The splicing process begins with unraveling the strands of the rope on each end. Once enough length has been unraveled, the strands are pulled together so that the strands on each end mesh together, like how you would interlock your fingers. The core is then cut so it touches end-to-end.

Ski lift cables are joined using a highly specialized technique called a long splice, creating a "continuous loop" that is nearly as strong as the original cable. Because a knot or a mechanical clasp would jam the lift's bullwheels and grips, the two ends of the heavy steel cable (haul rope) are interwoven over a distance of 50 to 70 meters. Technicians unbraid the individual strands from each end and "marry" them together, tucking the "tails" of the strands into the center of the cable to replace the core. Once tension is applied, the friction between the interwoven strands provides 99% of the cable's strength. In 2026, this remains a job for a handful of elite master splicers worldwide. If you look closely at a ski lift cable, you might see a painted green or red spot; this marks the location of a "tuck" or the "marriage" point of the splice. While it looks like a single piece of metal, that 50-meter section is a masterpiece of manual engineering that keeps thousands of skiers safe every day.