Where do I even start?! The Hitch Hero soft shackle stood up to its name recently on the Rubicon Trail while towing a Jeep TJ behind a Gladiator from its hitch. If you don't know… the Rubicon isn’t just another trail—it’s a brutal test of skill, endurance, and the reliability of your gear along with your rig. The Hitch Hero soft shackle wasn’t just along for the ride; it was the backbone of our Jeep TJ’s recovery, proving itself when the trail threw everything at us.
From boulder-strewn obstacles to endless rock gardens, the Rubicon tested every piece of equipment we had. And then, things got even tougher—the Jeep TJ lost power completely when the driver misplaced his keys, turning it into nothing more than dead weight. With no ability to self-power, the TJ had to be dragged through some of the most punishing sections of the trail using the Hitch Hero soft shackle.
To make matters worse, we were welding the track bar back together at 3 AM, then back at it at 6 AM the next morning, just to keep moving, with more repairs following soon after. Every setback made recovery harder, but the Hitch Hero soft shackle never backed down.
When you’re deep in it, trusting your gear isn’t just about convenience—it’s about survival. And in our toughest moments on the Rubicon, the Hitch Hero soft shackle was the one piece of gear we never had to question. Here's a documentary of the trip!:
What Makes Hitch Hero Soft Shackle Different?
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Premium UHMWPE construction for extreme durability
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Reinforced sleeve to directly combat metal, also prevents fraying and adds longevity
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Eliminates metal in the system for improved safety
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One-stop recovery solution—no extra hitch receiver attachments needed
Cost Comparison: Tow Hitch as a Recovery Point
| Recovery Setup | Required Components for a 7/16 Soft Shackle | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kinetic-X | Hitch Hero Soft Shackle | $64 |
| The Red Brand | Soft Shackle + Hitch Insert Recovery Point | $185 |
| The Other Red Brand | Soft Shackle + Hitch Insert Recovery Point | $235 |
By removing metal from the system, it enhances safety by reducing potential failure points and eliminating dangerous projectiles in high-tension recoveries. Now, while buying hitch inserts, they have a designated use and that’s it—you pay more for something that will get used less. The Hitch Hero can do everything the insert and shackles can do, but with more versatility, making it a smarter, safer, more adaptable investment. Our one-stop recovery solution keeps things simple, effective, and budget-friendly.
Key Features of the Hitch Hero Soft Shackle
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Innovative Dual-Layer Design—The outer protective sleeve grips onto surfaces, while the inner soft shackle remains free to move, ensuring a secure yet dynamic recovery connection.
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Built for Harsh Conditions—Designed to withstand extreme force, abrasion, and exposure to rough or jagged metal, making it reliable for even the most punishing recoveries.
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Perfect for Low-Clearance Recoveries—The Hitch Hero soft shackle can be used for wrapping around control arms or other creative points when traditional recovery points are unavailable.
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Universal Application—Works seamlessly with kinetic ropes, tow straps, and winch lines, providing a simple yet highly effective recovery solution for off-roaders, overlanders, and even daily drivers in need of a soft shackle recovery.
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Quick and Easy Deployment—No need for additional metal recovery points; just loop, cinch, and pull for an efficient, hassle-free soft shackle recovery every time.
Why Every Vehicle Should Have a Hitch Hero Soft Shackle
Off-roading isn’t just about adventure—it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. Whether you're navigating extreme trails like the Rubicon, hitting a fire road, or even assisting a stranded commuter in an everyday car with no factory recovery points, the Hitch Hero soft shackle is an essential piece of gear. The last thing you want is to be caught unprepared when a recovery situation arises. The versatility, durability, and safety advantages of the Hitch Hero soft shackle make it an invaluable tool, whether you're deep in the backcountry or just driving to work. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Get Outdoors and Have Fun!
At the end of the day, it’s all about getting outside and being safe. Whether you're tackling the legendary Rubicon Trail, pushing limits at King of the Hammers, or just cruising down a scenic fire road, the key is to have fun and stay safe. Equip yourself with the right gear that works best for you, be prepared for anything, and make every trip one to remember!