Knots & Hitches

Michoacán Hitch

Friction hitches
Advanced
friction hitch
eye-to-eye

Symmetrical friction hitch with wraps above and below the crossing point. Smooth, predictable and easy to tend.

When to use it

Climbers who want VT-like tending with a more symmetrical, less fussy build.

Interactive knot view

Build the Michoacán Hitch

Working end in orange

Step 1

Clip both eyes into the carabiner and hold the doubled cord on the climbing line.

Step by step

  1. Step 1

    Clip both eyes into the carabiner and hold the doubled cord on the climbing line.

  2. Step 2

    Take two wraps upward with both legs together.

  3. Step 3

    Cross the legs once, then take two more wraps continuing upward.

  4. Step 4

    Bring both legs back down and clip the eyes into the carabiner.

  5. Step 5

    Dress evenly top and bottom, then set and test.

Cautions

  • Wrap counts must be balanced or the hitch tracks crooked and wears fast.
  • Test grab at full body weight on the ground first, every single time.

Training aid only. Follow ANSI Z133, your employer's policy and the manufacturer's instructions for every piece of equipment.