The Valdotain Tresse, or VT, is a friction knot used by arborists to attach carabiners to a rope for ascending or descending.
This knot starts with several wraps at the top, followed by a braid below—hence the name Tresse, which means ‘braid’ in French.
It’s often combined with a micro pulley for slack tending.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Valdotain Tresse Details
Type: Slide and Grip Knot
Other Names: Valdotain Hitch, VT, Vallard Tresse
ABoK Reference: Not Available
How to Tie a Valdotain Tresse
- Place the VT Prusik cord below the main line.
- Make 4 wraps around the main rope going from bottom to top. Bring the tails down even with each other.
- Cross the line in front and again at the back of the main line.
- Join the eyes in front and clip them together with a carabiner.
Valdotain Tresse Step by Step
To tie the Valdotain Tresse, wrap the main rope with the sewn prusik (also known as the spliced eye or split tail friction cord) or handmade cord (made by tying the Poacher’s knot at both ends) 4 times.
Then, bring the tails down so they are even with each other. Cross the main rope in the front and at the back.
Finally, join the eyes together and clip them with the carabiner.
Pros & Cons
- Low sit-back, meaning it engages quickly.
- Can be used with DRT and SRT methods.
- Can be released under load.
- It can slip if not tied correctly with the correct number of wraps and braids.
- Not a beginner knot. It’s imperative to get it right, or else it can be dangerous.
Application and Uses
The Valdotain Tresse is used in tree climbing, caving, rock climbing, search & rescue, and canyoneering to ascend or descend the climbing rope.
Valdotain Tresse XT
The Valdotain XT is tied similar to the Valdotain Tresse.
After the wraps are made at the top, the two ends cross each other, forming an X shape.
It grips better than the standard XT but may be harder to release under load.
Related Knots: Prusik Knot, Autoblock Knot, Klemheist Knot, Bachmann Knot
Important Note
The length, diameter, and number of turns of the Valdotain Tresse are critical. Try different variations that work best for you.
It’s recommended to first try the VT low above the ground before using it at height.
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