Off-Road Recovery Gear
Recovery equipment for getting stuck vehicles moving: traction boards, shackles and D-rings, soft shackles, tree and ratchet straps, winch fairleads and shovels. Brands include Agency 6, MAXTRAX, Krazy Beaver Tools and Carbon Offroad. Check working load ratings against your vehicle weight, and carry more than one recovery point and strap.
Guides for this category
Off-Road Recovery Gear FAQs
What recovery gear should I carry for off-roading?
A basic kit is traction boards, a shovel, a rated recovery strap, two rated shackles or soft shackles, gloves and a tire inflation setup. Add a winch or a second vehicle for deeper trails. Start with traction boards, since they get you out of sand, mud and snow without anyone else.
Can I use a tow hook or tow ball for recovery?
Only if the manufacturer rates it for recovery. Tow balls and many factory hooks are not meant for the shock load of a recovery pull and can fail. Use rated frame-mounted recovery points or D-ring mounts.
What is the difference between a soft shackle and a steel shackle?
A soft shackle is a loop of synthetic rope, light and unlikely to injure if it breaks. A steel shackle is more resistant to abrasion and heat. Both need a working load rating that suits your vehicle.
How do traction boards work?
You wedge them under the tire so the treads grip the ribs, and the vehicle drives up and out of soft ground. They also work as a bridge over small gaps or ruts. Dig out the tire path first.
How do I choose a winch recovery rating?
A common rule of thumb is a winch rated at around one and a half times the loaded weight of the vehicle. Check the rating on the listing and see the winches collection for options.
