Jute vs. Hemp

Jute vs. Hemp – Which is the best rope for bondage?

A central point in Shibari, the traditional Japanese art of bondage, is the binding of people, sometimes in so-called “suspensions”, i.e. hanging from the ceiling. In practice, the choice of rope material is an extremely important factor for safety, comfort and, last but not least, aesthetics. Two of the most popular rope materials for shibari are jute and hemp .

Shibari – it depends on the quality of the rope

Jute and hemp have many advantages over other rope materials such as cotton and polypropylene. Most important is certainly their natural fiber composition , which has good friction properties while still remaining soft and flexible. This is particularly important for Shibari because the knots and ties are often very close to the skin and soft and flexible textures are less irritating to the skin.

Another advantage of jute and hemp is their breathability . Unlike synthetic materials, jute and hemp ropes have a porous structure that allows good air circulation. This rope property comes into play when the tied person's skin temperature rises during the Shibari session and adequate ventilation is required. Jute and hemp ropes are easier to control for the rigger due to their natural grip .

The individual properties of hemp and jute for a bondage rope

Although jute and hemp ropes have many advantages for shibari, there are also some disadvantages that must be taken into account. Jute rope can be rough initially and must first be broken and refined before it can be used for tying. Hemp ropes, on the other hand, can be a little stiff at the beginning and need to be used for bondage every now and then to become softer and more flexible.

Jute ropes are generally slightly softer and more flexible than hemp ropes. They are also thinner and lighter. This softer texture may be more comfortable and feel better on the skin for some people. Hemp ropes, on the other hand, tend to be a little stiffer and stronger and have a slightly coarser texture.

The materials hemp and jute also differ in terms of durability : hemp ropes tend to be more durable and more resistant to wear and tear. To extend the life of your ropes, good rope care is also important.

Ultimately, the choice between jute and hemp ropes for shibari depends on your personal preferences . While some people prefer the softer structure of jute rope, others appreciate the durability and strength of hemp rope. We can only recommend that you try out both rope materials and see which one best suits your individual needs and preferences. Feel free to take a look around our shop !