How to Choose Wakeboard Ropes and Handles

Ropes used for wakeboards differ from ropes used for water skis. Ropes used with wakeboards have little to no stretch. The ability to load up the rope is crucial for wakeboarders to get off the wake and perform tricks. Substandard, stretchy wakeboard ropes may prevent you from performing tricks. You can improve your performance and have more fun wakeboarding with a wakeboard-specific rope. Think about the rope's material, length, and handle when choosing a wakeboard rope.

Wakeboard Rope Materials

Poly E

Poly E rope is a low-stretch rope material that is more forgiving and less expensive than other wakeboard ropes. A normal riding load will stretch Poly E between two and three percent. It is beneficial to beginners for the rope to have some give, but more advanced riders might find it problematic.

Dyneema

Besides being as tough as wire, no-stretch Dyneema rope also outperforms steel and other synthetic rope materials when it comes to tension fatigue and bending fatigue tests. Dyneema stands up to saltwater and UV rays while having outstanding abrasion resistance.

Spectra

The fiber of Spectra has ten times the strength of steel and is also ultra-lightweight. It has zero-stretching, is ultra-durable, and can float.

Wakeboard Rope Coating

Many wakeboard ropes are coated with adhesive to guard against UV rays, strengthen the material, and prevent tangling.

Wakeboard Rope Length

Wakeboard ropes can be 55-75+ feet long, depending on your skill level, boat wake and preferences. Wakeboard ropes of around 65 feet are a good length for a beginner to start with.

Shape and width of a wake can vary greatly, so finding the right length of rope is essential. Choose a length that allows you to comfortably jump and clear the wake once you are comfortable riding. Shorten the rope if you're having trouble clearing the wake. When the rope is shorter, the wakeboarder is placed at a narrower section of the wake closer to the boat.

The length of your rope can be gradually increased as your skill level and experience rise. Longer ropes will give you more speed into the wake and allow you to catch more air when popping off the wake. The longer your rope, the farther you'll fly and the more time you'll spend in the air.

Handles

As wakeboarding has evolved, handles have been designed to accommodate every rider's needs. With new handles designed specifically for comfort and performance, they are made from different materials, shapes, and sizes.

Weight and Materials

A variety of materials are used to make handles, including EVA, aluminum, and carbon fiber. The price of handles increases as they become lighter and stronger. To increase grip, handle materials are often stamped with a texture. Choose a handle that feels comfortable to you.

Handle Length and Features

Wakeboard handles are 5-15 inches wide (that is wider than water ski handles, which are 11-12 inches wide). Handles wider than average will make it simpler to do tricks that involve pulling the handle behind your back.

Diameter

Be sure to consider the handle's diameter as well. Choose the diameter of the handle that is easy to grasp for all users, depending on their hands.

V Handle / T Handle

Both the T and V handles are attached to your main handle. You can pre-wrap the handle behind your back so you don't pass it when doing tricks.