A good jump rope handle is padded or textured so it’s easy to grip even after your hands start to sweat. Whether made of wood or plastic, the handle needs to be long enough to fit your entire hand without crowding your fingers, but there shouldn’t be more than an inch or two of extra length beyond your grip. Many high-end jump ropes have ball bearings inside the handles for the smoothest and fastest spin, but you’ll pay a little extra for that feature. Some jump rope handles include removable weights. These add to the workout’s intensity but are best left to experienced jumpers.