Running Bowline
A bowline tied around its own standing part so the outer loop can draw closed around an object. The small bowline eye remains fixed.
How to tie the Running Bowline
- Take the rope around the practice object.
- Tie a small bowline with the standing part passing through its eye.
- Pull the standing part to close the outer loop; unload it to reopen.
Safety note: These steps support practice and recognition. Climbing, rescue, lifting, towing, and other critical systems require qualified instruction and equipment-specific procedures.
Which knot should you choose?
Choose an ordinary Bowline when the main loop must stay a fixed size. Practice the running version on a small object at ground level.
Why it earns its place
Separates the fixed knot from the sliding loop, helping the attachment reopen after the tension is removed.
Where it fails
The outer loop tightens: never put it around a person. Plan how to retrieve it before sending the knot out of reach.
Quick facts
| Function | Rope loop |
| Practice level | 2 / 5 (editorial rating) |
| Tutorial | Animated Knots by Grog |
External reference
KnotStyle provides the selection advice, written practice sequence, inspection points, and cautions above. Use this independent animation as an additional visual reference.
View external animation ↗Source and editorial notes
Reference: Animated Knots by Grog: Running Bowline. Source checked 2026-09-11. Selection advice and difficulty ratings are editorial judgments, not strength tests. How this guide is prepared.