Wakeboarding is a thrilling and popular sport amongst seasoned pros and beginners alike, and for good reason. It’s athletic, high speed, and a great way to have fun on the water. Although some of the most notable gear requirements for the activity include eye-catching boards and swimwear, the most important part of the sport is the least obvious – the rope that a wakeboarder holds onto while being pulled by the boat. A strong, wieldy, and durable rope is necessary to enjoy wakeboarding safely and comfortably for long or even short periods of time. Fortunately, manufacturers have been iterating upon the basic components of the equipment to develop the best wakeboard ropes possible.
The available options are diverse both in features and price, with different lengths, strengths, and special twists on the formula to suit every wakeboarder, whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable solution or a long-time wakeboarder looking to upgrade. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best wakeboard ropes and compared them against each other to bring you the highest quality and widest variety possible.

 

Product FAQ

Before we get into the list, here are a few questions you might be asking yourself about wakeboard ropes. It’s important to have a complete understanding of the qualities you might be looking for in the best wakeboard rope before purchase, as your own safety and comfort will be impacted.

1. What Is a Wakeboard Rope?

A wakeboard rope is the line attached to a boat or other type of water vehicle, which is held onto by the wakeboarder so that they may be pulled along through the water. By holding onto this rope, wakeboarders can perform complex and impressive aerial tricks at high speeds, and some models even include features specifically designed to make performing tricks a breeze.

2. Does the Type of Wakeboard Rope Matter?

Yes! There are a variety of different types of wakeboarding rope available, each taking a different form and composed of different materials. The specifics of each rope such as length, stretch, diameter, and handle type can all factor into which model is the best wakeboard rope for you. Furthermore, ropes that are treated with waterproof and UV resistant materials will perform better and last longer.

3. Is the Best Wakeboard Rope for Me Expensive?

Not necessarily. The products on our list vary in price, from the inexpensive beginner’s equipment to the higher end, so even a pro can find the best wakeboard rope.

How We Reviewed

To assemble our list of the best wakeboard ropes, we looked at the pros, cons, and special features of each model. Then we compared and contrasted each of them against each other while keeping in mind the price and ultimate quality of the investment. As some models will be better suited for some than others, we hope that by giving this comparison we’ve made choosing the best wakeboard rope for your needs as easy as possible.

Overall Price Range

The wakeboard ropes featured on this list range in price from $20-$150, with an increase in price usually coinciding with higher grade materials, as well as additional processing to increase the longevity of the product and decrease the potential for breaking. More expensive models will also often exhibit advanced convenience boosting features or aesthetic specificities.

What We Reviewed

  • Airhead Spectra Thermal Wakeboard Rope
  • Hyperlite Team Handle with X-Line Rope for Waterski Boats
  • Airhead Dyneema Tangle Free Wakeboard Rope
  • AIRHEAD Wakeboard Rope, 15″ EVA Handle
  • Airhead AHWR-1, 2AHS-1100 or 1200 Wakeboard Rope
  • Ronix Wakeboard Handle Combo 2.0 with 60′ Mainline
  • Airhead Bling Stealth Wakeboard Rope
  • PROLINE 65′ Wakeboard Rope and Handle
  • Airhead Watersports Rope with Eva Handle
  • Full Throttle Wake Board Tow Rope

Airhead Spectra Thermal Wakeboard Rope

Features

This model is an excellent mid-range option, which offers high quality at an accessible price. It’s more than enough for both beginners and advanced wakeboarders, with a 70-foot long rope and a handle designed with thermal coated spectra line. It is resistant to twisting and kinking. The handle grip is padded and features foam floats to make it easy to retrieve in the event of it being dropped in the water.

Pros

  • Durable and twist resistant rope
  • Padded handle with foam floats
  • Solid and responsive design

Cons

  • Stiff rope results in difficult coiling for storage

Price $$$

 

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/AIRHEAD-Spectra-Thermal-Wakeboard-section/dp/B000OF926E/ref=asc_df_B000OF926E/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198096074308&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9595508110995763066&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-365326654779&psc=1

Hyperlite Team Handle With X-Line Rope for Waterski Boats

Features

This mid-range model prioritizes stable grip and long-lasting durability. It features a 70-foot long rope with a 15-inch handle. The rope material consists of 12 strands braided dyneema, a fabric known for its high amount of strength and UV resistance, with an X-line configuration and silicone coating. It also features an anti-roll system for increased stability, as well as foam buoyancy floats. This model is covered by a 1-year warranty.

Pros

  • Extremely durable rope
  • Buoyancy floats
  • Warranty coverage

Cons

  • No handle pads

Price
 $$

 

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/Hyperlite-Team-Handle-W-X-Line/dp/B0779LCXVX

Airhead Dyneema Tangle Free Wakeboard Rope

Features

This extremely strong,
accessibly priced model sports a high number of convenient features. Its 70-foot long rope consists of thermal-coated dyneema which is resistant to tangling and has a 2000 lb break strength. Its grip is 15 inches in width and includes foam floats. The rope itself is also capable of floating and is UV resistant. A free rope keeper is included with purchase for convenient storage.

Pros

  • High break strength
  • UV resistant
  • Free rope keeper

Cons

  • No warranty coverage

Price $

Where to Buy

Airhead Wakeboard Rope, 15″ EVA Handle

Features

This very affordable model offers an excellent choice for beginner wakeboarders. It features the essentials, with a UV-treated low-stretch 16-string braided rope of variable length, adjustable from 45 feet, to 55 feet, to 65 feet. Finger guards and a floating aluminum core are also included, as well as a free rope keeper. The handle is 15 inches in width with an EVA-wrapped grip.

Pros

  • Inexpensive option
  • Adjustable rope length
  • UV treated rope

Cons

  • Rope is uncoated and therefore less durable
  • No warranty coverage offered

Price $

 

Where to Buy

 

https://www.amazon.com/Wakeboard-Rope-EVA-Handle-section/dp/B000OF731U/ref=asc_df_B000OF731U/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312069284332&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1197871759957084336&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-642031153592&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=63589538058&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312069284332&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1197871759957084336&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-642031153592

 

Airhead AHWR-1, 2AHS-1100 or 1200 Wakeboard Rope

Features

Another affordable model on this list, this unique wakeboarding rope features a 16-strand, 30-filament rope with a 5-foot handle bridle and 10-foot take-offs. The handle is 15 inches in width, with an EVA-wrapped grip. An additional 6-inch TPR coated aluminum handle, which is designed specifically for performing tricks, makes this a good choice for those looking to push their wakeboarding experience even further. Also incorporated are a pair of foam floats. A free rope keeper is included.

Pros

  • Free rope keeper
  • Two handles for tricks
  • 30 filament rope

Cons

  • No warranty coverage is offered
  • Second handle has no grip.
  • Rope is uncoated and is therefore less durable

 

Price $

 

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/AIRHEAD-Wakeboard-Rope-Trick-Handle/dp/B000OF5LDC/ref=asc_df_B000OF5LDC/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312069284332&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16778298035013648122&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-442259992997&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=63589538058&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312069284332&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16778298035013648122&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-442259992997

Ronix Wakeboard Handle Combo 2.0 with 60′ Mainline

Features

This model offers a 60-foot, 4-section rope made of low stretch polyester. It is divided into four sections for increased durability and reliability. The handle is 1.15 inches in diameter, with 3 mm-thick end caps. Also included is a 7″ pencil float. The handle features an embroidered hide grip.

Pros

  • Comfortable embroidered grip
  • Pencil float
  • Rope is divided into 4 sections

Cons

  • No UV protection
  • Rope is uncoated and is therefore less durable

Price $$

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/Ronix-Combo-Wakeboard-Handle-4-Section/dp/B00EBGEOVK

Airhead Bling Stealth Wakeboard Rope

Features

This high-end rope offers both style and functionality, and is one of the more unique looking offerings on our list, with a rope that shines in the sunlight and glows in the dark. Not only is this attractive looking, but it also makes the rope easy to retrieve in the dark. The rope itself is 75 feet long with 4 take-off sections and is composed of woven polypropylene with a spectra core, topping out at a 2000 pound break strength with no stretch. The aluminum core handle features EVA grips and finger protectors.

Pros

  • Glow in the dark rope
  • 2000 pound break strength
  • Rope is divided into 4 sections

Cons

  • No foam floaters

 

Price $$

 

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/AIRHEAD-BLING-STEALTH-Wakeboard-Section/dp/B0065TKDOS/ref=asc_df_B0065TKDOS/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312131236011&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3335481117349946658&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-493919615438&th=1&psc=1

Proline 65′ Wakeboard Rope and Handle

Features

This affordable model sports a floating handle, with tractor grips that ensure a large amount of grip area, along with a reduced-roll handle. The rope consists of a woven polyester material. The simplicity and effectiveness of this model make it an excellent choice for beginners.

Pros

  • Floating handle
  • Increased grip area
  • Reduced roll handle

Cons

  • Rope is uncoated and therefore less durable
  • No UV protection

Price $

Where to Buy

Airhead Watersports Rope with EVA Handle

Features

This quick fix option is a 75-foot long 16-strand rope with a 12-inch floating handle. As a relatively simple and inexpensive model, it’s ideal for those who just want to get out onto the water without worrying about any of the specific details.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Floating handle

Cons

  • Rope is uncoated and therefore less durable
  • No UV protection

Price $

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/Airhead-AHSR-9-Kwik-Tek-Watersports-Rope/dp/B0012605V0/ref=asc_df_B0012605V0/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198095337570&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3667903730210898395&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9006215&hvtargid=pla-356025069066&psc=1

Full Throttle Wake Board Tow Rope

Features

This affordable yet powerful option offers a 75-foot, 640-filament rope with up to 1750 pounds of tensile strength. It is divided up into five removable sections, for a high amount of customizability. A rope keeper is also included, along with an additional handle for performing tricks.

Pros

  • Highly customizable rope length
  • Additional handle for tricks
  • Affordable yet strong rope

Cons

 

  • Rope is uncoated and therefore less durable
  • No UV protection

Price $$$

Where to Buy

https://www.amazon.com/Full-Throttle-Wake-Board-Rope/dp/B001TKCEH2

 

The Verdict

The best wakeboard rope is the one that suits your individual needs best, whether that means matching your skill level, the intensity of the tricks you want to perform, or your wallet. Considering factors like UV protection, rope coating, and the addition of floaters will further ensure you get the longest period of usage out of your wakeboard rope. We hope that by creating this list we’ve helped find the best wakeboard rope for you.