Manila rope is a special type of rope made from manila hemp.
Manila hemp is a type of fiber obtained from the leaves of the abacá.
It is not actually hemp, and named so because hemp was long a major source of fiber, and other fibers were sometimes named after it.

Manila rope is a classic, natural fiber rope with a rich history and a wide range of applications. Here's a comprehensive description:  

Origin and Material:

• Abaca Fiber:
  • Manila rope is derived from the fibers of the abaca plant (Musa textilis), a relative of the banana plant.  
    
    
  • This plant is native to the Philippines, which is the primary source of abaca fiber.  
    
    
  • The term "Manila" refers to the capital of the Philippines, historically a major trading center for this fiber.  
    
    
• Not True Hemp:
  • Despite sometimes being referred to as "Manila hemp," it is not related to the true hemp plant (Cannabis sativa).

Characteristics:

• Strength and Durability:
  • Abaca fiber is known for its exceptional strength, making Manila rope a robust choice for heavy-duty applications.  
    
    
  • It offers good resistance to abrasion.  
    
    
• Flexibility:
  • While strong, Manila rope also retains a good degree of flexibility, allowing it to be easily handled and knotted.  
    
    
• Saltwater Resistance:
  • It has a natural resistance to saltwater damage, which has traditionally made it ideal for marine applications.  
    
    
• Natural Fiber:
  • Being a natural fiber, Manila rope is biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to synthetic ropes.  
    
    
• Shrinkage:
  • It's important to note that Manila rope tends to shrink when it gets wet, especially for the first time. This should be factored in when calculating rope length for certain uses.  
    
    
• Apearance:
  • It presents a natural tan, brown, or golden brown color.

Applications:

• Marine Uses:
  • Historically, it was widely used in sailing for rigging, hawsers, and ship's lines.  
    
    
  • It is still used in some marine applications, though synthetic ropes have become more prevalent.
• Construction and Industrial:
  • Used in construction for lifting, hoisting, and general-purpose work.  
    
    
• Recreational and Decorative:
  • Popular for use in rope swings, playground equipment, and decorative purposes.  
    
    
  • Used in fitness as battle ropes.  
    
    
  • Used as barrier rope in decorative applications.  
    
    
• Fitness:
  • It is used in modern fitness practices as "battle ropes" due to its robust nature.  
    
    

Key Considerations:

• Quality:
  • The quality of Manila rope can vary depending on the grade of abaca fiber used and the manufacturing process.
• Maintenance:
  • While naturally durable, Manila rope can be affected by prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight. Proper storage can extend its lifespan.

In essence, Manila rope is a time-tested natural fiber rope that offers a unique combination of strength, flexibility, and saltwater resistance.