8.5 Newt

Canyoneering instructor here. I’ve tried every rope imaginable—Glacier Black ropes are consistently better. After 3+ years, I’ve never core shot ANY of my GB ropes (other ropes gave up long ago), and this new high vis Newt is their best yet. The UHMPE/Vectran sheathes are so ridiculously resilient. They’re also lightweight, silky smooth on rappel, float well in water, and remain supple even years in. HIGHLY recommend. Don’t waste your $$ on a cheap stiff rope that lasts half as long.

I recently started using the Glacier Black Cascade Newt in Costa Rica. Our canyons demand long jungle approaches with heavy gear, so its 8.5 mm diameter, low weight, and minimal water absorption make a real difference. It packs well wet or dry, feels great in hand, and has resisted abrasion very well. The Strata Fuse construction makes the sheath and core feel like one piece. I previously used BlueWater Canyon Extreme ropes, but the Newt has become my top choice. I plan to buy more.

Recently used the Newt in a wildland firefighter REMS class which focuses on lightweight, austere area rescue. Had a toothed rope grab get packed with mud and slip 3 feet on the sheath with a 2kn load being hauled on a 5:1 with a 3 man haul team. Rope held up remarkable well with the only damage being some sheath abrasion. I’m confident many other ropes would have desheathed completely. Excited to keep running it though its paces and see what more it’s capable of.

I really enjoyed this rope. Its sleak and smooth. Its got a fast ride which I like. My favorite aspect is it floats.

Easily my favorite rope. Has lasted longer than any of my other 200ft ropes and I've owned versions from most brands. Pros are how consistent, light and supple it is. But supple can be a con as well, you can't just yank on this when pulling, it will fly around and knot itself if not managed carefully. While consistent, it's consistently fast. You'll need more friction than most other ropes.

Just got back from a trip in the Waterpocket Fold where we backpacker in and did multiple days of canyons. It was a no brainer to bring this rope as it is extremely light, absorbs virtually no water, and withstands the abuse that sandstone canyons have to offer. 10/10 was the best rope on the trip.

I’ve used many ropes over the years and this rope is my go to especially for swift water! It’s light and durable and it rides smooth. Between this and the polywog I’m set!!

Look if you have not tried this rope and are an avid Canyoneer , you need to get with the times this rope is amazing ….

It light even when wet , it tuff I have countless raps on mine and it is in better shape the my canyon pro with half the raps .

I hear people complain about it being fast but it’s not bad it actually helps me find the perfect friction setting on my device ! (it’s nothing you can’t handle)

Anyway don’t hesitate to buy this rope it’s amazing!

#pinkropesarebest ? 🤔