Almost true.
My issues are with rope bulk.
I had 2 x 60m

If Jokers came in a 8.5mm x 50m I'd buy some of those.

Yes Soutie, hide behind 2000km of ocean.
But you will be back.
And I know where you live....

Mwhahahahaha

they do and it's called the Cobra. 8.6mm.

I'm really itching to get a pair of Edelrid Shikras for my looming Cape climbing trip. They look like the best choice of available ropes, but I have a few questions for people who has been using them a lot.

How does it handle dust, mud and water?
Is it true what they claim about the sheath? Is it really more durable?
Do they have a middle marker or are they bi-colour? (not a big deal)

That's pretty much it. I know all about the handling and heritage of Edelrid (my dad climbed with one when the kermantle ropes became available). My current ropes are still fine, but I'm itching and one of my mates wants his own rack, but doesn't want to fork out for new stuff.

The Shikra does have a black ink middle mark that is put on at the factory.
The sheath is slightly thicker percentage wise making it fairly durable and the one over one "Sport Braid" makes the sheath very tight and allows it to slip over rock and through biners etc smoother. Most ropes have a two over construction.
It is not a dry treated rope so technically it will absorb some water but the Sport Braid makes most mud, dirt and water not get into the sheath or core.


cheers
Scott

Disclaimer I work for Edelrid so Im biased but just answering questions from Shorti.

Cool thanks Scott. I think I'm satisfied enough to buy them and see for myself.

I'm looking at the Beal Cobras (8.6mm).
The specs look really good. A bucket load of falls and it weighs about the same as the Shikras. The Shikras are 60m, but I think I prefer a shorter (lighter) rope. The Cobras are a bit more expensive (per meter).

Any opinions about these two ropes would be appreciated. Is the difference in the treatments?

Dirk

I'm getting a little tired of phoning shops and sending emails, so I'll try my luck here. Does anyone have a pair of Edelrid Shikras in stock? I'm looking for 50m, but will settle for 60m too. I obviously don't want two of the same colour, so one blue and one red. Please contact me (PM) or post here if you can help me

Cheers
Herman