11 Best Climbing Ropes for CrossFit & Gym Reviewed 2024

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Best Climbing Ropes for CrossFit and Garage Gym – TOP 11 Reviews 2024

STOP avoiding the rope climb!

Does that pesky Rope Climb keep appearing on your WOD list, but you don’t have a rope to climb in your home gym?

Stop putting it off and conquer the climb today!

Install one of the best climbing ropes for your home gym and complete each WOD with pride.

Today I will cover a few Climbing rope basics, what you should look out for, how to use a climbing rope to workout and 11 of the best climbing ropes for 2024.

women climbing a rope in a CrossFit gym

Climbing Rope vs Conditioning Rope vs Pulling Rope – What’s the Difference?

First things first.

The rope is used in several different ways in functional fitness, CrossFit and Bootcamp style training.

It can be used for:

  • Pulling Sleds or weights.
  • Used as a battle rope for an upper arm cardio exercise.
  • Used in a game of tug of war.
  • Used in a rope climb.
  • Used to pull Steve’s car from the mud.

OK, that last one is not really related.

This article focuses on the ROPE CLIMB.

BUT…

Since you will encounter different style ropes in your search for the best rope for the CrossFit Rope Climb, I think it’s helpful to lay out the differences between ropes based on purpose.

Climbing Rope

Gym Climbing ropes are designed for the rope climb.

That part is obvious, right?
The best gym climbing ropes have an eyelet at one end so you can thread the rope through, which makes it a breeze to hand it from any smooth round surface, like a sturdy solid pull up bar.

Conditioning Rope

Conditioning ropes, sometimes called battle ropes, are actually one long rope that you anchor in or near the ground.

The ends of this rope are wrapped to prevent fraying. The wrap at the end of the rope might be called end whipping.

Pulling Rope

These ropes are longer and have a smaller diameter than climbing ropes.

Although they do have an eyelet at one end to use for attaching to a weight sled or similar obstacle, they are not meant for climbing.

They are built for pulling, dragging and tug of war type activities.

Poly Dracon vs Manila vs Sisal vs Cotton, Which is Better?

muscular man is doing battle rope exercise

Benefits of Manila Fiber Climbing Ropes

The best CrossFit climbing ropes in my opinion are made from Manila, but Sisal ropes come in a pretty close second.

Just keep in mind, climbing ropes do not last forever. You must check them for wear and replace every few years or so.

The Good:

  • #1 best feature of Manila: Easier to grip – they’re not slick like synthetics.
  • Made from a natural sustainable material.
  • Stronger than Sisal.
  • Soaks up sweat from your palms, enhancing grip.

The bad:

  • Can not use outside.
  • May rot from the inside out if exposed to humidity.
  • Low quality Manila may cause splinters or shed a lot of fibers.

Benefits of Sisal Fiber Climbing Ropes

The Good:

  • Natural fiber.
  • Cheaper than Manila.
  • Softer than Manila.
  • Soaks up sweat from your palms, enhancing grip.

The Bad:

  • Readily absorbs water.
  • Not as durable as Manila (80% less strong).

Benefits of Synthetic Material Climbing Ropes

The Good:

  • #1 best feature of synthetics: Withstands Moisture and won’t rot.
  • Can be used outside.
  • Better tolerates sunny conditions, is UV resistant.

The Bad:

  • Slippery to use for climbing.
  • Will not soak up sweat from palms like Manila and Sisal will.

Benefits of Cotton Cloth Climbing Ropes

The Good:

  • Soaks up sweat from your palms, enhancing grip.
  • Soft on hands and attractive.
  • Relatively inexpensive.

The Bad:

  • Wears quickly.
  • Can not be left outdoors or exposed to rain nor humidity.
  • Not very strong.

How do I Use a Climbing Rope to Workout?

There are as many ways to use a rope to exercise as there are Oompa Loompas in Charlie’s Chocolate Factory.

Obviously, I can not list them all, but I do know two Rope Climbing workouts you can expect to see come up in a WOD:

1. The Basic Rope Climb

Rope Climbing Technique- How To

Notice how Ben demonstrates the clamp down on the rope with your feet.

He points out that you need a pair of shoes designed for cross training to get up that rope easier and without destroying your shoes.

Click here for a list of shoes designed to withstand the rigors of CrossFit and Functional Fitness. These shoes have a special tread that allows you to more easily climb the rope without destroying your footwear.

2. The Legless Rope Climb

The legless rope climb is brutal and takes A LOT of upper body strength, and as the name implies, you don’t use your legs to help you climb.

Movement Demo – The Legless Rope Climb

Installation Tips

There are two important things to note when hanging and using your rope for rope climbing.

  • The rope must be hung from a smooth round surface that can handle a heavy load.
  • The climbing rope should be used with accompanying landing crash pads or mats to prevent or minimize injury in case you slip from the rope and fall.

Now that we have those details out of the way, let’s get into those rope reviews.

TOP 11 Best Gym Climbing Rope Reviews 2024

Rogue Braided Eyelet Manila Climbing Ropes

Rogue Braided Eyelet Manila Climbing Ropes

Review: The best feature of this rope is the braided eyelet that allows you to quickly hang the rope without using hardware.

I also like the variety of lengths available so there are ropes that fit every home gym available.

Keep in mind, the end of the rope is finished with a loose cap to allow the Manila to breathe and prevent moisture which can deteriorate the rope.

Pros

  • Braided eyelet means no need for a mounting bracket.
  • Made in the USA.
  • Available in 5 different lengths.
  • High quality Manila.

Cons

  • Sheds fibers during climb.

Takeaway

Classic climbing rope, one of the best CrossFit climbing ropes, simple and durable from a name you can trust.

POWER GUIDANCE Climbing Rope

POWER GUIDANCE Climbing Rope, 1.5 Inch in Diameter, No Mounting Bracket Needed, Length Available 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50 Feet
  • No Mounting Bracket Needed - Spliced knotted loop for easy knotting to any sturdy anchor point.
  • Heat Shrink End Caps - The end of our climbing ropes are all heat shrinked to prevent fraying.
  • Multiple Length Options - POWER GUIDANCE climbing rope are available in 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50 feet
  • Keep The Ropes Dry - Generally, these ropes are used indoors, if the weather is good, you can also use it outdoors. But once your rope gets wet during outdoor use, it must be dried in the air bofore you use it next time.
  • WHY CHOOSE US - At POWER GUIDANCE, we fully stand behind our products. If you don't 100% love our products, please don't hesitate to contact us, and we do our best to make sure you are satisfied again.

Review: The Power Guidance 1.5” diameter climbing rope is a good choice for indoor gyms with ample height to hang them.

They are available in lengths from 15 feet al the way to 50 feet and have a hanging/mounting/anchoring loop at one end. They can also be used for pulling or as a battle rope if you have the longer length rope.

Pros

  • Knotted loop eyelets, no mounting hardware needed.
  • 1.5” diameter.
  • 450 lb max weight.

Cons

  • Indoor only, not weather, water or moisture proof.

Takeaway

A low shed indoor climbing rope at a good price.

Valor Fitness Sisal Climbing Rope

Valor Fitness CLR-25 Sisal Climbing Rope for Cross Training Workout Rope Fitness Ropes Exercise for Gym, 25' Long
  • HEAVY DUTY CLIMBING ROPE- This high quality 25' long, 1. 5" thick rope is made for strength and durability, with the ability to support up to 300 lb! Our Climbing Rope has been tested tough and proven in over 40 cross training events throughout Florida.
  • QUALITY MATERIAL- The CLR-25 fitness rope has deep pivots for a comfortable grip during your rope climbing workout. The climbing rope knots well (important for climbing gear) for safety by providing more grip if beginners can’t perform rope climbs.
  • SPLICED ROPE FOR EASY MOUNT- This durable workout rope is spliced to create a loop at the end of the climbing rope and held together with heated shrunk vinyl to for a safe anchor point which also prevents the climbing rope from fraying after repeated use.
  • THE ULTIMATE CONDITIONING TOOL- Climbing rope builds upper body strength and muscle, burns fat, improves grip, and increases endurance for all athletes. Often used in cross training, strength and conditioning, and other fitness programs!
  • ADDITIONAL- Store climbing rope in a dry, indoor setting. Warning: rope climbing can be dangerous - Valor Fitness does not recommend climbing ropes without using several landing pads and a spotter.

Review: This 25-foot Sisal rope is long enough to hang from a tall tree or a garage gym with high ceilings.

While it can be used outside, it can not be left outside to be exposed to rain, humidity or direct sunlight.

Pros

  • Loop eyelet at one end for hanging.
  • Good price for 25’ rope.
  • Sisal material is similar to Manila and has good traction.

Cons

  • Not moisture or weather resistant,

Takeaway

A long climbing rope that has good traction and is not hard on hands.

CFF Manila Climbing Rope with Eyelet End

CFF Manila Climbing Rope w/Eyelet End - 1.5" X 20' - Guaranteed to Last
  • AGE OLD TRAINING TECHNIQUE – For as long as people have been training, they’ve been climbing ropes. CFF FIT introduces the Premium Manila Climbing Rope that allows you to train the way all great athletes have been for centuries. Climb with your feet, right side up, upside down. Climb two parallel ropes at one. Push your limits. Achieve greatness.
  • EXTREME STRENGTH AND DURABILITY – Other than your gym, you can find manila rope in shipping, construction, and agricultural industries. In these places economy, strength, and durability are not an option, just like it shouldn’t be an option for you. This rope is designed for safety and durability. It might almost be as tough as you are.
  • DESIGNED FOR EXTENSIVE USE – The CFF FIT Premium Manila Climbing Rope is designed and agricultural deterioration. That means in all kinds of gym environments and users, you don’t have to worry about your rope wearing down. It will stay clean and strong, just like you keep yourself clean and strong.
  • SIMPLE AND QUICK INSTALLATION – You’ll get enough of a workout while climbing this rope. Designed with a soft eye loop and boot sealed end making it easy to hang so you can get started on your work out. You can either loop it inside the eyelet around a sturdy bar or you can use a strong chain to hold the eyelet to the bar.
  • PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS – Package contains (1) CFF FIT Premium Manila Climbing Rope with Eyelet End, 1.5 inch. Features soft eye loop and boot sealed end. Constructed out of Manila fibers with a three-strand twist. Tensile strength: 16,500lbs. Made in Miami Florida, USA.

Review: This seriously tough CrossFit climbing rope is one of the best climbing ropes for CrossFit I found.

It is 20’ long, has a reinforced eyelet loop so you need no mounting hardware, and is made from genuine Manila fiber.

Pros

  • Loop eyelet end with cloth cover for added wear resistance.
  • Genuine Manila fiber.
  • 20’ long.

Cons

  • Should not be left outside for extended periods.

Takeaway

Rough, tough, a serious climb rope for when the WOD prescribes the rope climb. My choice for one of the best climbing ropes 2024.

Rogue Knotted Climbing Rope

Knotted Climbing Rope

Review: This 1.5” diameter rope by Rogue fitness comes pre-knotted, with a knot tied every 16”. The rope is available in several lengths and is crafted from real Manila fiber, made in the USA.

This is an excellent choice for a beginner, or athlete working to build up to a standard climbing rope and building endurance and upper body strength.

Pros

  • Scaled climbing rope – knotted every 16”.
  • Available in 5 lengths.
  • 1.5” diameter rope.

Cons

  • Pricy.

Takeaway

If you are looking for a beginner’s rope, this knotted Rogue fitness climbing rope is your ticket.

GSM Brands Sisal Gym Climbing Rope

Review: This 25’ GSM climbing rope is made from Sisal fiber, which is softer and less expensive than Manila, but also a little less durable.

This particular model has a loop for easy mounting without any hardware needed.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • 25’ long.
  • Made from soft durable Sisal fiber.
  • 300 lb weight capacity.

Cons

  • Sheds fibers, can not use outside.

Takeaway

An inexpensive 25’’ rope perfect for rope climb, sled pull, tug of war and more.

RopeFit Outdoor/Indoor Manila Gym Climbing Rope

1.5" Manila Gym Climbing Rope (1.5" x 20')
  • Hand spliced knotted loop for easy knotting to any sturdy anchor point. NO MOUNTING BRACKET NEEDED LIKE THOSE THAT OFFER METAL CLASPS
  • Hand spliced knotted loop for easy knotting to any sturdy anchor point. NO MOUNTING BRACKET NEEDED LIKE THOSE THAT OFFER METAL CLASPS

Review: This Super sturdy real Manila climbing rope can be used indoors and out. Available in lengths of 15’ to 50’ with a loop on the end for quick and secure hanging.

This rope is made by hand in the USA and is perfect for a CrossFit box, home gym, or a sturdy branch on a tree outside.

Pros

  • Real Manila Fiber.
  • Amazing 16000 lb breaking strength.
  • Indoor and outdoor rope.

Cons

  • Sheds fiber.

Takeaway

Best outdoor fitness climbing rope made from real Manila fiber.

Titan Fitness 30ft Heavy Battle Rope

Titan Fitness Battle Rope 30 ft. Length 1.5 in. Diameter Conditioning for HIIT Workouts
  • BUILD YOUR FORM: Battle ropes are a great conditioning tool for a fullbody workout with a focus on increasing muscular endurance and cardiovascular conditioning. The battle ropes are built for athletes to train for increased power, to build core strength, and improve explosiveness.
  • PAIR WITH ANCHOR STRAP KIT FOR BATTLE ROPE: Secure your battle ropes to any stationary anchor as the battle ropes move freely when they are attached to the straps, allowing you to have a more natural range of motion. Use these straps to reduce the intensity of your work out by shortening the ropes; increase the intensity by extending them back out or adding multiple ropes for maximum resistance.
  • FULL SELECTION OF ROPE SIZES: Titan Fitness has a full selection of ropes ranging for intermediate users to advanced. If you are just starting out, we highly recommend the 30foot ropes with either 1.5 or 2in diameters.
  • DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The threestrandthick exercise rope features a durable poly Dacron blend with the strength to prevent breakage and fraying. The heavyduty exercise rope can be used indoors or out, and it offers reliable, longlasting performance, so you can keep the focus on your workout.
  • DIMENSIONS: Titan Battle rope measures at 30 feet with a 1.5in diameter. The handles have an extra coating to prevent the rope from fraying. Which will greatly increase the life of the battle rope and allow it to be used outdoors.

Review: This Titan rope is made from Poly-Dracon material, which is less expensive and does not shed like Manila fiber.

This rope can be used for climbing, as a battle rope and more. This rope can be used indoors and out, very versatile.

Pros

  • Good length for a low price.
  • Durable, long lasting.
  • Will not shed.

Cons

  • Poly Dracon is more slick, slippery and challenging to climb than Manila.
  • No hanging loop on this model, must tie or use hardware to mount.

Takeaway

A long, reasonably priced Poly-Dracon rope from a name you can trust.

Fitness Solutions Gym Climbing Rope Graphite

Fitness Solutions USA Made Gym Climbing Rope White (2in x 50ft)
  • These Climbing Ropes Are USA Made!!!
  • Climbing Ropes have always been one of the most popular and standard equipment requests for overall improvement of physical fitness and muscle tone, particularly for upper arms and shoulders. Extremely popular training apparatus for strength, grip and arm coordination skills for use in physical education, wrestling, gymnastics, military, and cross-fit applications. Landing mats, spotting and supervision suggested when using.
  • Please note you want to make sure to have about two feet on the ground, so when climbing the rope dose not sway around.
  • We can custom make lengths

Review: This affordably priced climbing rope is made from synthetic Polyethylene terephthalate that does not shed.

The rope is proudly made in the USA and includes a pre-installed metal mounting loop on one end.

Pros

  • Metal hanging loop securely bolted on to the rope.
  • Shrink-wrapped ends.
  • Versatile – use indoor or outdoor.

Cons

  • Slick and slippery.

Takeaway

Solid, well constructed, long lasting climbing rope.

Crown Sporting Goods Poly Dac Gym Climbing Rope

Sale
Crown Sporting Goods 25' Thick 1.5" White Poly DAC Gym Climbing Rope
  • 1.5 inch White polyester climbing Ropes by Crown Sporting Goods
  • Made from durable braided polyester Dacron for a firm grip that's soft on hands
  • Includes a heavy-duty metal eyehook for easy attachment nearly anywhere
  • Great building upper body strength, improving grip, burning fat, and increasing endurance
  • Find your perfect length: available in 10 sizes ranging from 3-30 feet for a variety of uses

Review: This crown Sporting Goods rope is ideal for those looking for an upper body challenge. It is slicker than Manila, which forces you to improve your grip strength while you work your upper body.

This rope is available in many different lengths and can be used outside if desired.

Pros

  • Metal hanging loop comes pre-installed.
  • Very affordable.
  • Several lengths available.
  • Use indoors or out.

Cons

  • Slippery compared to Manila.

Takeaway

Well made climbing rope that holds up in all weather conditions.

Aoneky Gym Climbing Ropes

Aoneky Kids Manila Gymnastics Gym Climbing Rope (Brown, 13 ft)
  • Overall improvement of physical fitness and muscle tone, particularly for upper arms and shoulders
  • Extremely popular training apparatus for strength, grip and arm coordination skills for use in physical education, wrestling, gymnastics, military, and cross-fit applications
  • Material: Manila hemp
  • Length: 13 feet, Width: 1.18"
  • Great for kids to climbing in the garden

Review: Aoneky climbing ropes are available in cotton cloth or Manila material and you can choose your ideal length. All lengths and materials come with a hanging link and carbineer attached.

Pros

  • Metal hanging link attached to rope end.
  • Several lengths available.
  • Available in cotton cloth or Manila fiber.
  • Two diameters to choose from 1.18” or 1.5”.

Cons

  • Heat shrink on the ends falls off.

Takeaway

If you happen to be searching for a smaller diameter or cotton cloth climbing rope, Aoneky has you covered.

Stop avoiding the rope climb and elevate your fitness level.

Choose one of the best climbing ropes to make 2024 your greatest fitness year yet.

Into heavy lifting?

Check out this new full length documentary by Rogue Fitness exploring the ancient art of Stone lifting in Iceland. Talk about upper body strength, these Nordics have it!

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