9 best water ski ropes

Water ski ropes are an essential piece of equipment used in waterskiing and other tow sports, such as wakeboarding and tubing. These ropes are specially designed to provide the necessary strength, durability, and flexibility required for these activities. Here are some key features and information about water ski ropes:

Material: Water ski ropes are typically made from durable materials like polypropylene or a blend of materials that offer strength, UV resistance, and resistance to water absorption. This ensures that the ropes can withstand the rigors of being in the water.
Length: The length of a water ski rope can vary depending on the specific discipline of waterskiing or tow sport. Slalom skiing ropes are usually shorter, around 75 to 85 feet, to allow for precise turns and maneuvers.Wakeboarding ropes are longer, often ranging from 60 to 75 feet, to provide more space and flexibility for tricks and jumps.
Handle: The handle of a water ski rope is typically made of rubber or foam for a comfortable and secure grip. Some handles may also have textured surfaces or ergonomic designs to enhance control and reduce hand fatigue.
Sections: Many water ski ropes are designed with multiple sections or segments. These sections can be detachable, allowing skiers to adjust the length of the rope as needed. Having sections also aids in quick setup and storage.
Thickness: The thickness or diameter of a water ski rope can vary, with thicker ropes offering greater strength and durability. Skiers and riders should choose a rope thickness that suits their skill level and the demands of their chosen activity.
Stretch: Water ski ropes are designed to have minimal stretch. This low stretch ensures that the skier or rider can maintain consistent tension and control while being pulled behind the boat.
Handlebar Options: Some water ski ropes come with a handlebar attachment, which is particularly useful for beginners or those learning to waterski. The handlebar provides extra stability and support.
Strength and Weight Rating: Water ski ropes are usually rated for a specific strength and weight capacity. It's important to choose a rope that can handle the weight of the skier or rider and the forces exerted during turns and jumps.
Maintenance: To ensure the longevity of a water ski rope, it's important to rinse it with fresh water after each use to remove salt and other contaminants. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to prevent damage from UV rays.
Safety: Proper safety precautions should always be followed when using water ski ropes. Skiers and riders should wear appropriate safety gear, maintain a safe distance from the boat, and communicate with the boat driver using hand signals.

In summary, water ski ropes are a crucial piece of equipment for waterskiing and tow sports, providing the necessary connection between the skier or rider and the boat. They come in various lengths, materials, and designs to accommodate different skill levels and preferences, and their durability and low stretch properties make them essential for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best water ski ropes on the market

Affordura Wakeboard Rope Water Ski Rope with Floating Handles, Tow Rope for Tubing 4 Sections Tube Tow Rope (75 Feet), Storing Bag Included

Affordura

Check latest price

Warranty and package- 1 year warranty offered by Affordura wakeboard rope. The package contains 1x 5 ft. handle bridle, 2x 10 ft. take-offs, 50 ft. take-off, 2x rope keeper to keep ski rope wrapped up for storage, or can be used to hang it up to dry, 1x storing bag for organization, out of the way when not in use.
Adjustable length- The ski tow rope is 75 ft. long with 4 sections you can take out to adjust the length. You can choose to have 50 or 60 feet of line behind the boat to tow the tube, it has 1500 pound tensile strength and 1 person tubing is highly recommended. Or you can choose to have 55, 65 or 75 feet for water skiing.
Handle floating- Three floating handles included, engineered with EVA grip and pencil floats to support floatation, keep your towable tube rope away from propellers and make it easy to retrieve.
Two-handle- 15 in. double-density EVA PHAT GRIP handle and 6 in. TPR covered aluminum handle, 10MM thicker EVA than others, no worried about any hand tearing or worn. The extra handle makes the waterski rope easy to do 360's or "wrap" tricks. Nice for the handle to be able to transfer from rope to rope.
Material- Low stretch 16-strand 30-filament with nothing in the middle, tough enough with no discernible stretching and no wear showing. Bright red color makes kneeboard rope easy to see in the water when circling around a skier in the water and the handle.

User questions & answers

Question:	Cam the handle be removed
Answer:	No
Question:	Can the last handle section be removed and used as a tube rope
Answer:	No it can't. But for $14.99 our two person tow rope is great for tubing! Find it here - https://www.amazon.com/RAVE-Sports-Rider-Tow-Rope/dp/B0024G8GRW/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=rave+sports+tow+rope&qid=1589381721&sr=8-2
Question:	Can this rope be used for a wakeboard
Answer:	Yes. Traditionally Wakeboard ropes have a wider grip area for tricks but for any beginner or intermediate wakeboarder this rope will be fine.
Question:	Does the handle float? Our current one sinks
Answer:	HANDLES SINK!I ordered two of these, one came with the handle assembled to the wrong end of the rope despite being factory packaged(Made In Mainland(Communist) China). That was easily remedied, but BOTH HANDLES SINK! We are using them for 15 off kneeboarding, but the closest take-off is 18'.The ropes/lines appear to be robust, but the handles are a real problem. The handle section ropes are run through / slid / threaded through the handles and the handles have shifted after the first use making them crooked. They are now very uncomfortable.For skiing, the grips on the handles are brutal, cutting into anything but heavily callused palms & fingers. Gloves would help, but they shouldn't be required for recreational skiing.I returned these ropes.

Product features

The Pro Water Ski rope is the perfect rope for skiers who have more advanced skills

Ski with the best of them

RAVE's Pro Water Ski Rope features 70' UV-treated, pre-stretched mainline with 3 removable 10' sections (60', 50', 40'). 12" aluminum handle with EVA Diamond Grip and 6" knuckle guard. Rope keeper included. 1,800 lb. tensile strength.

Obcursco Wakeboard Rope, Water Sport Line with EVA Handle. Ideal for Water ski, Wakeboard, Kneeboard

Obcursco

Based on 164 reviews Check latest price

Product description

When selecting the best wakeboard tow rope, your personal preference will definitely play an important role towards your final decisions. Yes, quality of the rope will have its part to play, but the final choice you make will depend on your preference. Before knowing what you want in a wakeboarding rope and handle, it’s important to understand the different features and specifications of the different types of ropes available.

What are those features that determine the best wakeboard tow ropes? How can the ideal wakeboard ropes be identified? The rest of this review shall provide the right answers to these questions.

As a wakeboarding beginner, it will take a little while to make your choice because you have not yet established what will be right for you. But as an experienced rider, you will have an idea of the best wakeboard tow rope that works better for you, so you will know the features you are looking for.

Specification:

Material: Poly E

Length: Approx. 70 feet

Handle Length: Approx. 15 inch

Main Color: Red and Black

Package Includes:

1 Piece Water Ski Rope (with Rope Holder)

Professional 16-strand 30-filament rope can maximum provide 2200 lbs tensile force. Ideal for wakeboard, Kneeboard and other water sports.
The 15 Inch double-density EVA Cover is machined to provide a superior grip for optimum performance.
The 6 Inch TPR covered aluminum handle provides extra leverage and pull for spins and inverted tricks.
The PVC bridle is fully encased in flexible vinyl for protection against abrasion and wear.
A rope keeper is included for tangle-free storage. You have ONE YEAR Warranty Covered.

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it have low stretch
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Does the rope float
Answer:	Yes the rope floats
Question:	Does the handle float
Answer:	No. the handle is not float
Question:	Does the handle detach from the rope
Answer:	No

WOW World of Watersports, Tow Ropes, Floating Foam Buoys, Minimum Stretch

WOW Sports

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tired of the same old rope-and-tube experience? The Bungee Tow Rope takes your tubes and adds a little extra whip and fling to your ride. This 50 ft. rope is used in place of the traditional rope for a new way to ride. It allows for the flex in speed and whip around. It also reduces the amount of jerking as the rope stretches to accommodate the change of speed and reduce the slack in the line. This is a must have for those adventure-seekers looking for a wild ride!

Minimum Stretch Design: The tube rope is manufactured with minimum stretch design. Towable tube rope is a strong, wide-diameter designed for tubing and extreme sports. Higher strand count to safely tow heavier loads and creates a comfortable experience.
Foam Buoy: Floating foam buoy and is easy to locate in the water. The boat tube rope floats on water but resists moisture penetration and mildew build-up that would degrade other materials. These boating supplies and accessories are easy to maintain.
Break Strength: The towable rope has a 2375-pound (1.08 mg) break strength. The heavy-duty rope features a braided construction technique that enhances overall tensile strength, rope balance and resistance to abrasion or tears.
Heavy-Duty: The boating accessories include a heavy-duty 3/8-inch 12 strand rope. Our marine tow rope is made from high-quality polypropylene fibers, provides excellent resistance against moisture degradation.

User questions & answers

Question:	How do you connect the 6k rope to your tube? We have a quick connect but it’s too small
Answer:	Pull it through the hole and loop each side to the hook. I can maybe send you a picture Saturday when we go
Question:	rope length
Answer:	60 feet
Question:	rope length
Answer:	The rope length is 60ft long.
Question:	Is this rope looped in both ends
Answer:	Yes. Loops at both ends. One side has an additional foam sheath that I suspect is to make it easier to grab and more buoyant.

Product features

Floating Foam Buoys

This 4K towable rope is custom made to tow any tube up to 4 riders. This 4K rope also struts a floating foam rope buoy so rope is easy to locate in the water.

4100 Pound (1.86 Mg) Break Strength
Manufactured with minimum stretch design
Heavy-Duty 5/8″ 16 strand rope construction
Floating foam buoy

Airhead 4 Section Water Ski Rope , Black, 75 ft Length

Airhead

Based on 260 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AIRHEAD® 4 Section Performance Water Ski Rope - This 75 foot long rope has 4 sections (75”,60”,50”,40”) to meet the needs of skiers and riders of all skill levels. The 12” aluminum core handle has a performance“Tractor” grip and full-length molded finger protectors. You’ll love the candy stripe color scheme of the UV-treated 16-strand 1,600 lb. tensile strength rope. A Rope Keeper is included for tangle-free storage.

4 Section Performance Water Ski Rope for skiers and riders of all skill levels
75 foot long rope with 4 sections (40 ft., 10 ft., 10 ft., 15 ft.)
12” aluminum core handle has a performance “Tractor” grip and full-length molded finger protectors
"Candy stripe" color scheme, UV-treated 16-strand 1,600 lb. tensile strength rope
Rope Keeper is included for tangle-free storage

User questions & answers

Question:	How does it connect to the boat?with a loop or does it split and have two connections
Answer:	with a loop and you shorten it up for wakeboarding at any section
Question:	Does the handle detach from the rope
Answer:	Not necessarily, it's connected to the longest section of the rope.
Question:	So this handle actually doesn't float
Answer:	Mine does not. I ended up buying a float to put on it near the handle.

Product features

About Airhead Ropes

Watersports are a great way for family and friends to spend time on the water and Airhead tow ropes are here to help. Every watersport has its own specific type of rope to compliment the activity. Airhead tube ropes are 50-60 feet in length and include a convenient rope keeper for tangle-free storage.

Waterski ropes come in a wide variety of options to suit your experience level too. Double Handle ski ropes are great for acquiring the balance necessary when learning how to slalom ski. Options as complex as our 8 section ski rope are available for slalom skiers looking for just the right spot to ski on your boat’s wake. All wakeboarders will benefit from the professional grade no-stretch Airhead wakeboard ropes. Various handle grip options, rope braids, colors and styles can be chosen from by searching all the wakeboard ropes we have available. Wake surfing is extremely popular right now and the Airhead 3 section 16 foot PolyE wakesurf rope has a 3 section mainline; 12” grasp knot and an extra-large spiral rope braid to get you riding the wake.

O'Brien 12 X 1.08 Inch Aluminum Core Rubber Grip Handle Water Ski Combo 75 Foot Tow Rope with 8 Different Color Length Sections

O'Brien Watersports

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

There's nothing like skimming across the lake on a hot summer day. When you're out water skiing, use the O'Brien Ski Combo Handle and 8-Section Rope to keep yourself behind the boat. This water ski handle and rope is great for amateurs and competitors alike with durable construction and a sturdy grip. Make sure you're holding on tight to the handle especially after clearing large wakes. The skiing and wakeboarding combo handle measures 12 inches wide and 1.08 inches in diameter with a certified 5-inch Polypro bridle section. With an aluminum-core and a rubber grip, you'll enjoy comfort as well as stability when you're out on the water. The rope features 8 different color-coded sections with a variety of lengths in order to accommodate your activity and skill level. Experience ski rope lengths of 40 to 15 feet and line lengths of 75-35 feet. This ski line sports an extremely durable braid made of 12 strands and 40 filaments of woven ropes. The exposed rope end caps have clear tubing to make it easy to visually inspect for damage. Grab ahold, hang on tight, and enjoy the ride with the O'Brien Ski Combo Tow Rope.

WATER SPORT ESSENTIAL: USA Waterski-approved tow rope and handle for water skiing and other tow-behind water sports
COMFORTABLE GRIP: 12-inch-wide, 1.08-inch-diameter handle with 5-inch polypro bridle section and rubber grip
VERSATILE: Ski rope features 8 color-coded sections of 40 to 15 feet and line lengths of 75 to 35 feet
STRONG AND DURABLE: 12-strand and 40 filaments poly-e rope construction for an extremely durable braid
EASY TO INSPECT: Exposed rope end caps with clear tubing make it easy to visually inspect for damage; Handlebar dimensions (W x Dia): 12 x 1.08 inches

User questions & answers

Question:	Does the handle float
Answer:	Unfortunately we have not used it yet...we are waiting patiently for our new boat to arrive! My husband said that normally they do...
Question:	What is handle diameter
Answer:	It feels a bit smaller than our other rope handles. We are going to the lake this weekend I can measure

AIRHEAD Ski Rope, 8 Section

Airhead

Based on 157 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ski longer, harder and stronger with less muscle fatigue. The 17 degree, 13 inch radius aluminum core handle with TPR Diamond Grip is the ultimate in quality. There are 8 color-coded sections and take-up loops for skiing in slalom courses or for finding just the right spot to ski on your boat’s wake. Full length finger guards help create a comfortable split finger grip. You’ll love the candy stripe color scheme of this UV-treated, 3/8 inch, 16-strand, 1,600 lb. tensile strength rope. A Rope Keeper is included for tangle-free storage.

8 Section Radius Handle Ski Rope
75' length with 8 color-coded sections and take-up loops
17 degree, 13 inch radius aluminum core handle with TPR Diamond Grip and full length finger guards
"Candy stripe" color scheme, UV-treated, 3/8", 16-strand 1,600 lb. tensile strength rope
Rope Keeper is included for tangle-free storage

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the handle detachable? Also, what are the length splits on the rope
Answer:	I went and measured my rope last night. The handle is detachable. The rope lengths are 15' off, 22' off,28' off,32' off,35' off, 38' off,39.5' off. If you need it shorter, I'm REALLY impressed!
Question:	What is the handle diameter
Answer:	1 1/16" Good size, I don't like the smaller diameter handles!
Question:	Does the handle float
Answer:	Yes, the handle floats. It's a great deal for the money.Perfect for wakeboarding. Not as good for slalom water skiing.The lake should thaw early this year.!!

Kwik Tek Water SKI Rope 75 Feet 1 Section

Kwik Tek

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A high quality 1 section ski rope for skiing, wakeboarding and kneeboarding. The 12" aluminum core handle has a performance "Tractor" grip and molded finger protectors. You'll love the blue and white candy stripe color scheme of the UV-treated 16 - strand rope. A Rope Keeper is included for tangle-free storage.

AHSR-75
737826019878

HO Sports 67127090 Universal Deep V 1 Piece 75 Foot 1 Section Slalom Water Ski Mainline Tow Line Rope & 12 Inch Handle with Tacky Grip

HO Sports

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whether you're just getting started with water skiing or need to replace a frayed line, the HO Sports Universal Deep-V Rope and Handle Package is the sport accessory you need for a good day on the lake. This water ski accessory is a 1-piece handle and line package, making it easy to keep track of your gear and get on the water. Attach this tow line to your boat and get ready to ride the waves. This water ski rope features a Deep-V design on the handle, which helps you position your skis for easy deep-water starts. The handle features a 12-inch-long grip with a tacky surface that helps you keep your hold when the handle gets wet. No need to mess with sections of tow rope with this water ski equipment. The water ski mainline rope is attached to the handle and measures 75 feet long. Trust this sturdy boat rope for summer after summer of fun. Hit the wake with the HO Sports Elite Deep-V Mainline Rope and Handle Package.

ROPE AND HANDLE COMBO: Ride behind the boat with help from this 1-piece water ski tow rope and handle package
EASY DEEP WATER STARTS: Deep-V design of the handle helps you position your skis for easy deep-water starts
HANDLE: Handle features a 12-inch-long grip and tacky surface to help you keep your hold when the handle gets wet
ROPE: Connected mainline tow rope measures 75 feet long
MADE TO LAST: Excellent durability for use summer after summer

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this rope sectional
Answer:	What's up! Good question. This rope does not have any sections. It is a one piece 75' line.
Question:	Is this a non-stretch rope? What tinsel strength is it
Answer:	The HO Sports Universal Deep V Slalom rope has some stretch to it. It is designed for recreational water sports and open water skiing, so it does not have a tensile strength rating. But, it is perfect for the workaday skier. It may not be strong enough to run the course at 38 off, but it will definitely get the job done for almost all slalom and recreational water sports activities.
Question:	Wondering if the handle floats? Thanks
Answer:	Yes, the handle floats. The two foamy tubes with the HO Skis logo screened on it are floats. It keeps the handle above the surface so it can be easily spotted and grabbed.
Question:	Does the deep v get in the way upon takeoff of people who still ski on two skis
Answer:	I'm not sure since none of the skiers that have used it so far are on double skis; however in the past we had a deep V when our kids were learning and on double skis and I think they always used our rope without any difficulty.
Question:	Is handle detachable fro the rope
Answer:	The handle does not detach from the rope.
Question:	Does this rope float
Answer:	Of course it does. Wouldn't be a ski rope if it didn't.
Question:	does it float
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Does the handle also float
Answer:	Of course it does

Product features

About Airhead Ropes

AIRHEAD Ski Rope, Deep V, 75 ft Length

Airhead

Based on 167 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This 1 section ski rope has an aluminum floating handle and molded end caps for safety and comfort. The 12 in. EVA grip provides a great handhold. The 16-strand 75 foot long rope is UV-treated and pre-stretched. A Rope Keeper is included..

Deep V-EZ Up bridle
12" floating handle
Sanded TPR grip
Aluminum core
Molded end caps and finger guards

User questions & answers

Question:	can you disconnect handle from rope
Answer:	Yes...with a sharp knife. Just kidding. You can remove it when the rope is new, but it gets tougher after use and the slip knot tightens up. You would be removing the entire handle assy., which is a couple of feet long to where the two ropes from the handle connect to the single rope.
Question:	What is the length of the handle section (where there are two ropes on each side) - from the handle to where it ties into the single rope
Answer:	The handle is the same size as a regular ski rope. The the area where you put the ski is about 2 1/2 ft it is great for beginner salalom
Question:	Does this handle work well with the air chair
Answer:	That's what we bought it for...works well.
Question:	Do the rope come in sections? how long are the sections if it does
Answer:	No this rope does not come in sections