What is bungee cord?

A bungee cord is a type of rope that’s incredibly stretchy and durable. They consist of an elasticated rubber core, as well as an outer sheath. Bungee cords will usually have a hook on either end, but you can also find them without. As well as hooks, there are different types of bungee accessories that can be used to customise your bungee cord.

Bungee cords come in many different lengths, colours, and thicknesses, making it easier to choose the best bungee cord for your project. Because it’s so flexible, a bungee cord can be used in many different ways, from shed organisation to kayaking.

What is a bungee cord made of?

These strong and stretchy ropes can be used in many ingenious ways – but what is a bungee cord made of?

Polypropylene sheath

Your standard bungee cord will have a rubber core that’s surrounded by a braided sheath. This sheath can be made of either cotton or polypropylene, although the latter is much stronger. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer, which basically means it’s strong and hard. However, by braiding it, this adds more flexibility to the bungee cord, as the strands are able to move around each other.

Polypropylene is also heat resistant, making it great for activities where friction may be an issue. This type of plastic is recyclable, with a resin code of 5. This is similar to other recyclable plastics like yoghurt pots and plastic trays.

Rubber core

Now, onto the rubber core. High quality bungee cords are often made with natural rubber cores, but some may have synthetic rubber cores. Natural rubber is an elastomer, which means that it can revert back to its original shape after being stretched. It’s a reliable and commonly used material, and it’s often used for tyres in the automotive and aerospace industries. It provides great resistance to wear and tear, as well as good water and heat resistance.

Rubber cores can be made up of either single or multi strand cores. Although a single strand core is more than strong enough for normal bungee cord use, multi strand cores provide extra toughness.

Lastoflex single strand bungee cord

Lastoflex bungee cords are high-quality bungee cords with a single strand core. They’re ideal for securing loads, making them perfect for your next big road trip. If you plan to use your bungee cords for this purpose, read our guide to roof racks and tying things down. Camping and caravanning trips also benefit from Lastoflex bungee cords – they work as a makeshift clothesline or simply for keeping your things together.

What makes these bungee cords so great for tying down cargo is their impressive break strength. They’re trustworthy enough to use on the road without worrying about your luggage flying off the top of your vehicle.

You can find a versatile selection of thicknesses for these cords, as well as different lengths and colours. Sizes vary from 2mm to 10mm, so there’s no need for compromise when it comes to selecting the perfect thickness.

Superflex multi strand bungee cord

Superflex bungee cords feature a multi strand marine-grade rubber core. This means they’re extra durable and waterproof. These cords are perfect for sailing, marquees, swimming pool maintenance and general use on boats. If you need bungee cords for watersports or other environments where the cord will be wet, Superflex are the best choice of bungee cord.

How does a bungee cord work?

Now you know what bungee cords are made of, but how does a bungee cord work? Simply put, it’s the rubber core which stretches, not the polypropylene sheath. Whilst the core is stretched out, the braided sheath squeezes the core. This means the core’s elastic fibres get longer when stretched, whereas the braided sheath tightens around the core to protect it. The rubber core and braided sheath work together in harmony to create a strong, stretchy, durable bungee cord that’s suitable for any purpose.

Now that you understand what a bungee cord is made of, why not get your hands on some? Feel free to contact our team to find out the best bungee cord for you, or to arrange a custom order.