Recovery Gear 101 for Overlanders

Overview

• Recovery gear is essential for overlanding, enabling you to navigate rough terrain and free vehicles stuck in mud or sand.
• Reliable tools enhance both safety and enjoyment during your trip.
  
• Familiarity with your recovery equipment simplifies obstacle management and enriches your overall experience. Overland Kings provides dependable, durable recovery gear to ensure your overlanding expeditions are safe and well-prepared.

Recovery gear is essential for overlanding, providing the tools needed to recover your vehicle from challenging terrain.

While getting stuck in mud or sand is common during overlanding, having a reliable recovery kit keeps your trip safe and equips you to handle any obstacles along the way.

So if you are wondering which tool is which, here are some essential recovery gear for your next overlanding expedition.

What are the Must-Have Recovery Gears in Overlanding?

Recovery Straps

Recovery straps, sometimes called snatch straps or kinetic ropes are specialized straps made from durable materials that are designed to stretch and absorb shock during the recovery process.

Unlike standard tow straps, recovery straps can stretch up to 30%, which lets them store and gradually release energy. This reduces sudden jerking motions that can happen when pulling a stuck vehicle, helping protect both vehicles and keeping everyone safe.

The stretch is especially useful when dealing with heavier vehicles, as it eases the strain on both vehicles during recovery. Whether you’re dealing with mud, sand, or steep terrain, recovery straps are a great addition to any off-road kit.

Hard and Soft Shackles

In overlanding, shackles are essential components used to connect recovery gear to other vehicles or anchor points. There are two main types of shackles: hard and soft.

Hard shackles, typically made of steel with a screw-in pin, are designed to withstand heavy loads, making them reliable for heavy-duty applications.

In contrast, soft shackles are crafted from synthetic fibers with a looped design secured by a knot, often called a “monkey fist.” They are lighter than hard shackles and offer advantages such as improved safety—being less likely to cause injury—and flexibility to conform around irregular shapes.

Winch

A winch is a vital component of recovery gear for overlanding. This mechanical device features a spool or drum that winds a cable or rope, helping extract vehicles stuck in challenging terrain.

Winches come in various types for overlanding, including electric, hydraulic, and manual options.

Electric winches, powered by your vehicle’s battery, are the most common type of winch used in overlanding recovery gear. They are typically easier to use and can be operated from inside your car using a remote control.

Recovery Boards

Recovery boards, also known as traction boards, are essential items in your recovery gear. These tools are designed to help your vehicle regain traction when stuck in mud or sand.

Typically made from durable plastic, they feature a long, flat design with a textured surface. To use them, simply place the boards under the tires of the stuck vehicle to provide additional traction. Then, accelerate gently, allowing the tires to grip the boards and lift the car out of its stuck position and onto solid ground.

Besides their main use, recovery boards can also serve other purposes. They can act as makeshift ramps for loading gear. Their lightweight design also makes them easy to carry, and many models have built-in handles for convenience.

Pulley Block