Quality & Testing
Our rule is simple: we don't claim what we can't show. Here's how we check products, what we've verified so far, and what's still pending.
How we label specifications
| Supplier-stated | Provided by the factory. Not yet verified by us or a lab. Shown with that label every time. |
|---|---|
| Measured in-house | Something we measured ourselves in Sarasota, such as diameter, length or weight per meter. Shown with the method. |
| Independently tested | Tested by an outside laboratory on samples from the same production lot. Shown with a link to the report. |
Where things stand now
| Nylon dock lines | Supplier-stated breaking strength. In-house inspection of every line before it ships. Lab testing planned. |
|---|---|
| 6 mm UHMWPE rope | Supplier-stated breaking strength from one supplier test. Not for sale until an independent break test on our lot is complete. |
| Soft shackles | Supplier-stated breaking strength. Not for sale until independent testing on our lot is complete. |
| Chafe protection | Fit is being checked on our own 1/2 in and 5/8 in lines before launch. |
Our inspection process
- Receiving: count against the packing list, photograph every carton, record the supplier's lot number.
- Measure: diameter at several points, length, and weight per meter on a sample from each lot.
- Eye and splice check: every dock line eye is inspected for size, finish, cover damage and a secure, even taper.
- Retain samples: we keep a length from each rope lot so any later question can be checked against the same material.
- Traceability: each product label carries a lot code, so we can trace a product back to its production batch.
Independent testing program
We're arranging break tests at an independent cordage laboratory, starting with a five-specimen pilot on our 6 mm rope lot. Results, good or bad, will be published on this page with the lab's name, the method and the date. Until then, the rope and soft shackles stay off sale.
What we'll never claim without evidence
- Certified or rated performance
- Safe working loads
- Suitability for lifelines, standing rigging, towing, lifting, climbing or rescue
- Brand-name fiber we can't document