Best Rope for the Job

Given rope's many uses and the different strengths and weaknesses of each rope type, there’s always a 'best rope for any job'. Not all ropes are created equal—they’re created to serve different needs. You’ll find that using the correct type of rope for each scenario will lead to a more effective and safe outcome.

Here’s a guide for the best type of rope for different applications. You’ll find recommendations on which types to choose and which types to avoid. Read on and discover just how vast the possibilities are with rope!

Best Rope for DIY Crafting

There are so many beautiful crafts we can create from ropes, from baskets, planters and vases to ottomans and hampers. For such projects, natural ropes are better than synthetic ones. Natural ropes can provide us with the versatility, texture, and colors that we need in crafting. Natural ropes are especially preferred for crafting projects that will have prolonged skin contact, such as hammocks and jewelry. For these projects, we want materials that won’t cause skin abrasions or allergies. Use cotton or manila for such projects. There are many crafting ropes with a soft outer-sheath that are suitable for jewelry, harnesses, leashes.

Use: Natural, Nylon, Polyester Ropes

Natural ropes are easier to maneuver when creating knots, braids, and textures. Crafting with natural ropes is a fun, comfortable experience. Both nylon and polyester are soft to the touch and can also be an excellent craft rope.

Avoid: Synthetic Ropes

Synthetic ropes are not as versatile as natural ropes and are often much more expensive. They are stiff, difficult to form, and are not ideal for crafting. Materials like Polypropylene will irritate the skin and make it tough on the hands to work with.

Best Rope for Arborists

Arborists rely heavily on rope for their line of work, and they need a trusty rope to keep them safe while they climb great heights. They should look for a strong rope with some stretch that will absorb sudden shock loads. Polyester, given its strength and its resistance to abrasion and the elements, is the best rope for arborists. It will keep them secure while they’re working on a high tree and will keep them safe in case they fall.

Use: Polyester Ropes

Polyester is ideal for arborists looking for full support and longevity of use. Arborist ropes should always be inspected and certified for climbing safety.

Avoid: Cotton Ropes

Cotton is the least ideal rope for arborists because it’s not as strong as synthetic ropes and is not resistant to weather conditions. It might not be strong enough to support an arborist if he falls. Cotton ropes are not certified for climbing or arbor applications.

Best Rope for Towing

Nylon is one of the most versatile rope materials. It is commonly used in pulley systems and winches because of its strength and shock absorption. Nylon is one of the strongest ropes that offer elasticity, making it ideal for activities that require absorbing shock loads, such as towing. Nylon is also resistant to chemical exposure, UV, mildew, rot, and abrasion, making it last longer than other ropes. It’s a great choice for towing companies

Use: Nylon Ropes

Nylon’s shock-absorbing quality is what makes it the perfect partner in towing.

Avoid: Polypropylene, Manila, Cotton Ropes

Polypropylene, manila, and cotton ropes are not particularly strong ropes and are not ideal for towing.

Best Rope for Marine & Boating

In securing a boat to a dock, or a boat to another boat, whether temporarily or permanently, choose a strong, flexible rope. Go for nylon ropes for any docking purpose, such as acting as transient or permanent dock lines. Nylon is ideal for dock lines because of its strength and elasticity, allowing it to absorb shock loads. Plus, nylon is highly resistant to weather conditions. Even though it doesn’t float, it has great strength as well as resistance to UV and abrasions. It also maintains its strength even if it gets wet. Nylon and polyester ropes are excellent choices for docking lines or anchor ropes due to their strength and elasticity. Our nylon ropes come in many colors and sizes that will match any of your boat needs.

Use: Nylon, Polyester

Nylon’s shock-absorbing quality is ideal for dock lines. Flexible, supple ropes that are resilient to weather conditions. Polyester can stretch more than nylon but will last in the water and elements.

Avoid: Natural, Cotton

Polypropylene, manila, and cotton ropes are not particularly strong ropes and are not ideal dock lines or boating needs.

Best Rope for Rock Climbing/Outdoor Activities

For rock climbing, the best material for ropes is typically nylon. Climbing ropes made from nylon are designed to be dynamic, meaning they have some elasticity. This elasticity is crucial because it absorbs the impact force during a fall, reducing the shock load on both the climber and the anchors. These ropes are also designed to withstand multiple falls and are tested under standards set by organizations like the UIAA

Use: Polyester, Nylon

Weight, dry treatment (to resist moisture) are also important considerations depending on the type of climbing you plan to do—whether it's sport climbing, trad climbing, or ice climbing. Always ensure that you select a rope that meets industry standards for safety and performance.

Avoid: Polypropylene, Natural

Although lightweight and inexpensive, polypropylene ropes lack the strength, elasticity, and durability required for climbing. It is also very harsh on the hands. Natural materials like sisal, manila, or cotton are inadequate for climbing purposes. They lack the required tensile strength and are susceptible to wear and environmental degradation.