I’ve used virtually every rope out there and so have my clients and even though it seems like a simple piece of equipment all the styles are very different and have pros and cons. Read about them below so you can find the best rope for your needs.

Beaded Jump Rope is the one most of us used at school. It’s adjustable and has a good solid feel when you’re jumping but there are a few major issues with this rope. If you’re not very coordinated a whack to the leg really hurts. If you use your rope often the beads will break. If you’re looking to speed jump then this rope will slow you down. This is a great rope for those who can jump and want a good arm workout but not the best choice for beginners or those who want to move quickly.

Leather Jump Rope with wood handles feels light and is the most versatile. It’s great for all types of jumping exercises and allows you to pick up speed too. You can add weight if you want a tougher upper body workout and this rope won’t get kinks or creases that can throw off your coordination. The only downside is that it’s not adjustable so you have to get the ideal size for your height and you can’t share it with a taller or shorter person.

Nylon Non-Weighted Jump Rope with wood handles is the softest rope you can buy. It feels limp and getting it to rotate fast is a challenge. It’s a great choice for beginners and the less coordinated; those who want to jump barefoot, or for kids. Not so great for speed jumping or traveling jumps.

PVC Speed Jump Rope has two types of handles plastic or foam (this is really a matter of preference). It’s light and designed to go fast. Some come with extra weight, fancy counters, and calories burned counters, but all this extra stuff is unnecessary and can get in the way of great jump rope workouts. The best pvc rope is a plain one that fits your height. PVC is my #1 choice for most people.

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