Off-road adventures are never complete without a winch. In essence, such escapades come with higher risks of your vehicle getting stuck for one reason or another. However, what enables the reliability and effectiveness of a winch? Particularly, off-road hauling isn't complete without winch accessories.
In this write-up, we will zero in on the key accessories that make the use of a winch super easy. Primarily, these additional items are meant to make winching fun rather than complicated. So, without much ado, let's dive into how these accessories work and our best picks for each item.
Best Winch Accessories for 2022
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1. Winch Shackles
Shackles are among the essential winch accessories you shouldn't leave behind while off-roading. Winch shackles act as primary connectors to various outdoor utilities. For instance, shackles are useful while connecting a winch to a tree saver (which will be covered later in this write-up).
Also, shackles can be used to implement hook connections with a vehicle. In a utility like connecting to an extension rope, using shackles will be helpful but unnecessary. Generally, shackles come in pairs, but you can use more of this accessory depending on your off-road utility. In line with shackles, other off-road utilities might require a shackle mount or thimble for increased reinforcement.
Best Winch Shackles
AUTMATCH Shackles 3/4" D Ring Shackle
Sale
AUTMATCH Shackles 3/4" D Ring Shackle (2 Pack) 41,887Ibs Break Strength with 7/8" Screw Pin and...
- Super Quality: 3/4 Inch D Ring Shackle Was Made of Heavy Duty...
- Fitted Suite: The Durable Rubber Shackle Isolators Work As Added...
- Double Protection: D Shackle for Prevent Rust and Corrosion By...
- Feature: Bow Shackle Design and Great For ATV, UTV, Trucks,...
- Guaranteed: All of Our Products Are Backed By Our 100%...
In the context of handy winching shackles, we can't miss to highlight the AUTMATCH 3/4" D-ring shackles. Specifically, these shackles are made with heavy-duty forged steel for industry-leading stability and strength. As a result, these shackles can be used to tow up to 4.75 Tons.
Image Credit: AUTMATCH
Additionally, these shackles are fitted with durable rubber bumper protectors that prevent friction at an anchor point. Even more, these shackle isolators minimize rattling noises while hauling or towing. Finally, in the context of outdoor use, these shackles have double protection against corrosion and rust thanks to their powder and Galvanize coating. Overall, these winch accessories are highly off-road versatile for different vehicles with different other winch accessories like snatch blocks and tow snatch straps.
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2. Winch Tow Strap
Another important winch accessory is a tow strap or tow snatch strap. As the name suggests, this accessory comes in handy while towing with the winch. Accordingly, you just need to connect one end to the recovering vehicle and the other to the stuck vehicle. Nonetheless, a tow strap is different from a tree strap (which will be covered next).
Best Winch Tow Strap
Sunferno Recovery Winch Snatch Strap
Sunferno Recovery Tow Strap 35000lb - Recover Your Vehicle Stuck in Mud/Snow - Heavy Duty 3" x 20'...
- PULL YOUR STUCK VEHICLE SAFELY OR WE'LL RETURN YOUR MONEY! -...
- BEST RECOVERY STRAP WITH 7% MAX STRETCH, NO OTHER STRAP COMPARES...
- TREE LOG, STUMP REMOVAL MADE EASY, THE ONLY EXTREME DUTY STRAP -...
- SAFEST TOW ROPE ON AMAZON, HIGH VISIBILITY, WATER RESISTANT...
- ORDER NOW FOR THESE AMAZING LIMITED TIME BONUSES - With the Tow...
We highly recommend the Sunferno recovery winch tow strap in line with the winch towing functions. This snatch tow strap offers the peace of mind of longevity. Such durability also covers premium strength that will last you years of vehicle recovery. Besides recovering vehicles, this strap is hardy enough to assist in debris, stump and bushes removal, thanks to its handling capacity of 17.7 Tons.
Image Credit: Sunferno
Moreover, this strap has a max stretch of 7% for effective pull action during recovery. Even more, this strap is reinforced with eye loops for strong winch shackle grips. It's also a single-ply strap with a heavy-duty protective sleeve for protecting users against injury. Even more, to stamp the sturdy qualities of this strap, it can effectively recover a tractor.
Suiting its outdoor utilities, the Sunferno is water-resistant and highly visible for late evening and night recoveries. Subsequently, this tow strap is easy to clean and store since it won't soak in water and start to rot. Finally, if you are lucky, you can take advantage of limited offers that come with a bonus protective sleeve and wrap tie, saving you money for extra winch accessories.
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3. Winch Tree Saver Strap
Here's the much-anticipated tree saver winch strap. Ideally, this accessory is almost similar in appearance to the winch tow strap, but it is very different. First, a tree saver strap is used to winch your vehicle using a tree. Before looping a tree saver strap/winch cable, ensure you judge the situation accordingly. As such, only use firmly-rooted and huge trees while winching to avoid felling hazards and adverse damages to a tree.
In distinguishing a tree saver strap from a tow strap, always remember that the former is much wider but shorter in length than a tow strap. Additionally, a tow strap stretches, unlike the tree saver winch strap. Subsequently, the use of each of these straps varies based on such distinguishing features.
Best Tree Saver Strap
GearAmerica Tree Saver Strap
GearAmerica Tree Saver Strap 3" x 8' – Certified 35,000 lbs (17.5 US Tons) | Use for Off Road...
- An All-In-One Recovery Solution: Our versatile Tree Saver Winch...
- Tackle Tough Towing Tasks: With a massive 35K lbs MBS (Minimum...
- Reinforced Loops and Protective Sleeves: Our large...
- A Superior, All-Weather Design: Made with a unique polyester tube...
- Peace of Mind: All GearAmerica Products include our...
A good choice for a quality tree saver strap is the GearAmerica strap. Let alone being inexpensive, this strap is an all-in-one recovery accessory that doubles as an extension and tow strap. Matching its versatility, this strap is built with a minimum break strength of 17.5 Tons and a working weight limit of 5 Tons. As such, this accessory will be effective in hauling heavy loads outdoors and on a farm.
Image Credit: GearAmerica
Furthermore, this budget strap is made with protective sleeves and double-web loop reinforcements for high tension endurance. Despite its hardy, tough and off-road suitability, this strap is lightweight for handling and storage in its hook and loop tie storage bag. Eventually, this winch accessory can be used on diverse SUVs and trucks while withstanding extreme weather conditions.
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4. Winch Snatch Block
Another essential and multi-purpose winch accessory is the snatch block. This attachment is used to double the winching power by firmly holding in place any snatch attachment. Subsequently, double strength means increased winching effectiveness in the wilderness, but its weight limit shouldn't be exceeded to avoid injury. Apart from increasing the winching power, you can use a snatch block to change the pulling direction and for angled pulls.
Best Snatch Block
RANGER Ultranger 2-Ton Reliable Snatch Block
RANGER (2 Tons 4,500 LBs) Commercial Reliability Snatch Block by Ultranger
- ✓ Constructed of Forged Steel
- ✓ Durable Corrosion-Resistant E-coat Finish
- ✓ Zinc Coated Stainless Steel Pulley
- ✓ Accept Maximum 1/4" Inch, 6MM Wire or Rope
- ✓ BREAK POINT IS 4500LBs 2Tons, WLL 2200LBs 1Ton
The Ranger Ultranger snatch block is a reliable yet lightweight winch accessory. This attachment is constructed with forged steel, which makes it durable. Additionally, this snatch block is corrosion resistant due to its E-coat finish.
Image Credit: Ranger
Moreover, this block can handle up to 2 Tons, meaning it will hardly break below this limit. While in use, it can stand a weight of up to 1 Ton. Eventually, its steel pulley is weather-proof since its stainless steel is zinc-coated.
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5. Winch Recovery Gloves
We presume everyone knows the need of using gloves. But, even more, it's more important to use appropriate gloves for the intended use. Specifically, any off-roading adventure like winching requires tough gloves to protect users against injuries and outdoor dirt. Therefore, you'd better winch with gloves on for more efficiency with maximum hand comfort.
Best Recovery Gloves
Ironclad Heavy Utility Work Gloves HUG
Sale
Ironclad Heavy Utility Work Gloves HUG, High Abrasion Resistance, Performance Fit, Durable, Machine...
- REINFORCED PALM - Duraclad reinforced saddle, palm, thumb and...
- HAND SAFETY - Thermoplastic rubber knuckle protection provides...
- SECURE FIT - Adjustable Hook and Loop Closure provides a secure...
- SWEAT MANAGEMENT FEATURE - Terry cloth sweat wipe conveniently...
- MACHINE WASHABLE - Machine wash cool. Air drying is recommended...
Reading from its name, this pair of gloves is indeed heavy-duty for optimal hand protection while winching. Specifically, the Ironclad work gloves are made with a reinforced palm, thumb, saddle and fingers for maximum grip. Also, these gloves are made from duraclad material, which is highly durable. Besides winching utilities, these gloves are a perfect fit for numerous other tough outdoor and engineering tasks.
Image Credit: Ironclad
Furthermore, these gloves are made with rubber abrasion protection. While wearing these gloves, you can be sure they won't recklessly come off due to their hook and loop custom and secure fit. Also, under intense moments, these gloves have a terry cloth at the back for easy one-wipe sweat management. After use, these gloves are machine washable for easy maintenance.
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6. Winch Quick Connect Systems
Typically, winches require a power source to crank the rotating motor. In line with battery and power connectivity, it would really help to have a quick connect/disconnect system. Such a kit helps protect you from electric-related complexities and risks. Accordingly, the best systems should be durable, easy to set up and genderless.
Best Quick Connect/Disconnect Kit
HYCLAT Battery Quick Connect/Disconnect System
Sale
HYCLAT 2-4 Gauge Battery Quick Connect/Disconnect Wire Harness Plug Connector Recovery Winch...
- Fits 2-4 Gauge wire; Voltage: 12-36 volts; Capacity: 175m amps;...
- Package include: 2x Polycarbonate cover; 2x Hard Plastic Boot...
- Easy to install. Insert the wires into the terminal pins, then...
- Instruction: With online installation instruction.
- WHAT YOU GET - HYCLAT Battery Quick Connector - Ideal Gift for...
Our top recommendation for a quick connect system is the HYCLAT battery connect kit. This pack of two can handle a maximum of 175m amps, which is adequate for trailers, winches, and other off-road vehicle electrical devices. Since this kit is meant for outdoor use, it comes with a polycarbonate cover for optimal insulation with effective terminal pins on the inside.
Image Credit: HYCLAT
While using these plug connectors, all you need to do is crimp wires to the internal terminal pins. Fortunately, the ends are genderless, making them easy to install on either power connection end. On power conductivity, the terminals are made with copper-coated silver for stable handling of strong current and voltage. Overall, these connectors are weather-proof with a wide operating temperature range.
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7. Winch Cover
The last winch accessory on our list is a winch cover. Considering that most winches are semi-permanently attached to vehicles, it's important to protect their integrity by covering them. Indeed, quality winches are waterproof and corrosion-free, but you never know when they will give in to the harsh outdoor conditions (rain, mud, dust, scratches and harsh sun). Therefore, we suggest using a winch cover to increase the longevity of your winch.
Best Winch Cover
EL JEFE Premium Winch Cover
Sale
EL JEFE Premium Winch Cover Fits 8000-13000 lb. Winches
- KEEP YOUR WINCH SAFE AND PROTECTED! Keep your...
- NO MORE DUST and WATER! Our cover was made to withstand all...
- WINCH ACCESSORIES DESIGNED TO LAST! Made from the best...
- HANDY, ELASTIC & EASY TO USE! Thanks to the sewn-in elastic...
- IDEAL DIMENSIONS FOR WINCHES UP TO 17500 LBS! When fully...
Based on practical experience, we found the EL JEFE winch cover to be a premium protective accessory for the winch and other accessories. This cover will effectively cover the electrical components of a winch without fail. Accordingly, this cover is made from top-notch materials that are water and dustproof.
Image Credit: EL JEFE
While covering your winch, you won't worry about overbearing accessories on your vehicle since it's elastic, meaning it will tightly hug the winch. Also, this cover is easy to use with a tight design that keeps any corroding elements out. Overall, it's very durable, matching its function of protecting your winch.
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Conclusion
Generally, there are more accessories you can buy to enable effective winching utilities. Nonetheless, our list of recommended winch accessories is a long yet simple way of the necessary attachments you'll mostly use with your winch. Also, the accessories mentioned above are widely used across different off-roaders, but this might differ with different users. Overall, this article will provide a good starting point for complementing your winch for memorable off-road experiences.
Image Credit: superiorengineering.com