Best Throw Lines UK
Best Throw Lines UK — When to Use One and What to Buy
A throw line is a rope in a bag that you throw to someone in the water. Simple concept, critical equipment — particularly on rivers and in kayaking environments where the speed of deployment matters enormously.
Throw Line vs Lifebuoy — When to Use Each
A lifebuoy is the right tool on a vessel — you throw it into the water for someone to hold. It floats independently.
A throw line is the right tool when you are on the bank of a river or close to the water’s edge and can maintain control of one end while the person in the water grabs the other. In a fast-moving river situation, a throw line is faster to deploy and gives you direct control for hauling the person to shore.
Standard kayak safety training covers throw line technique as a core skill. Every kayaker paddling rivers should carry one and know how to use it. Probably worth reading up our MOB specific page.
What Makes a Good Throw Line?
Length — 15 to 20 metres is standard. Long enough to reach across most river widths from the bank.
Line type — floating polypropylene rope that stays on the surface of the water and does not tangle. Never use a line that sinks.
Bag design — the line must pack back into the bag quickly for repeated throws. A bag that is difficult to repack under pressure is a safety hazard.
High visibility colour — orange or yellow. You want the bag visible in the air and in the water.
Our Recommended Throw Lines
Palm Alpine Throwline 20m
The Pro’s choice: A rescue throwline featuring detachable‚ easy-to-handle floating rope. Our Pro throwlines are designed to be adaptable‚ with belt attachments‚ wide neck openings and floating bags. Weight: 1168 g (20 m) Bag: CORDURA® 500D bag with built-in foam floatation
Lomo 15m Kayak Throwline With Belt
A well-regarded, widely used throw line in the UK kayaking community. 15-metre floating polypropylene line, easy-repack bag, high-visibility orange. Used by kayaking instructors and river safety teams across the world
NRS Kayak Tow Tether
Specifically designed for kayak-to-kayak and kayak-to-shore rescue. Compact, clips to a PFD or buoyancy aid, extends rapidly when needed.
FAQs
How do I use a throw line correctly?
Hold the loop end of the line in your non-throwing hand. Throw the bag underarm to the person in the water — aim to throw beyond them so the line lands across them. Shout “rope” as you throw so they know to grab it. Once they have the line, brace yourself and allow them to hold on while you haul them to safety.
Do I need a throw line on a kayak in the UK?
For river kayaking with any significant current — yes. For flat calm lake paddling — the risk is lower but the equipment takes up very little space. British Canoeing safety guidance recommends throw lines for river use.
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