When it comes to off-road recovery, going soft isn’t a weakness it’s a damn smart move. Soft shackles have exploded in popularity across Australia for one simple reason: they’re better. In this post, I’ll break down the 4 biggest reasons why soft shackles are safer, lighter, they float, and are stronger than steel. Whether you’re hitting WA’s red dirt or bogged on the beach, this is the upgrade your recovery kit’s been screaming for.
✅ 1. Safety First No Flying Steel
When a recovery goes wrong and they do steel shackles can turn into deadly projectiles. If a strap or winch line fails under load, that shackle becomes a missile. It’s no joke.
Soft shackles reduce that risk massively. They’re lighter, made from high-strength synthetic rope, and won’t punch through windscreens or people if they let go.
If you’re recovering mates, camping with family, or just don’t want to die doing a snatch go soft.
✅ 2. Lighter & Easier to Use
Soft shackles weigh next to nothing. That might not sound like a big deal until you’re climbing around a bogged rig, pulling gear out of your drawers, or crawling under a bumper.
No pins to lose, no rattling, no rust. Just loop, pull tight, and recover.
Plus, they don’t scratch your paint or alloy recovery points like metal shackles can.
✅ 3. They Float (Yep, Really)
Drop a steel shackle in a river or muddy bog and you’re diving for it. Drop a soft shackle? It floats.
Whether you’re winching across a water crossing, dealing with beach recoveries, or working in knee-deep mud, floating gear saves time, frustration, and money.
✅ 4. Stronger Than Steel
This is where most people go: “Yeah, but can they handle the load?”
Absolutely. Modern soft shackles like those from Saber Offroad are made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and are rated well beyond most steel alternatives.
Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Go Soft?
If you’re still running old steel shackles, it’s time to rethink things.
Soft shackles are stronger, lighter, safer, and flat-out better. They belong in every recovery kit whether you're just starting out or you've been touring for years.
We use them. We trust them. And we wouldn't sell them if they didn’t do the job.