What type of ascenders is preferable to avoid cutting ropes during falls?

The preference for soft ascenders in avoiding rope damage during falls stems from their design and material properties. Soft ascenders are typically made from flexible materials that are able to adapt to the rope's shape and absorb energy more effectively. This ability helps prevent cuts and abrasions that can occur when a hard ascender makes sudden, abrupt contact with the rope during a fall.

In contrast, hard ascenders can create concentrated points of contact on the rope, increasing the risk of sheath damage, especially under dynamic loads such as falls. Their rigid structure does not offer the same energy-absorbing capabilities as softer alternatives, which can lead to more substantial wear and tear on the rope.

Spring-loaded and automatic ascenders, while they may possess certain advantages in ease of use or functionality, still function with mechanisms that could contribute to rope damage under high stress. A soft ascender, in particular, prioritizes the integrity of the rope by distributing the load more evenly and reducing the chances of cutting or damaging the rope during falls.