In climbing usage, static rope refers to those ropes which meet EN1891. Modern climbing ropes are typically made from nylon (aka polyamide) or sometimes polyester (or a combination of both, often a nylon core with polyester sheath such as bluewater's 2++ static and sterlings HTP static) and are of kernmantle construction, meaning they feature an outer sheath (mantle) woven around the inner core (kern). The 'static' in their name refers to the ropes limited degree of stretch under load, as contrasted with dynamic ropes which are used in lead climbing which have a much higher degree of stretch under load.

Abseil lines

Static ropes are often used as abseil ropes. The lack of stretch reduces 'bounce' and also reduces the likelihood of an abseil rope springing out of reach when released. The construction of static ropes also typically means they cope with wear and abrasion better than a comparably sized dynamic rope.

Anchor ropes

Static ropes are also the cord of choice for setting anchors, such as for top-roping. For similar reasons as for their use in abseil lines, but with particular focus on the lack of stretch. A dynamic rope would allow the anchor to saw itself over an edge as it was repeatedly loaded and unloaded as is commonly seen in top-roping use, by using a static rope this effect is greatly reduced.

Top-roping

The club top ropes on static rope, this is a compromise. The rope lacks the ability to absorb large fall forces, however these should not occur in top-roping use (even a 1 metre fall at half the height of kangaroo point would only have a fall factor of under 0.03). The ropes do reduce the likelihood of injuries due to hitching ledges in rope stretch and have superior longevity to dynamics in the same usage.