates or recalls.

Manufacturer: Sterling Ropes

For further assistance, please visit the Sterling Ropes official website.