Manila vs. UnManila Rope: What's the Difference?

Manila and UnManila, or ProManila, rope are two popular types of rope that are often used for a variety of applications. Manila rope is a natural fiber rope that is made from the abaca plant. Unmanila rope is a synthetic rope that is made from polypropylene fibers. Both types of rope have their own unique properties and advantages, making them suitable for different applications.

Manila Rope:

Manila rope is a strong and durable UV-resistant, natural-fiber (hemp) rope that is treated with a mineral oil preservative to increase its ability to withstand harsh conditions. It is also a relatively inexpensive rope, making it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including:

Marine applications: Often used for mooring boats, rigging, and other marine applications.
Construction applications: Used for a variety of construction applications, such as scaffolding and hoisting.
Decorative applications: A popular choice for decorative applications, such as railings, handrails, and swing sets.
Fitness applications: Used in tug-of-war and rope exercises.

However, manila rope is also susceptible to rot and mildew, especially when exposed to moisture. It may shrink up to 10% when outdoors, making it a less suitable choice for applications where it will be exposed to the elements.

UnManila (ProManila) Rope:

Unmanila rope is a synthetic rope that is made from polypropylene fibers. It is a strong and durable rope that is also resistant to rot, mildew, and ultraviolet light. This makes it a good choice for applications where it will be exposed to the elements. Unmanila rope is also a relatively inexpensive rope, making it a popular choice for a variety of applications, including:

Marine applications: Often used for mooring boats, rigging, and other marine applications.
Construction applications: Used for a variety of construction applications, such as scaffolding and hoisting.
Decorative applications: A popular choice for decorative applications, such as railings, handrails, and swing sets.

However, promanila rope is not as strong as manila rope, and it is not as resistant to abrasion. This makes it a less suitable choice for applications where it will be subjected to heavy use.

Manila vs UnManila Rope: A Comparison Table

	Manila Rope	UnManila Rope
Material	Abaca plant	Polypropylene fibers
Strength	Strong	Strong
Durability	Durable	Durable
Rot resistance	Low	High
Mildew resistance	Low	High
UV resistance	High	High
Cost	Low	Low

Which Rope is Right for You?

The best type of rope for you will depend on your specific needs. If you need a strong and durable rope that is resistant to the elements, then unmanila rope is a good choice. If you need a strong and durable rope that is also inexpensive, then manila rope is a good choice.

Conclusion

Manila and UnManila rope are both popular types of rope that are often used for a variety of applications. Manila rope is a strong and durable rope that is known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions. ProManila rope is a synthetic rope that is made from polypropylene fibers. It is a strong and durable rope that is also resistant to rot, mildew, and ultraviolet light. Both types of rope have their own unique properties and advantages, making them suitable for different applications. The best type of rope for you will depend on your specific needs.