Abstract: A cleat formed with an improved rope-engaging surface adapted to facilitate the engagement of a rope and its subsequent release from the cleat. The rope-engaging surface is formed with a first stage raked and slanted teeth structure that tends to be self-feeding for engagement of the rope by the cleat. A second stage raked and slanted teeth structure tends to hold the rope secure within the cleat and also facilitates release of the rope from the cleat. The first and second stage teeth structures are joined by a transitional, curved teeth structure that permits continuous feeding into or release of the rope from the cleat. The teeth structure defined is useful in all types of cleats such as cam cleats, fixed jaw jam cleats, and sliding jaw jam cleats.