How to Choose the Best Marine Rope for Anchoring, Docking and Towing

Anchoring:

Having your anchor in place is vital! If you’re wanting to use a rope and chain combo, Nylon rope will be the best option for you! The elasticity of the nylon provides the rope with better shock absorption which is necessary given the movement from the wind and waves. Additionally, Nylon rope is rot/mildew resistant, and easier to handle compared to other types of rope.

Dock Lines:

Similar to anchor lines, Nylon rope will generally be the best choice for dock lines too. Keep in mind that it’s important to consider whether you’ll be using it as temporary or permanent slips!

Nylon rope is the best for docking and mooring because of its flexibility, stretch, and overall strength. It’s also very easy to splice and reasonably priced. Typically, a double braid or three-strand line will do the trick.

Pulling & Towing

Polypropylene rope is the best and most common rope used for a wide variety of things such as water skiing and towing. Nylon rope is an alternative to consider, but Polypropylene rope floats making it ideal for these types of activities.