NCROPE soft shackle is a high-performance recovery connector made from UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) fiber, designed as a safe, lightweight alternative to metal shackles for vehicle recovery, marine mooring, and industrial rigging applications. With a breaking strength equal to or exceeding equivalent steel shackles at a fraction of the weight, soft shackles offer superior safety, ease of use, and versatility.
Our soft shackles feature a self-locking loop and knot design that tightens under load, providing secure connections without the need for tools. They are rust-proof, float on water, and will not damage vehicle paint or recovery points. Available in breaking strengths from 4,000 to 50,000 kg for applications ranging from light 4x4 recovery to heavy industrial lifting.
NCROPE offers full customization including diameter, length, breaking strength, loop size, color, labeling, and packaging for off-road equipment distributors, marine suppliers, military contractors, and OEM brands worldwide.
A soft shackle is a looped connector made from braided UHMWPE fiber rope that replaces traditional metal (D-shackles or bow shackles) in recovery and rigging applications. It consists of a length of braided UHMWPE rope formed into a loop, with one end passing through a knot or stopper on the other end to create a closed loop that can be opened and closed quickly without tools.
Soft shackles work by using the extreme strength of UHMWPE fiber (8-10 times stronger than steel by weight) in a configuration that distributes load evenly around the loop. The knot or stopper tightens under load, creating a self-locking mechanism that becomes more secure as the load increases. To release, simply pull the loop back through the knot after the load is removed.
Connects recovery ropes, kinetic ropes, or winch lines to vehicle recovery points. Safer than metal shackles - no projectile hazard if a connection fails under load.
Used for mooring line connections, anchor rode attachments, and sailboat rigging. Will not scratch deck surfaces or gelcoat, and floats if dropped overboard.
Connects slings, hoists, and lifting equipment in industrial applications where lightweight, non-corrosive, non-sparking connectors are required.
Versatile for outdoor use including guy line tensioning, tarp setup, bear hang systems, and general utility connections where a strong, reusable loop is needed.
Material: UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) fiber braid
Strength-to-weight: 8-10x stronger than steel by weight
Construction: Braided loop with self-locking knot/stopper
Corrosion: Rust-proof, saltwater and chemical resistant
Buoyancy: Floats on water (specific gravity 0.97)
Temperature: Flexible from -43C to +80C
UV resistance: Excellent resistance to ultraviolet degradation
Safety: No projectile hazard if overloaded - rope simply breaks
Surface protection: Will not scratch or damage vehicle surfaces
Model | Breaking Strength (kg) | Diameter (mm) | Loop Length (cm) | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SS-6 | 4,000 | 6 | 15 | ATV, light 4x4 |
SS-8 | 8,000 | 8 | 20 | SUV, mid-size truck |
SS-10 | 12,000 | 10 | 25 | Full-size truck, van |
SS-12 | 20,000 | 12 | 30 | Heavy truck, commercial |
SS-14 | 32,000 | 14 | 35 | Industrial, heavy recovery |
SS-16 | 50,000 | 16 | 40 | Industrial lifting, marine |
Custom sizes, lengths, and configurations available upon request.
Safer than metal shackles: No heavy metal projectile if connection fails under load
Lightweight: Up to 80% lighter than equivalent steel shackles
Tool-free operation: Open and close by hand in seconds
No corrosion: Saltwater, chemical, and rust resistant for marine and outdoor use
Surface-safe: Will not scratch vehicle paint, gelcoat, or equipment
Floats on water: Easy retrieval if dropped overboard
Self-locking: Knot tightens under load for secure connection
Versatile: Compatible with recovery ropes, winch lines, anchor rode, and rigging
Feature | Soft Shackle | Metal D-Shackle |
|---|---|---|
Material | UHMWPE fiber | Forged steel |
Weight | ~100-300g | ~500-2000g |
Corrosion | None | Rusts in saltwater |
Safety on failure | Rope drops flat | Projectile hazard |
Operation | Tool-free, by hand | Requires pin/wrench |
Surface damage | None | Can scratch paint |
Floats | Yes | No |
1. Match breaking strength: Choose a soft shackle with a breaking strength at least 2-3 times the expected maximum load for safety.
2. Consider rope diameter: Ensure the shackle fits through your recovery points, winch fairleads, or connection hardware.
3. Check loop length: Longer loops provide more flexibility for connecting to large or awkwardly shaped recovery points.
4. Choose coating: PU-coated shackles have better abrasion resistance; uncoated shackles are easier to handle and inspect.
5. Inspect before each use: Check for fraying, wear, or UV damage. Replace if any damage is visible.
NCROPE (New Coast Rope Industry) is a professional rope manufacturer with over 20 years of experience producing high-performance synthetic fiber products. We provide:
Premium UHMWPE fibers: Top-grade materials for consistent strength and quality
Reinforced construction: Self-locking knot design tested for reliability
Full customization: Diameter, length, strength, color, labeling, and packaging
Quality testing: Each batch tested for breaking strength and construction integrity
OEM and private label: Custom branding and specifications for distributors
Global shipping: Fast turnaround and worldwide logistics support
Technical support: Expert guidance on selection, use, and inspection
For quotes, specifications, or technical assistance with soft shackles, contact NCROPE today:
Email: info@ncrope.com
Website: www.ncrope.com
Phone: +86-514-86884888
Address: New Coast Rope Industry, Baoying County, Yangzhou City, Jiangsu Province, China
Always inspect soft shackles before use. Never exceed the rated breaking strength. Keep bystanders clear during recovery operations.