| Figure-eight loop | |
|---|---|
| Names | Figure-eight loop, Flemish loop |
| Category | Loop |
| Related | figure-eight knot, flemish bend |
| Typical use | climbing, caving |
| Caveat | jams |
| ABoK | #1047 |
A figure-eight loop (also Flemish loop or Flemish eight) is a type of knot created by a loop on the bight. It is used in climbing and caving where rope strains are light to moderate and for decorative purposes.
The double figure eight is used to put a loop in the end of a rope, or around an object. It is relatively easy to tie and is secure, but can become difficult to untie after heavy loading, and can jam badly in any rope type.
One can easily make a loop using a double figure eight knot by doubling the rope, then tying the standard figure-of-eight knot. If the loop has to be made around a post or through a ring, and only one end of the rope is available, the follow-through (also known as the re-threaded) method is used by tying a loose figure eight knot in the rope, then putting the working end around the object. The working end is retraced through the original figure eight knot to form a double figure eight.
The follow-through method is used when the knot must be tied around an object that cannot easily have a loop slipped over it. In particular, it is used to attach a rope to a climbing harness. The double bowline accomplishes the same task, can be tied faster, and does not jam however the figure eight is easier to teach to beginners and quickly verify that it has been tied correctly.