How to Choose the Right Rope for Bondage Play

Not every type of rope suits every kind of play, and not all are made equal.

For many kinksters, rope holds a special place in their hearts. Perhaps the most artistic-looking of all the bondage forms is rope bondage. Additionally, it creates the strongest bond between the rabbit and the rigger. Few things are more intimate than feeling hands and rope go along and manipulate every inch of you or running a rope along someone's body and limbs.

Doesn't it sound like fun? Nowadays, rope bondage comes in a variety of forms. The purpose of decorative bondage is to dress you in rope rather than tying you up. Rope bras/panties, corsets, and harnesses are typically ornamental. One type of bondage is floor bondage, in which a bottom is tied but left on the ground. Another kind is called suspension bondage, in which the bottom is fastened and then left hanging in midair with just rope for support.

There are several types of rope, just as there are various types of rope play. Not all ropes are suitable for all kinds of games. Selecting the appropriate rope might mean the difference between a fun encounter and a regrettable mishap (particularly regarding suspension bondage). These are some of the rope kinds used by riggers and the appropriate uses for each.

The Characteristics of Rope

Riggers assess rope according to the following attributes:

• Flexibility
• Durability
• Strength
• Texture 
• Friction

All of these factors should be considered when selecting the appropriate kind of rope for your activities. In particular, friction is crucial while working with knots. A rope with less friction is more prone to tighten or slip. Because of their highly abrasive texture, certain ropes, such as sisal or manila, are typically unsuitable for your bottom's skin.

Strength and stretch are critical for complete or partial suspension work. You don't want to suspend someone with a flimsy rope!

Synthetic Bondage Rope

Many people who are new to bondage will begin with synthetic rope. It is inexpensive, readily accessible in hardware stores, cleans well, and is reasonably simple to work with. The usual materials are polyester and nylon.

Nylon Rope

Nylon rope offers slight flexibility and low friction and is incredibly pleasant to the touch. It is highly robust and long-lasting. Particularly if you're interested in Western bondage (as opposed to Japanese shibari), it's a good option to get you started. It lets you be creative because it comes in various colours and sizes. Riggers must use additional wraps to secure their bottoms because knots are prone to slip or tighten because of the low friction. Nylon rope works well for decorative bondage, floor play, damsel-in-distress bondage, and suspended bondage support.

Polyester Rope

Polyester rope is also reasonably priced, robust, and long-lasting. However, due to its rougher texture and modest elasticity, it is less likely to be used for bondage work. Although it's still feasible, it's not a very common option.

Because of their limited flexibility and plastic-like texture, other rope types—such as synthetic hemp and polypropylene rope—are not truly appropriate for bondage.

Natural Bondage Rope

For the majority of seasoned riggers, natural materials are the best option. The preferred material varies depending on the activity and rigger; for instance, shibari fans typically choose the traditional jute option.

Jute Rope

The most popular option for both floor and suspension shibari riggers is rope. Jute has good strength but poor durability. It is flexible and slightly abrasive on the skin, with low stretch and high friction. Although it must be renewed often, properly treated jute rope can be made to feel gentler against the skin. It's also simple to colour.

Hemp Rope

Jute and hemp rope are identical, but hemp rope smells stronger and weighs a little more. Hemp softens over time, which is why many riggers like it. Compared to jute, it is also simpler to locate. Because of its strength, hemp rope can also handle suspension work.

Linen Rope

Although linen rope is lighter and softer than hemp or jute, it has the same qualities.

Cotton Rope

Cotton rope is inexpensive and readily available, making it a suitable option for novices. It offers minimal friction, has some stretch, feels soft against the skin, and is somewhat flexible. Cotton rope, however, is not very strong or durable. Although cotton rope can be used for the same purposes as nylon rope, its low strength makes it unsuitable for suspension operations. It's also excellent for decorative work. Cotton rope is also easily dyed, allowing you to purchase it uncolored and customize its color.

Silk and Bamboo Rope

Luxury ropes are made of bamboo and silk. Despite their high cost, these produce excellent results. Their finest qualities—flexibility, softness, good friction, low stretch, some durability, and moderate strength—combine with those of synthetic and natural rope, but at a price. Bamboo has the added benefit of being glossy like nylon and naturally antibacterial.

Because they are harsh and stiff, sisal, manila, and coir are not appropriate for bondage work. Could you stay away from them?

The Best Rope for the Job

Cotton and nylon are the most excellent options if you're starting. They are readily accessible, inexpensive, soft, and simple to work with. Depending on the application, you can progress to more specialty ropes like hemp and jute as your confidence and knowledge grow.