The weight of a slackline depends on the length and width of the line, as well as the type of material it is made of. In general, slackline webbing ranges in weight from about 1 pound for small, portable lines to 15 pounds or more for longer tricklines that are intended for more advanced tricks and stunts.
A typical slackline kit, which includes the line, anchors, and any other necessary equipment, can weigh anywhere from 5 to 20 pounds or more. It can include the slackline webbing itself plus a ratchet(s), tree protection and perhaps a top training line and bag.
Portable lines that are designed to be easily carried and set up in a variety of locations may weigh on the lower end of this range, while larger lines that are intended for more advanced tricks and stunts may weigh more.
Slackline webbing width and length add to the weight
A slackline is typically either 1″ or 2″ in width although other widths are sometimes available depending on where you live. The wider the slackline, the greater the weight but in reality, it’s also the rest of the slackline kit that adds to the weight. The ratchets add weight since they have metal components as we’ll see below.
A slackline can range widely in terms of its length and you have plenty of choice. As we’ve said elsewhere on this website:
Slacklines come in various lengths up to 100′ (30m) and tend to be 1″ or 2″ in width (25mm or 51mm) but shouldn’t be shorter than 16′ (5m) for them to work properly.
You need extra length at both ends of the slackline to wrap it around the trees or whatever fastening devices you’re using.
Slacklines are typically made from nylon or polyester
The weight of slackline webbing also depends on the specific type of nylon or polyester used. In general, nylon slackline webbing tends to be slightly heavier than polyester webbing, but the difference in weight is usually not significant.
For example, a 50′ length of 2″ wide nylon slackline webbing may weigh around 2 pounds, while a similar length of polyester webbing may weigh around 1.5 pounds. The weight difference between nylon and polyester slackline webbing is typically less than a pound, even for longer lengths of webbing.
The choice between nylon and polyester slackline webbing often comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user. Nylon webbing is generally stronger and more durable than polyester, but it may stretch more over time and may be more prone to water absorption. Polyester webbing is generally more resistant to water and UV damage, but it may be slightly less durable than nylon.
A ratchet is a necessary part of a slackline kit
Slackline ratchets, also known as tensioning devices or tightening mechanisms, are used to tension the slackline and keep it taut. The weight of a slackline ratchet depends on the size and design of the device.
In general, slackline ratchets weigh anywhere from a few ounces to several pounds. Smaller ratchets that are designed for portable slacklines may weigh on the lower end of this range, while larger ratchets that are intended for use with longer, wider lines or for more advanced tricks and stunts may weigh more.
In your slackline kit, you might for example have a line that weigh up to 6 lbs and a ratchet that weighs another pound or more on its own. The total kit might weigh between about 6 lbs – 10 lbs all in depending on the length and width of the slackline and the weight and number of ratchets included.
It is important to note that the weight of the ratchet is not the only factor to consider when choosing a slackline. The strength and durability of the ratchet are also important considerations, as the ratchet is responsible for holding the slackline in place and keeping it taut.
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