What are Traction Boards Used for and do I Need Them for Off-Roading?

Off-roading enthusiasts often find themselves facing situations that require specialized equipment to traverse challenging terrain and get themselves unstuck from circumstances which immobilize their vehicle. Traction boards, such as the eponymous Maxtrax, have become increasingly popular among off-roaders as essential tools for overcoming obstacles in mud, sand, snow, and other challenging conditions. In this article, we will explore the reasons why traction boards are considered helpful for off-roading and whether they are a necessity for enthusiasts.

Traction Boards: A Brief Overview

Traction boards are designed to provide additional traction to off-road vehicles in situations where the tires lose grip. Maxtrax, one of the leading brands in this category, offers lightweight and durable boards that are specifically engineered for recovery situations. These boards typically feature a rugged design with specialized treads that grip onto the tires, allowing the vehicle to gain traction and escape from challenging conditions. Other brands like Rhino USA produce traction boards, too; they’re all effectively different means to the same end, but remember that quality does matter. But traction boards are extremely versatile solutions for more than just getting unstuck, so let’s explore the subject in further depth.

1. Tackling Soft Terrains

One of the primary reasons off-roaders invest in traction boards is to tackle soft terrains such as mud and sand. In these conditions, a vehicle's tires can easily become bogged down, leading to a loss of traction. Traction boards provide a solution by offering a stable surface for the tires to grip onto, enabling the vehicle to gain traction and move forward. Without such boards, off-roaders might find themselves stuck, requiring assistance or, in some cases, causing damage to their vehicles.

2. Self-Recovery

Traction boards empower off-roaders with the ability to perform self-recovery when stuck in challenging terrains. Instead of relying on external assistance, enthusiasts can use Maxtrax or similar boards to free their vehicles independently. This self-sufficiency is a significant advantage, especially in remote off-road locations where professional recovery services may not be readily available. While we always recommend wheeling with another vehicle, the ease of use and portability of traction boards make them a valuable tool for off-roaders looking to navigate through diverse landscapes. Similarly, traction boards can aid in getting a vehicle unstuck even when another is around to help with the process; the difference in traction can be the difference between a successful recovery and one that leaves off-roaders scratching their heads.

3. Versatility in Off-Road Conditions

Off-roading often involves traversing diverse terrains, from muddy trails to sandy dunes. Traction boards are versatile tools that can be effective in various off-road conditions. Whether it's snow, gravel, or soft soil, these boards offer a reliable solution to regain traction. The ability to adapt to different terrains makes traction boards a valuable addition to an off-roader's toolkit, providing confidence and peace of mind when venturing into unknown environments. They can even be used as a shovel in sand and soft dirt/mud.

4. Lightweight and Portable Design

Maxtrax and similar traction boards are renowned for their lightweight and portable design. Made from high-quality materials, these boards are durable yet easy to carry. They’re relatively compact for what they can do, which allows off-roaders to store them conveniently in, on, or on top of their vehicles without taking up much space. This portability ensures that off-roaders can be prepared for unexpected challenges, as they can quickly deploy the traction boards when needed. Still, they’re somewhat bulky, so prepare to have a decent amount of space allocated to them.

5. Minimizing Vehicle Damage

Attempting to drive a stuck vehicle out of challenging conditions without traction boards can lead to increased wheelspin, which, in turn, can cause damage to the terrain and the vehicle itself. Traction boards provide a controlled and effective way to overcome obstacles without causing unnecessary harm. By minimizing wheel spin, off-roaders reduce the risk of damaging their tires and other vital components, contributing to a more responsible and sustainable off-roading experience.

6. Repair and Tire Changing Circumstances

Traction boards can be used in a variety of situations when a vehicle is mechanically disabled. For example, a traction board can be used to level a vehicle when it needs to be on flat ground for repairs, or when it should be level (like during a tire change). They can also be used as a flat base onto which a hi-lift jack can be placed so as to keep it from slipping when in use.

7. Camping

Car camping-- or what off-roaders love to call overlanding-- usually works best when the vehicle is parked with all four tires on a level surface, as sleeping at an angled position doesn’t always feel great after a day of getting bounced around inside a vehicle. Traction boards can be used in place of wood or other leveling devices (like rocks) to help the vehicle sit flat for overnight parking on uneven terrain.

Conclusion: Are Traction Boards Necessary?

While traction boards such as Maxtrax offer significant advantages for off-roaders, though whether they are necessary depends on various factors. Enthusiasts who frequently explore diverse and challenging terrains may find traction boards to be indispensable for self-recovery and navigating soft surfaces. However, for those who stick to well-maintained trails or less demanding off-road conditions, the necessity of traction boards may be less pronounced.

In essence, the decision to invest in traction boards boils down to the individual off-roader's preferences, the types of terrains they navigate, and their commitment to self-recovery. For many off-road enthusiasts, having traction boards on hand provides a sense of confidence and preparedness, making them a valuable asset for a fulfilling and enjoyable off-roading experience. We’re firmly in the “better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it” when it comes to traction boards, and feel that most well-equipped off-roaders are likely to feel the same.