Off-Road Vehicle Recovery: The Ultimate Guide to Using Traction Boards
Mar 07, 2023
Experiencing off-roading or overlanding over extended periods often results in getting stuck in the mud, sand, or snow. When this happens, a set of traction boards comes to the rescue, providing a vital lifeline for a safe recovery. These textured planks, also known as recovery tracks or traction mats, are designed to offer improved grip by placing them beneath the wheels of your vehicle.
The primary purpose of traction boards is to provide the necessary traction for safe recovery. However, their uses go far beyond just that. These boards can be used to navigate ledges and deep holes by acting as bridges to prevent your car's wheels from sinking too deep and potentially causing damage. That said, investing in a good quality set of traction boards is paramount due to the weight requirements necessary to utilize them as a bridge. Lesser quality boards may falter and lead to further damage to your vehicle.
In some instances, using a real shovel to remove dirt, sand, or snow off your wheels is more efficient than using traction boards. But in some cases, using the boards as a makeshift shovel can be quicker and easier, especially if you don't want to bring both a shovel and a traction board with you. However, if you plan on doing a significant amount of digging, bringing a trail shovel is always a good idea.
When traveling off-road or in difficult road conditions, such as snow, ice, sand, or mud, traction boards are mainly used to provide the necessary grip. By placing them beneath your car's tires, you can quickly and safely get unstuck from slippery surfaces, whether you're off-roading or navigating difficult conditions on paved roads.
In conclusion, having a good set of traction boards in your off-roading arsenal can be a game-changer when it comes to vehicle recovery. With their multitude of uses, investing in a quality set of traction boards is a wise decision for anyone who wants to venture off the beaten path.