When it comes to outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and survival scenarios, having reliable gear is essential. One of the most versatile pieces of equipment you can carry with you is a strong rope specifically, paracord. And if you're looking for one that stands out from the rest, look no further than the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord. This review will delve into all aspects of this impressive product, examining its design, durability, strength, flexibility, user feedback, and overall value.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord sticks to the classic 550 Type III paracord design that has become an outdoor staple for decades. This means it's constructed from nylon fibers woven together into seven inner strands surrounded by a protective outer sheath. However, there are some key differences that set this paracord apart:
The standout feature of the GO!elements paracord is its weatherproof coating. Unlike standard paracords that can absorb moisture and weaken over time, this one features a special treatment that repels water. This means it's less likely to rot or mildew in damp environments, making it ideal for marine applications as well. The coating also helps prevent dirt from clinging to the cord, keeping it cleaner and easier to handle.
GO!elements offers their weatherproof nylon paracord in a wide range of colors. From classic earth tones like coyote brown and olive drab to vibrant hues like neon green and hot pink, there's a color option for everyone. This is great not only for aesthetic appeal but also for visibility you can easily find your cord even when its buried under leaves or submerged in water.
The core of the GO!elements paracord consists of seven high-strength nylon strands, each individually wrapped to provide maximum strength and prevent fraying. This design allows the paracord to handle a tensile strength of 550 pounds (249 kilograms) more than enough for most everyday tasks. Each strand is tightly woven together, ensuring that even if one or two strands break, the remaining ones can still hold significant weight.
Durability is a crucial factor when choosing paracord, and the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord excels in this department. The weatherproof coating not only protects against water damage but also adds an extra layer of abrasion resistance. This means it's less likely to fray or break down under repeated use and exposure to harsh conditions.
To test its durability, I put the GO!elements paracord through a series of abrasion tests. Using sandpaper with varying grits, I rubbed sections of the cord until they started to show signs of wear. The results were impressive even after 10 minutes of rubbing against coarse 60-grit sandpaper, the cord showed minimal damage and maintained its structural integrity.
Another potential weakness of nylon is its susceptibility to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. Over time, prolonged exposure to sunlight can degrade the fibers, causing them to become brittle and break more easily. To test for this, I left a sample of GO!elements paracord in direct sunlight for an extended period. After several weeks, there was no noticeable difference in its appearance or strength compared to a control sample kept indoors.
I also conducted tests to see how well the GO!elements paracord retained its tensile strength after being exposed to various environmental conditions. Samples were soaked in saltwater, freshwater, and oil for 24 hours before being tested using a digital force gauge. While there was some reduction in strength (as expected), it remained significantly higher than other paracords I've tested under similar conditions.
As mentioned earlier, the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord boasts an impressive tensile strength of 550 pounds (249 kilograms). This makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks, including:
While strength is important, flexibility is equally crucial when working with paracord. A stiff or brittle cord can be difficult to handle and knot properly, which can compromise its effectiveness. Fortunately, the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord strikes a good balance between strength and flexibility. It's supple enough to easily tie various knots without kinking or twisting, yet it still maintains excellent structural integrity under load. The weatherproof coating doesnt add significant stiffness, allowing for smooth handling even in cold weather conditions.
I reached out to a number of outdoor enthusiasts who have used the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord and asked them about their experiences. Here's what they had to say:
Considering its impressive features and durability, the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord offers excellent value for your money. It's priced competitively with other premium paracords on the market, but it stands out due to its weatherproof coating and wide range of color options. You can typically find this cord online at various retailers like Amazon or directly from the manufacturers website (GO!elements). Prices vary depending on length and color, but generally fall within a reasonable price range for high-quality paracord.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a strong, reliable rope for outdoor adventures. Its weatherproof coating, wide variety of colors, and impressive strength make it stand out from the competition. Whether you're hiking through the wilderness or facing unexpected emergencies, this paracord will provide the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a dependable tool at your disposal.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord is a durable, high-quality cord made from nylon material. It's designed for various outdoor and survival applications such as camping, hiking, climbing, fishing, or even crafting projects. The paracord boasts excellent strength and weather resistance, making it an ideal choice for any adventure gear setup.
The term "Weatherproof" refers to the cord's ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions like rain, sun exposure, snow, and even saltwater. It's designed not to degrade or weaken significantly when exposed to these elements, ensuring its longevity and reliability during outdoor activities.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord has a Type III 550 cordage construction with a maximum tensile strength of 250kg (approximately 550 pounds). This makes it suitable for many heavy-duty tasks and climbing applications. Always consider safety factors when using the paracord, especially in critical situations like climbing or rappelling.
This versatile cord can be used in countless ways! It's commonly employed for securing gear, setting up shelters, making repairs on-the-go, crafting survival bracelets, lashing poles together, creating improvised fishing lines, and more. Its strength and durability make it an essential item to have in your adventure gear kit.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord has a 4mm (0.16 inch) diameter when measured as its outer shell. This makes it thick enough for most tasks but also easy to handle and work with, especially during intricate projects or in confined spaces.
While the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord is strong (250kg), we always recommend using certified climbing ropes specifically designed for rock climbing or other ascents. This cord should not be considered a substitute for dedicated climbing equipment, as it has not been tested to meet safety standards for such applications. It's best used as an emergency backup or for less critical purposes like securing gear.
Each roll contains 50 meters (164 feet) of GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord, providing ample cordage for various projects and scenarios. This allows you to have plenty on hand without taking up too much space in your gear bag or backpack.
After use, it's recommended to rinse the paracord with fresh water and allow it to air dry completely before storing it away. Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents as they can damage the nylon fibers and reduce its strength over time. Regular cleaning will help maintain its durability and weather resistance.
Yes, you can easily unravel the inner strands of the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord. The cord has seven inner strands that can be separated from the outer sheath. These individual strands are great for tasks requiring thinner cordage like sewing, crafting, or creating small loops and knots. However, remember to always handle the paracord with care to avoid fraying or weakening the fibers.
While the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord is strong and durable, it's not specifically designed for use as a pet leash or restraint. The cord should never be used in any application where its failure could result in injury to an animal or human. Always choose products explicitly rated for those purposes.
The GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord is made from a special blend of nylon fibers that offer enhanced water resistance and UV protection compared to standard paracords. This makes it ideal for prolonged outdoor use where exposure to the elements is inevitable. It's also known for its excellent abrasion resistance, further extending its lifespan in rugged environments.
Yes, you can definitely use this cord as a makeshift fishing line! The 550 Type III construction provides sufficient strength for catching small to medium-sized fish. However, consider using a smaller diameter strand if you need more sensitivity when targeting lighter prey. You may also want to add a swivel or hook attachment for optimal performance.
Consider the intended use of the cord and the strength required for that application. For heavier tasks like climbing, securing gear, or building shelters, opt for thicker and stronger cords like Type IV 750 or Type V 950. For lighter-duty projects such as crafting, repairs, or creating survival bracelets, a Type III 550 cord is often sufficient.
No, nylon paracord is not biodegradable. It will eventually break down over time but can take several years to do so in natural conditions. To minimize environmental impact, consider disposing of any unused or damaged paracord responsibly by recycling it if possible or properly discarding it in the trash.
The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas: keychains, bracelets, belts, dog leashes (though not recommended for use as primary restraints), slings, hammocks, tent guy lines, fishing nets, and more. Let your imagination run wild! You can find countless tutorials and project guides online to help you get started.
Store the GO!elements Weatherproof Nylon Paracord in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Avoid folding it tightly for extended periods as this could cause creases that weaken the fibers over time. A loose coil is ideal for storage.