Choosing the right diameter for an elastic, shock cord, elastic rope, or elastic cord is not easy and depends on two factors: the required strength and how stiff or stretchable the elastic cord needs to be. The choice of the ideal elastic cord is therefore a combination of load, elasticity, and application.
General guidelines for the diameter of elastic cord or shock cord
- a thinner elastic provides more stretch and less force, feeling more flexible and elastic
- a thicker elastic provides more tension and less stretch
Rules of thumb per diameter
- 4 mm and 5 mm: light securing, use with tarpaulins, tents, and bicycle bungee cords
- 6 mm: for luggage, camping equipment, and most household applications
- 8 mm: for roof racks, heavier loads, and outdoor use
- 10 mm: for sports, fitness, and resistance exercises
Breaking strength per diameter
- 4 mm: +/- 40 kg
- 5 mm: +/- 50 kg
- 6 mm: +/- 60 kg
- 8 mm: +/- 80 kg
- 10 mm: +/- 100 kg
Please note: elastic cords are not suitable for lifting, only for securing and tensioning
The memory function of elastic
The core of the elastic cord
- determines how far the cord can stretch
- and how well the material returns to its original length
An elastic that performs well in this regard does not permanently lengthen, ensuring the load remains well tensioned. This is crucial for applications such as securing nets and tarpaulins where there is a lot of movement.
Why latex is the best choice
All elastic cords from Corbeo are made with natural latex, because it:
- has the best elastic memory
- provides smooth damping for shocks
- guarantees durable and dynamic stretch
The disadvantage of latex is its sensitivity to UV, causing it to age and dry out quickly. A quality braided sheath is therefore very important, as it protects the core. Regularly check the sheath for damage, as the latex will age quickly there.
Alternatives to natural latex are synthetic rubbers (EPDM or SBR). These are indeed more UV resistant but less elastic and have poorer memory function. The elastic will lengthen over time, causing the tarpaulins or loads to become looser. Finally, you can also find very cheap elastics, usually with a core made from recycled rubber.
Selection guide for your elastic cord
- 4 mm elastic cord is flexible and strong and recommended for:
- small tarpaulins
- bicycle luggage
- camping equipment
- beach tents
- deck chair repair
- dog leash with shock absorption
- attachment of festival and event banners
- retail displays
- hanging shop banners
- cable routing in machines
- protective covers for equipment and machines
- 5 mm elastic cord is stronger but still flexible and recommended for:
- tent and party tent attachment
- advertising banners on frames
- kayak deck elastic
- paddleboard gear
- climbing helmet holders
- binding skis together
- photo studio backdrops
- 6 mm elastic cord is the most commonly used and is a real all-rounder:
- garden furniture covers
- larger advertising banners on frames
- motorcycle cover attachment
- camping tarpaulins
- roof box luggage
- pickup or trailer light load
- trampoline edge tensioning
- theatre backdrops
- transport packaging
- machine covers
- 8 mm provides significantly higher tension force with the same stretch, typical applications:
- swimming pool covers
- groundsheets
- tarpaulins and advertising banners in strong winds
- roof racks
- trailer load
- boat covers
- garden furniture in stormy weather
- camper and caravan covers
- fender retention
- light resistance training
- crossfit
- stage construction
- hospitality canopies
- 10 mm elastic cord has a high force and less stretch and is used in heavy wind applications:
- large swimming pool covers
- trailer covers
- construction site covers
- stage constructions
- truck side tarpaulins
- large tent structures
- shock-absorbing tension lines
- transport fixation
- machine guarding
Want to be sure of your choice? We are specialists in ropes, elastic cords, and technical cords. Feel free to ask for advice; we are happy to help you choose the best elastic rope for your application and location.
