If you’ve ever had to lift heavy equipment or support an injured arm, you’ve probably realized something quickly: not all slings are created equal. There are three different types of slings. What determines which type you use? The answer depends on weight, load shape, injury type, safety requirements, and working conditions.

In this guide, we’ll break down the three different types of slings, explain when each one makes sense, and help you make the right call—whether you’re in construction, healthcare, or material handling.

The Three Different Types of Slings

In industrial and lifting environments, the three primary types of slings are:

1. Wire Rope Slings

2. Chain Slings

3. Synthetic Slings

Let’s look at each one in detail.

1. Wire Rope Slings

What They Are

Wire rope slings are made from braided steel wires twisted into strands. They’re commonly used in heavy-duty lifting operations.

Best For

• Construction sites

• Industrial lifting

• Heavy, rugged loads

• Situations involving abrasion or rough edges

Advantages

• Strong and durable

• Resistant to heat

• Good for heavy loads

Limitations

• Can damage delicate surfaces

• Less flexible than synthetic options

• Requires regular inspection for broken wires

When to Choose Wire Rope Slings

If your load is heavy, rough, and exposed to harsh conditions, wire rope slings are often the safest bet. Industries following standards set by organizations like Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rely heavily on them for structural lifts.

2. Chain Slings

Chain slings are made from high-strength alloy steel chains. They are extremely durable and adjustable.

Best For

• High-temperature environments

• Heavy machinery lifting

• Applications requiring length adjustments

Advantages

• Extremely strong

• Adjustable configurations

• Resistant to cuts and abrasion

Limitations

• Heavier than other sling types

• Can scratch finished surfaces

• More expensive

When to Choose Chain Slings

Chain slings are ideal when you need maximum strength and flexibility in harsh environments. They’re widely used in manufacturing and industries guided by standards from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

If the job involves heat, sharp edges, or repeated heavy lifting, chain slings are often the superior choice.

3. Synthetic Slings

What They Are

Synthetic slings are made from materials like nylon or polyester. They are lightweight and flexible.

Best For

• Delicate loads

• Painted or finished surfaces

• Situations requiring flexibility

Types of Synthetic Slings

• Web slings

• Round slings

Advantages

• Lightweight and easy to handle

• Won’t damage load surfaces

• Flexible around irregular shapes

Limitations

• Vulnerable to cuts and chemicals

• Less heat resistant

• Must be carefully inspected

When to Choose Synthetic Slings

If you’re lifting fragile equipment, polished materials, or oddly shaped loads, synthetic slings are usually the safest option. They’re also easier on workers due to their lighter weight.

What Determines Which Type of Sling You Use?

Now let’s answer the core question: there are three different types of slings. What determines which type you use?

It comes down to five key factors:

1. Load Weight (Load Capacity)

Every sling has a Working Load Limit (WLL).
Never exceed it. Ever.

Heavy loads typically require chain or wire rope slings. Lighter or delicate loads often work better with synthetic slings.

2. Load Shape and Surface

• Sharp edges → Chain or wire rope

• Fragile or polished surface → Synthetic

• Irregular shapes → Flexible synthetic round slings

3. Environment

• High heat → Chain slings

• Chemical exposure → Depends on material compatibility

• Outdoor weather exposure → Wire rope or treated synthetic

4. Frequency of Use

If you’re lifting daily in tough conditions, durability matters more than convenience.

5. Safety and Compliance

Regulations from organizations like OSHA and ASME dictate inspection intervals, capacity ratings, and proper rigging methods. Compliance isn’t optional—it’s mandatory.

Sling Configurations Also Matter

Beyond material, configuration affects safety:

• Vertical hitch

• Basket hitch

• Choker hitch

Each method changes the load distribution and effective working load limit. Always calculate properly before lifting.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Sling

Avoid these errors:

• Ignoring load angles

• Not checking for wear or damage

• Choosing based on cost instead of safety

• Failing to verify weight ratings

Shortcuts in rigging often lead to accidents. Precision beats speed every time.

FAQs About the Three Different Types of Slings

1. What are the three main types of lifting slings?

Wire rope slings, chain slings, and synthetic slings.

2. Which sling type is strongest?

Chain slings generally offer the highest strength and heat resistance.

3. When should synthetic slings be avoided?

Avoid them in high-heat environments or when sharp edges are present.

4. How often should slings be inspected?

Before every use and according to OSHA and ASME guidelines.

5. Can one sling type replace all others?

No. Each type serves a specific purpose. Choosing the wrong sling increases risk.

Conclusion

There are three different types of slings. What determines which type you use? It’s not guesswork—it’s about load weight, environment, surface condition, durability needs, and regulatory compliance.

Choose wire rope for toughness.
Choose synthetic for flexibility and surface protection.

The right sling protects your load. More importantly, it protects people.

If you’re responsible for lifting operations, don’t just pick what’s available. Evaluate the job, verify load limits, and follow industry standards. Your safety margin depends on it.