If you require a quick answer, the best tow rope is the AA Kit, which is an affordable yet high quality option that’s available as a 2, 3.5 or 4 tonne set. However, if you prefer to use metal shackles, the Easma Recovery Set is the best heavy duty tow rope that’s suitable for towing vehicles up to 8 tonne in weight.
To rate the tow ropes within this article, we based our recommendations upon our own experience of towing cars, plenty of research and a number of factors. Some of the factors that we considered included the attachment, strength and length options, build quality, additional accessories supplied with the kit and value for money.
Table of Contents
Tow Rope Comparison
| Tow Rope | Attachment | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| AA Kit | Hook | 2, 3.5 or 4 Tonne |
| Easma Recovery | Shackle | 8 Tonne |
| Tech Trader Strap | Hook | 5 Tonne |
| Bibetter High Strength | Shackle | 8 Tonne |
| Silverline 442793 | Hook | 2 Tonne |
| GearAmerica Tree Saver | None | 17.5 Tonne |
Below is a list of the best tow ropes that are designed specifically for towing cars on or off the road.
The Best Tow Rope
1. AA 4T Heavy Duty Tow Rope
By far the most popular tow rope in the UK is manufactured by the AA, who of course specialise in car breakdowns. They offer kits that are suitable for 2, 3.5 or 4 tonne vehicles and they state each rope meets the BS AU 187 standards.
Other features of the AA Tow Rope include:
- Elasticated to reduce tension
- Highly visible yellow design
- Metal quick release hooks
- Zipped storage bag
- Supplied with detailed instructions
- Suitable for vehicles up to 4 tonne
The AA Tow Rope Kit is by far the best value tow ropes on the market that have a reputable brand backing. Considering the low price tag, they are far higher quality than similar priced alternatives and they won’t disappoint.
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2. Easma Recovery Straps
If you would prefer to use metal shackles over hooks, the Easma tow ropes are the best alternative. They are suitable for towing vehicles up to 8 tonne and come as a complete kit, which includes tow ropes, gloves and a carry bag.
Other features of the Easma Tow Rope Kit include:
- Reinforced loops
- Heavy duty metal shackles
- Suitable for vehicles up to 8 tonne
- Supplied with a carry bag and gloves
- Available as blue or fluorescence ropes
The Easma Tow Ropes are an excellent all-round option that are well made and ideal for breakdowns or even off-road use. The fact that they are capable of towing up to 8 tonne is a clear indication of their quality and they won’t disappoint.
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3. Tech Traders Car Tow Rope
The Tech Traders tow rope is another great option that’s affordable and suitable for towing vehicles up to 5 tonne. The rope itself is 3.5 metres in length and it uses forged steel hooks for connecting to a towing eyelet.
Other features of the Tech Trader Tow Ropes include:
- Max capacity of 5 tonne
- Heavy duty forged steel hooks
- Highly visible orange design
- 5 cm wide and 3.5 metres in length
- Supplied with a storage bag
Overall, they are an affordable yet high quality set of car tow ropes that are ideal for breakdowns. They are quick and easy to use with the quick release steel hooks and they are also ideal for keeping inside your car for emergencies.
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4. Bibetter High Strength Straps
Another set of tow ropes that use the desirable metal shackles are by the Bibetter brand. The ropes are made from a high strength polyester material, which according to the brand can withstand towing vehicles up to 8 tonne.
Other features of the Bibetter Tow Ropes include:
- Double-stitched webbing and double hoop design
- 5 metres long and 5 cm wide
- Heavy duty metal shackles
- Suitable for towing up to 8 tonne
- Supplied with a bag, glove and instructions
The Bibetter Tow Ropes are an affordable, well-made and easy to use set that won’t disappoint. Whether you are towing another vehicle, boat or even using them off-road, they are dependable tow ropes that won’t let you down.
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5. Silverline 442793 Tow Ropes
One of the cheapest tow ropes that’s actually worth buying is by the reputable Silverline brand. In terms of their specification, they are 4 metres long and are suitable for towing vehicles up to 2 tonne in weight.
Other features of the Silverline Tow Ropes include:
- Durable metal hooks
- Highly visible yellow design
- Supplied with instructions
- 4 metres long and 1.4 cm wide
Overall, the Silverline tow rope set cannot be beaten on price and they are the best budget tow ropes. The only drawback is that they don’t come with a storage bag but most people will keep these ropes by their spare wheel compartment and won’t require a bag.
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6. GearAmerica Tree Saver
By far the strongest tow rope within this article is by the GearAmerica brand and its known as the Tree Saver. It’s designed to withstand up to 17.5 tonnes, which has been confirmed within a lab test for complete peace of mind.
Other features of the GearAmerica Tree Saver include:
- 17.5 tonne breaking strength
- Triple reinforced loops
- Rugged and weather resistant
- Military grade webbing
- Lifetime warranty
The GearAmerica Tree Saver is the ultimate tow rope for anyone dealing with large or heavy vehicles. The only drawback is that it doesn’t come with any hooks or shackles, which means you need to purchase them separately.
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How We Tested & Rated The Tow Ropes
There is nothing worse than breaking down at the side of the road but if you have a set of trusty tow ropes to hand, it isn’t all bad. Whether we’ve broken down ourselves or saved a friend or family member at the roadside, we have tried and tested a wide range of tow ropes over the years.
Although we prefer to use shackles, we’ve safely towed cars with hooks and the straps themselves. Deciding between the attachment types is a matter of personal preference but we prefer to use shackles because they are easier to use and they can handle additional weight.
As well as our own experience of using tow ropes, we also based our recommendations upon research and multiple factors. The factors that we considered included the attachment, strength and length options, build quality, additional accessories supplied with the kit and value.
Conclusion
Tow ropes are an essential tool for any car breakdown or recovery and they can be a lifeline if you are stuck on the side of the road. Simply using a standard bit of rope isn’t good enough as it can’t withstand the weight of a car.
All of our recommendations within this article are designed specifically for towing cars and they offer a breaking strength that ranges from 2 to an impressive 17.5 tonne.
