other rope

Which rope is suitable for what?

Before you buy a line, a clear question is worthwhile: What should it be able to do? Static applications such as safety lines or tarpaulin fastenings place different demands than dynamically loaded lines that regularly run over blocks. For the former, a robust, UV-resistant polyester braid is often sufficient - for the latter, the surface should be smooth and the core strong enough.

Material and Construction

Three-strand rope is inexpensive, hardly rots and is easy to splice - which is why it is still common on working boats and in coastal navigation. Braided lines run more smoothly through clamps and blocks and kink less. Polypropylene floats, which makes it useful as a throwline, but it ages faster under UV radiation than polyester. You should keep that in mind when buying.

Choosing the right diameter and length

Saving too much on thickness quickly takes its toll: a line that cannot be safely gripped or is overloaded under strain is not a bargain. Look at the product data - breaking load and nominal diameter are listed there. As a rough guide: For handling with bare hands, diameters under 8 mm are uncomfortable in the long run, from 10 mm upwards it becomes grippy.

Care and Storage

Rope lasts longer if you rinse it with fresh water after the season and store it dry. Regularly check knots that have been under constant load for damage in that area - most invisible weak points occur there. Rope with visible core threads or a roughened sheath surface should be replaced, not shortened and continued to be used.