If you want to spice up your cardio routine or add a versatile and fun piece of equipment to your home gym, the jump rope is one of the most effective yet simple tools available. It’s compact, affordable, easy to use and can provide a killer workout — plus, it has nostalgic charm.
Amanda Grimm, a UK Athletics-certified running coach with We Run, explains, “Jump ropes help to improve foot speed, coordination and cardiovascular fitness. They don’t take up much room and can be used anywhere with enough head height. They’re also great for warming up prior to a run.”
In my opinion, it’s one of the hardest cardio workouts,” says Sarah Bowmar, a certified personal trainer and wellness expert. She adds that jumping rope can be a full-body workout or a quick form of exercise you can do in 30-to-60-second increments. What’s more, according to Bowmar, “jumping rope can help you work on your stability and improve ankle support, and it’s generally low-impact.” Research shows that jump rope training improves resting heart rate, body mass index, fat mass, cardiovascular endurance, upper and lower body strength, jumping ability, range of motion and sprinting speed. And for the record, jumping rope burns about as many calories as running, but it isn’t as tough on the joints.
Most jump ropes are made from PVC, steel cables, leather or beaded ropes and come in several sizes and weights. Styles include speed ropes, weighted ropes, smart ropes and basic picks. To help better understand what makes the best jump ropes and the benefits of jumping rope for fitness, our team spoke with a personal trainer and a running coach, researched scores of jump rope brands and put 12 ropes to the test. Here are our top picks for the best jump ropes.
Best overall jump rope
Centr
Length: 10′ (adjustable) | Weight: 9.9 oz. | Material: PVC, silicone, aluminum | Type: Standard
The Centr Jump Rope stands out from the others I tested because of its build quality at a very accessible price point — it looks and feels much more premium than its price tag lets on. The whole thing feels solid enough to stand up to many hours of intense jumping workouts, but at just under 10 ounces, it feels nicely weighted in my hands, and the rope rotates smoothly at all speeds. The thick rope adds to the luxe feel, but those new to jumping might find mastering double unders harder than they would with a thinner or lighter rope. The rope length is 10′ out of the box but is easily shortened if you don’t want to wrap it around your hands.
Wrist fatigue was nonexistent, and the grips were very comfortable, even after I’d worked up a sweat, and didn’t feel like they were at risk of flying out of my hands. The exposed bearings might rust if they get sweaty too often, so keep them clean and dry after each use. One of the best features of this rope is the three months of the Centr digital membership included in the purchase, which provides access to thousands of workouts and recipes via the Centr app. This is perfect for anyone who’d like more guidance on jump rope workouts or is looking for a complete fitness program.
The Centr jump rope is currently sold out but will be back in stock soon. If you’re looking for a similar option, the best budget jump rope (from Amazon Basics) is ideal for general workouts, while any of the Crossrope packages are better suited for those serious about skipping rope as part of a regular workout routine.
- Very high quality at an accessible price point
- Stylish, functional handles with textured grips and aluminum ends
- Ball bearings in the handles provide smooth rotation
- Three months of Centr membership included
- Rope is quite thick, which might make double unders difficult
- Bearings could rust if exposed to sweat
$20 at Centr
Rogue
Length: 9′ or 10′ | Weight: 13.6 oz. | Material: PVC, polymer nylon resin | Type: Weighted
Rogue’s Thai-Style Jump Rope 3.0 takes its cue from Muay Thai fighters’ training tools, offering a weighted design that targets the upper body for a more intense workout.
At 13.6 ounces, it’s considerably heavier than a standard jump rope, which is perfect for building upper body strength, endurance and power. Like the fighters who train with these ropes, I got a full-body workout for my legs, shoulders, arms and core, and within minutes of testing, I was breaking a sweat. However, double unders are pretty challenging with this rope, so it’s better for building power than speed.
This rope has durable polymer nylon resin handles and a flexible PVC cable that comes in either a standard 9-foot length, ideal for people 5’4″ to 5’11”, or a longer 10-foot option, best for people 6’0″ to 6’4″. Its adjustable, flexible design works well, even on harder surfaces. However, it’s best saved for nonabrasive or rubber ones as it scuffs fairly easily. I found that adjusting the length of the rope was simple, though it requires a bit of effort. Also, I’m barely the minimum height so it felt almost too long at its shortest — something to keep in mind if you’re petite.
- Heavyweight design provides a full-body workout
- Customizable length with an easy adjustment system
- Durable polymer nylon resin handles for a solid grip
- Smooth rotation reduces wrist fatigue
- Feels a bit stiff
- Scuffs easily unless used on rubber surface
- Too long for people under 5’4″
$15 at Rogue
Amazon Basics
Length: 9′ (adjustable) | Weight: 6.56 oz. | Material: PVC, synthetic rubber, polypropylene | Type: Standard
For an affordable, no-frills jump rope that gets the job done, the Amazon Basics Jump Rope is an excellent choice. It’s lightweight and ideal for moving quickly into high-intensity cardio if you’re doing HIIT (high-intensity interval training) or cardio circuits. Despite its low price tag, it comes with ball-bearing handles that help it feel smooth; I could quickly get into a steady rhythm even though the rope itself is very lightweight. It has comfortable foam grips that feel secure without any slippage during intense sessions.
The rope itself is durable and adjustable, though it’s worth noting that once adjusted, the length cannot be changed back, which limits its shareability if you have people of different heights in your home. As a lighter rope, it may not have the heft that many beginners need to help a rope swing with a good rhythm — especially for “trickier” skills like double unders or crossovers — but it’s a great option for anyone looking to upgrade their home gym without breaking the bank. At under $10, it’s hard to beat the value.
- Affordable price
- Smooth rotation with ball-bearing handles
- Comfortable foam grips
- Adjustments are irreversible
- May be too light for beginners
- Rope stiffness at first use
$6 at Amazon
Crossrope
Length: N/A | Material: Steel bearings, firm core, rubberlike coating | Type: Smart
Crossrope offers a range of handles and ropes, but the AMP handles are our top choice for the best smart rope. Bluetooth connectivity makes them compatible with all of the brand’s ropes and ropeless attachments, making them versatile and highly functional.
The ergonomic handles have a firm core covered in a softer rubberlike material with a grippy texture and steel bearings, making for smooth turning — something that distinguishes Crossrope jump ropes from other brands. Also, Crossrope designs its ropes and handles to all be interchangeable. If you have a single set of handles, you can purchase multiple ropes, then simply clip them in or out, allowing you to effortlessly change up your jump rope routine.
What stands out when I use Crossrope jump ropes is how smooth and durable they feel. They are easy to use, and I can feel the rope turning in a way that helps me time my jumps better so I have fewer missteps. High-control handles are also helpful for nailing my workouts without restarting jumps.
Speaking of workouts, the app is fantastic, with thousands of workouts to choose from and new options being added all the time. You can track your sessions, jumps and more to stay motivated, which is a great way to ensure you keep coming back without getting bored. One downside is that the app is subscription-based, so you’ll have to pay to use it after the included 30-day trial. There are two options — standard and lite — with the lite version costing roughly $5 per month and the standard version costing just over $8 per month.
I would also be remiss not to mention the fact that all Crossrope ropes are spendy. Their quality exceeds that of most ropes, and their durability and versatility ensures they’re a brand you can keep using for years, but if you’re not sure you’re ready to invest in a jump rope, you may be better off starting with something more affordable.
- Durable and smooth
- Easy to use, connects seamlessly
- Six-month battery life (rechargeable)
- Interchangeable ropes
- Expensive
- Subscription-based app (free for 30 days)
$99 at Crossrope
WeGym
Length: 9.5′ (adjustable) | Weight: 7.3 oz. | Material: ABS, PVC | Type: Smart
The WeGym J1 Smart Jump Rope is a great introduction to smart fitness equipment. One handle features a bright, clear display and a single button that lets you cycle through four modes: free jump, timed jump, counted jump and target jump, which combines the timed and counted modes. You can easily set jump or time targets for your workout, making it incredibly user-friendly.
The handle vibrates subtly when you hit your target, although I noticed the jump counter occasionally missed by one or two jumps compared to my own count. The adjustable rope length is cleverly designed, allowing for adjustments without needing to actually cut the rope. Plus, the smart grip is rechargeable via the included USB-C cable, adding to its convenience.
Not everyone likes being required to download an app to fully utilize a product, but the WeGym app is necessary if you want to set more advanced jump count or time goals. Fortunately, the app is free, and pairing it with the smart grip was nearly instant thanks to the quick Bluetooth connection. The app offers a variety of suggested workouts to follow and syncs seamlessly with the smart grip to track your jump data. However, it currently lacks cross-app compatibility for syncing body composition data.
- Easy-to-read display with one-button operation and haptic feedback
- Four modes covering free jumping and tracked exercises
- Reversible rope length adjustment
- Connects via Bluetooth to a free app with workout suggestions and stat tracking
- Jump counter doesn’t track perfectly
- Needs the WeGym app to set more advanced goals
$28 at Amazon
WOD Nation
Length: 10′ (adjustable) | Weight: 6.5 oz. | Material: Nylon-coated steel, nylon resin | Type: Speed
If you’re trying to master double unders or boost the pace of your workout, the WOD Nation Adjustable Speed Jump Rope is a solid choice. This rope is designed for speed and precision, which is ideal for boxing, CrossFit, MMA or anyone wanting to train like an athlete. The company has a patented four-ball-bearing system, which certainly feels smooth and easy to control, especially with the nearly 7-inch-long handles.
The rope’s 10′ length can be customized by cutting the cable for a perfect fit, and the package includes two cables, allowing you to share or keep one as a backup. While trimming the rope to fit my shorter height was a bit tricky, I found it manageable.
The set also comes with a travel bag, spare screws and rubber tips. Keep in mind that this rope is best used on smooth surfaces, as rough ones like concrete can quickly wear down the coating. Additionally, because it’s made of durable steel, accidentally whipping yourself can be painful, so it’s wise to use caution and wear shoes while jumping.
- Four ball bearings for smooth speed
- Super durable
- Includes a spare rope and hardware
- Easily adjustable length
- Can’t be used on rough surfaces
- Can hurt when mistakenly hitting yourself
$14 at Amazon
Crossrope
Length: Multiple | Weight: 1/4 lb., 1/2 lb., 1 lb., 2 lb. | Material: Steel core, PVC | Type: Speed and weighted
The Crossrope Get Fit Bundle is essentially two sets in one — combining the Get Strong and Get Lean packages — with both light and heavy jump ropes (also available sold separately). This bundle is perfect for those who want the flexibility of changing between faster, lighter ropes and heavier ones to build muscle strength. It includes two pairs of interchangeable handles (one thick, one thin) and four ropes (1/4 pound, 1/2 pound, 1 pound and 2 pounds), making it ideal for any type of jump rope workout.
The ropes are made from a durable braided steel core with a soft coating, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, though they’ll last longer if used indoors. Plus, the easy-change handles make switching ropes a breeze.
I found the Crossrope jump ropes to be of excellent quality. As smart ropes, they sync seamlessly with the app and function without any issues. The handles have a good weight and grip, and the ropes are smooth and sturdy.
While the smart features and app aren’t necessary to use Crossrope, the workouts and tracking features are highly motivating and help you avoid boredom, especially if you’re unsure how to progress your jump rope skills. The heavier ropes were particularly challenging but highly effective — I could feel it in my arms and shoulders the next day. The ropes come in fixed sizes based on your height, so sharing with someone outside your height range isn’t possible.
The main downside is the cost of the ropes and the subscription fee for the Crossrope platform, but for those serious about jump rope training, it’s a solid investment. Plus, the bundle includes 30 days of free app access and a 60-day trial period.
- Smooth jumping experience
- Durable ropes in four different weights
- Comfortable heavy-duty handles
- Great app with workout tracking (free for 30 days)
- Expensive
- Subscription-based app
- Not adjustable
$298 at Crossrope
Types of jump ropes
Jump ropes come in various styles, each designed for specific purposes and training goals:
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Standard ropes: These general-purpose jump ropes are perfect for beginners or those using jumping for basic fitness. Typically made from PVC or vinyl, they are lightweight, usually between 100 and 200 grams, but thicker than speed ropes for added durability.
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Weighted ropes: Heavier than standard ropes, weighted jump ropes are often made from durable materials like rubber, and some include weights in the handles or rope itself. These ropes provide added resistance, ideal for building strength, power and muscular endurance. They come in various weights and sizes to suit different fitness levels.
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Speed ropes: Designed for fast jumping and mastering techniques like double unders, speed ropes are lightweight and thin, usually 2 to 3 millimeters in diameter and weighing between 50 and 100 grams. Made from steel cables coated in vinyl, they offer minimal resistance for quick rotations.
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Smart ropes: Smart ropes resemble traditional jump ropes but have built-in electronics that track your jumps or workout duration. Some advanced smart ropes sync with smartphone apps, allowing you to monitor progress, track workouts over time and even access guided routines.
Factors to consider when purchasing a jump rope
Choosing the right jump rope can greatly impact your fitness routine. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider a few key factors before purchasing:
Skill level
When selecting a jump rope, it’s crucial to consider your experience level. Beginners can choose from various inexpensive options, just to get the hang of the workout. For those just starting, a rope with an accompanying app (smart or not) might help them develop the proper technique. Advanced users might opt for speed ropes or weighted ropes to add variety and challenge to their workouts.
Fitness goals
Jump ropes can cater to various fitness objectives. Whether you aim to enhance cardio, improve coordination, reduce impact compared to running or simply prefer working out at home, a jump rope is an affordable, space-saving tool that may offer many health benefits. Consider what you want to achieve when choosing the right type of rope.
Rope length
Most jump ropes come in 9′-10′ lengths by default. To find your ideal length, add 3 feet to your height as a general guideline. Many ropes allow for length adjustment, but be aware that some adjustments, like cutting excess rope, are irreversible.
Handle material
Handles come in different materials that impact durability, weight and grip. Budget-friendly ropes may have lightweight plastic or foam handles, which can feel flimsy. Foam grips may absorb sweat, which isn’t ideal for everyone. Higher-end ropes often feature more durable materials like metal, silicone or mixed plastic, adding to their sturdiness and weight.
Cable material
Jump rope cables are now significantly more advanced than the simple pieces of rope many of us grew up with in the schoolyard! Modern jump rope cables are designed for durability and flexibility and are often made from materials like PVC. Specialty ropes like the WOD Nation Adjustable Speed Jump Rope use nylon-coated braided steel for speed. Keep in mind that most cables degrade faster on rough surfaces like concrete, so using them on smooth surfaces can extend their lifespan.
Weight
The weight of your jump rope affects your workout style. Lighter ropes are best for speed, requiring less energy to swing them quickly, while heavier ropes help build wrist and forearm strength and overall endurance, even though they may slow you down at first.
Adjustability (length and weight)
While you can always use the old-school approach of wrapping excess rope around your hands, many jump ropes now offer easy length adjustment. Some ropes, like the Centr Jump Rope, allow extra cable to be stored in the handles, while others may require careful cutting. Ropes like the Rogue Thai-Style have fixed lengths, limiting use for shorter or taller jumpers.
Adjusting the weight without buying an entirely different jump rope is limited to more specialized equipment. For example, the Crossrope system features interchangeable grips and ropes of different weights.
Price
Your budget, commitment to jumping and desired features will guide how much you spend on a jump rope. Casual jumpers can find ropes for $10 or less, but those looking for features like app connectivity or premium materials will need to invest more.
How we chose the best jump ropes
I consulted with two experts — a UK Athletics-certified running coach and personal trainer and a certified personal trainer and health coach — to gain insights into the uses and benefits of jump ropes and to help identify the key features to consider when purchasing.
I personally tested 12 different jump ropes. With years of experience as a certified personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach, as well as my background as a product tester, I have a thorough understanding of how to assess fitness equipment. Additionally, I’ve used jump ropes extensively in my own kickboxing, jujitsu and fitness classes.
For this review, I tested each rope through a series of workouts, evaluating them on speed, grip, durability and ease of adjustment. After narrowing down the options, I selected the top jump ropes across various categories, focusing on performance, comfort and overall value.
FAQs
How long should my jump rope be?
According to Bowmar, your jump rope length should measure your height plus 3 feet. For example, if you’re 5’3″ tall, you’d want to start by adjusting your rope to a length of about 8’3″, whereas someone 6’6″ or taller might only need to shorten a 10′ rope by a few inches. A good way to estimate the right length without needing to dig out a measuring tape is to hold the grips up by your armpits — if the rope just touches the floor, you should be good to go.
What are double unders?
Newbies to jumping rope will likely start with what those in the biz call a single bounce, which is one jump for every one turn of the rope. Double unders are a little more advanced and involve one jump for every two turns of the rope — the rope passes under your feet twice every jump, hence the name.
To master double unders, you’ll need to practice jumping a bit higher and increasing your wrist speed to get the rope around fast enough.
Can I jump rope if I have joint pain?
According to Bowmar, jumping rope is an excellent, low-impact workout that can improve ankle strength and overall stability. However, it’s essential to consult with a health care professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you experience joint pain, as repetitive jumping can put added stress on your ankles and knees.
To reduce the impact on your joints, consider wearing supportive shoes with cushioned soles and jumping on softer, more forgiving surfaces like rubber gym flooring or a yoga mat. Always pay attention to your body; if you experience sudden or unusual pain, it’s crucial to stop and seek medical advice if the pain persists.
Other jump ropes we tested
Nike Fundamental Speed Rope: While this rope functions as a basic speed rope, it kinks easily and is difficult to cut to size. It’s also not the most durable choice, and the price doesn’t hold up to other options.
Reebok Skipping Rope: This basic rope with slim handles felt light and lacked grip, and it doesn’t offer the durability of similarly priced options. However, it was easier to adjust than the Nike rope thanks to its rubberlike material without the added stiffness of wire.
Crossrope Ropeless: The ropeless option from Crossrope performs well, though it took some effort to nail the cadence for proper revolutions. While there’s nothing particularly wrong with it, I didn’t test enough ropeless models to determine the best one. It’s also on the pricier side for a ropeless option, but if you’re interested in Crossrope’s smart features, it makes for a solid add-on.
Degol Skipping Rope: For an affordable option under $10, this rope performs decently as a basic choice and includes bearings for smoother turns. However, it lacks durability, is difficult to adjust in length and tends to coil and tangle easily, with kinks that make it harder to use.
Crossrope Heavy Performance Set: If you’re looking for a serious upper body challenge, the heavy ropes from Crossrope are the way to go. Skipping with the 3-pound rope was the most intense workout I’ve experienced. While there’s nothing negative to say about these ropes, I found the Get Fit Bundle to offer better value and versatility as a complete set for the price.
Meet our experts
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Sarah Bowmar, certified personal trainer, health coach and wellness expert
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Amanda Grimm, UK Athletics-certified running coach, personal trainer and We Run coach with a bachelor’s degree in sports science
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
