If a rope is too stiff, knots are difficult to tie and may even untie themselves. If a rope is too loose, this can allow knots to tighten so much when loaded that they cannot be untied. Water absorption greatly increases the weight of the rope, reduces its strength, and reduces its ability to absorb impact forces. Many nylon ropes are treated with a water-repellent coating to help prevent moisture absorption. Ropes with tightly woven sheaths absorb water slower than ropes with loosely woven sheaths.
Abrasion resistance is the rope's ability to resist fraying.
Weave patterns, flexibility, and treatments all affect a rope's abrasion resistance. Every rope kinks. Help prevent kinking by properly uncoiling the rope from the manufacturer's coil. Place your arms inside the main coil. Spin your arms, allowing the rope to un-wind.