Best Breakaway, Team, &
Ranch Ropes of 2023

We have partnered with RW-sponsored rider Alea Cunningham to put together a simple comparison of the best ropes for breakaway, team roping, and all-around use at the ranch! If you do not recognize these terms, we suggest you first take a look at our article on How to Choose a Breakaway or Team Rope to become more familiarized. No matter whether you're a pro or just starting out, we are sure to have a rope or two for you!

We understand how important it is to have a rope that works in harmony with your riding purposes. A rope in your hands that you're not confident with will show during your events, whether it's due to the rope weight, strength, or length being uncomfortable for one reason or another. We've therefore collected firsthand experience from RW-sponsored rider Alea Cunningham, who regularly throws at cattle round-ups and rodeo competitions. Continue reading to learn her opinion on the best ropes out there today!

Alea Cunningham, Sponsored Rider - "The Heat is one of my all-time favorite ropes; I learned how to rope with a Heat, and they're always consistent in feel. I think this rope works well for a beginner because of its softness that gets better with use. They hold up well and are suitable for any roper, whether it's somebody learning how to head, heel, or just rope in the branding pen. I will continue to use this rope because it always feels great!"

Alea Cunningham, Sponsored Rider - "I've used the Rattler Spitfire in numerous competitions of mine—from local rodeos to the NFR. It's very popular right now, so I wanted to give this rope a shot to see how it felt. In my opinion, this rope feels too similar to a soft head rope. It doesn't have enough body or weight to be a personal favorite of mine. I do prefer a heavy calf rope for breakaway, but everybody has different preferences!"

Alea Cunningham, Sponsored Rider - "I use the Cobra Fastback head rope because it's an excellent all-around rope with an easy swing. It's soft enough for me to head with, as well as use in the branding pen. These ropes last much longer than other competing brands I've used, and I also love the black color! The Cobra doesn't get fuzzy even after heavy use. I still use my original Cobra rope with young horses, and it's been almost four years since purchasing it."

Alea Cunningham, Sponsored Rider - "The Classic NXT feels really snappy for a heel rope with its firmness and balance. Your loop stays open while swinging, and it has enough body to it that you can really feel your tip to help throw a successful heel loop. A short break-in is typical for most heel ropes, but this rope lasts even with heavy use and doesn't change with age!"

Alea Cunningham, Sponsored Rider - "The STS rope is a great choice for any aspect of ranch work. This rope is soft enough to head or heel with in the branding pen, just without the stiff feel of a heel rope. I've pasture roped with the STS and successfully roped muleys with it as well. This rope is durable and tough enough for extensive use, adding to its overall versatility."

Q: What's the difference between head, heel, and breakaway ropes?

A: If you are unfamiliar with these terms or not sure How to Choose a Breakaway Rope or Team Rope, please check out our educational guide. A head rope is softer in feel and shorter in length; it is used to rope the horns of a steer. A heel rope is typically stiffer and longer, and it is used to rope both of the steer's hind feet. A breakaway rope is used for roping a calf in a timed event called breakaway; this rope type is soft and even shorter in length.

Q: What rope material is best for roping?

A: The best rope material depends on your roping needs and personal preference. Rope materials can vary between 100% polyester, poly-nylon or poly-fiber blends, 100% nylon, and more. We offer some further insight on some rope materials in our "how to choose" educational piece. Generally, a big factor when considering rope material is the weather conditions.

Q: How do I get started with roping?

A: If you are a first-time rope purchaser, we highly encourage you to take a look at our guide on How To Start Roping. Any rider can start at any time—you just need to start somewhere! If you have a kiddo wanting to play around with some ropes, we recommend the Fast Back Kid's Vapor Rope that's offered in an 18' length in assorted colors for additional fun!

We hope this buying guide has offered some helpful insight into why these hand-picked team and breakaway ropes are our favorites! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly customer service team via phone at 1 (800) 620-9145 or email at info@ridingwarehouse.com. Our goal is to assist you in determining the ideal rope choice for you. We invite you to take a look at our full selection below, or shop our best ropes of the year!