Imagine yourself hurriedly walking down the road with a lot of boxes in hand containing antique stuff. But suddenly, you lose your balance, and everything falls. You pick up everything again only to realize that your favorite lamp has fallen and broken. How sad!
But do you know what can help prevent such accidents? A shock cord! It has many practical and even creative uses in today’s world.
To make the most of a shock cord, it is important to know the basics, like what it’s made of and what are its uses. And if you don’t have the slightest idea about what elastic shock cords are, this is the right place to be. Read on as we disclose every tiny detail and use of shock cords.
What is a Shock Cord?
A shock cord is a rope made of elastic on the inside. Its core might contain a single elastic strand or numerous strands. The core is surrounded by nylon, polypropylene, or polyester material that is durable and does not wear and tear from frequent use or weather conditions.
You will find shock cords in a variety of colors and sizes. Plus, it usually has a hook on the ends, making it suitable for various applications.
What is it made of?
The elastic material of a shock cord is often made of natural or synthetic rubber. Also known as latex rubber, natural rubber has excellent resilience, extensibility, and tensile strength. Because of these properties, it makes an outstanding material for shock cords.
The fabric covering for the elastic shock cord may contain cotton or nylon yarn. Usually, nylon is a better option to go with as it is more resistant to abrasion and has high tensile strength.
What to Look for When Buying a Shock Cord?
When looking for a shock cord, don’t run into purchasing. There are some factors to keep in mind when buying a shock cord. Plus, choosing an unsuitable cord will not only waste your money but also lead to safety risks.
Primarily, you should look for the material of the cord. It will usually have a natural or synthetic rubber core covered by a thermostatic polymer. In other cases, it can have a polyester sheath instead. Polyester is not only waterproof but a much tougher material than polymer, providing excellent UV resistance.
The other factor to look for is fixing. In most cases, you will need to invest in fixings such as a spinal cord hook. It is also essential to check the diameter and length of the cord. In addition, you must see the style and color of the cord. Certain colors and styles are better suited for some uses, while others aren’t the best for the same purpose.
What is the Most Common Use of Shock Cord?
If you are only looking at the most common use of elastic shock cords, then it is to tie down loads to keep them secure and safe. Shock cords are very popular for this use as they can keep loads safe without the need to tie knots.
Tying things down safely is indeed the best and most common use of shock cords.
Are there any Unique Uses?
There are numerous unique uses of shock cords that you’ve never even thought of. Let’s find out how to use them in everyday life:
- Transportation
As already mentioned, a shock cord is the best option to transport stuff. It helps absorb shock from bumps while driving down bumpy roads. This way, your precious stuff won’t move around or break. Your valuable possessions won’t even fly out of the truck and smash into pieces.
- Chair Straps
Are you bored with old chairs? Well, you have a shock cord for the rescue! Shock cords are a great way to transform your boring-looking chair into a contemporary one. You can also replace broken straps for your current chair.
We all have had old chairs with plastic straps. They often lead us to nostalgic moments but just imagine how awesome these chairs would look if you take off the current straps and replace them with the attractive color of shock cords. Replacing the cords on the circle chair makes it more comfortable, strong, and long-lasting.
- Hair Accessories
All women can agree that one headband never fits perfectly. That’s where the shock cord can help you. You can make headbands with this stretchy cord to keep your hair in place. The good thing is that shock cords come in fun colors, which allows you to make headbands matching your outfits.
- Boating
This may seem a weird use, but people who own a boat or love going boating should always stock on some shock cords to tie the boat to the dock. It will surely help you out if you need a rope to absorb shock or even reduce tension.
- Shoe Laces
Your shoes might already have attractive laces, but in a situation where your shoelaces break, you can use smaller shock cords, and there’s no need to tie them again.
- Tent Pole Repair
Are you a trekking person? If yes, then you might have already experienced tent pole snaps. What to do in that case? Repair it with a shock cord! It will perfectly set up your tent without any risk of snaps again.
Final Thoughts
Shocks cords are indeed a savior. Not only do they help to secure stuff while moving, but they also serve various other purposes. Use them to revamp your old chair or construct a headband offering the perfect stretch.
Just make sure to look at the material, length, and diameter of the cord you are buying. Plus, always buy shock cords from a trusted seller to be sure of the quality. Rope & Rope Products has a massive collection of ropes and elastic shock cords in different materials, colors, and sizes. Check out the range for high-quality, safe, and attractive-looking ropes.
