How to Use a Soft Shackle (Without Stuffing It Up)

Because bruised shins and steel projectiles are so last season. Soft shackles are the lightweight legends of modern 4WD recovery gear. No sharp metal. No risk of knocking out your teeth. Just strong, flexible, and ridiculously easy to use—if you know how.

Here’s the quick-start guide to using a soft shackle like a pro.

Step 1:

Inspect It Before You Use It

Always check for:

• Fraying
• Cuts or abrasion
• Excessive dirt or debris in the fibres
• If it’s looking tired, retire it. They’re tough, but not invincible.

Step 2:

Loop It Through Proper Recovery Points

Not your towball. Not a random hole in your chassis. Use rated recovery points only.

Thread the soft shackle through both the strap/rope loop and the recovery point.

Then feed the knot back through the loop. Tighten it by pulling.

Step 3:

Keep the Knot Outside the Danger Zone

The knot should sit outside the recovery connection, not wedged between two surfaces.

This prevents wear and makes it easier to undo after the pull.

Step 4:

Don’t Shock Load It

Soft shackles love smooth tension. That means slow acceleration, not redlining it in reverse.

Paired with a kinetic rope, you’ll get a smooth, controlled pull every time.

Bonus Tips:

Don’t drag them through the dirt. It weakens the fibres.

If they’re wet, rinse and dry before storing.

Always undo them completely before tossing them back in the bag.

Soft shackles are strong. But you still need to use your brain.

Treat them right, and they’ll outlast your paint job.