The 6 Best Soft Ropes for Beginner-Friendly Bondage
Our Reviews of Soft Rope Explained
If you’re reading this article, chances are, you’re hoping to find the best bondage or shibari ropes you can buy. We know that although many of our readers share similar goals, their backgrounds often differ: allergies, financial situations, and designated purposes can quickly change from person to person! For that reason, we try to offer a wide variety of products in every list, with at least one option for every person out there. After selecting this variety of ropes, we’ve then assessed each and every one using a combination of personal experience (when possible), user reviews, and available manufacturer information. You’ll notice that every product has a “Bedbible Rating”. This “1” to “5” rating system makes it easy to directly compare two similar products at a quick glance, hopefully making your buyer’s journey a pain-free process!
What to Think About When Buying Soft Bondage Rope
It seems simple enough: you’re just buying rope, right? Well, yes and no. Most bondage rope will do the job, but if you want to get the most use out of your new item then you’ll want to consider these factors!
- Material – There are quite a few materials you can choose from. If you prefer natural materials then hemp bondage rope is a good option; for synthetic rope, nylon is an option. The material you choose will affect how the rope feels against the skin, so we’d recommend comparing your options to see which material feels the best to the person being tied up.
- Rope Length – The longer the rope, the more you’ll have to use! We’d recommend going for “longer” rather than “shorter”, as if your rope is too short then you won’t be able to accomplish your task with a single rope. Extra rope can be tied off.
- Rope Width/Diameter – The width/diameter is important, especially if you tend to go a bit tight when tying your partner. Thinner ropes can cut into the skin, whereas thicker ropes are more effective at spreading pressure out over the width of the rope.
- Color – This is entirely up to personal preference: there are tons of options available!
- Accessories – You may want to choose a bondage rope that matches nicely with your other accessories (such as bondage tape or BDSM gear).
- Price – Like with most sex toys/accessories, prices can vary pretty widely, but bondage rope is generally one of the cheaper items around. You should expect to pay more if you’re looking for premium or pre-tied rope though.
FAQ
What Is Soft Rope Bondage?
Soft rope is a type of bondage rope that’s made using materials suited for human skin. Cotton, nylon, hemp, bamboo silk, and polyester are a few examples of rope materials you can use for bondage. Each material protects the wearer from rope burns, rashes, and broken skin, and each has its own unique benefits. Depending on the type of rope, it may be better suited for more traditional BDSM bondage (involving knots) or shibari (Japanese rope bondage that relies more so on friction and intricate patterns).
Table of contents (12)
The 6 Best soft ropes in Test
Doc Johnson Japanese-Style Bondage Rope
Finding a suitable rope for Japanese bondage is crucial. The right tensile strength has to balance with the comfort for the wearer, and getting that balance wrong can lead to rope burns, bruising and severe problems when the fun ends.
This rope by Doc Johnson has struck the right note. With a soft finish that protects the skin, you can bind the entire body without damage. But it is tough enough for everything from binding to suspension. Thanks to its woven design, it closes any gaps while giving just enough give, restricting large movements without eliminating necessary adjustments when necessary.
Best of all, it is machine washable. You can keep it clean without damage to the fibers so that you can use it again and again.
The Doc Johnson Japanese-Style Bondage Rope was rated 0 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for a complete beginner
Need an intro rope for Japanese bondage.Prefer gentle restraints.Have longer length requirements.
Don't want to fiddle with a rope.Dislike dedicating time to the restraining process.| Length | 393 inches |
| Materials | Cotton |
| Texture | Soft |
SoftToughLong lasting
Has a learning curveWith 10-meters of rope, this is the perfect choice for Japanese bondage in particular. It offers just enough length for full body harnessing, and it is excellent for suspension. The coating gives it a soft texture for delicate skin, and it has just the right amount of stretchiness to let the bound partner shift and keep themselves comfortable. The color is a lovely lilac purple that is visually appealing, making it a great option for performance bondage and fetish modeling.
Bondage Boutique Soft Bondage Rope
Sometimes fantasy is better than reality. When you’re a beginner, the last thing you want is to spend a lot of money on something you aren’t sure will be your style. This rope from Bondage Boutique is the perfect option for newcomers that want to experiment but not invest in anything too pricey. It doesn’t have enough length to create full-body harnesses at only five meters, but it is perfect for simple wrist and ankle bonds. The matte finish is made from high-quality, ultra-soft cotton and keeps knots from slipping. That allows you to practice different knot types without worrying about wasting any rope.
The Bondage Boutique Soft Bondage Rope was rated 0 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for a complete beginner
Are looking for an affordable rope.Want a beginner-focused bondage option.Need versatility.Want something fast to put in place.| Length | 196 inches |
| Materials | Cotton |
| Texture | Smooth |
Very affordableVersatile for different knot stylesHigh-quality materialsRequires you to learn your knotsHaving the freedom to play around without worrying about damaging an expensive product is welcome for anyone, especially the BDSM-curious. Bondage Boutique is always ready to provide excellent products for tentative explorers and veteran kinksters alike, and they crafted the perfect rope for the task. The cost is the biggest feature for guilt-free, worry-free playtime on a budget.
Stockroom Hemp Rope Starter Kit
Hemp is becoming a more popular material for bondage ropes, thanks to its sustainable harvesting process and the quality of the fibers. This set from The Stockroom has been explicitly designed with beginners in mind. There are three different strings of rope, including one 30-ft length and two 10-ft lengths, each with a thickness of 6mm. They are the perfect balance of strength and functionality, made from 100% real Cannabis Sativa (true hemp). You also get a pair of 7 1/2-in long industrial strength sheers for trimming or quick escapes, with plenty of rope to mess around with as you find your footing. It comes in three colors: natural, red, and black.
The Stockroom Hemp Rope Starter Kit was rated 0 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for a complete beginner
Like hemp as an alternative fiber.Want a solid set of shears.Are a beginner that wants a kit to get started.Are on a budget.| Length | 1,968 inches |
| Materials | Hemp |
| Texture | Fairly Soft |
Made of eco-friendly, 100% true hempIncludes strong shears for trimmingComes with three bundles of ropeMore expensive than many productsMost bondage ropes aren’t made with sustainability as their primary focus, which is a problem for many more eco-friendly beginners. This is one of the only products that take both into account, giving a ton of rope for experimentation while being harvested responsibly and from an environmentally conscious material. The rope isn’t as soft as others, but just enough to be comfortable and avoid burns for the tied-up partner. That means it costs a bit more than others on the market, but the amount of rope you get for the cost closes the gap. Hemp is also fantastic for basic knots, thanks to the texture providing more friction without needing any additional chemical coating.
Oxy Multi Color Bamboo Silk Bondage Rope
Another sustainable option, these bamboo silk ropes from Oxy are better for intermediate bondage users, especially Japanese-style. With an excellent selection of beautiful colored cords for harnesses and complex knotting, you can enjoy more than just elaborate ties. “Messy” knots, gags, and quick ties can be crafted in seconds, thanks to the flexibility of the fibers. Bamboo is less common but a cheaper alternative to hemp and just as sustainable. The manufacturing process uses a 3-strand approach in a single ply, so they are solid but easy to cut through with any standard scissors. These ropes come in twelve different vibrant colors, with each length approximately 26-ft.
The Oxy Multi Color Bamboo Silk Bondage Rope was rated 50 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for someone with some experience
Value softness about all else.Want a tough rope that's still easy to cut.Like sustainable fiber alternatives.Are new to knots.| Length | 312 inches |
| Materials | Bamboo Silk |
| Texture | Silk |
Bamboo silk feels amazing on skinPlenty of length to work withStrong with a little giveUnravels if knots aren't tightVery brightly coveredJapanese bondage requires a certain level of elegance to pull off, and bamboo silk is a stunning material for aesthetic and functional reasons. These ropes will provide a gorgeous harness but are versatile enough for any bondage style you prefer. While better for intermediate users that already know a few knots to use, it certainly works for beginners that want something a little softer and silkier than the average cotton or nylon ties.
Doc Johnson Kink Bind & Tie Hemp Rope
Another hemp rope for environmentally responsible bondage, Doc Johnson went out of their way to make sure you didn’t sacrifice softness. The fibers have been worked to be flexible and comfortable but have just enough friction to hold the knots. At the same time, they left a bit of roughness so you could slide the knots out instead of having to cut your partner loose, a common problem with hemp ropes that have too smooth a surface. With 50-ft of length, you can do a lot and protect your cord. These ropes come in black and tan.
The Doc Johnson Kink Bind & Tie Hemp Rope was rated 50 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for someone with some experience
Are concerned with sustainability.Have some experience with rope bondage.Want a bit more friction.Aren't looking to cut your own lengths.Dislike rubbing rope against the skin.| Length | 600 inches |
| Materials | Hemp |
| Texture | Smooth |
Plenty of rope to work withGood balance between friction and smoothnessMade of eco-friendly hempMay be too much ropeFibers can become frayed when cutWhen you treat the surface of a rope, it can become too smooth to hold a knot or will slide and create smaller knots that can’t be undone. Instead of adding a finish, Doc Johnson worked the rope to soften the fibers while giving you just the right amount of friction for ease of use. The flexibility of the hemp allows for adjustment to remain comfortable, no matter what compromising position someone has been left in.
Bondage Boutique Soft Bondage Rope Restraints
Not everyone wants to get their merit badge in knot tying to have some sexy fun. For those who like bondage without the work, these excellent restraints by Bondage Boutique are the perfect solution. The slipknot is already prepared; slip them over the wrists, ankles, or other parts of the limb and secure them. Pulling the bonds tightens them, but they can be loosened without having to undo any knots. The ropes themselves are still soft, and the smoothness isn’t a potential risk thanks to its design. There is no cutting here; just pull them out and get down to business.
The Bondage Boutique Soft Bondage Rope Restraints was rated 0 out of 100 meaning that it is most suitable for a complete beginner
Don't want to play with knots.Prefer something quick to set up.Can handle a bit of rubbing.Like complicated or fetish knots.| Length | 53 inches |
| Materials | Nylon |
| Texture | Ultra-smooth |
Quick and easy to set upNo need to learn complicated knotsCan be slipped on anywhereWill rub against the skinSlip knot can get tightThis set comes with four separate ropes, each 53-in long. Two loops on either side make it easy to install them to any standard bedpost (or anywhere else), then slide in your limb and tighten. No fuss, no muss, and they still look and feel great. They are strong enough that you will feel helpless to escape, but getting out is possible. You don’t have to worry about having a pair of scissors on hand, just pull open the restraints and remove your wrists and ankles.
Comparison of the 6 best soft ropes
| Best | Test Winner | Cheapest | Beginner | Softest | Long | Pre-tied |
| Overall score | 4.8 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 | - | 4.5 / 5.0 | - | 4.8 / 5.0 |
| Bedbible rating | 4.9 / 5.0 | 4.7 / 5.0 | 3.0 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 3.5 / 5.0 | 4.8 / 5.0 |
| User rating | 4.7 / 5.0 from 43 users | 4.8 / 5.0 from 91 users | - | 4.6 / 5.0 from 14 users | - | 4.8 / 5.0 from 24 users |
| Price | Low | Low | High | Low | Medium | Low |
| Design | 100 / 100 | 100 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 100 / 100 |
| Ease of use | 80 / 100 | 100 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 100 / 100 | 100 / 100 |
| Quality | 100 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 100 / 100 | 80 / 100 | 80 / 100 |
| Sound | 50 / 100 | 50 / 100 | 50 / 100 | 50 / 100 | 50 / 100 | 50 / 100 |
| Power | 60 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 60 / 100 | 60 / 100 |
| Length | 393 | 196 | 1,968 | 312 | 600 | 53 |
| Materials | Cotton | Cotton | Hemp | Bamboo Silk | Hemp | Nylon |
| Texture | Soft | Smooth | Fairly Soft | Silk | Smooth | Ultra-smooth |
The Alternative to Bondage Rope
Learning to tie knots isn’t everyone’s priority. It might also not be your preferred bondage type, visually or physically. The good news is there are alternatives, and one, in particular, has been making some serious waves.
CalExotics Scandal Lovers Tape
Electrical and duct tape has fans worldwide, with many in the BDSM community taking part in the sticky fun. Only one problem: traditional adhesives are very harsh on the skin. Calexotics created their Scandal Lovers Tape, a body-safe version that has the same look, without the rashes or burns. Each roll comes with 39-in of tape, at 1-inch long for binding and targeted censoring. It is delicate enough to place on the mouth, nipples, or genitals and is easy to remove. Best of all, it is reusable, keeping its stickiness even when it has to be replaced.
Which Types of Rope are the Softest?
There is no shortage of potential materials for soft ropes. Thanks to the different chemical treatment options, you can coat nearly anything to make it more comfortable for the wearer. But some fibers have a better natural balance between that softness and being strong enough for extreme BDSM activities, such as suspension or harnessing.
Bamboo
Bamboo ropes specifically use the silk to create the softest of all materials. the feeling against the skin is amazing and sensual, and the flexibility gives the bound partner the ability to adjust their position. It is also perfect for harnesses. But it won’t be taut or strong enough for suspension.
Hemp
The most eco-friendly material, hemp has been used for an expanding list of products on the market. Bondage ropes are a newer use on that list, and the natural friction of the fibers hold knots well while allowing you to undo them without cutting. But the stiffness of less treated hemp can make it less comfortable than other materials.
Jute
Similar to hemp, jute is a bit lighter and so a popular choice for harnesses and shibari or Japanese-style bondage. Unfortunately, it isn’t the best for restraining or suspension because it is relatively weak. It is also hard to clean and will fall apart in a washing machine.
Linen
Anyone reusing their ropes will love linen. Medium strength with a similar feeling to hemp, it can be thrown in the washing machine and hung up to dry. It has enough flexibility and stretch for easy knotting. The downside is the price tag, which may be higher than other materials. It has fallen out of fashion as a result, and you find less linen ropes on sale these days.
Nylon
A very popular option for pre-tied ropes and restraints, nylon has become one of the most common materials to find in bondage materials. It is also very smooth, which leads to it slipping easily and knots coming undone. That makes ropes made of nylon better for experienced bondage enthusiasts who know special knots made to last.
Cotton
Better for people who don’t mind investing in higher-quality ropes, cotton can be a reliable, comfortable and fairly strong material. Cheaper ropes won’t have the same tensile strength and could snap during activities, making it a no-go for suspension. But a decent set of cotton ropes are great for beginners; just keep a pair of scissors nearby because knots can tighten beyond the ability to undo them.
Polyester
Hardcore BDSM lovers enjoy polyester ropes, as they are the strongest, stiffest and most heavy-duty restraints available. Great for suspension work and full-body bondage, polyester holds knots beautifully and are easy to untie if the rope is treated properly. Just be aware of the softness of the individual brand, as this material can rub more and cause rashes and burns.
A Note On "Faux Natural" Ropes
Some ropes are being sold as “Hempex”, a faux natural fiber that is meant to simulate other natural materials like hemp and cotton. While it has its detractors, far more in the BDSM community have come to enjoy Hempex for being lightweight and soft, while still being machine washable and easy to care for. It is also nice and stiff and quite strong and good for any bondage activity.
Soft Rope is Perfect for Breast Bondage
Once a staple of Shibari or Japanese bondage, breast bondage has become a common sight in the broader BDSM world. Whether superficial knots and criss-cross rope bindings or more elaborate harnesses that create patterns, this is more than a kink; it is an art form. Some spend years learning to create unbelievably complex versions that require hours of concentration and effort. Whatever level you are starting at, breast bondage is sexy, fun and sensual, and within your reach.
How To Perform Breast Bondage
Breast bondage starts with something as simple as a rope wrapped around the breasts. This can be done across the chest, or circling each to keep them separated. Where you go from there is up to you and your partner.
Chest Corsets
A chest corset is the simplest form of breast bondage. You wrap the rope several times around the waist and rib cage, stacking knots in the front or back. You can leave the breasts free or circle them.
Chest Harnesses
A chest harness is the next level in breast bondage. It starts from the shoulders or neck, hanging the rope down to surround the breasts and lift them upward. You see this style most often in Japanese bondage.
Torso Harnesses
A torso harness is the final and most complicated form of breast bondage. You start with a chest harness then continue down the body. It can use as many layers as you like, and it frequently used for suspension.
How To Use Soft Ropes For Bondage
There is no single way to use soft ropes for bondage. It can be as simple as a messy knot on the wrists to complicated full-body harnesses suspended from a hook in the ceiling with the arms and legs bound, showing off elegant patterns that turn the body into a masterpiece. The only limits are in the imagination of you and your partner. Here is how to get started.
Step One: Choose The Right Rope
Knowing the best rope for your plans is a good first step. What are you looking for? Something soft enough for sensitive skin? A flexible rope that lets you shift and get comfortable while restrained? A strong and stiff rope for suspension? Knowing what turns you on will guide you towards the best rope.
Step Two: Learn Your Knots
You can use a standard knot but it might not be enough to give you the result you’re looking for. Tying a bondage rope isn’t the same as tying your shoes, and you will want to learn at least one knot that is strong enough to keep a person restrained without causing burns.
Step Three: Check Your Equipment
Any time you engage in bondage, you need to check your equipment. Ropes can fray, which can lead to rashes or reduce tensile strength. The last thing you want is a rope snapping during suspension, or someone getting an open wound from pulling against their bonds.
Step Four: Check In With Your Partner
The cardinal rule of BDSM is consent. Checking in with your partner is crucial for everyone to enjoy themselves. Take the time to make sure everything is the way it should be at every step of the bondage process. Adjustments might be needed along the way.
Step Five: Provide Aftercare
Aftercare is as important as any other part of BDSM, especially with bondage. Being tied up can make a person feel raw and vulnerable and requires a great deal of trust. Cuddling, soothing and other loving acts, including physical care for any minor injuries, should be a priority the moment the ropes come off.
How To Clean Soft Ropes
Not all ropes can be easily cleaned, which is an important consideration when choosing the right material. Some, such as nylon and polyester, can be thrown into the washing machine. Others have to be scrubbed by hand, while others can't be washed at all. Check the instructions that come with your ropes before washing. You can also get a less expensive set of cords that can be cut and the used portion disposed of after each bondage session.
materials
Soft plastic, hard plastic, jelly, rubber, Cyberskin are all porous materials, meaning that small particles and bacteria can penetrate the surface. This makes it impossible to completely clean these types of materials.
Therefore, it is recommended that you use a condom with these types of toys, especially if you are sharing them. Clean these toys with mild soapy water and dry gently with a towel. These materials are more easily damaged, so be sure to be gentle and make sure your toys are completely dry before storing.
materials
Silicone, glass, stainless steel and some hard plastics can all be washed using a mild soap (like you would use on your body) and warm water. Just be careful if your toy contains electrical parts.
Silicone and stainless steel toys without any electrical parts can also be boiled for sterilisation.
components
If your toys contain electrical components, be extra careful when cleaning them and always check the instructions provided with the toy. You can use a gentle cloth and soap to wipe or sex toy cleaner or cleaning wipe to down your toy, making sure that no water comes into contact with the electrical parts.