Recovery boards, also called traction boards, are some of the most useful recovery gear you can carry. Two names come up constantly: MAXTRAX and GoTreads. Here are the questions we hear most, answered with the specs from our listings. Browse everything in our recovery gear collection.
What are recovery boards and when do you need them?
Recovery boards are rigid, grippy ramps you wedge under a stuck tire to give it traction. They are used in sand, mud, snow and loose terrain, and let you get unstuck on your own without a second vehicle.
What is the main difference between GoTreads and MAXTRAX?
- GoTreads are a folding design in several lengths. Each pair is 9" wide with a self-feeding design, and they double as leveling blocks.
- MAXTRAX are one-piece boards made in Australia from engineering-grade reinforced nylon, with large cleats that grip the tire tread. The MKII and Xtreme boards are 45" long x 13" wide.
What GoTreads sizes are available?
- GoTreads Standard: 46" of traction, 3" of leveling, 9" wide. From $234.
- GoTreads XL: 58" of traction, 4" of leveling. From $270.
- GoTreads GoLong 70: 70" of traction, 6" of leveling. From $325.
Each is a pair and is available with an optional carrying bag for $40 more on the Standard and $50 to $59 more on the XL, and two bags with the GoLong 70.
What MAXTRAX models do you carry?
- MAXTRAX MKII ($383): 45" x 13", 15 lb per pair, with Telltale leashes, six mounting pin holes and a lifetime warranty as listed. Available in ten colours.
- MAXTRAX XTREME ($602): the most rugged option, with replaceable anodized alloy teeth, 20 lb per pair and Telltale leashes.
- MAXTRAX Mini and Jaxbase combo ($287.99): a 25" Mini for tighter spaces plus a Jaxbase for use with a jack, with built-in handles and a shovel end.
Which is better for leveling a vehicle?
GoTreads are designed for it, with 3" to 6" of leveling depending on length. The Stack Pack adds rubber pads and straps so stacked GoTreads form a solid block. MAXTRAX are built for traction, and the Jaxbase supports a jack.
Which is better for sand, mud and snow?
MAXTRAX are described as a proven fast and safe way to recover in snow, mud and sand. GoTreads are 46" to 70" long, so the longer boards give you more length to climb out of a deep rut. For deep sand or mud, longer boards and aggressive cleats both help.
How do I store and mount recovery boards?
MAXTRAX stack tightly (3.5" for two boards) and mount using pins; the roof rack mount kit and mounting pin sets are available. GoTreads fold and come with an optional carry bag or can be strapped to a roof rack. A spare tire bag is another place to keep small recovery items.
How much do recovery boards cost?
GoTreads run from $234 to $410 depending on length and bag. MAXTRAX run from $383 for the MKII to $602 for the Xtreme.
What else should I carry to get unstuck?
Boards work best alongside a shovel, recovery strap or kinetic rope, shackles and tire repair. See our GlueTread tire repair guide.
Which should I choose?
Want one set that also levels your rig? Choose GoTreads, and size up for deeper terrain. Want the best-known board with a long track record and a lifetime warranty? Choose MAXTRAX. Not sure? Message Union Overland and we will help you pick.