Best Jump Rope for Boxing: Loocio Tangle-Free Rapid Speed Jumping Rope
Good cardio is one of the most important aspects when it comes to boxing. In over 17 years of doing martial arts, I keep getting surprised at how many martial artists – be they boxers or otherwise – are pulled back due to their bad cardio.
So it’s no surprise that every serious boxer does anything they can to improve their endurance and cardio. And one of the best ways to do that is to use a jump rope.
1. The Best Jump Ropes for Boxing
Loocio Tangle-Free Rapid Speed Jumping Rope
WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope
Epitomie Fitness Sonic Boom M2 High-Speed Jump Rope
Proud Panda Weighted Jump Rope
Ballistyx Jump Rope
DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings
STARFIT Lightweight Jump Rope for Fitness and Exercise
LIFEEZY Jump Rope, High-Speed Weighted Jump Rope
HereRope Weighted Jump Rope
Ellenium Speed Jump Rope
XYLsports Jump Rope
2. Benefits of Jumping Ropes
2.1. Increase Stamina and Endurance
2.2. Improves Coordination
2.3. Improves Explosiveness and Quickness
2.4. Improves Footwork
3. Jump Rope Types
3.1. Jump Ropes with Plastic Beads
3.2. Leather Jump Ropes
3.3. Plastic/PVC Jump Ropes
3.4. Steel Cable Jump Ropes
3.5. Weighted Jump Ropes
1. The Best Jump Ropes for Boxing
Loocio Tangle-Free Rapid Speed Jumping Rope
This jump rope from Loocio is our pick for the best overall boxing jump rope. Loocio has made this rope with steel wires and ball bearings, making for a stimulating and exhausting jump rope routine. The handles are foam, making them comfortable for users to hold. While those handles are comfortable, they are prone to breakage, so treat them carefully.
This rope is also great for those of all ages since it is adjustable to a size fit for adults or children. To adjust, you unscrew the cover on the handle, adjust the cable size to your desired length, and cut off the excess.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Adjustable to any desired length
- Ball bearings and steel cable make for an excellent jumping experience
- Will not tangle when doing high-speed jumps
- Foam handles give excellent grip
Cons:
- Occasionally prone to breaking at the handles
WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope
Two is always better than one, and WOD Nation took that to heart with their version of a speed jump rope. WOD Nation includes two cables, so your rope breaking will not derail the entire workout; you can select from several colors.
The quality is also something to be impressed with, as WOD Nation has engineered an excellent product. It has steel cables, and you can adjust the length of the rope simply and efficiently. Be careful not to use the product on uneven surfaces like cement, as it can lead to the rope coming apart and fraying.
Pros:
- High-quality steel cables you can adjust
- Two cables included
- Multiple color options
Cons:
- Cables are not as durable as other models
Epitomie Fitness Sonic Boom M2 High-Speed Jump Rope
If you’re looking for something that can go as fast as humanly possible, this jump rope from Epitomie should be right up your alley. Few models will allow you to go as fast, and the handles are non-slip silicone, meaning you won’t lose your grip.
The handles also use no screws, so you should not worry about them falling apart while working out. This handle design, unfortunately, can lead to the cable getting tangled. It is not a deal breaker, but it could lead to problems for some users.
Still, Epitomie uses high-quality materials in making this jumping rope. So if you’ve got the budget, it’s definitely a great choice.
Pros:
- Handles feel good in your hands
- The product’s design allows for high-speed jumping
- No screws in the handles – the rope won’t come apart during training
- Very comfortable grip
Cons:
- Cable prone to tangling
- Handles less durable than other models
Proud Panda Weighted Jump Rope
For a jump rope with a little extra heft, you can look toward the Proud Panda Weighted Jump Rope. The weight gives you a better workout and helps build cardio and strength. Both the weight of the handles and the length of the rope are adjustable, giving you a product the whole family could use.
The durability of the jump rope is questionable, but Proud Panda has a two-year warranty.
Pros:
- Extra weight for a hard-hitting workout
- Adjustable length and handle weight
- Covered by a two-year warranty
Cons:
- Low durability in both handles and rope
Ballistyx Jump Rope
When you want an all-in-one solution to jump ropes for boxing, this model from Ballistyx is a solid purchase; the product comes with two different cables. One of the cables is heavier to allow for a better cardio workout. The other is lighter for longer workouts at higher speeds.
The grips have a non-slip surface, meaning you won’t have trouble maintaining control while using them, though they sometimes come apart with frequent use. Though you get two cables, it is expensive as jump ropes are concerned.
Pros:
- Two cables included diversifying your workout
- Non-slip handles give excellent grip
Cons:
- Handles occasionally come apart
- Cost is more expensive than other models
DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings
If you have ever felt the handles of a jump rope just didn’t agree with your hands, you may want to try this model from DEGOL. DEGOL manufactured this jump rope with memory foam on the handles, meaning it will contour to your hands. These comfortable handles will lead to a better-feeling workout and less pain in your hands.
But the handles are not the only part of this product that I like, as the cables are also strong and adjustable. Be wary of the cable getting tangled.
Pros:
- Handles contour to your hands thanks to memory foam
- Long cable length that you can adjust
Cons:
- Cables prone to tangling
STARFIT Lightweight Jump Rope for Fitness and Exercise
STARFIT knows that not everyone wants to use a steel cable, and their lightweight jump rope uses PVC cord instead. If you are looking for a high-speed workout, this jump rope should satisfy your desires. You can also adjust the length of the cord, and it is easy to transport with you.
This rope does not have all the bells and whistles that others might have, but it is a solid
purchase as a budget option. It may also be difficult to use for first-timers.
Pros:
- Inexpensive and lightweight
- Perfect for those training for more speed
Cons:
- Handles are simple and do not provide as many quality-of-life features
- It may not be for beginners
LIFEEZY Jump Rope, High-Speed Weighted Jump Rope
If you are looking for something heavy and durable, LIFEEZY has you covered with this jump rope. The company has made the handles from steel and iron, allowing them to hold up against the rigors of usage. LIFEEZY has also made the rope itself with a coating that makes it resistant to wear and tear.
The rope is nine feet long and adjustable; some users have reported that their ropes are not as long-lasting as they would like.
Pros:
- Strong materials for durable handles
- Many color varieties are available
- Can adjust rope length as needed
Cons:
- The rope may fray over time
HereRope Weighted Jump Rope
HereRope has manufactured its jump rope with a new type of handle that leads to less tangling or coiling. The rope connects to the handles outside with a latch, allowing it more freedom of movement. The rope itself is a steel cable covered by PVC. The cable is adjustable to your specifications.
The handles are not as durable as some may like, so be careful when using them. The rope is also one pound, so be sure you are ready for a heavier rope before purchasing this product.
Pros:
- Resistant to coiling and tangling
- Durable cable
Cons:
- Handles prone to breaking
- The rope may be too heavy for some
Ellenium Speed Jump Rope
This jump rope from Ellenium is perfect for those looking for a simple-to-use product. The cable has a self-locking mechanism that allows users to quickly adjust the length without any tools. This simplicity makes it perfect for sharing or taking on the go with you.
Ellenium intends this jump rope for those wanting a lot of speed, and it is a smart purchase for those looking for their first-speed jump rope. The handles also have an anti-slip coating to keep them from flying out of your hands.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners
- Simple to use and adjust
- Focus on speed
Cons:
- Cable is prone to rapid fraying
XYLsports Jump Rope
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option in the world of speed jump ropes, you can’t go wrong with the XYLsports model. But just because it may not be the most expensive option on this list does not mean the quality is lacking, and this is recommended for those who just want to dabble with jump ropes.
The rope is made of PVC, and the handles have foam padding for comfort. One of the main drawbacks is the cord may be too lightweight, which can lead to tangling.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Padded foam handles
Cons:
- The PVC rope is too light for some users
2. Benefits of Jumping Ropes
From Ali to Tyson to Usyk, anyone who has ever stepped into a boxing ring has trained with a jump rope for some amount of time. While it may seem like an exercise for children, jumping rope carries several benefits for boxers, both amateur and professional. Let’s look at a few of the benefits you will get if you jump rope.
2.1. Increase Stamina and Endurance
This is perhaps the most obvious benefit, but it bears repeating. Few things will serve a boxer as well in the ring as high stamina. If George Foreman wasn’t so exhausted during the Rumble in the Jungle, he might not have lost to Muhammed Ali. Aside from road work, jump rope is an efficient way to build your stamina.
While it may look easy to onlookers, jumping rope is incredibly tiring and gives you an almost full-body workout. Doing this enough will increase how long you can go in the ring. Jumping rope is also something you can do inside, meaning the conditions outside won’t affect your workout routine.
2.2. Improves Coordination
Jumping rope is all about the coordination of your arms, legs, and eyes to keep you from tripping. Jumping rope will improve all facets of boxers’ coordination and make them better able to control their bodies in the ring. If you can’t control your body, you will not last very long against any opponent.
2.3. Improves Explosiveness and Quickness
Jumping a speed rope requires a plethora of short hops to maintain a rhythm and keep the process going. Doing all of these small jumps will quickly build up the muscles in your legs. And when you have strong leg muscles that are used to fast-twitch exercises, this will help you in many ways in the ring.
Boxing is a sport where one wrong move can determine the outcome of an entire match. If your opponent leans just a little too far forward or drops their guard for a split second, you need to be able to capitalize on it. Jumping rope will build that explosiveness and quickness needed to react in a moment.
2.4. Improves Footwork
You have probably heard it hundreds of times, but footwork truly is the key to being successful in boxing. Few exercises build up a boxer’s ability in footwork, quite like jump rope using the boxer skip.
The boxer skip involves the jumper shifting their weight on each jump between both feet. Doing this allows you to mimic the style of footwork that takes place in the ring. Learning this technique will also help you improve your stamina as well. While it may not replace actual training in the ring, jumping rope will still develop your footwork exponentially.
3. Jump Rope Types
Jump ropes come in many shapes and sizes, so anyone hoping to train with one should consider the type they choose. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and some boxers prefer different styles. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the jump rope question, I can at least point you to the pros and cons of each type.
3.1. Jump Ropes with Plastic Beads
You may remember these from your days in school, but they still have practical applications for those hoping to begin jumping rope. They make a sound upon hitting the ground so you can hear when you should jump. They are also lightweight which makes them great for beginners.
If you are just starting or want something cheap, a jump rope with plastic beads is a really good choice.
3.2. Leather Jump Ropes
You may have seen leather jump ropes in the hands of some of boxing’s most famous fighters, such as Manny Pacquiao and George Foreman. They work well for high-speed jump roping, and you can typically reach some very higher speeds with them. And when you take proper care of them, they can last for a long time.
While they have been a staple in boxing gyms, these ropes have drawbacks. You can damage the leather if you use them outside or somewhere exposed to moisture. The leather can also hurt you if you aren’t careful, as leather moving at high speeds hitting skin is not a pretty sight. They also tend to be pricey, so they’re not the best jump rope for beginners.
3.3. Plastic/PVC Jump Ropes
One of the more popular models today, plastic jump ropes are suitable for just about anybody. They’re cheap and durable, and being made of plastic means you can use them outdoors without worrying about damage to the product.
However, they may not the best choice for more advanced fighters. As your skills improve, you’ll want a jump rope that can reach very high speeds. And plastic jump ropes can’t reach the same speeds as steel jump ropes.
3.4. Steel Cable Jump Ropes
Steel cable jump ropes are often seen in boxing or martial arts gyms for a good reason. They’re the best at getting the highest speed possible when jumping. If you become skilled at using these ropes, you’ll see plenty of benefits to your boxing in a short time.
The drawback of these ropes is that they can seriously injure users who are not careful. The cables are heavy, and if these hit your skin at high speed, it’s quite unpleasant to get hit by one of them. I can tell you from experience that while you won’t suffer any major injuries, it’s a real bummer getting hit in the back of the head by a steel cable jumping rope!
They also can’t be used on hard surfaces without damaging the rope. Most of these ropes have some kind of soft cover for the cable (usually rubber or silicone). But when that cover rubs against the steel and a hard surface, it quickly gets torn off. And once that happens, the cable gets frayed and the rope becomes useless.
So make sure your gym has rubber flooring or some other soft surface.
3.5. Weighted Jump Ropes
These jump ropes will give your upper body even more of a workout than the lower body. You can either buy weighted jump ropes with a pre-set amount of weight in the handles or, if you feel extreme, purchase ones that allow users to place as much weight as they desire in the handles. Some models even permit you to hang weights from the handles.
While these will be beneficial to advanced fighters, beginners should steer clear. The ropes are difficult to use and are expensive. But for experienced boxers looking to spice up their workout, a weighted jump rope is definitely worth a look.
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