Disciplines  /  Rope

Aerial Rope

One thick cotton rope hung from the ceiling. Climb it, wrap it, swing it, spin it and drop. Rope is old-school circus at its rawest, and it builds on skills you already have from silks or another vertical apparatus.

  • Vertical apparatus experience recommended
  • Climbs, wraps and dynamics
  • Coach-spotted every session
See the rope schedule ↓ New to aerial? Start with silks
Aerialist hanging upside down in a rope wrap under teal stage light
Aerialist posing on a rope above a crowd at a circus-themed party

The basics

What is aerial rope?

Known in circus by its French name, corde lisse ("smooth rope"), aerial rope is a single thick rope — usually soft cotton, around 30–35mm across — hung from the ceiling. You climb it and wrap it around your legs, hips and feet to hold shapes, but rope really comes alive in its dynamics: spins, beats and drops that use momentum to send you flying. It's a close cousin of silks, with one rope instead of two lengths of fabric, and it's best for students who already have experience on a vertical apparatus.

See the rope schedule ↓

Your coaches

Who teaches rope

Meet the whole team →
Nicole Londraville, aerial rope coach

Nicole Londraville

A Denver circus artist specializing in aerial rope (corde lisse), silks and cyr wheel. Nicole is known for explosive strength and a fast, dynamic performance style — whether she's 30 feet up a rope or spinning at reckless speed on the ground.

Before your first class

What to wear to rope

No circus wardrobe required. Dress like you would for silks, with extra attention to your belly and armpits: rope wraps through both constantly, and rope burn is no joke.

Questions? Ask us →
  • LeggingsProtects your legs from rope burn in wraps and knee locks.
  • Cover your bellyA long, fitted shirt tucked in. Hip wraps go right across it.
  • Cover your armpitsA fitted T-shirt or long sleeves. The rope runs through there a lot.
  • Socks or rope bootsOptional. Soft rope boots cover the foot but leave heel and toes free to grip.
  • Leave at homeZippers, jewelry, baggy clothes.

Book a class

Rope schedule

Drop in with an Aerial 5-Pack or go unlimited with the All-Access Membership. Not sure you're ready for rope? Ask us.