Abstract: A strength member for a fiber optic cable having reinforcing fibers that are oriented in a non-longitudinal direction within a matrix material. By orienting the reinforcing fibers in a non-longitudinal direction within the matrix material, the strength member gains strength in tension and in torsion. The reinforcing fibers are oriented in a cross-helical pattern within the matrix material or they can be chopped into smaller fragments and randomly oriented within the matrix material. Additionally, the strength member can have a hollow core regardless of the orientation of the reinforcing fibers and still increase the strength of the strength member in tension and torsion. Finally, the diameter of the strength member can be altered by adding a soft plastic outer cover surrounding the solid strength member.