The clove hitch is a commonly used knot in various applications, including climbing, boating, and arboriculture. However, its reliability can vary significantly depending on the context in which it is used. One of the primary concerns with the clove hitch is its tendency to slip under certain conditions.

When a clove hitch is loaded from only one end, it is particularly susceptible to slipping. This characteristic has been noted in multiple sources, indicating that while the knot can hold well when tension is applied evenly from both sides, it may fail when subjected to uneven loads or dynamic forces. For instance, one source states that "the clove hitch is liable to slip" when used as a traditional hitch loading only one end[1]. This means that if the load shifts or if there are dynamic movements (like swinging or rotating), the knot may loosen and potentially come undone.

Further emphasizing this point, another source mentions that "it requires a load in each direction in order to be effective," highlighting that without equal tension on both sides, the clove hitch's security diminishes[2]. Additionally, it has been observed that modern ropes tend to be slicker than traditional materials like manila or hemp, which can exacerbate the slipping issue[1].

Moreover, practical experiences shared by climbers indicate that while some have successfully used clove hitches for anchoring without backups under ordinary circumstances, there remains a consensus among many experts advocating for caution. They recommend backing up the clove hitch with additional knots (such as half hitches) especially when using thinner or more slippery ropes[2][3].

In summary, a clove hitch can slip at times, particularly when not loaded evenly or when subjected to dynamic forces. It is advisable to use backups or alternative knots in critical applications where safety is paramount.

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