Keeping gear secure during transport is always a priority. I recently tested the Fortem ratchet straps to see how they hold up in real life.
After using them a few times to strap down my motorcycle and other gear, I can say they offer a solid mix of strength and ease of use. The straps come with rubber-coated handles that feel comfortable when tightening.
The metal hooks hold tight without slipping. They’re long enough for bigger items but still easy to pack away in the included carry bag.
Overview of FORTEM Ratchet Straps
When I used these straps, I found them sturdy and easy to work with. The rubber handles made tightening the straps more comfortable, even when pulling them tight.
The included soft loops and S-hooks helped me secure different items in various ways. This added flexibility for different loads.
The straps felt strong. I noticed the ratchet mechanism can be tough to release when under heavy load.
The materials seem durable and weather-resistant. The metal parts are not the smoothest.
They did a solid job holding down my gear during transport. The carrying bag kept everything organized.
Key Features
After using the strap set a few times, I found some features stand out for real-world use. These straps are meant to hold cargo tightly, but their build and design affect comfort and ease.
Heavy-Duty S-Hooks and Soft Loops
The heavy S-hooks feel strong and secure when attached. They have a coating that resists rust, which is helpful when using them outside in wet weather.
The soft loops offer another option for wrapping around objects safely without scratching. Sometimes the hooks fit better, and other times the loops work better to avoid marking surfaces.
Ergonomic Rubber Handles
The rubber handles made ratcheting easier on my hands. They have a good grip and don’t slip, even when I tightened the straps with force.
The release latch on the ratchet system worked smoothly most times. It can get difficult to unlock quickly when under a lot of tension.
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This grip design helped reduce hand strain during setup.
High Breaking Strength and Durability
With a breaking strength of 1650 pounds, these straps felt solid for heavy loads like my motorcycle and gear. The webbing material is thick and doesn’t fray easily.
The working load limit seemed realistic. I did notice the ratchet mechanisms could feel stiff at first, but they loosened up after some use.
Convenient Carrying Pouch
The included pouch is compact but fits all four straps and hooks neatly. It’s made of a durable fabric that holds up well.
I kept it in my truck without it getting dirty or torn. It helps keep everything organized and easy to grab when I need the straps.
Having this storage option is a small but useful feature for quick trips.
Ease of Use
Using these straps felt straightforward. The ratchet mechanism locks securely and tightens easily, which gave me confidence when securing heavy items.
The handles have rubber grips that make tightening more comfortable and less slippery. Releasing the straps under high tension can be tough.
It took some effort to unlock, which might frustrate anyone needing quick adjustments. The included soft loops helped with hooking around awkward shapes, making setup faster.
I found them user-friendly once I got the hang of the ratchet. Beginners might need a minute to learn the release method.
The carry bag keeps everything organized after use.
Pros and Cons
Using these straps showed me both their strengths and weaknesses. They handle heavy loads well but have some small issues that might affect daily use.
Pros
The grip on the ratchets is comfortable and helps with tightening even when my hands get tired. The straps feel durable, and the materials resist weather.
Having the soft loops and metal hooks adds flexibility for different setups. The carrying bag keeps everything together, making storage easy.
Cons
The ratchet mechanism can be tricky to release when the straps are under tension. I found it required extra effort, which could be frustrating during frequent use.
The metal parts are solid but not perfect in build quality. For heavy and constant use, these small flaws might become annoying.
Real-World Versatility
I used these straps in many situations, from securing my motorcycle on a trailer to tying down gear in the back of my truck. The different hooks and soft loops allow for flexible anchor points depending on the load.
The rubber grips make tightening easier, especially when hands get sweaty or cold. The ratchet can be tricky to release if the strap is under a lot of tension, which slowed me down at times.
Their strength and length worked well for heavy or bulky items. The included carrying bag keeps everything organized.
Customer Reviews
Most people appreciate the strong hold and durability of these straps. The straps handle heavy loads well, and the soft loops make securing motorcycles easier.
Many users mention the simple design works without much hassle, even for first-timers. Some mention the ratchet mechanism can be tricky to release when under heavy tension.
A few reports suggest the quality of the ratchet can feel a bit weak or less smooth compared to other brands.
Summary of user feedback:
- Strong and durable straps
- Easy to use for most tasks
- Soft loops help with securing cargo
- Ratchet release can be stiff or difficult at times
After using the Fortem straps, I found them reliable for securing heavy loads like motorcycles or cargo.
The straps hold tight, and the rubber handles make tightening easier.
The ratchet mechanism can feel stiff and tricky to release when under heavy tension.
Pros:
- Strong hold
- Comfortable handles
- Includes soft loops and carry bag
Cons:
- Ratchet can be stiff to release under load
