PE vs PP Rope: Which One Should You Use?

Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) are the two synthetic ropes customers ask us about most. Both are light, both float and both are affordable, so it is not always clear which one to buy. This guide compares them using the ropes we stock at Honly Co.

The short answer

• Choose PE rope when the rope will rub against edges, decks or rough surfaces. It is slightly heavier than PP but handles friction better.

• Choose PP rope when you want the lightest rope for its size, a floating line, or a softer rope that holds a knot (PP multifilament).

Polyethylene (PE) rope

PE rope is strong and light. It does not absorb water, keeps the same strength wet or dry, floats, and resists chemicals, sunlight and abrasion. That is why it is used so widely for marine, fishing, construction and outdoor work.

• PE Rope 4mm–12mm: 4-strand, in green, white, blue, red and yellow.

• PE Rope 1.5mm–3.5mm: small sizes made from monofilament fibre, used widely in fishing.

• GG PE Rope: 4-strand, dark green (also called grey green), 1.5mm to 48mm. Also available with a red tracer.

• PE Tiger Rope: yellow/black or orange/black for high visibility, 6mm to 28mm.

Polypropylene (PP) rope

PP rope is very strong for its weight and floats (density 0.91, lighter than water). It comes in more constructions than PE, so you can pick the feel and handling you need.

• PP Danline: 4-strand, white with red and blue tracers, sold in 220m coils.

• PP Monofilament Rope: blue tracer, 3-strand from 4mm to 36mm and 8-strand from 40mm to 120mm. Suited to marine and construction work.

• PP Multifilament Rope (PPM): known in the trade as “80% nylon” rope. Soft and flexible, looks like nylon and holds knots well.

• PP Braided Rope 16mm: 16-strand in six colours. Floats and handles repeated bending, good for mooring and dock lines.

Quick guide by job

• Rope will rub against rough surfaces: PE or GG PE rope.

• Lightest rope for its size, or a line that must float: PP rope.

• Soft rope that is easy on the hands and knots well: PP multifilament (PPM).

• Mooring and dock lines: PP braided rope.

• Needs to be seen easily: PE tiger rope, or a rope with a coloured tracer.

• A natural look for gardens, ponds or decoration: manila rope.

Need help choosing?

Not sure which one fits your job? Tell us the diameter, the length and what the rope or net is for. Call or WhatsApp +65 6298 1233, email sales@honlycompany.com, or visit us at 335 Beach Road, Singapore 199564 (Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm, Sat 8:30am–1pm).