Test trapezoidal ropes
No question - if you know your length and don't change it, fixed ropes are the best option. They hold firmly, nothing dangles around and they cost less. However, couples often share the surf equipment, or you are not yet sure of the rope length, or finally want to try out slightly longer settings: then vario ropes are ideal. The ropes can also be lengthened for better sail control in strong winds, for example, and shortened for a more upright position in lighter winds.
We checked 16 Vario models for function and handling (attachment, adjustability when surfing and fit of the ropes on the fork) and measured the length specifications. A durability test would take several years and, with a few exceptions, the straps on all models appear solid and the ropes and tubes are at least made of similar material. In addition to the individual characteristics of the ropes, some basic rules apply in general:
- Transparent hoses allow rope wear to be recognised at an early stage. You can replace the rope in good time before it tears on the inside.
- Ropes that can be fitted without dismantling the fork are called "Travel", "Quick" or "Loop and Go" and are ideal if the ropes are to be removed from the fork frequently.
- The adjustment range should not be fully utilised on the longer side, because then the hose sheaths protrude from the belt sleeves and the ropes dangle more easily or hang pear-shaped.
- There are no problems with thick forks, but some of the Velcro fasteners do not fit perfectly on standard or thin forks.
- Metal clamps are generally very practical. In salt water, the straps often become stiff and slippery and the clamps sometimes corrode
- Rinsing with fresh water helps to ensure that the clamps grip securely in the long term.
A real recommendation for quick adjustment in this test were the Gaastra Race Adjustable ropes (identical in construction to Gun Sails), but MauiSails, ProLimit Deluxe and Gaastra Quick Adjustable are also particularly easy to adjust in both directions. Two models from ProLimit (Adjustable Knot and Adjustable Single) are designed for suitable adjustment on land and cannot be adjusted on the water. However, these ropes can be adjusted very precisely by shortening the tube. Apart from individual peculiarities, almost all models appear to be suitable. Only DaKine and ProLimit "Deluxe" hang noticeably baggy on the fork in the long setting - at a comparatively high price.
You can read these 16 tested trapezoidal ropes in the PDF downlaod:
Ascan Powerset Vario
Dakine Comp Adjustable
Gaastra Fixed Adjustable
Gaastra Quick Adjustable
Gaastra Race Adjustable
Gun Sails Vario
Ion Vario
Mauisails Loop and go adjustable
NeilPryde Travel Vario
NeilPryde Vario
NeilPryde Race Vario
North Sails Vario Race
Prolimit Adjustable Knot
Prolimit Adjustable single
Prolimit Adjustable Deluxe
X.O. Sails Adjustable
Text: surf test team
As a rule, manufacturers specify the total length of the ropes measured in inches. One inch is 2.54 centimetres. Our measurements deviate significantly from the manufacturer's specifications in some cases.
Only the manufacturer Ascan specifies the length in centimetres and refers to the "sag". However, this varies depending on how far apart the ropes are mounted. The Ascan rope with the specification 20-30 cm (inside) is therefore shorter than a NeilPryde rope in 20-26".
