Free eBook Coming Soon. Sign Up for Early Access!

Triple Bowline

Updated on:

If you have already tied the classic Bowline, the Triple Bowline will feel familiar.

It’s the variation of the standard Bowline that is tied on a bight, and it gives you three loops instead of one.

The triple loop suggests that it requires more rope length to tie it.

Let’s learn it in detail.

Triple Bowline Knot Details

Type: Loop Knot

Other Names: Three Loop Bowline, Triple Bowline on a Bight

ABoK Reference: Not Available

How to Tie a Triple Bowline Knot

  1. Fold the rope to make a bight in your rope.
  2. Make a loop in the rope with the doubled line.
  3. Pass the bight through the loop.
  4. Pass it under the standing line.
  5. Feed it through the loop.
  6. Tighten the knot.
TIP

The Triple Bowline is not as solid as the regular Bowline. The loop which is formed with the free end can collapse if not backed up. Always backup the free end with a stopper knot.

Triple Bowline Knot Step by Step

triple bowline knot diagram how to tie a triple bowline knot step by step knotspedia
Triple Bowline Knot Diagram
RELATED: 15+ Types of Bowline Knots

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to tie and remember
  • Three loops in a single knot
  • Can be tied in the middle of the rope where free ends are not available.
  • Consume a large length of rope
  • Not as stable as the normal Bowline

Application and Uses

The Triple Bowline can be used in an emergency rescue situation to make a full harness.

You can put someone’s legs through two loops, and their torso goes into the third one.

In theory, it looks like a makeshift harness. But honestly, the rescuers usually opt for a proper harness.

This knot takes time, and in a rush, the complexity of securing an individual with this knot is simply too demanding.

Still, it’s a good knot to know just in case.

It’s also used to make an anchor with three separate points of attachment. This can help when you’re working with pulleys or lifting stuff.

Other Similar Knots

Bowline on a Bight

bowline-on-a-bight-knot-diagram

The Bowline on a Bight is tied with the bight as well.

Instead of wrapping the bight around the standing end, it is passed through the loop and is tightened on the standing end.

It forms two fixed loops at the middle of the rope and is more secure than the Triple Bowline.

Double Bowline

DOUBLE-BOWLINE-DIAGRAM

The name Double Bowline may give an impression of the two-loop Bowline.

It’s tied on a single strand and forms a single loop with an additional nipping loop for extra security.

Other multi-loop Bowlines

Personally, I don’t use the Triple Bowline much. I’ve tried it a few times just for practice, and it’s fun to know.

Keep in mind that it soaks up the entire rope length, and you’ve got to be careful about the loop slipping through.


Liked the article, Share it or Bookmark for future reference!

🎉 Free Ebook: The Most Essential Knots 🎉

Master the essential knots with clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations! Download our free ebook "The Most Essential Knots"—perfect for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts.

Download Your Free Ebook Now

Leave a Comment

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

uni-knot-diagram-how-to-tie-a-uni-knot-knotspedia

Fishing Knots

Uni Knot

Learn how to tie a Uni Knot—a strong, easy-to-tie fishing knot perfect for attaching lines to hooks, swivels, reels, or joining two lines of any type.

bottle-sling-knot-how-to-tie-a-bottle-sling

Binding Knots

Bottle Sling Knot

The Bottle Sling Knot creates a secure carry handle on bottles with necks—perfect for camping, hiking, or hanging gear. Easy to tie and super practical.

becket-hitch-feature-image-of-the-becket-hitch

Bend Knots

Becket Hitch Knot

The Becket Hitch Knot is a simple, secure knot used to tie a rope to an eye or loop. Ideal for hammocks, it's quick to tie, adjustable, and easy to untie.

PIPE-HITCH-DIAGRAM

Hitch Knots

Pipe Hitch

The Pipe Hitch (ABoK #504) is a strong, non-slip knot used to lift pipes or posts, using multiple wraps and a Clove Hitch for secure grip on smooth surfaces.

TRIPLE-BOWLINE-DIAGRAM

Loop Knots

Triple Bowline

The Triple Bowline is a loop knot tied on a bight that creates three loops. It’s useful for rescue or anchors but consumes rope and needs a backup for safety.

lobster buoy hitch knot diagram

Hitch Knots

Lobster Buoy Hitch

The Lobster Buoy Hitch (ABoK #1714) is a secure, easy-to-untie knot used to fasten rope to rings or posts—ideal for boating, camping, and general utility use.