What type of rope consists of a protective shield over the load-bearing core strands?

The type of rope that features a protective sheath over the load-bearing core strands is known as kernmantle rope. This design is essential for rescue operations and climbing activities. The term "kernmantle" derives from its two components: the "kern," which consists of the inner load-bearing fibers, and the "mantle," which is the outer sheath that protects the inner strands from abrasion and environmental factors. This construction allows for excellent strength and durability while providing flexibility and handling characteristics beneficial for rescue scenarios.

In contrast, static rope is primarily used for situations that require minimal stretch, such as hauling or rappelling, and does not necessarily imply the kernmantle structure. Low stretch rope is a broader category that may include various types of ropes with low elasticity but does not specify the particular construction involving a core and a mantle. Dynamic rope is designed for climbing where elasticity is crucial to absorb the impact of falls, and it typically does not have the structural characteristics that kernmantle ropes possess, which are optimized for both load-bearing and protection.