This is going to piss off the worlds largest climbing organization

Is sunscreen bad for your rope? The UIAA claimed that it is, weakening it up to 40%. After investigating this, we found no research has been done on this topic and those claims were completely made up. So we tested 9mm Sterling Safety Pro (nylon) with a MBS of 19kN after being soaked in 8 different sunscreens for a month. The two most concerning ingredients, according to the UIAA were denatured alcohol and avobenzone, so we tested them in isolation. After 3 samples each, a total of 33 break tests, THE ROPE DID NOT BREAK BELOW MBS ONCE. Our data, from tests we actually did, can be found at https://hownot2.com/pages/sunscreen The UIAA’s Instagram article https://www.instagram.com/p/DKppjZIMl1A/ [now removed by UIAA!] The UIAA’s Blog https://www.theuiaa.org/uiaa-safecom-answers-your-questions-suncream-and-climbing-gear/ [not removed yet] We tested this rope https://hownot2.com/products/safetypro-static-rope REEF RANT! There is growing evidence that sunscreens may contribute to coral reef damage. Some ingredients have been implicated more strongly than others. In response, we’ve seen a wave of “reef safe” sunscreens hitting the market, many labeled as “100% mineral.” Consumers often choose these products in good faith, believing they are safer for the environment. However, mineral UV filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) are less efficient than chemical filters, especially when used alone. To reach an acceptable SPF protection, many mineral sunscreens rely on SPF boosters, some of which are unregulated chemical UV absorbers that are not officially recognized as active ingredients by regulatory bodies. As a result, these chemical boosters appear in the “inactive” ingredient list, even in sunscreens labeled “100% mineral.” It’s important to understand that terms like “reef safe” and “100% mineral” are largely marketing terms and given the wide use of SPF boosters, are not necessarily an indication that a sunscreen is better or safer for you or the environment. Furthermore, emerging research suggests that even nano zinc oxide can be harmful to coral reefs. That said, sunscreen remains critical for human health. To minimize environmental impact, the best approach is to use UPF-rated sun protective clothing (e.g., rash guards, hats, pants, etc) that physically cover your skin from the sun. Clothing is one of the most effective UV filters on the market, and is probably more reef safe than any sunscreen. 👉 Learn and SHOP at https://www.hownot2.com/ 👉 Best EMAILS on Earth: https://www.hownot2.com/signup 👉 10% off ROCKY TALKIE by clicking https://www.hownot2.com/rocky