Single braid rope or single braid line

Single braid rope, also referred to as single braid line, is a versatile and essential component in sailing rigging. Unlike double braid construction ropes, single braid ropes lack a cover braid, which can impact their durability, in some applications, but offers unique advantages.

Single braid rope is known for its strength-to-diameter ratio, exhibiting a higher break load relative to its diameter compared to double braid ropes. This makes single braid lines ideal for applications where strength and lightweight performance are a key consideration on your sailing yacht.

Despite their strength, single braid ropes are more susceptible to abrasion of the core material due to the lack of an outer cover braid. This exposes the core fibers directly to wear and tear from friction against hardware, rope cleats, or rough surfaces onboard. As a result, regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of single braid ropes in sailing applications.

Applications of single braid rope on sailing yachts are diverse. They are commonly used for halyards and control lines where strength and weight reduction are critical.

One of the key advantages of single braid ropes is their ease of splicing, which allows sailors to create custom rigging configurations quickly and efficiently. This splicing capability makes single braid lines ideal for developing and adjusting systems onboard, whether it's setting up temporary rigging, creating lashings, or configuring purchase systems.

While single braid ropes lack the protective cover of double braid ropes, their lightweight and high-strength characteristics make them a preferred choice for certain sailing applications. Sailors appreciate the responsiveness and performance benefits of single braid lines, especially in scenarios where weight aloft and minimal stretch are priorities.

Leading Manufacturers: Gottifredi Maffioli & Robline

Manufacturers such as Gottifredi Maffioli and Robline offer specialised single braid constructions designed for performance and durability across a range of sailing disciplines. Gottifredi Maffioli focuses on precision heat-setting and advanced Dyneema® treatments for minimal creep and consistent behaviour under load. Robline provides balanced constructions engineered for stable elongation characteristics and robust handling. 

Gottifredi Maffioli Single Braid Rope

What Diameter Single braid rope do I need?

Single braids are specified based on required working load, like normal ropes. In lashing applications you count the number of legs of rope, supporting the load, and multiple up the working load of the diameter of line you are using until you reach the system working load. For example, you have a 2t safe working load system and you are using 3mm single braid with a 350kg SWL, as lashing material: 2000 / 350 = 5.7. Therefore a minimum of 6 legs, 3 rounds will support the load. However, space permitting, an extra 1-2 rounds will build in additional security with minimum additional weight.

What are the different treatments that are applied to single braid ropes?

Dyneema® has a tendency to stretch under load and one of the common treatments is pre-stretching or heat setting. This means that the rope has been pre-stretched in the factory to remove any initial construction creep. Single braid ropes can often also have a Polyurethane coating which gives it an almost plastic feel. This helps reduce, snagging and fraying of the core fibres. Untreated single braids are more suitable for general applications, like lashing material. 

Summary: Performance Benefits of Single Braid Rope

In summary, single braid rope is a valuable asset in sailing rigging, offering strength, flexibility, and lightweight performance. While more exposed to abrasion than double braid alternatives, their handling characteristics, low stretch, and splicing versatility make them indispensable in applications where responsiveness and weight reduction are key considerations. Explore the advantages of single braid rope for optimizing your yacht's rigging setup and achieving efficient, reliable sail control.