Unlike the uncoated soft fabric-type lines you generally see, these are coated with TPU which gives the lines a solid surface, kind of like the soft plastic material biothane which often gets used for collars and leads for similar reasons - it makes the equipment waterproof and easy to clean, as well as extremely durable and sturdy. These lines have been in near-constant use for the last few years, and are still showing no signs of wear and tear! I find that the friction you get when treading on these lines is also better than what you can get with uncoated fabric, particularly in wet weather. You’ll also find that uncoated fabric lines absorb a lot of water and become heavier in wet weather, which also doesn’t happen for these lines. Finally, just look at those bright colours! Natural fabric colours often used like black can easily blend into the ground, particulalry when they start to get wet and muddy. These lines don’t lose their colour, and the super hi-vis yellow and pink are ideal for keeping an eye on the line, plus the dog on the end of it!