Marine Rope Guide

Introduction:

Rope comes in thousands of different fibres, sizes and colours, so you can be forgiven for being stuck for choice, which is why we’ve created this handy little guide that breaks down each rope fibre. If you have any questions regarding the rope fibres mentioned, or any of our superb range of boat ropes, do not hesitate to contact us – you can do so via email, telephone, or even visit our Rochester store - one of the largest bricks and mortar chandleries in the UK.

Dyneema Rope:

Dyneema rope is an ultra-strong, low stretch fibre that is stronger than steel! Dyneema rope is non kinking, non-corrosive and does not absorb water, ensuring it remains light in weight when wet. The UV-resistant rope also floats, making it easy to handle. Furthermore, Dyneema rope is chemically inert so is un-affected by wet, salty and humid conditions.

Popular uses of Dyneema Rope:

Control Lines, Halyards, Rigging, Lifting Slings, Winch Lines, Stage Rigging, Tow Lines.

Manila Rope:

Manila rope (often called Manila Hemp rope) is named after the capital city of the Philippines, Manila, as this is where the stems of the plant called Abaca are primarily grown. The natural fibre rope has great resistance to repeated salt water exposure, which is why it’s frequently used in the marine industry for boat rope, lines and fishing nets. It is worth noting that manila rope shrinks when wet.

Popular uses of Manila Hemp Rope:

Fishing nets, Ship Lines, Battle Ropes, Childrens Swings, Rope Ladders.

Nylon Rope:

Nylon is one of the strongest rope fibres, marginally beating polyester. Nylon rope also has excellent resistance to UV rays, abrasion, rot and chemical exposure, making it ideal for mooring lines. Furthermore, the rope has high stretch capabilities, so if you require rope that offers superb elasticity, nylon is a great choice. One downside to nylon rope is that unlike polyester, nylon rope absorbs water and weakens when wet.

Popular uses of Nylon Rope:

Mooring Lines, Anchoring, Safety Lines, Towing.

Polyester Rope:

Polyester rope is our most popular type of rope for marine use, thanks to its high strength and low stretch capabilities. Polyester rope is also UV and abrasion resistant, retains its strength when wet and remains flexible even when subject to extreme weather. Please note that polyester rope does not float.

Popular uses of Polyester Rope:

Anchor Lines, Mooring Lines, Fender Lines, Theatre Applications.  

Polypropylene Rope:

Polypropylene is a tough, hard-wearing and flexible marine rope that floats, which is why it’s most commonly used in the fishing industry.

Popular uses of Polypropylene Rope:

Floating Safety Line, Life Lines, Throw Bags.

Sisal Rope:

Derived from the Agarve Sisalana (Sisal) plant that is primarily grown in Brazil, Sisal is a sustainable, 100% biodegradable rope that is highly durable and has excellent resistance to salt water and all weather conditions, making it perfect for use in marine environments and general outdoor use.

Popular Uses of Sisal Rope:

Garden Borders, Garden Decking, Childrens Play Areas, Cat Scratchers, Tug of War Rope.

Synthetic Hemp Rope:

Synthetic Hemp Rope (often called Hempex Rope) is soft to handle rope that looks and feels just like a natural fibre rope, but is synthetic, so it will not shrink when wet and provides superior weather resistance. Synthetic Hemp rope also offers excellent UV resistance and even floats in water.

Popular uses of Synthetic Hemp Rope:

Deck Balustrade, Handrails, Rope Swings, Ladders, Climbing Ropes, Garden Use.