10 Best Synthetic Winch Ropes – Reviews & Buying Guide
If you have been out in the open with your Jeep, you know how useful the winch is.
It is simply a cable that you attached to your Jeep and will help pull your vehicle quickly and easily when you are stuck deep in mud. By default, most Jeeps come with a steel cable enrolled on the housing.
However, one big disadvantage of the steel cable is that it stores energy under load and it may easily break at any time. This is where the synthetic winch rope comes into play.
Most top-rated synthetic winch ropes have roughly the same tensile strength as a regular steel cable.
It is also more affordable, and above all, it does not hold any energy under load. It also does not recoil when it breaks!
This means that it is safer to use when compared to a steel cable. Without any further ado, let’s go find a good winch rope for your Jeep below!
Contents
- 10 Best Synthetic Winch Ropes – Reviews
- 1. Boar Offroad Synthetic Winch Rope with Hook
- 2. Hooai Synthetic Winch Rope
- 3. X-bull SK75 Synthetic Winch Rope
- 4. Anzio Strong Durable Synthetic Winch Rope
- 5. Eluto Synthetic Winch Rope with Sheath Winches
- 6. Smittybilt Synthetic Winch Rope
- 7. Warn Spydura Synthetic Winch Rope
- 8. Rugged Ridge Synthetic Winch Rope
- 9. QIQU Synthetic Winch Rope
- 10. Extreme Max Synthetic Winch Rope
- Steel vs. Synthetic Winch Rope
- How to Buy the Best Synthetic Winch Rope
- Conclusion
10 Best Synthetic Winch Ropes – Reviews
Product Name | Breaking Capacity | Length | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Boar Offroad Synthetic Winch Rope with Hook | 23,809 lbs | 100' | 4.2 | |
2. Hooai Synthetic Winch Rope | 7,000 lbs | 48' | 4.3 | |
3. X-bull SK75 Synthetic Winch Rope | 28,809 lbs | 100' | 4.2 | |
4. Anzio Strong Durable Synthetic Winch Rope | 6,400 lbs | 50' | 4.2 | |
5. Eluto Synthetic Winch Rope with Sheath Winches | 7,000 lbs | 49' | 4.0 | |
6. Smittybilt Synthetic Winch Rope | 12,000 lbs | 88' | 5.0 | |
7. Warn Spydura Synthetic Winch Rope | 10,000 lbs | 100' | 3.7 | |
8. Rugged Ridge Synthetic Winch Rope | 8,000 lbs | 100' | 3.3 | |
9. IQU Synthetic Winch Rope | 4,500 lbs | 50' | 3.8 | |
10. Extreme Max Synthetic Winch Rope | 6,000 lbs | 50' | 3.8 |
Best price to performance ratio
Editor's Rating: 
(4.2 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 23,809 lbs
- Length: 100 feet
If there is one department where the Boar Offroad is unbeatable that it is definitely the price to performance ratio. Indeed, this model has an impressive breaking capacity of 23,809 lbs and comes in a long length of 100 feet.
This high strength and long length make it incredibly versatile and a nice addition to any Jeep. Moreover, it is made from a special steel braid material which means that it will not tangle but has the tensile strength of a steel cable.
Of course, it is much safer than a steel cable because it does not stall power when fully stretched.
All in all, if you need a very strong and long synthetic winch rope for your Jeep, this model by Boar Offroad is certainly one of the best synthetic winch ropes for the money.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
Despite the rope having an impressive breaking capacity, we do not recommend it for heavy-duty purposes because the mounting point is simply not strong enough
Affordable and reliable
Editor's Rating: 
(4.3 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 7,000 lbs
- Length: 48 feet
It is rare to find a synthetic winch rope that has a low price and high breaking capacity. After all, the synthetic winch rope is not as strong as a regular steel cable.
However, this is not a problem with the Hooai because it has a decent breaking capacity of 7,000 lbs and also sports one of the lowest prices in this synthetic winch rope review.
The length of this synthetic winch rope is 48 feet, so it is definitely not the longest, but you should be able to reach almost any anchor point you want with this length.
The only caveat we note with this synthetic winch rope is that the mounting point is not clip-on but a simple loop. It is more difficult to attach when compared to the clip-on, but for the price, we cannot complain much.
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Cons:
Notes
This synthetic winch rope does not have the best UV light protection. Therefore, it should not be left in direct sunlight for an extended period of time as it may degrade
Long and very tough synthetic winch rope
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 28,809 lbs
- Length: 100 feet
If you need a long synthetic winch rope that is tough and very easy to handle, then the X-bull SK75 is an excellent choice.
It has a long length of 100 feet, so you will have no problem attaching it to a faraway anchor point.
In addition, due to the design of this synthetic winch rope, it can easily be handled as well as spliced to your liking.
This model offers almost no stretch and has an impressive breaking capacity of 28,809 lbs. It should be able to pull any type of Jeep with this type of breaking capacity.
Also, this model has excellent UV light resistance as well as remains fully waterproof. It can comfortably be used outdoors without worry of degradation over time.
Based on length, breaking capacity, and ease-of-use, the X-bull SK75 is one of the best synthetic winch cables that you can currently buy on the market.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
Some buyers have noted that they got this rope a little bit shorter than the advertised 100 feet
One-year warranty by the manufacturer
Editor's Rating: (4.2 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 6,400 lbs
- Length: 50 feet
If you don’t need a synthetic winch rope that is too long and has a decent breaking capacity, then you may as well consider the Anzio.
Indeed, this top-rated synthetic winch rope has a breaking capacity of 6,400 lbs and a length of 50 feet. It is definitely not the longest or toughest we have seen in this review.
However, for casual use, it is more than enough especially if you have a small or midsize vehicle.
In addition, the manufacturer offers you a one-year warranty on this purchase, so you have little to use.
You also get this product with a thermal sleeve that will protect it from overheating, slipping, or regular wear and tear when it comes in contact with rough surfaces.
Pros:
Cons:
Affordable and flexible
Editor's Rating: 
(4 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 7,000 lbs
- Length: 49 feet
What really separates the Eluto synthetic winch rope from the rest of the competition is its flexibility in terms of size. In fact, you can purchase this model in different sizes depending on your need.
However, the length of 49 feet is pretty standard with this model. It should technically be enough for most people as 49 feet is long enough so as to reach almost any anchor point.
Additionally, it comes in a deep orange color, so it is easy to spot even in lowlight conditions. The surface is protected by a sleeve so it will not slip easily when in use.
This sleeve also protects it against UV light and regular wear and tear. Overall, it has excellent durability.
But best, it has almost no stretching, and in the case that it breaks, you will not experience any recoil with this synthetic winch rope. Therefore, it is quite safe to use.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This synthetic winch rope is a bit slippery so you must be careful when using it, especially if the rope is at an angle to the housing
High-quality and very durable
Editor's Rating: 
(5 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 12,000 lbs
- Length: 88 feet
The Smittybilt has been built with only one purpose in mind. Durability. Indeed, this synthetic winch rope has a heavy-duty built construction with steel braids in its mesh for more toughness.
This model has a decent breaking capacity of 12,000 lbs which makes it more than adequate for everyday use with your jeep.
Its length of 88 feet is also quite good because it is not too long to cause unnecessary stress on the cable.
But what we like the best about this is that its attachment point is clip-on.
Indeed, most models in its category are usually equipped with only a loop which is not as functional as this model.
All things considered, the Smittybilt is definitely the best 12,000lbs synthetic winch rope that you can buy. The only caveat is that it is more expensive when compared to other models.
Pros:
Cons:
Available in different lengths
Editor's Rating: 
(3.7 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 10,000 lbs
- Length: 100 feet
The Warn Spydura is a popular winch rope that you will find on the Jeep of many outdoor lovers.
This model is protected by a very tough nylon sliding sleeve that will protect it against abrasion, regular wear and tear, and slippage.
In addition, it comes in a generous length of 100 feet so you can easily attach it from a faraway anchor point.
But for more flexibility, you can also purchase this synthetic winch rope as and 80 feet model in case 100 feet is too long for you.
The endpoint is clip-on for easy attachment, and overall, the build construction is simply superb.
It has a breaking capacity of 10,000 lbs which is not the best we have seen but definitely more than enough for most people.
The only caveat we note with this product is its expensive pricing. However, if you can afford this synthetic winch rope, then it is an excellent purchase.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This synthetic winch rope can be used as a true replacement for a steel cable. This is because it has almost the same tensile strength as a regular steel cable but is significantly safer to use
Extremely beginner friendly
Editor's Rating: 
(3.3 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 8,000 lbs
- Length: 100 feet
The Rugged Ridge has been designed with one thing in mind. Ease-of-use.
Indeed, when it comes to ease-of-use, this model is one of the best synthetic winch ropes on the market. It is very beginner-friendly.
In addition to its ease-of-use, it is also a heavy duty as it has a protective sleeve on its surface.
This protective sleeve will prevent it from overheating during use as well as protect the winch rope from regular wear and tear.
You can also purchase this model in both a blue color as well as a dull gray color depending on your need. It is also available in different sizes for more flexibility.
But best, this model floats on water, and it will not splinter over time. Moreover, in the advantage that it has to break, it will not recoil like a steel cable, so it is safer to use.
Pros:
Cons:
Notes
This synthetic winch rope may easily snap if the full length of 100 feet is used because its breaking point is simply not big enough
9. QIQU Synthetic Winch Rope
The most affordable synthetic winch rope
Editor's Rating: 
(3.8 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 4,500 lbs
- Length: 50 feet
If there is one department where the QIQU is a true winner, then it is definitely in the price department.
This model is the most affordable synthetic winch rope that you can buy when it comes to price.
Best, it is not only affordable but available in different colors as well.
You can purchase this winch rope in a green, yellow, or red color depending on your need. Those vibrant colors make it extremely visible in lowlight conditions.
The only caveat we have is that its breaking point of 4,500 lbs is quite weak.
This synthetic winch rope is definitely intended for casual use on a fairly light Jeep because it will not be able to pull a medium-size or big size Jeep.
Pros:
Cons:
Available in a wide range of colors
Editor's Rating: (3.8 / 5)
- Breaking Capacity: 6,000 lbs
- Length: 50 feet
The Extreme Max is another synthetic winch rope that is very affordable.
It has a breaking point of 6,000 lbs which is very decent for the price, especially considering that it comes in a length of 50 feet which is a good match.
Moreover, what makes this model one of the best synthetic winch cables in this review is its flexibility in colors.
It is available in a wide range of colors depending on your need. The colors are vibrant and will be very easy to see in lowlight conditions.
Also, this synthetic winch rope floats on water and has steel braids mixed with its synthetic fibers for even better durability.
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Steel vs. Synthetic Winch Rope
There are some pretty obvious differences between a steel cable and a synthetic winch rope. But which one to buy for your Jeep? Let’s find out!
#1. Tensile Strength
The steel cable is the most popular winch for the Jeep. It is also the toughest because obviously steel is metal and stronger than synthetic material.
However, the main disadvantage of a steel cable is that it stores energy when it is stretched, and it can easily snap.
On the other hand, the synthetic rope does not hold any energy when stretched, and it has almost the same tensile strength as a steel cable.
#2. Weather Resistance
Both the steel cable and the synthetic winch rope offers good weather resistance.
Those materials do not react with water, so they are fully waterproof. However, the synthetic rope is more susceptible to UV light than the steel cable.
The UV light can easily break down the synthetic winch rope because it is comprised of fibers that over time will react with UV light.
When exposed to excessive amounts of sunlight, the synthetic winch rope may start to fade and become brittle.
Therefore, if you need absolute weather resistance for your winch always go with a steel cable rather than a synthetic winch rope.
#3. Weight
The synthetic winch rope is significantly lighter when compared to the steel cable.
This lightweight means that you can easily re-spool it to your housing.
It is also significantly easier to handle as well, and actions like splicing the rope is a piece of cake as the fiber braids have no resistance, unlike a steel cable.
#4. Safety
Since the steel cable holds power when stressed, it can also easily snap.
Therefore, it is not safe when compared to synthetic winch ropes.
#5. Cost
Since the synthetic winch rope is a more recent invention and more difficult to manufacture, it is a little bit more expensive when compared to a traditional steel cable.
If cost is important to you, then you will find that the steel cable is more affordable.
Additionally, the steel cable is more durable and long-lasting when compared to the synthetic winch rope, which needs to be frequently changed every few years.
How to Buy the Best Synthetic Winch Rope
Before you can find the best synthetic winch rope for the money, there are some important factors to consider. Here are some of the most common ones you need to take into account:
#1. Breaking Strength
The breaking strength is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a synthetic winch rope. This is basically the amount of force that will snap the synthetic rope.
This value is measured in lbs, and for most people, a synthetic winch rope that has a breaking strength of at least 6,000 lbs is more than enough to pull a regular size Jeep.
#2. Length
The length of the synthetic winch rope will depend on the distance from your Jeep to the anchor point.
It is next to impossible to know exactly the length of winch rope that you need in advance, especially if you are planning to use your Jeep in unknown terrain.
However, when it comes to the winch rope, it is always best to get a longer rope than a shorter one. For reference, most models are generally around 50 feet in length.
Moreover, bear in mind that a longer winch rope will also break more easily than a smaller one.
#3. Material
As its name suggests, the synthetic winch rope is made from “synthetic” materials. There are several types of synthetic materials that are used in the manufacture of this rope.
Most reputable brands will use a steel braid winch that is a mixture of fibers and steel braids entwined together.
The fibers in the synthetic winch rope make it easy to manipulate the rope, while the steel braid provides it with high tensile strength.
#4. Maintenance
Most of the time, the synthetic winch rope is maintenance-free. However, you should still be able to easily clean it if you have to.
In addition, you should be careful not to expose the synthetic winch rope to UV light for an extended period of time.
This is because UV light can degrade and fade the winch rope, thus making it weaker.
#5. Color
Keep in mind that a synthetic winch rope that is brightly colored is more easily seen especially in lowlight conditions.
If you normally plan expeditions in your Jeep at night, then a colored winch rope is generally better as it is more visible and hence, safer.
Moreover, you will find that most synthetic winch rope manufacturers make their product in a wide range of colors.
Conclusion
As we have seen, the winch rope is significantly safer and easy to use when compared to the regular steel cable.
Moreover, the synthetic winch rope will not snap under load and offers roughly the same tensile strength as a quality steel cable.
Lastly, our synthetic winch rope review above contains some quality and affordable model that will technically fit any Jeep housing. If you have not chosen a synthetic rope model yet, read the review again.