LoopIntermediate
Running bowline
Get to know Running bowline: what it does, when to use it, what to check and the mistakes to avoid.
Slip bowline noose
ImageGen adaptation of a photo by Malta · CC BY-SA 2.5
1The knot in plain words
In one sentence…
The running bowline is a bowline tied around its own standing part: a noose that closes on an object as you pull.
What does it do?
It makes a running noose. The standing part slides through a small bowline, so the big loop closes when you pull.
When do I use it?
To catch and recover something out of reach, such as gear floating after it went overboard.
Why a bowline?
The small bowline doesn't slip, so the noose runs freely and unties easily afterwards.
When not?
Never around a person or an animal: a noose tightens as it's pulled. Where the loop must stay open, tie a plain bowline.
2Knot ID card
- Knot family
- Running loop (noose)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Holds a steady load
- Yes, closing tight on the object
- Unties after load
- Yes, easily
- Weak point
- Closes under load: objects only
- Also called
- Bowline noose
3How to check it
Step-by-step tying is being checked on real rope before we publish it. Until then, use the illustration and the checks below.
The standing part runs through the small eye of the bowline.
The small bowline has its collar round the standing part and a clear tail.
The big loop slides smoothly open and shut.
4Key points
- 1.
Running bowline = a noose that slides shut on an object.
- 2.
It's a small bowline with the standing part running through its eye.
- 3.
Use it to catch and recover objects, never around a person.
- 4.
It opens easily after use: just loosen the small bowline.
5Frequent mistakes
Mistake: Putting the noose around a person, a limb or an animal.
Correct: A noose tightens under load. Use it on objects only.
Mistake: Tying the small bowline with its collar round the eye.
Correct: Check the small bowline first: its collar goes round the standing part.
Mistake: Using it where the loop must stay the same size.
Correct: For a loop that must not close, tie an ordinary bowline.
6Don't mix it up
7Questions sailors ask
What is a running bowline used for?
To make a sliding noose for catching and recovering objects, such as gear that has gone overboard.
What is the difference between a bowline and a running bowline?
A bowline makes a fixed loop. A running bowline is a small bowline around its own standing part, so its big loop slides shut.
Can a running bowline be used around a person?
No. It's a noose that tightens as it's pulled, so use it only on objects.
8Test yourself
What does a running bowline make?
Screen study teaches what the knot is for and how to check it. It doesn't prove you can tie it: practise with real rope, and never use these knots for climbing, rescue or anything that holds a person.
Sources
- U.S. Navy, Naval Education and Training (via GlobalSecurity.org) — Seaman (NAVEDTRA 14067), Chapter 3: Marlinespike Seamanship
- Fondear (revista náutica) — As de guía corredizo
- Wikipedia — Running bowline
Content reviewed on September 21, 2026