A quality towing strap can be the line between a swift vehicle recovery and a hazardous mishap. When selecting one, keep these crucial factors in mind:
Weight Capacity
- First, determine your vehicle’s weight—you can find this via the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
- Next, choose a strap with a Working Load Limit (WLL) that’s at least 2 to 3 times your vehicle’s weight. For instance, if you drive a 6,000-pound SUV, opt for a towing strap with a WLL of 12,000 to 18,000 pounds. This buffer ensures the strap can handle sudden tension spikes during recovery.
Length and Width
- Length: A 20–30 strap works best for most recovery situations. This length gives enough room to position the rescue vehicle safely without leaving excess slack (which can cause dangerous “whipping” when tension is applied).
- Width: Go for a strap that’s 2–4 inches wide. A wider strap distributes the load more evenly, boosts overall strength, and reduces wear—all of which help prevent failures during use.
