The JRB Garda Hitch Footloop is used in multiple forms of climbing, including the JRB DSRT and SRT.
The JRB Garda Hitch Footloop was released with 2 variations. Decide which version is best and see the video for the details.
The newest and preferred version has a Single Loop:
The Original version had 2 independent loops, one for each foot:
Footloop Shopping List
ITEM #1: WEBBING
One inch nylon or polyester webbing (flat or tubular) is available from multiple sources. Note that the 1200lb webbing is thin and easy to pack but plenty strong for a Footloop.
The single loop variant is constructed with approximately 12ft (or twice your height). This provides extra, and is trimmed to the correct length after construction, as per the video.
The double loop variant used 14ft, using 2 overhand knots to close it. 12ft is fine if closed with one overhand knot.
GM Climbing 1″ x 30′ Flat Nylon Webbing (1200 lb)
GM Climbing 1″ x 30′ Tubular Nylon Webbing (4000 lb)
US Cargo 1″ x 300′ Polyester Flat Webbing (4500 lb)
ITEM 2: Two non-locking Carabiners
Locking biners won’t work because lockers can prohibit proper binding because gates are typically thicker than the rest of the biner. Note that the carabiner should ideally be round in cross section, with no sharp edges, and ideally have a “straight gate”. The ideal size of the Carabiner varies with the rope diameter and the number of strands being captured (1 or 2).
These are LARGER than average straight gate carabiners, with 1.5″ inside dimension and approximately 1″ gate opening. In DSRT strands, they work well on 8mm ropes, OK on 9.5mm ropes and are tight for 11 mm ropes. In SRT, they work fine on all diameters.
Fusion Supreme Oval Straight Gate, 1.5″ inside dimension
Petzl OK Oval, 1.5″ inside dimension
Fusion Tazo III D Straight Gate
Black Diamond Oval Straight Gate
When building a DSRT system in 11 mm rope, these carabiners are even LARGER, and operate much better. They also work on 9.5 mm DSRT and SRT systems, but are a bit large for 8mm systems.
Kong Large Straight Gate Carabiners
Item #3: Cord for the “Best Friend” loop
JRB recommends using 7 or 8mm cord for the Best Friend loop. 48″ is a good length to cut and subsequently shortened based on the optimal geometry. JRB uses 36″.
Building the Footloop
The details are in the videos. Additionally, note:
- The Bull Hitch Variant must be used to secure the webbing to the carabiners. Don’t try a Girth Hitch or a sewn end.
- The load must be shared by both strands of webbing going into the carabiners.
- The “Best Friend” loop is installed after the webbing and utilized a clove hitch. The clove hitch is critical in that it ensures that the carabiners are properly squeezed if the best friend loop is loaded. JRB closes the loop using a Hunter’s bend, but a different secure bend can be used at the discretion of the climber.
- When complete, with your foot inside the loop, the top of the carabiners should be at approximately belly button height, not smaller than waist height.
- The performance and ease of movement of the Garda is a function of the carabiner shape, the rope diameter, the rope stiffness and the number of strands (1 or 2).
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