Introduction
A jump rope is one of the most simple and inexpensive pieces of fitness equipment you can buy. Cardio equipment, in general, can get extremely expensive, so if you are just starting or looking for a cheap addition to your space, a jump rope can be something that would be pennies in comparison to the cost of a cardio implement be able to get the job done. Speed ropes are a favorite for jumping rope training; they are essential for high rep double-unders, the turnover is nearly effortless, and cable moves smooth and fast. There are plenty of options out there when it comes to speed-ropes. For this review, we are looking at this $15 option from Titan Fitness.
Why this one?
The price range for speed ropes is all over the place. Checking out a popular site like Rogue Fitness you will find ropes from $26 all the way up to $125 with plenty of options in between. So if you find yourself in the search of a speed rope and you come across this option from Titan with titanium handles, bearings in the handles, and it’s just $15, it looks pretty enticing.
Build/Specs
- Aluminum knurled handles
- Bearings built into the handles for a ‘smooth’ spin (we will in a bit)
- 11 ft cable
- 2.5 mm cable diameter
- Thumb-screw adjustment for rope length
- Rubber caps for a clean finish to the cable
Verdict
It is hard to complain about a $15 speed rope. If you don’t have a ton of experience with speed ropes and you’re not picky, this is an easy buy. That being said, this option is not perfect. The spin in the handles is the real complaint. They spin, but they do not spin smoothly. There seems to be a bit of a ‘grind’, and on a single twist the handles will turn 1-2 revolutions at best; not great. You can improve the spin with WD-40 or some other lubricant, but the spin remains subpar; 2-3 revolutions at best.
*What you want is a rope with a spin like Rogue’s SR-2 (below).
Conclusion
If you want a jump rope or a speed rope in particular (especially one with aluminum handles) then this is an inexpensive option. For those wanting a speed rope with a better bearing system, there are better options out there for under $50 (like the SR-2). In the end, this rope looks very slick, but it operates just ‘ok’ for a speed rope. It is exactly what you should expect for a $15 rope with free shipping. For many, it will absolutely get the job done.
