Tippet is the most critical connection between you and the fish. A weak line can turn a trophy catch into a devastating break-off. For many anglers, the classic RIO Powerflex Tippet is their essential link.
This material is a high tenacity copolymer nylon. It is known for its excellent knot strength and suppleness. In fact, RIO tippet is sometimes cited as the number one selling tippet in the industry.
If you are looking for a reliable, all-around trout tippet, look no further. This guide details the features, sizing, and applications of RIO Powerflex Tippet. We will also compare it to the popular Powerflex Plus version.
RIO Powerflex Tippet Material and Core Features
RIO designed the Powerflex Tippet to handle nearly all freshwater applications. It provides a balance of strength and flexibility. This combination ensures smooth presentation and reliable landings.
High Knot Strength and Suppleness
The tippet is engineered from a high knot strength copolymer nylon. This construction is sometimes simply called “double strength nylon”. The material is notably supple, or soft.
This suppleness greatly enhances the natural presentation of your fly. The material also features elasticity and stretch. This stretch acts like a shock absorber when a fish suddenly strikes. This forgiveness is crucial when using light gear on energetic fish.
Abrasion Resistance and Camouflage
RIO Powerflex Tippet provides superior abrasion resistance. This allows the material to maintain its integrity under harsh conditions. It holds up well against rocks and underwater structures.
The tippet features a light gray color. This light gray is designed for superb camouflage. It helps the line blend seamlessly into any sub-aquatic environment.
Ideal Applications for Powerflex Tippet
RIO Powerflex Tippet is intended as the go-to tippet for trout. It is a versatile choice suitable for fishing nymphs, streamers, and dry flies. It is important to remember that Powerflex is a nylon monofilament (mono). It is not a fluorocarbon material.
Nylon is less dense than fluorocarbon. This lower density causes the tippet to sink slower. As a result, it presents flies higher in the water column. This makes the RIO Powerflex Tippet ideal for dry fly fishing and soft hackles. Its suppleness further ensures drag-free drifts.
RIO Powerflex Tippet Sizing and Packaging Options
The standard RIO Powerflex Tippet line covers a vast range of angling situations. You can find it in sizes from 8X up to 60 lb. test.
Standard Powerflex Sizing (X to Pound Test)
The common “X” sizes run from 8X up to 0X. These correspond to increasingly heavier pound tests. For example, the smaller 7X breaks at 2.4 lb.. The heavy 0X breaks at 15 lb..
Here is a summary of the standard X sizes and test strengths:
| X Size | Break Strength (lb) | Diameter (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 8X | 1.5lb | 0.003in |
| 7X | 2.4 lb. | 0.004 in |
| 6X | 3.4lb | 0.005 in |
| 5X | 5.0 lb. | 0.006 in |
| 4X | 6.4 lb. | 0.007 in |
| 0X | 15 lb. | 0.011 in |
Spool Lengths and Organization
RIO Powerflex Tippet is available in several convenient spool options. Regular spools contain 30 yards of material in sizes up to 25 lb. strength. Longer “Guide” spools are also available. These guide spools often contain 100 or 110 yards of tippet.
Many anglers prefer the money-saving three-pack option. These packs come with three spools of tippet. They are conveniently packaged in a handy, reusable plastic cup. These three-packs are offered in size ranges like 4X-6X, 3X-5X, and 0X-2X.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
All RIO spools feature an interlocking design. This allows them to snap together for easy organization in your pack or vest. They also use a patented restraint strap. This strap has the size and specifications printed on it.
Comparing RIO Powerflex Tippet and Powerflex Plus
RIO also offers the advanced Powerflex Plus Tippet material. This product is aimed at anglers needing maximum tensile strength. Understanding the differences helps you select the right tool for the job.
Strength and Technology Comparison
RIO Powerflex Plus Tippet is described as the strongest nylon tippet material RIO has ever produced. This increase in strength comes from VHT Nylon Technology. This is a highly technical formulation of the nylon copolymer manufacturing process.
This VHT technology boosts tensile strength up to 20% more than regular tippet of the same diameter. For instance, if standard RIO Powerflex 5X breaks at 5 lb., the Powerflex Plus 5X breaks at 6 lb.. That is a 20% gain in strength.
Despite this strength increase, the Powerflex Plus version still maintains its superb knot strength and suppleness. The strongest diameter available for the Powerflex Plus is 0X, breaking at 18 lb..
Performance Trade-offs
Both products are high-quality nylon materials. However, the Powerflex Plus is known to be slightly stiffer than the non-plus version. It is also noted to be pricier.
While RIO Powerflex Tippet has high knot strength, it faces stiff competition. An independent wet knot strength test showed that RIO Powerflex 5X broke at 2.99 lb.. This was less than competitors like Orvis Super Strong Nylon, which broke at 3.41 lb. in the same test.
Regardless of comparison tests, many anglers successfully use RIO Powerflex. They find it reliable enough even for picky, heavily pressured fish.
The RIO Powerflex Tippet is a high-tenacity copolymer nylon. It offers anglers an excellent combination of stretch, suppleness, and knot strength. Its light gray color also provides good camouflage.
This material is a fantastic all-around option for targeting trout. Its lower density compared to fluorocarbon makes it perfect for dry flies. If you need maximum breaking strength for the diameter, choose the RIO Powerflex Plus. That Plus version offers up to 20% more tensile strength.
No matter your choice, having reliable tippet ensures success on the water.
Upgrade your fly fishing gear today. Click here to shop RIO Powerflex Tippet!
Check Price on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about RIO Powerflex Tippet
Is RIO Powerflex Tippet a mono or fluorocarbon?
RIO Powerflex Tippet is a nylon monofilament, also referred to as a high tenacity copolymer nylon. The fluorocarbon version offered by RIO is called Fluoroflex.
What type of fishing is the standard RIO Powerflex best suited for?
RIO Powerflex Tippet is an excellent, all-around nylon material ideal for almost all trout fly fishing needs. It works well for nymphs, soft hackles, streamers, and is particularly good for dry fly fishing. Its relatively lower density helps it present the fly higher in the water column.
What is the meaning of “Plus” in RIO Powerflex Plus Tippet?
The “Plus” designation indicates that the material incorporates VHT Nylon Technology. This technology makes the material stronger than the regular Powerflex. Powerflex Plus is up to 20% stronger for the same diameter.
How is RIO Powerflex Tippet packaged and organized?
RIO Powerflex Tippet is sold on regular 30-yard spools. It is also available in longer guide spools. Additionally, RIO offers a money-saving three-pack option. All RIO spools use an interlocking design for neat organization. The spools also feature a patented restraint strap for size identification.
