How do I identify a quality braided rope?

A quality braided rope will have a smooth, uniform appearance when new. When purchasing a new piece of rope, look down the length of the rope for possible quality concerns such as broken yarn filaments, looped or pulled strands, uneven yarn color, or any other irregularity.

Broken Yarn Filaments most likely indicate the use of improperly maintained machinery. The result is lower overall rope strength and premature wear.

Looped or Pulled Strands are the result of poor quality braiding, yielding a rope in which all of the yarn strands are not working together equally. This will result in lower strength and premature wear. Looped strands may also snag on anything in the surrounding environment, causing further unnecessary wear and damage to the rope.

Uneven Yarn Color or Sheen most likely indicates the manufacturer has used inferior yarn or clearing lots of yarn. Many manufacturers do this to reduce costs. However, it can result in a variety of problems including reduced or inconsistent strength and premature wear.

Inconsistent Diameter occurs as a result of poor braiding. It may indicate problems with the core of the rope, or the balance of the skin and the core. It will result in lower breaking strength and difficulties if the rope is run through any hardware.

Dirt on new rope, often in the form of grease or oils spots, is an indication that the manufacturer is not committed to quality and inspection.

Cancord ropes are manufactured using only premium quality yarns. We have an ISO 9001 quality control system, with many checks and balances in place to ensure you are getting only the highest quality product.