Hitch knot storage/line memory

[Heavy26R]

Is it bad to leave a hitch tied constantly? For example leaving a preconfigured lanyard with VT/pulley ect. Is it okay to just leave it setup attached to my harness all the time. I notice on my practice indoor line with VT on ocean poly hitch cord, it has a great deal of memory when left tied for an extended period of time. When I untie it, the hitch loops have a great deal of memory. Will this cause the loops to have a tendency to spring open and stay open. I'm wondering if this will impact performance. I do of course untie it to inspect wear and tear after heavy use, but really don't untie it daily if it got little use. I know best practice is to inspect all gear daily after use, but say I just want my rig setup and ready to go. Is leaving a hitch tied permanently a bad practice? Just wondering what is standard best practice for storage of my climbing gear. Thank you!

 

[benjo75]

I don't untie my hitches on my lanyards. I don't see the need. They don't get burned like the climbing hitch cord does. Sometimes I work them and loosen them a bit if they start getting tight. However I do untie my climbing hitch when the climb is over. I did leave it on the climb line once for a few climbs over the course of a few days. When I did take it apart it had become flat and noticeably worn. Now when I tie my hitch cord, I always try to wrap it differently each time. Seems to make them last longer.

 

[Heavy26R]

Thank you! Makes perfect sense about the lanyard hitch not wearing from heat damage like the climbing hitch.