Looking to buy rope, but not sure where to start? It’s easy to understand your confusion. There are so many different types to choose from and there isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ option. Certain ropes are best suited to certain jobs and it’s important to select the right one for your individual needs. Here we outline five popular types of rope and explore how they are most commonly used.
Thanks to its unique characteristics, polypropylene rope is a suitable choice for a variety of different projects. It floats on the surface of water and is both UV and water-resistant, making it ideal for use in swimming pools and marine environments. It’s also a fantastic electrical insulator and, as such, is often utilised by electricians and other professionals who work with live electrical wires.
This is a natural rope constructed from manila hemp. It’s highly-absorbent yet durable and, as such, is generally chosen when direct handling of the rope is necessary (e.g. climbing, stage ropes, tug-of-war, children’s play equipment). Thanks to its rustic appearance, it’s also frequently used for decorative purposes – such as outdoor decking, bannisters and landscaping.
When strength is a priority, this is the rope to go for. Known for being remarkably strong, yet still stretchy, it is the first-choice for pulling heavy loads and bearing the most weight. It’s also very resistant to abrasion, making it an excellent option for pulley systems and winches.
This is sometimes referred to as decking rope. It’s designed to tackle the elements, but has an attractive ‘natural hemp’ appearance and soft texture – and as such, is most regularly used in the garden for handrails and decking. It’s also a popular choice for making children’s play equipment.
If you’re on a budget, but need a high-performance rope, jute rope could be the answer. This is a cheaper alternative to synthetic hemp rope – but it still offers a wide range of useful properties. Constructed with a polypropylene core, it’s strong and durable, yet it has an aesthetically-pleasing and soft exterior. It lends itself well to many applications in schools, shops and at home.
Buy a rope that is ideal for your needs
If you’re still unsure which is the right rope for the job, then use our online RopeFinder.
As an exclusively online stockist, we have a comprehensive selection of ropes to choose from, including all those outlined above, all at competitive prices.