Review: Beal Opera 8.5mm Golden Dry

Not just another climbing rope—the Beal Opera 8.5mm Golden Dry is an ultralight cord for big, technical missions. It's the lightest single-rated rope on the market at 48 grams per meter, which equates to 5.3 pounds in a 50m length. It's also rated for use as a half or twin rope. The "Unicore" construction means that its sheath and core are woven together to prevent damage caused by sheath slippage. I'm not intending to take huge whippers on it, but with its UIAA-certified dry treatment, I know it'll hold up to some harsh conditions in the mountains. Available at Uphill Pursuits; $240.