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.

So here’s a short guide for the best type of rope for different activities. 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 Marine & Boating

Synthetic ropes are now the preferred type for boating because of their strength and resistance to weather conditions. We use ropes on sails and anchors when we go boating, and we also use them to secure the boat and everything inside it. Choose polyester for marine and boating purposes. 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.

Use: Polyester, Nylon

While the other synthetic ropes are also strong and resistant to weather conditions, polyester is still the best for this activity. Don’t go boating without it.

Avoid: Cotton

Cotton is the most absorbent type of rope, making it the worst for boating. When cotton rope absorbs water and moisture, it becomes stiff and hard to use.

Best Rope for DIY Crafting

There are so many beautiful crafts we can create from ropes, from 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.

Use: Natural Ropes

Natural ropes are easier to maneuver when creating knots, braids, and textures. Crafting with natural ropes is a fun, comfortable experience.

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.