Manila Rope

Our grade 1 manila ropes are available to buy:

• by the metre – up to a continuous maximum length of 220m
• wound on reels – in lengths of 50m, 70m, 100m and 220m
• in coils – measuring 220m long

Plus, you can choose from a variety of thicknesses – with diameters ranging from 6mm to 60mm. So whatever use you have in mind, you’re bound to find a rope that suits your needs.

All of the manila ropes for sale in our store are low-cost yet high-quality.

Thanks to the meticulous manufacturing process of our trusted partner, they adhere to strict EN ISO 1181:2004 standards. And as they’re made from 100% natural manila fibres, they demonstrate strength and flexibility, excellent durability, resistance to UV rays and saltwater, and good knot retention.

They’re also continuously stocked in our warehouse. Which means, if you place your order by 12 noon on a weekday, it’ll be dispatched immediately and usually arrive within 1-2 working days.

What is manila rope?

Manila is made from 100% organic fibres, taken from the abaca plant (Musa textilis). Which means, it has all the key characteristics of a natural rope. It is:

• soft to touch
• supple and flexible
• brown, with a hairy texture
• biodegradable and eco-friendly

Perhaps surprisingly, though, it’s also inherently strong and durable, with fantastic knot-ability. And as it contains natural oils, it can successfully withstand the elements, demonstrating excellent natural resistance to UV rays and abrasion.

As a result of these qualities, it’s much better suited to long-term outdoor use than sisal rope, flax hemp and most other natural fibre ropes. Subject it to harsh weather or severely damp conditions, and it will easily maintain its integrity.

Combining an attractive classic ‘rope’ appearance with these impressive properties, manila rope is a great all-rounder and suitable for many different applications.

What can manila rope be used for?

Strong and long-lasting, with good resistance to the elements, manila is suitable for a wide range of outdoor applications. Our customers regularly use manila rope for projects including:

• lawn edging
• fencing
• decking
• barriers and outdoor handrails
• children’s play areas (swings, rope ladders, tug of war rope etc.)
• boat fenders
• agriculture

The natural fibres of manila rope shrink when wet, which is why it’s worth adding 10-15% to the total length that you require. But it also means that manila demonstrates excellent knot retention. The knots become much tighter and more difficult to untie, meaning they’re less likely to slip. Coupled with good natural resistance to saltwater, this makes it an ideal choice for rigging, fishing nets and boat fenders.

In recent years, manila ropes have also become a popular choice for rope-based exercise – as they’re inherently strong and tough enough to withstand even the most intensive of training programmes. They’re an affordable, worthwhile addition to any gym setting. And as part of our battle ropes collection, we now offer manila ropes with black PVC end caps.

Does manila rope shrink when wet?

Yes – the natural fibres quickly absorb water, causing them to swell up in width and shrink in length. This means, if they’re kept in continuous damp conditions, their actual diameter and length will be different to that stated.

When buying manila ropes for outdoor use – or any application in which they’re likely to get wet on a regular basis – we therefore recommend adding 10-15% to the total length that you require.

It’s also important to note, manila rope is biodegradable and will break down over time if left outdoors.

Is the stated diameter accurate?

Whilst they’re always manufactured to the highest standard, natural ropes can vary in size from batch to batch by up to +/- 10%. This is due to the organic fibres from which they’re made.

This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning to use manila rope for decking, fencing, outdoor handrails etc., or any other feature that involves drilling holes into posts.

The diameter of the hole will always need to be larger than the rope’s diameter, otherwise, the rope is likely to ‘bunch’ up when you attempt to feed it through. Therefore, to ensure you get the right fit, we recommend waiting for your manila rope to arrive before starting the project and drilling a test hole in some wood first.

Watch our video showing exactly this!

Why choose us for manila ropes?

We have one of the largest online collections of manila ropes, with a variety of lengths, diameters and quantities to choose from. Whatever your specific needs or preferences, we’re certain we have the ideal product for you.

As a leading online supplier, our no.1 priority is customer satisfaction.

We do everything we can to ensure our customers are happy with their purchases.

All of our manila ropes are of the highest quality, yet very competitively priced. Our warehouse is always well stocked with the full range. Meaning, we can offer a fast turnaround – with orders placed by noon on a weekday typically delivered in 1-2 working days.

Plus, we’re genuinely knowledgeable about the manila rope for sale in our store, and always happy to help. Got a question about our manila? Need advice on the best product for you? Check out the ‘Help Choosing Rope’ section of our website for further information, and feel free to get in touch using our online enquiry form.

Want to learn more?

Before you click ‘add to basket’ and buy manila rope, it’s worth taking a look through our website.

You’ll find lots of additional information to help you make an informed decision – both on manila and the other natural fibre ropes available in our store. We also have a handy online tool, RopeFinder, which outlines the main properties of each rope and should help point you in the right direction. As well as a YouTube page with a number of helpful video tutorials.

If you’re still unsure whether natural manila rope is the right choice for you or would like further advice on which product to buy, you’re also welcome to send an email to info@ropesdirect.co.uk.

If you want tech specs, download the information sheet below.

Product Information Sheet Download