Have you ever seen people walking on a nylon line that looks like a tight rope and wondered what it was? Definitely it was called slacklining. Slacklining refers to the act of walking or balancing along a suspended length of flat webbing that is tensioned between two anchors.
If you want to get into slacklining but don’t own a slackline yet, you better choose the best slackline on the market. Today, slacklining is no longer a thing for acrobats and circus performers only. This activity can be carried out by anyone and it comes with numerous benefits.
Since this activity is focused on balancing, it helps in full body workout on a slack line that requires the complete use of your body. It also improves body posture by forcing you to use your back muscles, a move that strengthens your spine.
Slacklining is the perfect way to improve balancing abilities and core strength. This is a great outdoor activity that requires little investment and gets kids and families outside. It is a great physical activity that promoted hand and eye coordination, balance, and creativity.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Length | Weight | Width | Webbing Strength | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gibbon Slacklines Classic Kit | 49 ft | 6.5 lb | 2 in | 4 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Gibbon Slacklines Jibline | 40 ft | 5.8 lb | 2 in | 3 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Slackline Industries Trick Line | 50 ft | 6.2 lb | 2 in | 3 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Macaco Slackline | 52.5 ft | 4.4 lb | 2 in | 3 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Gibbon Slacklines Classicline Red Edition | 49 ft | 6.6 lb | 2 in | 4 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Slackline Industries Baseline | 50 ft | 300 lb | 2 in | 4 tons | Check price on Amazon |
| Gibbon 2-piece Tree Protection Set | 3.28 ft | 0.5 lb | 6.3 in | 3 tons | Check price on Amazon |
Features to Consider Before Buying
When it comes to getting the right slacklines for learners, you need to consider the basic features that are relevant to you or the individual you are getting it for. There are numerous slacklines available in the market. We suggest you consider the following features before getting one.
Quality
As time goes by, the industry has grown and progressed. The equipment has gone from good to great. The equipment should be designed to be strong and withstand a beating. It should be in high quality material so it will last longer than you expected. The slackline should have the ability to perform satisfactorily in service and is suitable for its intended purposes.
Quality should be the number 1 focus with respect to safety, as slackline failure and possible injury is one of the worst things that could happen to this product. Consider the quality of the experience while on the line and how well it did what the manufacturer said it would.
Versatility
The versatility of a kit is an important metric to be considered. Nowadays, people are using a slackline for many different things, and people who are new to this often begin this sport without having a clue to where or in which direction the sport will take them.
So, it is very important for you to consider this important factor in choosing the right slackline for you. The slackline should be versatile. It should adapt to many different situations. The versatility of the different models is one of the key factors that distinguish these products from one another.
Ease Of Set-up
Set up is rarely intuitive. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the different types of lines and what the process involves.
Tree Protection
Slacklines always need to have tree protection. Almost all of the great slacklines on the market have tree protection. Tree protection is a must. You can possibly damage the bark of the trees and your slackline from abrasion without it. If you don’t have the tree protection on your kit, you can always use old towels or cardboards.
Top Products on the Market
With such a large number of slacklines available, it may prove to be a cumbersome procedure when it comes time to selecting the best line model for your slacklining interests. Here you will discover reviews of some of the best models on the market.
The features of each of them are analyzed in full so that you can get a complete knowledge of what you are about to spend your money on.
Some slacklines are sold alone and others accompanied with additional benefits such as instructional DVDs and tree protection. Out of the seven models, there will undoubtedly be at least one model that will interest you and your requirement for a sturdy line for the secure slacklining event.
Gibbon Slacklines Classic Kit
Price: Approx. $70
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Dimension: 10.4 x 8.6 x 2.1 inches
Specific features: Approved by the German Association for technical inspection, easy to set-up, ratchet comes with a safety lock, durability
Best use: Beginning practice, general use, walking, static tricks and longer lines
Description: Gibbon Slacklines Classic Kit is a great slackline, ideal for outdoor activity. This is TüV certified which means this model was approved by the German Association for Technical Inspection. It means that this product exceeds US Safety Standards.
This is easy to set-up. In just 10 minutes or lesser, you can easily set-up your slackline. The line consists of only two parts which you just join by a ratchet and tighten as you like. The ratchet comes with a safety lock. The material of the slackline is very durable. Classic is the most universal line of all Gibbon kits. This kind of slackline will suit your needs, no matter if you are a beginner or experienced slackliners.
It is a well-known fact that this slackline is indeed very durable and has great quality. Gibbon is known to be one of the top brands. In spite of the fact that this slackline does not come along with a tree protection or training line, it is one of the best models for learning when it comes to quality.
If you are looking for a strong and dependable slackline that will keep you going for a couple of years, then we recommend that this line for you. The longer it is, usually the harder it is to walk on, and which is why this one is recommended for beginners.
PROS:
- Easy to set up
- Approved by German Association for Technical Inspection
- Strong
- Very durable
- Great design and quality
CONS:
- No training line
- No tree inspection
Related: if you need a good slackline tree wear for your slacklining activity, then you can check out the Gibbon Slacklines Tree Wear. Wrap the sling of your line in this tree wear and you will not see any damaged tree again.
Gibbon Slacklines Jibline
Price: Approx. $100
Weight: 5.8 pounds
Dimension: 10.2 x 8.8 x 3.3 inches
Specific features: Dynamic weave, approved by the German Association for technical inspection
Best use: Beginning practice, general use, walking, static tricks and longer lines
Description: Gibbon Slacklines Jibline are approved by the German Association for Technical Inspection which validates the safety of products of all kinds to protect humans and the environment against hazards.
This Gibbon slackline is an ideal trick line for the beginners and even to all levels of users. It offers dynamic movement and bounces and tricks because of the dynamic weave it has. It has two parts set for fast assembly and disassembly.
This Jibline slackline is the first choice with trickliners Worldwide whether freestyler, adrenaline junkie, or urban slacker! This slackline is a first class trickline and the one utilized in most trick competitions. This is likewise one of the best novice slacklines since it is simple to set up, easy to walk on and of a good value.
The Jibline was made as a backup partner to the Gibbon Classic Line with an end goal to better serve those advancing in the realm of tricklining. This slackline model has a hardened vibe as a walking line. For hopping, it has extraordinary bounce back speed, and a sensible measure of stretch to give a soft landing.
PROS:
- Great line for tricks
- The wide webbing is quite easy to rest on
- Fast and easy to set up
- Good value
- Easy to walk on
CONS:
- Not durable
- Ratchet tricky to release
- Wears down webbing
Related: if you want a gear that can protect your slacklines, larger trees and the bark of the tree from abrasion, then the Gibbon Treewear is the solution you desire. The Velcro toward the end of the gear makes it quite easy to grab and keeps it from slipping when setting up the slackline.
Slackline Industries Trick Line
Price: Approx. $90
Weight: 6.2 pounds
Dimension: 19 x 14 x 5 inches
Specific features: Complete kit (tree protection, backup line, and twin gear push ratchet),
Best use: Beginning practice, general use, walking, static tricks and longer lines
Description: Slackline Industries Trick Line is made of trampoline material which offering a dynamic surface for more bounces. It is designed to support the growing popularity of trick lining, the branch of the sport that goes beyond walking by incorporating jumps, spins and tricks.
This slackline comes with the complete kit that includes a tree protection, ratchet tensioner, and safety backup line.
Tree protection: it has two 5 x 40 inches (12.5 cm x 1 m), with ¼ inch thick felt wraps with Velcro closures included to protect the bark of the trees and the slackline from abrasion.
Backup line: it is included as an added safety measure. This is an important precaution for trick lining which amplifies force on the line.
Twin gear push ratchet: it was designed to provide the most efficient and safest way to tighten your slackline. The twin gear maximizes the pulling strength and the push style ratchet it positions the user outside the hazard zone.
To firmly anchor and tension the slackline, the easy to use ratchet comes with 8 feet webbing and a reinforced loop. The ratchet release is rubberized for easy and safe release of the tension on the line. The handle grip is made of soft plastic for comfortable and efficient tensioning.
The Trick Line offers dynamic movement and bounces for trick lining. The featured trampoline style webbing with rubber grip and a backup line system is ideal for intermediate users and beginner tricks.
PROS:
- Easy to set-up
- Bouncy
- Comes with a tree protection and a training line
- Uses a rubber grip to safeguard feet from falling
- Great tricks
- TrueLength concept
CONS:
- Limited applications
- Not so good for starters
- The training line may require constant tightening
Related: if you are looking forward to exploring new set of tricks as an approach to build the muscle capacity of complex or advance movements, the HopOn 50ft Training Line is what you need.
Macaco Slackline
Price: $34 – $80
Weight: 2 kg
Dimension: 3.15 x 8.35 x 12.68 inches
Specific features: Easy to setup, great for beginners, sturdy jungle design prints, lightweight, nice and strong rachet
Best use: Back garden, local park
Description: Macaco Slackline and Booklet is a great line for beginners and all levels of users who wanted to get into slacklining especially in the back garden or at the local park. This latest 2015 version featuring durable jungle design prints is an eco-friendly design that comes in a free carry bag.
The Macaco slackline is a high quality kit just like the Gibbon, but the Macaco lines are even better value than the other brands.
This model is one of the lightest around the market, which is easy to stick in your backpack and travelling around. Despite being light, this slackline is very strong and can even handle up to 3 tons! Imagine?
This one is so simple to set up with a nice and strong ratchet. It has a wide weave that helps you find your balance while walking. Just attach the slackline to trees, and get walking that line over and over again!
PROS:
- Easy to set up
- High quality
- Durable
- Line is strong and lightweight
- Good for kids and beginners
- Slightly cheaper
CONS:
- Bad color for aerial play
- Slightly bad quality
Related: if you need a good slackline tree wear for your slacklining activity, then you can check out the Gibbon Slacklines Tree Wear.
Gibbon Slacklines Classicline Red Edition
Price: $70 – $75
Weight: 6.6 pounds
Dimension: 10.4 x 8.6 x 2.1 inches
Specific features: Simplicity, durability, approved by the German Association for technical inspection, easy to use kit, thick weave
Best use: Schools, gyms, training purposes
Description: Gibbon Slacklines Classicline Red Edition is the most bought slackline in the world! It was approved by the German Association for Technical Inspection which means it exceeds US Safety Standards.
Gibbon Classic Line is so popular because it is robust, safe, easy to use, and high quality material. This will absolutely lasts longer than the other brands on the market.
The Gibbon Slackline Classic Line is very good for beginners and non-rock climbers. It has a thick weave that is ideal for walking, balancing, jumping, or getting started with tricks. It is simple yet very durable.
This model is the most widely used set in schools, in gyms, and for any training purposes. The two part set was designed for fast assembly and disassembly.
The Classic line is only slightly less costly compared to the Slackline Baseline kit, and you get somewhat less for your cash. The accessible length is a little more than 40 feet. The ratchet tensioning set-up tool functions admirably, and it should just take around five minutes to set up the slackline. It is best utilized for strolling to the ground level.
PROS:
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Easy to walk
- Inexpensive
CONS:
- Not versatile
- Line is a bit shorter
Related: if you are a beginner and you want to learn how to slackline in proper form, then the Slackline Industries Help Line is what you need.
Slackline Industries Baseline Slackline
Price: $50 – $110
Weight: 300 pounds / 136 kg
Dimension: 16.4 x 13 x 5 inches
Specific features: Complete kit (tree protection, instructional DVD, twin gear push ratchet), versatile, quick setup, custom designed weave baseline, thick weave,
Best use: Beginning practice, general use, walking, static tricks and longer lines
Description: Slackline Industries Baseline Slackline is the ONLY USA Brand of slacklines that’s fully compliant with US (CPSIA) and European (EN79400:2012) regulations.
This is also certified by TüV – German Technical Inspection Association. Therefore, this slackline exceeds US Safety Standards.
This complete introductory slackline kit is designed specifically for beginners and intermediate users. It provides flexibility to walk or to jump while maintaining stability for easy learning. This package consists of an instructional DVD, Tree Protection, and Twin Gear Push Ratchet.
Instructional DVD: it comes with a video that covers the set up, take down, and foundational techniques in balancing, walking, and progressing to tricks on the slackline to help you learn. It also gives an introduction to walking and basic tricks.
Tree protection: it was constructed with (1/4 inch) thick felt wraps with Velcro closures included to protect the bark of the trees and the slackline from abrasion. Two pieces (5 x 40 inches – 12.5 cm x 1 m)
Twin gear push ratchet: it was designed to provide the most efficient and safest way to tighten your slackline. The twin gear maximizes the pulling strength and the push style ratchet it positions the user outside the hazard zone while rigging.
This slackline is designed with 2 inches wide to be an easy to use kit appealing to all levels of users. The thicker weave is ideal for walking and for getting started with tricks. This is so easy to set up. In just 10 minutes or less, you can set up your slackline so quickly!
PROS:
- Beginner
- Easy to set up
- Friendly
- Inexpensive
- Durable
- Includes tree protection
- Can be good for tricks
CONS:
- Not versatile
- Has no training line
Related: Improve the tension level of your slackline with the amazing GIBBON Slacklines Power Ratchet.
Gibbon 2-piece Tree Protection Set
Price: $45 – $50
Weight: 245 grams
Dimension: 2.8 x 6.3 x 7.5 inches
Specific features: special synthetic felt, durable, easy set-up, Velcro (easy fastening system), can be extended for larger trees, no slip
Best use: Slacklining
Description: Gibbon 2-Piece Tree Protection Set is made of special synthetic felt which protects the bark of the tree and your slackline from abrasion. This is environmentally friendly material which protects the trees when used for slacklining.
This tree protection set is very easy to set-up. It has Velcro on the end of the tree wear for easy fastening system. You will just have to put it around the trunk of the tree as this is very easy to handle. It also prevents the slackline from slipping during the set-up.
This tree protection set is very durable. You can rely on this for your slackline. This set will fit exactly around a tree 12 inches in diameter. Of course, they don’t need to fit completely around, just a little more than half way to keep the slackline from chaffing.
This tree protection set is made from non-slip felt construction. You can be sure your slackline will not slip, but keeps steady. This system also can be extended for larger trees.
PROS:
- Easy to set up
- Friendly
- Inexpensive
- Durable
CONS:
- Tree protection not long enough
Related: if you are looking forward to exploring new set of tricks as an approach to build the muscle capacity of complex or advance movements, the HopOn 50ft Training Line is what you need.
Concluding Thoughts
The seven slacklines reviewed above are definitely some of the greatest models for the beginners. Nowadays, there are different variations of the sport have evolved. Each variation shares the same simple gear yet offers contrasts in terms of techniques.
Slacklining is one of the best activities in the world. This will not only help you better your posture and improve your core strength, but also will help you become meditative. This helps sharpen focus and nurturing appreciation. By bringing people together, slacklining promotes social interaction.
Yes, each of these slacklines may differ in designs, features and styles. It requires balance, concentration, and creativity of the mind and body. Since then, the sky is the limit in terms of the creativity and athleticism.
Do you think we have left out any of the great products out there? If so, please let us know in the comments section below.
Easy to set up… robust components . I am certain I would have numerous years of challenge and enjoyment. Although it requires some care to avoid minor accidents while using it, other than that slacklines are great product sto buy and I highly recommend that you do so. Better than playing video games indoors, hands Down!
You’re right, slacklines can be addicting because yes – they pose quite a challenge. Most kids and adults love how it promotes eye coordination, focus and concentration. What more, families can really bond together and experience the joy of being outdoors, for a change.
Slacklining is always so much fun and thrilling. It is one of the activities that never misses on family day out but someone misplaced the kit so now we need to buy a replacement. The Gibson Slackline looks to be having the right features but I will look at a few other brands before making a decision
My buddies and I love slacklining. It helps us with coordination, focus and balance. I also love the fact that anyone can just go outdoors and have fun. It’s very entertaining and provides the needed respite for tech games.
I noticed you have a picture of someone walking on a yogaslackers E-line in the beginning of the article, but don’t mention the E-line in your review? I think the E-line is an excellent light weight, easy to setup line for beginners. It’s a great 1″ webbing option for those not seeking tricklining as a focus. All the mentioned options are great too, however I would consider checking out the 1″ E-line as a viable option for beginners as well. Thanks ??
Hi there and thanks for pointing that out. I will surely consider your advise and hopefully will be able to come up with good content in the coming months. I hope to hear from you again! 🙂