What is the best jump rope workout?

There are a variety of jump rope workouts that will give you that accelerated heart rate feel and body burn you look for in a cardio workout . Beginners should aim for 10 minutes of jumping (with varying jumps: side to side, frontward jump, backward jump, double jump, single leg jump, and so on) and slowly work toward a longer session. Consistency is key—jumping for a shorter period of time more often throughout the week is better than one longer session that will burn you out.

What are the best shoes for jumping rope?

Shoes for jumping rope need good ankle support and stability, with no platform or deep grooves. They should be simple, sturdy, and fairly flat, like the Nike React Metcon Turbo or New Balance’s 857v2 sneaker .

The 11 Best Jump Ropes of 2023

Jumping rope burns calories, strengthens muscles and is a good cardio workout that the whole family can enjoy. Anyone can benefit from adding a jump rope workout to their weekly exercise regimen. Jump ropes are very portable and low-tech so they're easy to use and can improve your balance and agility.

It might be a simple piece of fitness equipment, but finding the right jump rope can make all the difference in your routine. Jump ropes should be sized for your height, so look for ropes that are adjustable or custom measured. We researched jump ropes for our roundup based on their weight, adjustability, type of material, and durability.

Here are the best jump ropes on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Elite Surge 3.0 Jump Rope at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Bestmile High-Speed Skipping Rope at Walmart

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Best for Beginners:

Hmount Deeroll Adjustable Jump Rope at Walmart

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Best for the Outdoors:

GoxRunx Steel Wire Jump Rope 2-Pack at Amazon

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Best for Boxers:

XYLsports Jump Rope at Amazon

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Best for Speed:

GoFit Pro Speed Jump Rope at Amazon

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Best Adjustable:

Master of Muscle Jump Rope at Amazon

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Best Weighted:

VOXLOVA Weighted Jump Rope at Amazon

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Best Smart Rope:

Tangram SmartRope Rookie Donut at Amazon

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Best Advanced:

Rogue Fitness Fraser SR-2S Speed Rope 3.0 at Roguefitness.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.6

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Fast
Adjustable
Storage bag included
Won't tangle

Cons

Screws holding rope in place may get loose
Relatively Expensive

Our best overall pick is this premium, kink-resistant cable that’s coated in nylon for a smooth rotation. The handles feature a new ball-bearing design for the best spin efficiency and speed. Thanks to the handy screw/key system embedded in the handles, you're able to easily adjust the rope’s length from workout to workout—a great feature if multiple people plan to use one jump rope. Rather than cutting the extra rope that you're not using, it gets stored within the handles.

If you want to trade out the cable that comes with this jump rope with an ultra-thin variety or a heavier, weighted version, rest assured knowing the handles can adapt to pretty much any other cable. A storage bag is also included, perfect for convenient on-the-go workouts.

Price at time of publication: $46 for copper handles

^{Key Specs:
Length: 10 feet before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: Each handle is 1 ounce, no additional weight}

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

Affordable
Fast
Won't tangle

Cons

No ball bearing system

Beginning your jump rope journey does not have to burden your wallet. This high-speed rope is made with quality wire cables, ensuring it won’t tangle, bend or kink. Wire cables also allow for faster spinning, enabling you to get a better cardio workout, and in less time.

The rope is fully adjustable, able to be customized based on a users’ height. To adjust, just use the easy-to-handle screws after you’ve measured the height you need to customize your rope.

Price at time of publication: $7

^{Key Specs:
Length: Not Disclosed Adjustable: Yes | Weight: No additional weight}

Courtesy of Walmart

Pros

EVA foam handles add comfort
Won't tangle
Affordable

Cons

Starting length too short for very tall users

This straight-forward, jump rope is a great option for beginners who want a reliable new tool. Starting at 9 feet long with an easy adjustment mechanism, the wire rope’s ball bearing system helps you avoid the twisting and bending that you may experience when using other jump ropes. This mechanism allows you to experience a smooth and relaxed rotation, whether you’re focusing on speed or simply experimenting with a new routine.

The wire rope is coated with PVC, and the 6-inch EVA memory foam handles provide comfort to your hands and wrists as you spin.

Price at time of publication: $10

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: No additional weight}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Two-pack
Easy to clean
Affordable
EVA foam handles add comfort

Cons

Adjusting rope isn't as easy as other options

Exercising in the great outdoors requires durable gear that lasts. When it comes to withstanding the elements, this set of two steel wire jump ropes is your best bet. The lightweight ropes are durable, with a PVC finish that makes them easy to clean if your workout meets a muddy day.

The rope is adjustable, with 9.85 feet that can be customized to fit your exact length requirements. But you'll have to cut off the excess rope once you find the right length, so it can't be shared among multiple users with different heights.

Anti-slip foam handles are a welcome addition to your workout, encouraging you to take your rope to any new terrain and find the same level of fun and comfort. With a set of two, you can also opt to use one of the ropes indoors and the other outdoors, helping you keep your workout resources organized and your space clean.

Price at time of publication: $12

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet, 8 inches before adjustment Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 9.59 ounces}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Long starting length
Lifetime warranty
Affordable

Cons

Shorter handles than other options

If you plan to use your jump rope for cardio breaks during a boxing or kickboxing class, this pick is for you. At 9 feet and 8 inches, this rope is ideal for boxers, as it's easily adjustable and long enough to allow for fast jumping drills.

Comfortable foam handles help you focus on your jumping instead of any wrist or hand discomfort, and the high-quality ball bears keep your jumps smooth and untangled. With a lifetime warranty, you can be sure that this rope will stay with you through all your workout seasons.

Price at time of publication: $17

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet, 8 inches before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: Not specified}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

High-quality ball bearings
Grippy handles
Affordable

Cons

Starting length too short for very tall users

Trading in your run for a jump rope is one of the easiest things you can do to spice up your cardio routine, whether you exercise using a rowing machine or simply go with the flow in Zumba classes. When it’s speed you’re after, you want a no-frills rope that allows for fast rotation—just like this PVC-coated one from REI.

The ball-bearing action helps keep everything smooth and on track to beat your fastest pace, and the non-slip, deluxe grip handles fight hand fatigue. The 9-foot rope can be adjusted to any shorter length that meets your exact requirements.

Price at time of publication: $13

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 12 ounces}

Amazon

Pros

Free e-book full of jump rope workouts
Fast
Storage bag included
Affordable

Cons

No ball bearing system

Adjustability is, arguably, the most important element of a jump rope. You need a rope that matches your body’s build so you can avoid tripping (or the frustration of a tangled rope). This cable jump rope will fit any height, with easily adjustable screws that make customizing the rope for your height simple.

The jump rope also comes with a carrying case, making your on-the-go workouts even more convenient. Additionally, you'll get a free e-book with your purchase full of jump rope workouts to challenge and entertain any skill level, ensuring you’ll never get bored.

Price at time of publication: $9

^{Key Specs:
Length: Not disclosed | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 6.4 ounces}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

High-quality ball bearing system
Non-slip handles
Weighted

Cons

Handles aren't designed for a fast spin

When jumping rope, a little weight goes a long way. Imagine how much faster a speed rope will feel after lugging around an extra pound or two? This 1-pound cable rope is durable and smooth, with an extra-thick 0.35-inch diameter that won't crack or break as you spin.

High-quality ball bearings help keep the rope from twisting, trading in any frustration for a stable rotation that allows you to focus on your workout. The aluminum handles are covered with silicone for a comfortable, strong grip that won’t leave your hands cramped by the end of your jumping session.

Price at time of publication: $19 in bright red

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet, 8 inches before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 1 pound}

Amazon

Pros

Syncs to an app to track metrics
Can be adjusted for multiple users
High-quality ball bearings

Needs to be charged (battery lasts about six months)
Expensive

Trying to switch things up or add to your workout from your usual elliptical machine? If you want to make jumping rope your primary form of cardio, tracking your performance-related metrics is a must. This smart rope connects to an app on your phone (via Bluetooth) to show you exactly how your workout went, allowing you to track your progress over time and make adjustments.

The app keeps track of calories burned, jump count, and time spent jumping. It’ll also encourage you to unlock awards, switch up your workout with interval training, and challenge other app users. It’s a fun, interactive way to take your jump rope routine to the next level!

The rope itself is fully adjustable without having to cut off excess, allowing you to re-adjust for taller jumpers.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9 feet, 10 inches before adjustment | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 8.32 ounces}

Courtesy of Rogue Fitness

Pros

High-quality ball bearings
Fast spin handles
Durable cable won't break or tangle

Cons

Expensive

This speed rope from Rogue is made from durable cable, with high-quality ball bearings that keep the rope from twisting and kinking. The handles are designed with fast rotation in mind and are made from aircraft-grade aluminum.

Inspired by the five-time “Fittest Man on Earth,” Matthew Fraser, the special edition, adjustable rope is an investment that will last a lifetime. It's perfect for athletes who are looking for a sturdy rope that meets all their jump rope needs.

Price at time of publication: $47

^{Key Specs:
Length: 10 feet | Adjustable: Yes | Weight: 0.29 pounds}

Courtesy of Amazon

Pros

Storage bag included
EVA foam handles add comfort
Lightweight
Affordable
Colorful options

Cons

Not suited for adults

Jumping rope isn’t just a great addition to adult workout routines—it’s a backyard favorite for the kids! Whether your kiddos are set on perfecting new tricks or they just need to burn off some energy, jump ropes are a fun way to keep them entertained and active.

This set of two provides lightweight NBR rubber ropes that are durable, soft, and super safe for kids to use. You can easily adjust the ropes to match your growing kids, and the anti-slip foam grip grooves ensure comfort and stability.

The set also comes with a carrying bag and package case, helpful for on-the-go fun.

Price at time of publication: $17 for Blue+Yellow

^{Key Specs:
Length: 9.6 feet before adjustment Adjustable Yes | Weight: No additional weight (super lightweight)}

Final Verdict

The Elite Surge 3.0 Jump Rope (view at Amazon) is an adaptable, high-quality rope that will serve any skill level well. With handles that can adjust to a variety of ropes, it’s sure to last even when you decide to change up your workout. For individuals looking for a more tech-savvy option, the Tangram Factory Rookie Smart Jump Rope (view at Amazon) is a fantastic choice, adding in-app engagement (and accountability) to your cardio.

What to Look for in a Jump Rope

Adjustability

Your jump rope needs to be an appropriate length for your height. To check if your jump rope is the correct length, step in the middle of the rope and then pull the rope up (toward your shoulders)—the cables should be close to your armpits. Buying an adjustable rope ensures that you can find this balance at home (or adjust it to different lengths based on who’s using the rope).

Weight

The weight of your jump rope will make a big difference in how easily you can rotate it. (This refers to the weight of the actual rope, not the weight in the handles.) While beginners usually prefer a light rope, which generally allows for more speed, heavier ropes are a great option for individuals searching for more power and strength.

Material

A jump rope’s material will influence the setting or purpose of it. Common materials include nylon, leather, plastic or PVC, and steel cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best jump rope workout?

There are a variety of jump rope workouts that will give you that accelerated heart rate feel and body burn you look for in a cardio workout. Beginners should aim for 10 minutes of jumping (with varying jumps: side to side, frontward jump, backward jump, double jump, single leg jump, and so on) and slowly work toward a longer session. Consistency is key—jumping for a shorter period of time more often throughout the week is better than one longer session that will burn you out.
What are the best shoes for jumping rope?

Shoes for jumping rope need good ankle support and stability, with no platform or deep grooves. They should be simple, sturdy, and fairly flat, like the Nike React Metcon Turbo or New Balance’s 857v2 sneaker.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a former fitness coach, long-time wellness enthusiast, and current health editor, Lily Moeunderstands the importance of equipment that is made to help you reach your fitness goals, whether outside or in the gym. Most importantly, Lily always looks for research and first-hand reviews when it comes to deciding on a product.