How to Break in a Bull Rope

The thought of jumping on the back of a half-ton bucking bull may frighten the pants off most people, but for bull riders, it's the ultimate high. Bull riders rely on their bull ropes to keep them aboard the bull, and breaking in a rope properly is essential to keeping the cowboy safe and secure. Breaking in must be done slowly to make sure the rope reaches the right balance of firmness and flexibility.

Things You'll Need

  • Bull rope
  • Hand weights
  • Heavy leather gloves
  • Rosin
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the rope as often as possible. The more frequently you ride with a new rope, the faster the rope will mold to your hand and the contours of the animal.

    • 2

      Secure the end of the rope through the belt loop on your pants and drag it along the ground as you feed and work the bulls. Dirt and rocks are extremely abrasive and will soften up stiff rope fibers as you work. If the rope gets muddy or dusty, rinse it with clean water and lay it in a sunny place to dry.

    • 3

      Tie a heavy hand weight to the end of the rope and hang it over a sturdy hitching post or fence post. The weight will stretch the fibers, gradually softening your bull rope. Tie the rope out in the morning when you start your chores, and bring it in when you're finished for the day.

    • 4

      Rosin your bull rope to keep it tacky when you ride. Hook the rope over a tall post and slip into a pair of leather gloves. Fill your palm with rosin and wrap your hand around the rope. Run your hand quickly up and down the entire length of the rope, adding more rosin as necessary. The rosin heats up when rubbed, making the rope sticky and securing your hand when you're strapped in and ready to ride.