Although it may seem like any water skier’s rope would suit wakeboarding that would be a rookie’s mistake. When comparing a water-skiing rope (polypropylene) to a non- stretch spectra or low stretch polyethylene wakeboarding rope the big difference is exactly that. Non-stretch spectra rope does not stretch (only 0.5). Water skier’s need that elastic band effect for their salome runs however we as wakeboarders do not want this. Reason being that once in the air, the elasticity in the rope can pull you off your axis (balance). (If you are unsure on what ‘your axis’ is, it’s your body position whilst it the air). This makes performing tricks and landing them extremely difficult. Using a polypropylene rope also negates riding with a progressive edge (An edge that gets harder as you approach the wake), which again limits your progression and learning curve as a wakeboarder. We need a predictable line that can be loaded (put tension on) without stretch and is why we use spectra or poly-e. An easy way to compare the two from poly-p is first the physical size. As spectra is much stronger than polypropylene, it has a much smaller/thinner physical diameter because the tensile strength is higher. This is will be the dead giveaway to distinguish spectra. However poly-e is about the same size in diameter so the only real practical way to determine (other than testing the two out whilst riding) is to see if the rope floats well. Poly-e does not float that well in water compared to poly-p which is less dense than water.

When selecting a wakeboard rope, hands down spectra would be the pick of the bunch would have to be spectra as it far outweighs the other two in tensile strength and weight. Many now come with a thermal coating to resisted kinks and twists and also a PVC coating for extra durability and all generally have adjustable lengths so you can ride at the length that suits your riding speed/wake size. This is the type of rope the pro’s use and there is a reason for it. However like anything that is the best on the market, it generally costs more. A good spectra rope can be usually be picked up for under $150 depending on the brand and quality compared to a poly-e that retails for about half that. Get what suits your budget however as your wakeboarding progresses you will eventually want to use a spectra rope. So bottom line if you can afford it, get it.

Selecting a handle comes down to personal preference again as there are many types and feels of grip on the market, however look for one that has a wide handle between 13-15 inches (to make those handle passes behind the back easier ), has a nice grip that is comfortable to hold and wont slip out of wet hands easily.

At the end of the day for such a simple piece of equipment, the wakeboard rope and handle is one of the most important gear apparel that you will own. So make sure your first choice is a good one, otherwise wakeboarding can be a very frustrating sport.