Steel wire winch cable has been the mainstay of the winching, recovery, and hauling industry for many years. With the introduction of synthetic winch rope in the early ’90s and its subsequent growth in popularity, the debate continues about which is better. But just like the classic Ford versus Chevy argument, what is really better actually boils down to what is best for you and your situation.
Any crusty old-timer will probably swear by steel, while most newbies run synthetic because the racers use it or their winch came with it already. The attendees of the Ultimate Adventure were recently polled on their thoughts, which we have presented to you here. But since both lines have their pros and cons regardless of our personal opinions, we’ve done a quick comparison to give you the facts and dispel a few myths.
Myths
“You don’t need to wear gloves with synthetic rope.”
Gloves should be used for both. While a synthetic rope won’t develop barbs, it can trap debris which can cut you.
“Synthetic rope won’t whip back if it breaks.”
Wire rope can get severe kinks and flat spots that weaken it. Loose cable also bird-nests when not under tension.
Cable vs. Rope
Pros
• More durable
• Longer lasting
• Dissipates heat from internal brake drum
• Less expensive than synthetic
Cons
• Heavy
• Stores more kinetic energy
• Difficult to handle
• Develops barbs
• Difficult to field fix
• No load wraps can unspool to a bird’s nest
• Can rust
• Can kink
Synthetic
Pros
• Lightweight
• Stronger than steel (when new)
• Floats
• Comes in pretty colors
• Easy to handle
• Simple to field fix
• Won’t rust
Cons
• Doesn’t dissipate heat, which can affect the winch brake
• Subject to abrasion
• Strength degrades at 150 degrees
• Can get heat aged by repeated overheating of brake drum
• UV degrades it
• Sand and dirt can cut internally
• Needs a sheath for protection from debris and sunlight
• More expensive than steel
• Needs to be cleaned of mud, sand, and debris
• Can retain water and freeze
• Lots of cheap imitations on the market
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