Rope Selection Guide

There are an array of different rope fibres to choose from, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. In this easy to follow guide, we're going to take a look at each different rope fibre, highlighting it's intended use. 

If you have any questions about any of the rope fibres mentioned, do not hesitate to contact us. Call us on 01634 566 412, or email [email protected].

Dyneema Rope:

Dyneema is a non-kinking, non corrosive rope fibre that's 15 times stronger than steel at the same weight, making it one of the strongest fibres available. The low stretch, non-corrosive fibre does not absorb water, so remains lightweight even when wet.

Thanks to its UV resistance, Dyneema rope will retain its high strength capabilities over time. Dyneema rope floats, is easy to handle, plus is chemically inert, so is unaffected by wet, salty and humid conditions.

Popular uses of Dyneema Rope:

• Control Lines.
• Halyards.
• Industrial environments.
• Lifting slings.
• Rigging.
• Stage rigging.
• Tow lines.
• Winch lines.

Manila Rope:

This natural fibre rope is named after capital city of the Philippines, Manila - as the rope is made from the stems of a plant called Abaca, which is grown primarily in the country. Manila rope is great for use outdoors in a variety of settings, as it has excellent resistance to repeated salt water exposure. It is worth noting that Manila rope will shrink a little when wet.

Popular uses of Manila Hemp Rope:

• Balustrade on decking.
• Battle ropes.
• Borders.
• Fencing.
• Fishing nets and general marine use.
• Rope ladders.
• Rope swings and children's play equipment.
• Ship lines.

Nylon Rope:

Nylon rope is extremely popular in the marine industry thanks to its high strength and superb resistance to UV rays, abrasion, rot and chemical exposure. The rope also has high stretch capabilities, so if you require rope that offers superb elasticity, nylon is a great choice. It is worth noting that nylon rope absorbs water and will weaken when wet.

Popular uses of Nylon Rope:

• Anchoring.
• Industrial applications.
• Mooring Lines.
• Safety Lines.
• Towing.

Polyester Rope:

Polyester rope is our most popular type of rope for marine use, as it's UV and abrasion resistant, plus retains its high strength capabilities when wet. Furthermore, the low stretch rope will also remain flexible even when subject to extreme weather. It is worth noting that polyester rope does not float.

Popular uses of Polyester Rope:

• Anchor lines.
• Control lines.
• Fender lines.
• Mainsheets.
• Mooring lines.
• Theatre applications.  

Polypropylene Rope:

If you require a rope that floats, polypropylene is the answer. The tough, hard-wearing rope has a variety of uses and will not absorb water, enabling it to remain lightweight even when wet.

Popular uses of Polypropylene Rope:

• Floating safety line
• Life lines
• Moorings.
• Throw bags.
• Tow lines.

Sisal Rope:

Derived from the Agarve Sisalana (Sisal) plant that is primarily grown in Mexico, Sisal is a sustainable, 100% biodegradable rope that's great for use outdoors thanks to its excellent resistance to salt water and all weather conditions. As it is a natural fibre rope, sisal will shrink when wet and then lengthen when it dries.

Popular Uses of Sisal Rope:

• Cat scratchers.
• Children's play areas.
• Garden borders.
• Garden decking.
• Tug of war rope.

Synthetic Rope:

Synthetic rope combines the look and feel of a nature fibre rope with all the benefits of a synthetic rope, which is why it's our most popular type of rope. The soft to handle rope will not shrink when wet and provides superior weather resistance. 

Popular uses of Synthetic Rope:

• Climbing ropes.
• Deck balustrade.
• Garden use.
• Handrails.
• Ladders.
• Rope swings.