Therefore, the optimum design of an anchor is influenced primarily by the specific composition of the ocean floor, which is generally categorized into three groups: mud, sand, and rock or marl . Mud varies most in consistency and offers little resistance to dragging forces. Sand is almost ideally consistent, and anchors specifically designed for sand bottoms reach excellent holding efficiency. On the other hand, rock or marl is a very poor holding ground, where an anchor's dead weight is its only assent.

An anchor's efficiency is expressed in holding power ratio, that is, the holding force per anchor weight. The proof test involves applying a static load to the assembled anchor to test its structural design and material properties as related to the holding force.

The holding power of an anchor is affected greatly by the angle of its flukes. In order for the flukes to enter the bottom at an angle that will allow the crown or head to penetrate to a depth producing maximum efficiency, the angle of the fluke to the shaft should approximate 50 degrees in mud bottoms and 30 degrees in sand.