Tie Down Strap

Why Tie Down Straps Are Essential for Every Hauler

Whether you're strapping a dirt bike into a truck bed, securing lumber on a flatbed trailer, or lashing kayaks to a roof rack, a quality tie down strap is one of the most critical pieces of equipment you can own. A loose load doesn't just risk damaging your cargo — it's a genuine road safety hazard for everyone around you. Understanding the differences between strap types, load ratings, and hardware will help you choose the right product for the job.

Types of Tie Down Straps

Tie down straps generally fall into three main categories:

• Ratchet Straps – Use a mechanical ratcheting mechanism to progressively tighten the strap and lock it in place. Ideal for heavy or high-value cargo that cannot shift in transit.
• Cam Buckle Straps – Rely on a friction-based cam to hold tension. They are quicker to use and release than ratchets, making them a popular choice for lighter loads or frequently moved cargo.
• Specialty / Soft Loop Straps – Designed for motorcycles, ATVs, and other vehicles with delicate finishes where metal hooks could cause scratches. Soft loop straps protect tie-down points on the frame without marring painted surfaces.

What to Look for When Buying

Two ratings matter most when selecting a tie down strap: Breaking Strength (the maximum force before the strap fails) and Working Load Limit (WLL) (the maximum recommended load during normal use, typically one-third of breaking strength). Always match the WLL of your straps to the weight of your cargo, and keep in mind that most regulations require a minimum of four straps on a standard load.

Webbing material also matters. Polyester is the industry standard because it resists stretching, UV degradation, and moisture absorption — all of which can reduce a strap's effective strength over time. Look for vinyl-coated or rubber-tipped hooks to protect your cargo's finish, and corrosion-resistant hardware finishes for long service life.

Top Tie Down Strap Brands

SpeedStrap is the dominant brand in this category, offering a comprehensive lineup of ratchet and soft-tie straps purpose-built for off-road and motorsport hauling. Their straps are especially popular among ATV, UTV, and motorcycle enthusiasts who need reliable, repeatable clamping force without damaging sensitive tie-down points.

Thule brings its renowned expertise in roof-rack and cargo carrier systems to the tie down category, providing straps engineered for securing bikes, kayaks, and gear on roof-mounted carriers — a trusted choice for outdoor adventure travelers.

Erickson Mfg is the leading provider of cargo control products in North America, offering a wide range of solutions to secure, tow, load, and winch your equipment and cargo efficiently. Their lineup spans everything from light-duty cam buckle straps to heavy-duty winch straps, and many of their products are Made in America.

Liquid Wrench rounds out the selection with utility-focused tie down options suited for general-purpose hauling and workshop use, offering straightforward, dependable load securement.

Keeper is a well-known name in cargo control, producing a broad range of ratchet and cam buckle straps built for everyday use — a go-to brand for drivers who need reliable, no-fuss load securement at a practical price point.