Why I Always Keep Hollow Braid Rope in My Gear Bag

I've lost count of how many times a simple length of hollow braid rope has saved my skin during a weekend project or a trip out on the water. It's one of those tools that you don't really think about until you're staring at a problem that only a lightweight, easily spliceable line can solve. If you've spent any time around boats, horses, or even just a messy garage, you've probably seen this stuff, even if you didn't know exactly what it was called. It's that distinctive, tube-like cord that feels a bit like a flattened straw when you squeeze it. ...

May 20, 2026 · 7 min · Bruce Phaedra