Most Common Types of Natural and Synthetic Ropes

A rope is a group of strands that are twisted together into a larger and stronger form. It is therefore important to know about the most common types of natural and synthetic ropes.

Synthetic ropes 

These are ropes made from man-made materials. They are durable as they are chemically composed mold and rot-resistant.

Most common types of synthetic ropes include the following : 

Polypropylene ropes 

They are the most affordable type of synthetic rope. Nevertheless, they are prone to wearing out when exposed to ultraviolet rays.  

Polypropylene ropes are applied on rescue lines since they float easily on the water.

Nylon ropes 

These are the strongest synthetic ropes hence used to lift weights.

 When stretched, they have the ability to return to their original lengths. This feature qualifies them to be used in dock lines.

Polyester ropes 

These ropes are very durable and strong. They do not absorb water hence more advantageous than nylon ropes which absorb water. 

They are applied in towing lines.

Polyethylene ropes

These are suitable for watery environments such as in marine since they are not affected by water.

Such ropes are applied in fishing, sailing, gardening,  construction purposes. 

Synthetic ropes at large are considered because they are durable, lightweight and do not shrink when wet as compared to natural fibers.

Natural ropes 

Natural ropes are products made from fiber of plants. Such plants include hemp, cotton, and sisal. Ideally, the natural fibers are named after the plants from which the ropes made. 

Most common types of natural ropes include the following:

Cotton ropes 

They are natural fibers made from cotton. Such ropes are soft hence used to make toys for dogs. 

  Cotton ropes are applied in interior designs, gardening, and in events such as weddings. 

Manila ropes

These fiber ropes are made of hemp, which is a natural fiber that comes from the leaves of the abaca plant. They are also termed as hemp. 

They are flexible, none stretching, durable, and resistant to water damage. For these reasons, they are commonly used in ship lines, fishing nets, and also decorative purposes. You can find a wide variety of these from the official online Amazon rope store.

Sisal ropes 

They are made from the leaves of the sisal plant. Such ropes are cheap, coarse, strong, and durable. However, chemicals and moisture affect their longevity since they rot easily.

They are used in the gardens and also decorative purposes.

Natural fiber ropes are considered because they are great in high temperatures since they will not be damaged from heat unless directly exposed to fire. 

To sum up, the above ropes are not the only one most common types of natural and synthetic ropes  on in the market, but they are commonly used for various functions.

It is therefore necessary to  always consider the characteristics of the rope before buying.