When it comes to off-road recovery gear, choosing between soft shackles and steel shackles can make a big difference in performance, safety, and ease of use. At Mojab Offroad, we’re all about helping you hit the trail with confidence — and that means knowing your gear.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between soft shackles and steel shackles (also known as D-rings or bow shackles), so you can decide which is right for your next adventure.
What Is a Soft Shackle?
A soft shackle is typically made from high-strength synthetic rope like Dyneema or UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene). These shackles are lightweight, flexible, and incredibly strong — often rated for 20,000+ lbs.
Benefits of Soft Shackles:
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Lightweight & easy to handle: Perfect for quick recovery setups.
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Safe under load: If a soft shackle fails, there’s less risk of injury due to the lack of metal components.
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Float in water: Ideal for water crossings or muddy environments.
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No rattling or scratching: Won’t damage bumpers, recovery points, or paint.
Best Use Cases:
Soft shackles are great for UTVs, ATVs, overlanding rigs, and lightweight off-road vehicles where speed, safety, and convenience are key.
What Is a Steel Shackle?
Steel shackles, often referred to as D-ring shackles or bow shackles, are made from forged steel or alloy and have been the standard in off-road recovery for decades. These shackles are highly durable and widely used across the industry.
Benefits of Steel Shackles:
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Extremely strong: Ideal for heavy-duty recoveries and winching situations.
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Resistant to abrasion and UV exposure: Great for long-term use and rough environments.
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Secure fit: Designed to work with most recovery points and tow straps.
Best Use Cases:
Steel shackles are best suited for heavier vehicles, winch recoveries, or scenarios where maximum strength and durability are needed — such as full-size trucks, Jeeps, and rock crawlers.
Soft Shackle vs. Steel Shackle: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Soft Shackle | Steel Shackle |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Very light | Heavy |
| Material | Synthetic rope | Forged steel |
| Strength | 10,000–40,000 lbs (varies) | 10,000–55,000+ lbs |
| Ease of Use | Quick to rig, no tools needed | Requires unscrewing pin |
| Safety | Safer under failure | Can become a projectile if it fails |
| Versatility | Works well with soft recovery points | Fits most standard recovery mounts |
| Weather Resistant | Can degrade under UV over time |
Excellent long-term durability |
Which Shackle Should You Choose?
It depends on your vehicle and how you off-road.
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Choose a soft shackle if you want a safer, lighter, and easier-to-handle option for quick recoveries, especially with UTVs and lighter rigs.
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Choose a steel shackle for maximum strength and long-term durability, especially in winch-based recoveries or with heavy off-road vehicles.
Pro tip: Many seasoned off-roaders carry both — soft shackles for convenience and speed, and steel shackles for backup or heavy-duty use.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're tackling a rocky trail, powering through mud, or just enjoying the weekend outdoors, having the right recovery gear is essential. At Mojab Offroad, we stock high-quality soft shackles, steel D-ring shackles, and recovery kits built to handle the toughest terrain.
👉 Need help choosing the right shackle? Contact us