Overlanding with Traction Boards: Beyond Recovery — Review
Short, technique-first, and genuinely useful for sand, snow, and mud.
What it is (and why it’s useful)
Traction boards are the most-used recovery tool—and the most misused. Beyond Recovery focuses on technique: prepping the tire face, seating cleats, throttle discipline, and chaining moves when one set isn’t enough. You also get clear guidance on board construction, compact vs. full-length, and how to mount and secure them so you actually deploy them when it matters.
What stands out
- Surface-specific playbook: Sand, snow, and mud each get step-by-step approaches.
- Real-world tweaks: Airing down, digging technique, two vs. four boards, leash usage.
- Board selection: Cleat geometry, materials, and sizing explained plainly.
- Mounting & security: Pins, brackets, tie-downs—minimize rattles and theft.
- Care & lifespan: Cleaning, UV management, and when to retire a board.
Could be better
- Light on diagrams—more annotated placement photos would help beginners.
- Not a brand shootout—focus stays on technique, not destructive lab testing.
Field technique that actually works
- Air down smart: Choose PSI for surface/weight; lower PSI = larger contact patch.
- Dig to the tire face: Clear a ramp; seat cleats into the tread (not under the diff).
- Throttle discipline: Gentle, steady drive—wheelspin melts cleats on any board.
- Chain the moves: Leapfrog boards to reach firm ground.
- Recover & stow: Use leashes/handles, rinse, re-nest; secure with pins or a strap.
Pros
- Technique-first guidance you can apply with any board
- Clear checklists; easy to reference on the trail
- Covers selection, mounting, and maintenance
Cons
- Few diagrams/photos for visual learners
- Doesn’t rank brands or do destructive testing
Key takeaways
- Preparation beats horsepower—dig, seat, and drive smooth.
- Carry four boards if you travel heavy or in deep sand/snow.
- Store boards where you can reach them in seconds.
- Boards are not bridging ladders—don’t span gaps.
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Related reading
Bottom line
Overlanding with Traction Boards: Beyond Recovery is a practical, technique-first guide that helps you get more from the boards you already carry. If you run sand, snow, or muddy backroads, this quick read can pay for itself the first time you drive out clean instead of digging deeper.
Questions about board selection or mounting? Contact us—happy to help.
