Re: [Paddlewise] Toe Ropes

From: Michael Daly <mikedaly_at_magma.ca>
Date: Sun, 06 May 2007 23:36:21 -0400
Mark Sanders wrote:

> What is the opinion as to the LEAST amount of rope needed

Contact tow - a few feet.  However, I think that figuring out how to 
shorten a long line quickly is better than having one too short.  I use 
50ft and don't consider anything else, since that the legal requirement 
where I live.

> I assume I want Spectra?, but what diameter?

Not necessarily.  Spectra is strong, but it doesn't hold knots well and 
will be a small diameter for the strength.  Small diameter means painful 
on the hands if you have to pull on it.

To enhance floating, get a Spectra core with polypropylene sheath.  The 
polypro sheath will make knot holding a bit better.  There are some good 
rescue grade ropes like this in commercially available tow kits.  If you 
make your own, you might have to look around for this kind of rope.

I prefer 3/8 line for this, but that's bulky in some paddlers' minds. 
It's about the smallest that is comfortable on the hands in a hard pull. 
  Many people prefer 1/4" - anything smaller will be too much pain, 
though you can get adequate strength in Spectra and similar high end 
line in small sizes.


Mike
***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed
here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire
responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author.
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************
Received on Sun May 06 2007 - 20:36:57 PDT

This archive was generated by hypermail 2.4.0 : Thu Aug 21 2025 - 16:31:24 PDT