How to Choose the Best Wakeboarding Rope
Choosing a wakeboard rope is all about your personal preference. While there are some technical aspects that you should never ignore, you ultimately want to buy a rope that not only gives you the freedom to perform different tricks but also allows you to have fun on the water. Unlike experienced wakeboarders who know what to look for when choosing a rope, beginners may find that they need to experiment a lot to figure out what works for them.
There is a lot to choose from, and this can make it overwhelming for those who are just starting out. Considering aspects of material, length, and handle design, this guide provides you with the necessary tips to help you choose the best wakeboard rope for you.
CONSIDER THE MATERIAL
Wakeboard ropes come in four different materials; Spectra, Poly E, Solin, and Dyneema. The material you choose will affect your experience as a wakeboarder.
Spectra
If you value strength above anything else, then this is the rope material for you. Spectra is 10 times stronger than steel, light in weight, and has no stretch. Advanced wakeboarders usually go for Spectra ropes.
Dyneema
With both UV and abrasion resistance, Dyneema ropes also offer a strength that outperforms steel. They have virtually no stretch and can stand to be in salt water. These ropes are recommended for expert wakeboarders.
SolinThis material is a lot like Dyneema in the sense that they match in strength and durability. Solin wakeboard ropes, however, do not float as well and tend to tangle easier than Dyneema ropes. They are, for this reason, cheaper.
Poly E
Apart from offering low-stretch, Poly E ropes are also the least expensive. Under normal riding load, this material will stretch to a maximum of three percent of its length and absorb any shock that results from cutting through the boat wake. This makes it perfect for beginners.
DOES IT HAVE A COATING?
Ropes that are coated with an adhesive are better because this coating protects them from UV rays, makes them stronger, and prevents them from tangling.
LENGTH MATTERS
The length of a rope determines your speed and the time of time you spend in the air. While shorter ropes are ideal for clearing the wake, longer ropes enable wakeboarders to generate higher speeds on their wakes while enjoying more air time.
As you start out, you should use a shorter rope and gradually increase the length as you gain experience. Wakeboard ropes measure anywhere from 55 to 80 feet, and the best of them have five segments that allow you to alter the length as you see fit. Beginning at a maximum of 65 feet will keep you near the boat where the wake is not as wide, hence easier to clear.
CHOOSING WAKEBOARD HANDLES
For the ultimate performance and comfort, you need to consider the handle that goes with the rope. Just as preferences differ, handles also vary in size, weight, color, shape, and material. You can buy the handle separately to make sure your particular needs are met.Diameter
Depending on the size of your hand, you need to pick a handle that perfectly fits your grip.
Material
Some handles are made of aluminum, while others are made from carbon fiber; it is all about choosing the one that gives you perfect grip. You will have a lot of options; EVA, foam, hybrid materials, rubber, and leather, and it is up to you to pick a handle that feels right in your hand.Weight
As a handle gets stronger and lighter, its price goes up, but the cost is a necessary sacrifice if you want to get the most out of wakeboarding.
Texture
What texture offers you the best grip? Never pick a handle because of how it looks or what other people say; always test it out for yourself.
Length
Longer handles will make it easier for you to swap hands depending on the kind of trick you are performing. Handle sizes fall between 13 inches and 15 inches, although you can find smaller ones.
Here is one last thought; water skiing ropes, the stretchy cousins of wakeboarding ropes, will not propel you above the wake; take your time and get the right rope for the sport. You will have way more fun and a better wakeboarding experience if you choose the right equipment.