Being prepared is rule number one of overlanding, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time off-road driver. This couldn’t be truer during recovery.
Carrying the supplies you need to launch your very own self-rescue on-board is critical to success. One of the most valuable and versatile self-recovery tools you can have is the humble tree trunk protector. Here’s why!
They’re kind to the environment…
In our opinion, no recovery kit should be without a tree trunk protector. This wide, flat strap may be simple in its design yet its durability can get you out of some pretty sticky situations, as well as help you ‘Leave No Trace’ on your surroundings.
This recovery essential is designed to protect both the environment and your recovery gear when winching, even if surrounding trees are your only anchor points. Needless to say, wrapping a steel cable or synthetic rope directly around a tree can cause significant damage, stripping away the bark, injuring the tree and even killing it.
A tree trunk protector spreads the load more evenly, minimising damage and preserving the natural environment for other avid adventurers to explore.
…and great news for your recovery gear
Using a tree trunk protector helps to preserve those other essentials in your recovery kit. Directly winching around a tree without a protector can cause abrasion and wear on your winch rope, which could in fact lead to premature failure. By using a tree trunk protector, you’ll reduce friction and extend the life of those recovery essentials.
They can be used in more ways than one…
A tree trunk protector is more versatile than you might think. It can be used at both ends during the recovery process, namely as an equaliser strap as 4WDing Australia explains:
“If its long enough, and rated, you can use tree trunk protectors, and even rigging slings. It’s all about the length, condition of the equipment and the rating. By the time you carry everything from a tree trunk protector to equaliser strap, winch extension, shackles, pulleys, snatch straps and other bits and bobs the recovery gear size and weight adds up, and that’s not doing anyone any favours.”
…and across several settings and terrain types
Tree trunk protectors aren’t just for wooded trails. They’re useful when extracting your vehicle from mud or sand, providing a stable anchor point where traction is minimal if a suitable tree is available. When navigating rocky terrain or steep inclines, a tree trunk protector allows you to use any secure natural feature as an anchor without causing damage.
Even where trees are few and far between, tree trunk protectors can be used creatively with other recovery tools, such as ground anchors, to create makeshift anchor points.
They really are SO easy to use
Making the self-rescue process as simple and straightforward as possible is essential. After all, who doesn’t want to get back on the road even quicker? One of the reasons why we, and so many overlanding enthusiasts, love the tree trunk protector is because of its simplicity.
Tree trunk protectors can be deployed with ease and minimal effort, which is vital to success, especially in scenarios where every minute counts. All you have to do is secure your protector around a tree or anchor point, connect your winch line, and you’re ready to start your recovery. Most protectors come with reinforced eyes, making it easy to attach shackles or D-rings securely.
When they’re not in use, tree trunk protectors are lightweight, easy to store, and super convenient to carry wherever your adventure takes you.
Want to experience all the perks of tree trunk protectors for yourself? Shop this recovery must-have right here.
