How to Tie a Rolling Hitch Step by Step

Step 1 of 5

Loading…

Use the buttons below to navigate.

Written Instructions — Rolling Hitch

First wrap toward load side Wrap working end around post or rope, working toward the direction of the load.
Second wrap over first — same side Make second wrap on the load side, laying it directly over the first wrap.
Third wrap — far side, crossing Move to the far side and make one wrap that crosses over the standing part.
Tuck and load Tuck working end under the crossing wrap. Apply load axially — hitch grips and holds.

The two wraps on the load side is what makes the rolling hitch grip axially — without them you just have a clove hitch.
Load must be applied parallel to the post or rope — perpendicular loading converts it to a clove hitch which can slip.
On a winch: attach a rolling hitch to the loaded line, lead the hitch to a second winch or cleat, then unload the first winch.
Test before trusting — give a sharp tug in the axial direction and verify it doesn't slip.