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However, if the word trend is understood as meaning a boom, comeback or renaissance, then rope play equipment isn't heading the field.
Rope play equipment has been around for several decades and has an established place in the range of playground equipment - and rightly so!
The elasticity and tactile nature of rope means an additional rope element is now to be found in or on almost all playground equipment. The deliberate instability of such nets and bridges helps children to develop their motor skills and to enhance their balance.
And rope play equipment goes a step further, because in such equipment rope is not an additional component but the basic medium for play.
Rope is a complex and often underestimated material which requires expert processing.
Anyone who thinks it suffices to acquire some rope and then to make an item of play equipment with it will soon realise that the manufacture of these products demands considerable expertise. In particular when there is an unswerving commitment to outstanding quality, longevity and safety.
In recent years a number of companies, both in Germany and overseas, have attempted to follow the trend in a bid to make a fast buck from rope play equipment. The outcome has been poorly built equipment with a high profit margin imported from low-wage countries and sold in Europe.
Regrettably, the image of rope play equipment has been damaged by these poorly manufactured products and a disappointed customer is rarely willing to give it a second chance.
Rope play equipment deserves much better because it really does deliver exceptional play value!
Made in Germany rope play equipment keeps its promises. – and sometimes for over 25 years!
Heiko Patzer, SMB Seilspielgeräte
Images: SMB Seilspielgeräte
