The Best Wakeboarding Handle and Rope 2022 [Review and Guide]

Updated Feb 17, 2022

The Best Wakeboarding Handle & Rope

To handle the forces involved, riders look for tow ropes made of super-strong materials that are also light and buoyant. The amount of rope-handle combinations are vast, and finding which one is the best can be quite a challenge. Different materials, lengths, and customizability suited to a variety of different riders are available in today’s market. Keep on reading to find the best Wakeboarding Handle and Rope you can have to hit the waves!

A good way to determine if a rope works for you is to try a high-quality low-cost model, like the ones listed below. Only after some first-hand experience can one start to develop a preference. For the choices here, we have looked into a few common features of ropes that will directly affect performance and effectiveness.

The Best Wakeboarding Handle and Rope Guide – Factors Considered

Material

As far as wakeboarding ropes go these days, we’re not just talking about some nylon cord. There is a multitude of different varieties of space-age materials that go into these new ropes that give them extreme strength and a better feel. Some ropes boast stronger than steel strength and ergonomic handles. Certain materials like Spectra, Dyneema, and other sorts of composite carbon fiber and plastic will provide lighter weights and flotation without compromising on strength.

Affordable Price

Now the price of wakeboard ropes and handles will vary but the most economical option after some research is to buy them together, nonetheless, they can be purchased separately. Be prepared to spend anywhere from $30 to $140 on a beginning rope and handle. Some professional handles can be much more expensive but the ropes chosen for this list, feature a combination of affordability for those new to wakeboarding, and higher quality, for those who have been doing it for a while.

Other Factors

When looking into wakeboard handles and ropes one important feature we looked for was the length of the rope. Depending on the size of the boat, the experience of the rider, and also the type of board, the length of the rope plays a big role in the ease of the ride. The length of the rope corresponds to an increase in price, however with some careful searching, one can find ropes of greater length, for a better price. Another interesting feature is the ability to make a rope smaller or larger.

Our Decision

The list of wakeboarding handles and rope are chosen below demonstrate high-quality construction, a length that is suitable for most sports, and also a price that is not going to break the bank. These ropes are available online and also come included with both the rope and the handle. The prices of the ropes are in descending order and represent an average one might spend when first getting into wakeboarding, however, the quality is as consistent as possible.

The Best Wakeboarding Handle and Rope 2022

1: Obcursco Wakeboard Rope – 70ft

The Obcursco Wakeboard Rope and Handle is our top choice, as it’s perfect not only for wakeboarding but also for waterskiing, kneeboarding, and more. Its handle is made of 15 Inch double-density EVA Cover 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. For abrasion and wear resistance, the PVC bridle is enclosed in flexible vinyl.

A professional 16-strand 30-filament rope can withstand a maximum tensile force of 2200 pounds, making this extremely durable. The rope floats in case you detach from it so you don’t need to search for it underwater. It’s a safe choice for a good and sturdy wakeboard line.

Specifications:

Material: Poly E
Length: Approx. 70 feet
Handle Length: Approx. 15 inch

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

2: AMRK-AHWR-4 Kwik Tek Airhead Spectra Thermal Wakeboard Rope

The Kwik Tek AIRHEAD Spectra Thermal Wakeboard Rope has no stretch, allowing for the precise, fast response that skilled wakeboarders expect. The Thermal-coated Spectra line is stiff and inflexible, resists kinking and twisting, and has a break strength of 2,000 pounds.

The mainline is 70 feet long and has four 5 foot takeoffs. For increased durability, the 15″ broad EVA grip is linked to a 5 ft. bridle with two foam floats and full length PVC tubing.

Specifications:

• Length: 70 feet
• Rope Material: Thermal-coated Spectra
• Handle Width: 15 inches
• Handle Material: Aluminum
• Weight: 1.55lbs

Pros:

• Super Durable
• Very Affordable
• Great Grip

Cons:

• Stiff Coil makes it hard to store
• No Rope Keeper

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

3: Liquid Force Team Handle + H-Braid

We recommend the Liquid Force Team wakeboard rope and handle combo if you’re seeking for a high-performance wakeboard rope and handle. This is long-lasting and will still give you the height you desire.

An H-Braid is included in the Liquid Force Team’s design. The Teardrop Grip, an ergonomic precision cut to keep your hands as comfy as possible, adds to this.

A 70 foot mainline, which is about average in length, is included in the performance of this rope and handle. It contains an aluminum bar, which means the handle will not flex or bend, keeping you stable.

Pros:

• H-Braid
• 70 Ft Mainline
• Ergo Corner Contour
• Team End Cap
• Teardrop Grip

Cons:

• No give to the handle

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

4: Ronix Combo 3.0 Hide Grip Wakeboard Rope

With its 3mm memory foam and hide-wrapped handle, the Ronix Combo 3.0 Hide Grip Thermal Wakeboard Rope feels like it was custom-made just for you. When you wipe out, the EVA within the handle floats well in the water, making it easy to find. It’s 70 feet long and may be cut into four halves for a custom length.

This tough-as-nails Wakeboard Handle delivers top-notch performance and responsiveness at an unbeatable price.

Specifications:

• Length: 70 feet
• Rope Material: Polyethelyne
• Handle Width: 15 inches
• Handle Material: EVA
• Weight: 4lbs

Pros:

• Adjustable Rope
• Floating Grip makes it easy to find in the Water
• Comfortable Grip

Cons:

• Durability is a bit of an issue

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

5: Ronix Combo 5.5 Stich Grip T Rope – Best for experienced wakeboarders

The Ronix Combo 5.5 Stich Grip T is the greatest wakeboard rope for experienced wakeboarders. The design of this rope and handle combo is great, and it will withstand wear and tear nicely.

Let’s begin with the combo’s design. The Ronix Combo 5.5 comes with a 6″ T wrapped handle. The handle has also been diamonded embroidered, ensuring that it will withstand the rigors of wakeboarding.

As for performance, this combo has an 80-foot line, which is on the longer side of things. As a result, this is a better option for more advanced wakeboarders.

Pros:

• 80 ft Mainline for excellent air
• 6” T Wrap Handle
• EVA flotation
• Anti-Roll Barlock
• Diamond Stitch Embroidery Grip

Cons:

• None found

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

6: Airhead Watersports Rope EVA Handle, 1 Section

The Airhead Watersports Rope EVA Handle, 1 Section is one of the more affordable wakeboard ropes with handles on the market. It’s a multi-purpose item that can be used for skiing, wakeboarding, or kneeboarding.

It has a very good price for a high quality rope. You will be using it all summer and it will still look like brand new. The Velcro holder helps keep it from getting all knotted up.

A rope keeper and a floating handle are included with the Airhead Watersports Rope EVA Handle, 1 Section.

Specifications:

• 75′ Rope Length (Foot)
• 12-inch metal core wrapped in EVA rubber handle length (inches)
• UV-treated 16-strand pre-stretched nylon rope

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

7: Ronix Kids Combo Wakeboard Rope – Best for Kids

The Ronix Kids Combo is the best wakeboard rope and handle for kids. This has the Ronix durability and dependability you’d expect, but it’s designed specifically for kids.

The Ronix Kids Combo features a 14-inch handle that is precisely sized for a child’s hand. It’s also filled with EVA for buoyancy.

This wakeboard rope’s performance includes a 55-foot mainline and a shorter, slimmer handle for your child to grip. It’s easier to hold onto a handle that suits your hands better.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

8: Straight Line Apex Suede with Dyneema Wakeboard Rope – 65ft

The Apex Ultra suede wakeboard rope by Straight Line is a 65-foot, high-quality 4mm Dyneema rope with a high-quality quilted EVA Padded handle. At just about a hundred bucks, it is a looker that will get the job done. It is a popular rope with even more experienced riders and the leader doesn’t stretch giving users a very predictable pull. The 29-millimeter handle is boxed and dipped in PVC to give it more durability. Incredibly tough and can take the force that this rope will translate.

The color and buoyancy of the rope will make finding it after a wipe-out a breeze. Overall, for the price, this rope is one of the top choices for beginners and pros alike. It’s one of the highest quality ropes for this price.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

9: Ronix Combo Women’s Wakeboard Rope

Because women’s hands aren’t the same size as men’s, it’s natural to want a wakeboard rope and handle that fits. The Ronix Combo Women’s is the ultimate wakeboard rope and handle for women.

The vibrant pink color of the Ronix Combo Women’s is intended to appeal to women. It is preferable to have a 1-inch diameter handle because it is easier for small hands to grip.

This rope combo gives a fantastic performance. It’s 70 feet long, which makes it suitable for intermediate to advanced wakeboarders. It also features a barlock that prevents it from rolling.

Pros:

• Anti-roll barlock
• Hide Embroidered grip
• 1” handle diameter
• 7” pencil floats
• 12-strand Dyneema rope

Cons:

• None found

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

10: Airhead Bling Spectra Wakeboard Rope – 75′

Next up on the list is the AIRHEAD Spectra wakeboard rope. Made of Spectra, a different material than our first choice, this rope is similar in that it does not provide any stretch, giving it a very quick, crisp response. With a 2000lb break strength, this wakeboarding rope floats and resists tangling and kinking. It is longer than the first choice. The handle has an aluminum core so it’s light, but still incredibly durable. This rope also includes 4 takeoff sections, which allow for rope shortening.

The attachment loops for taking off length can make watersports, in general, more challenging. The less rope between you and the boat the more responsive one’s movements become. Overall this is a good choice, one that is just as good, if not an almost better option than the first choice, if only because of the price and the quality.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

11: RAVE Sports Elite Wakeboard/Kneeboard Rope

One of the Best Ropes for Wakeboarding and Kneeboarding is the RAVE Sports Elite Wakeboard/Kneeboard Rope with a 15″ aluminum handle with an EVA raised diamond grip for expanding into new tricks. It’s a very strong rope and handle with 1800 lb. (680 kg) tensile strength that will last for a long time without breaking.

The RAVE Sports Elite Wakeboard/Kneeboard Rope features 75′ mainline with 3 removable 10′ sections (45′, 55′, 65′). It’s sturdy and it floats, which makes it a great fit for a beginner.

Features:

• 75′ (22.86M), 3 section Mainline
• 15″ (30cm) raised diamond grip EVA handle
• 5/16″ Polypropylene
• 1800 lb. (680 Kg) tensile strength
• Rope wrap

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

12: Airhead AHWR-1 Wakeboard Rope

The airhead 8HWR1100 wakeboard rope is a great option for those looking for economy and durability. Also from a trusted name, Airhead, this rope will be sure to meet your standards when it comes to wakeboarding. It is a low-stretch rope that provides professional wakeboarding results at almost half the price of the leading quality rope.

This wakeboarding handle and rope also include four take-off sections and includes a rope bag for storage as well. The handle is a vinyl encased aluminum tube and also has foam floats to keep it above the water when you go too hard. What landed this rope as the third pick is its high quality, which will provide a similar experience to even more expensive ropes, at a much lower price.

>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<

Best wakeboard rope and handle Buying Guide

Choosing the best wakeboard rope and handle might help you improve your wakeboarding performance and enjoyment. As a result, these wakeboard accessories might be considered investments.

So, before you spend any money, familiarize yourself with the essential features. It’s possible that the most expensive item on the market isn’t the best option for you. You are the only one who can determine which wakeboard rope and handle is best for you.

How to buy the Best wakeboard rope and handle

When you are looking for wakeboard handles and ropes there are some crucial things you need to take under consideration.

Length

When it comes to a wakeboard rope, there is a lot of choice in terms of length. They can range in length from 55 to 75 feet.

The length you desire will be determined by a number of factors, including your own preferences, your level of experience, and even the boat wake. Beginner wakeboarders will usually choose a rope that is 65 feet long and placed in the middle.

If you’re having trouble clearing the wake, consider a shorter rope that brings you closer to the boat. This will also be the wake’s narrowest portion. You can expand the length as your ability develops, allowing you to gain greater speed and catch more air as you go.

Materials

You’ll notice that the handles and ropes are constructed of three different materials:

Poly E: Because Poly E has a low stretch content, it is more forgiving than other materials, making it an excellent choice for new riders. It’s also the most affordable choice, so it’s a fantastic place to start.
Dyneema: Dyneema is a synthetic fiber that is extremely strong and has no flexibility. It’s tough, resisting salty UV rays as well as wear and strain. It usually outperforms other types of material and is better suited to more experienced riders. It is the most widely used substance.
Spectra: Spectra is the final substance. This material is said to be ten times stronger than steel and does not stretch. It will also float in water, so you won’t have to worry about losing it. It’s also quite light. This is best suited to experienced riders.

Handles

Handles come in a wide range of styles to suit the needs of different riders. EVA, aluminum, and/or carbon fiber are commonly used for the handles. The EVA is useful since the handle will always float when you let go of it, ensuring that it will never become submerged.

The more expensive the handles are, the lighter and stronger they are. You won’t have to worry about carbon snapping on you because it is extremely strong and light.

V and T handles are the two types of handle attachments. They attach to the main handle and allow you to bend the handle behind your back before using it. This eliminates the need to pass a handle during a trick.

Handles are also available in a variety of diameters to fit the size of your hand. For tiny hands, smaller diameters are preferable. You won’t be able to acquire a good grasp if your diameter is too huge.

The Advantages Of A Long Wakeboard Rope

Only the most skilled wakeboarders will be seen using a lengthy wakeboard rope. This is due to the fact that having greater length gives you less control, but it also allows you to perform more tricks.

The lengthier ropes are typically 75 or 80 feet in length. Beginners should never begin with a long rope since they are putting themselves in danger. In the meantime, the more expert you become, the longer rope you will need.

The Advantages Of A Short Wakeboard Rope

You’ll have more control over your motions if you use a short wakeboard rope. You won’t be able to catch as much air as a rider with a longer rope, but you won’t want to catch any air if you’re just getting started in the sport.

Ropes for beginners are normally 55 to 65 feet long. Shorter ropes will feel more restrictive as you gain skill, because the wake narrows as you approach closer to the boat.

Wakeboard Ropes: Which Brands Can You Trust?

Ronix: The Ronix brand is a well-known wakeboard rope manufacturer. They’ve been in business since 1990 and offer a fantastic mix of technology and aesthetics. They are well-known for taking delight in their job, which is likely why they are so popular.

Liquid Force: Another iconic wakeboard and wakesurf board brand is Liquid Force. Their equipment is ideal for those who are just getting started in the sport. Their equipment is often smooth and predictable, which is ideal for beginners who are just learning the ropes.

Proline: is another brand to think about. They’re a little more enjoyable than other manufacturers because their design is vibrant and colorful; Proline equipment allows you to show off your style. They are suitable for riders of all skill levels, so you may select the ride that best suits your abilities with this brand.

Hyperlite: One of the most well-known brands on the market is Hyperlite. It is without a doubt the most well-known wakeboarding brand. They even support professional wakeboarders. You can trust them because they are known for their high-quality items. Other wakeboard equipment is also available for purchase.

Airhead: Airhead is a wakeboard brand owned by Kwik Tek that has been in the wakeboard industry for over 20 years. It also owns Dry Pak, Sportsstuff, and other brands. Wakeboards from Airhead are known for their 840 denier nylon covering. This company sells inflatable floats, tow tubes, accessories, and more in addition to ropes and handles.

O’Brien: You can trust O’Brien because it has been in the wakeboard industry for almost 50 years. Its goal is to develop goods that help families make the most of the precious moments they have together. According to O’Brien, the watersports sector was shaped by their devotion.

Final thoughts

It’s just as important to discover the greatest wakeboard ropes and handles as it is to find the best wakeboard.

The weight of the riders is carried by ropes and handles, which influences their ability to accomplish various tricks. These gadgets will also keep you safe while riding.

As a result, you must select the best option for your ability level as well as one that is comfortable for you.

Wakeboard ropes and grips sold in stores are not identical. They come in a variety of lengths, materials, and constructions. These distinctions can have an impact on your wakeboarding performance.

FAQ About Wakeboard Handles and Ropes

Q. What Is the Difference Between Water Ski and Wakeboard Ropes?

A. Many individuals, particularly beginning riders, are unfamiliar with the differences between water ski and wakeboard ropes. Although rookie wakeboarders may use a water ski rope to learn the sport, they must understand the differences.

The suppleness of water ski and wakeboard ropes is the fundamental difference. The water ski ropes can be stretched by up to 3%.

The wakeboard rope, especially those constructed by Spectra, may have little to no elasticity. Wakeboarding benefits from non-stretchable ones since they provide a solid ride and easy access to tricks. Some have T-handles that make moving a breeze.

The water ski rope can be used to practice for beginners. They should, however, purchase the wakeboarding-specific one once they have mastered the jumps. Although advanced riders can utilize water ski rope, they should avoid it because it limits their ability to execute.

Wakeboard handles are also typically three inches longer and more pleasant to hold. Riders do not need to wear gloves to hold them.

The purpose of having these types of handles is to make it easier for riders to accomplish their tricks.

Water ski handles, on the other hand, are typically 11 to 13 inches long. Because these handles are often constructed of rubber, gloves may be required. Water ski handles are designed to provide riders a greater grip rather than to make them feel comfortable.

Q. Is it Possible to Wakeboard with Ski Rope?

A. If you’re a novice learning the fundamentals of wakeboarding, you can use a ski rope, as previously stated. Consider switching to a wakeboard rope if you’re ready to learn the jumps.

Q. How can I make a wakeboard rope shorter?

A. Shortening a rope might weaken it, so it’s best to buy one that’s the right length. Here’s what you can do if you want to lend it to someone. Determine how short you want the rope to be and pinch it to the proper length with one hand while holding the other end. To make a loop, let go of your other hand. Scoop it around a boat arch, under the rope as it spans it. Return it to the top, secure it, and tighten it.

Q. How wide is a wakeboard handle?

A. Wakeboard handles range in width from 5 to 15 inches (that is wider than water ski handles, which are 11-12 inches wide). Handles that are wider than typical make it easier to perform tricks that need you to pull the handle behind your back.

Q. What is the best wakeboarding rope length?

A. Beginner rope lengths are normally around 65 feet, intermediate rope lengths are usually 65-75 feet (the longer you can manage, the better), and advanced rope lengths are usually 75-85 feet.

Q. Is it possible to wakeboard without a tower?

A. Wakeboarding does not require the use of a wakeboard tower, but it is much more enjoyable with one. When you’re wakeboarding, towers give you additional hang time when you’re doing tricks. When you have a wakeboard tower, you can jump higher on your wakeboard and spend more time in the air for great tricks.

Q. What is the best wakeboarding speed?

A. The lowest speed suggestion is twelve miles per hour, which is normal for smaller riders. Beginners learning to ride should aim for a pace of 12 to 15 miles per hour because it is a steady speed that will help them acquire confidence on the board.

Conclusion

When it comes to wakeboarding, the handles and ropes one uses will have a big impact, though there are the best handles and ropes here that will get the job done with style. There are many more to choose from and the quality and features of wakeboard ropes will continue to vary into the foreseeable future. Hoped we helped you to find the Best Wakeboarding Handle and Rope you need to kick off your wake sports activities.

Other resources

• The Best Wakeboards for Beginners
• The Best Wakeboarding Helmets
• The Best Wakeboarding Vests
• The Best Gloves For Wakeboarding and Water Skiing
• The Best Wakeboard Rack For Your Boat

Thanks for reading and good luck with your choice! Feel free to drop a question, or comment and let us know what you thought of our selections and yours too.

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