The Master Pro is a longstanding model in Tendon's rope collection. We reviewed it way back in 2008 when we introduced Tendon as a relatively recent name on the UK climbing rope market. They've subsequently become much more established and their popularity is now widespread, with the Master Pro 9.2mm still being a stalwart of the range. Here we look at the latest version to see how it performs.

In Use

The Master Pro 9.2mm is a lightweight single rope designed primarily for sport climbing, but which could also be used within the alpine environment. In this review - because we're based in the UK - we've focused our efforts on its application whilst sport climbing, then peppered in the occasional trad route (which it would also be suitable for, when you're not using double ropes - or on a line that wiggles around too much).

To me, it feels a bit thicker than the quoted 9.2mm, and handles a little more like a 9.4-5mm. It's still light enough for redpointing, as and when you're at your limit, but it's also got enough substance to be used when working routes. I actually prefer this, as it makes it less specialist than a rope you'd just reserve for redpointing and makes it much more appealing from an all-round perspective, as you can do everything with it. Who has the energy, storage space or money to have one rope for working a route, and a different one for then climbing it?!

Out of the box it's got a soft, supple feel, which is lovely. It handles really well, knots nicely, and feeds through a belay device really smoothly. There is a downside to this. Generally speaking in my experience, softer ropes do not tend to be as hardwearing in the long term, and the Master Pro is a good example of this. Even after substantial use the rope's shealth still looks in really good condition, but internally the core feels like it's flattened in places. You will need to keep a careful eye on it - especially if you're giving it a hammering. At the end of the day this is a 9.2mm rope. It's not designed to be the most durable out there, and if you are looking primarily at durability you might want to get something thicker.

Features

The Master Pro comes with Tendon's 'Complete Shield' protection, which means it's dry treated throughout both the core and the sheath. This treatment also adds to the rope's abrasion resistance, as it provides a protective layer that stops dirt and dust from getting into it. If your rope does get mucky we'd always recommend that you give it a wash, as this will do wonders for its lifespan in the long term.

This rope is available in three different colours, and six lengths from 40m - 100m; well, it's always nice to have options! Starting at £139, it's also pretty good value.

Summary

The Master Pro 9.2mm is a good, lightweight sport climbing all-rounder. It's capable of being a rope you'd want to use whilst redpointing, but also one you could use for working routes. It's got a lovely soft feel from first use, and that continues with time; but just keep an eye on wear because this is, after all, a lightweight performance oriented rope.