Mountain Skills Academy

We’re back with another Thursday Tech Tip! 🧗

Today, Corey is taking us through a quick tutorial on how to tie a Flat Overhand Knot, an important knot to know when working with rappel ropes.

This knot is commonly used to join two ropes together, creating a secure connection when setting up a rappel system. As with any climbing knot, tying it correctly and checking it properly is key.

Corey’s top tips:
1️⃣ Leave at least 30cm of tail on each side.
2️⃣ When tightening the knot, pull on all four strands of rope to dress it properly.
3️⃣ Push the knot down in two directions to make sure it’s neat, tight and secure.

Want to learn more knot towing skills. Explore our wide variety of courses on our website. And use the code COREY10 at checkout for 10% 🙈

Did you know the first Via Ferrata was built in 1915? ⛰️

MSAA guide Devon takes us back in time to share the history behind the Via Ferrata and the origins of these unique mountain routes. Who knew it was built by the Italians 👀 🇮🇹

Let us know in the comments!

Happy Monday! 🧗‍♀️ Today, we’re joined by Corey, who’s taking us through a quick tutorial on how to tie a Figure 8 knot.

One of the most important knots in rock climbing, the Figure 8 is commonly used to tie into your harness before climbing, creating a secure connection between you and the rope.

Corey’s top tips for tying a solid Figure 8:
1. Make sure there are no twists in the knot.
2. Leave around two hands’ worth of tail.
3. Make sure you can’t fit a closed fist through the eye of the knot.

Get these three things right, and you’ll be off to a great start

Happy Wednesday, climbers!

Corey’s back with another Tech Tip, and this week we’re talking all things crag hazards and good climbing etiquette.

A few simple habits can help keep you, your climbing partners, and everyone else at the crag safe:
🪖 Pop your helmet on as soon as you arrive at the cliff.
👀 Take a moment to identify any potential hazards before you start climbing.
🤝 Be mindful of other climbers and share the space respectfully.
🎒 Keep your gear organised and in one spot to avoid clutter and trip hazards.
🌿 Follow the Leave No Trace principles and help keep our crags beautiful.
😄 And most importantly, have fun!

What are your go-to crag etiquette tips? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Wednesday, climbers! It’s time for another MSAA Tech Tip!

This week, Corey is sharing some practical advice on managing rope drag, a simple technique that can make a big difference to the efficiency of your climbing and help your gear work with you, not against you.

Whether you’re setting up your next adventure or just keen to learn a few new tricks, this is one tip worth adding to your toolkit.

Don’t forget to use code COREY10 at checkout for 10% off all MSAA tours and courses! ☀️🧗