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Whether you’re working on a project or securing your trailer, wheel chocks are an essential part of keeping your trailer, RV, or anything else with wheels right where you want it. There are a number of situations that benefit from the use of wheel chocks, like launching your boat on a slippery ramp or keeping your RV right in your spot at the campground. And sometimes they’re helpful when working on your car. For many people, the most basic design—the humble triangle—is the perfect solution to their problem. But where do you start? Read on and I’ll take you through some of the best wheel chocks on the market, and hopefully give you a good overview of what’s available, and what might be best for your situation.
Our Methodology
To find the best wheel chocks on the market, I employed The Drive’s comprehensive research methodology. I evaluated dozens of wheel chocks before selecting the top contenders. Although I haven’t personally tested all of these products, my selections are informed by consumer testimonials, expert reviews, discussions on relevant online forums, and my institutional knowledge of the automotive industry.
While researching, I started with Amazon for some of the more value-conscious choices, but I also strayed into the territory of Northern Tool’s catalog for some serious industrial-strength options. One thing I’ve found over the years is the principle that you get what you pay for. Many things really are better when you spend a little more, or maybe even a lot more. But often the simplest, most straightforward solution is the best one. That’s why I assembled this guide with a wide range of options.
Some brands are already well-established in this niche, and priority was given to their products. However, other lesser-known brands were also evaluated. The main features taken into consideration were construction, materials used, design, and price.
Best Wheel Chocks Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
MaxxHaul 70472 Heavy Duty Chocks
Best Value
Camco 44414 Wheel Chocks
Honorable Mention
Trimax Deluxe Universal Wheel Chock Lock
Best Odor Free
SECURITYMAN 2 Pack Wheel Chocks
Best Stationary
Ironton Car Parking Mat
Best Jack Wheel Chock
Ironton Trailer Wheel Dock Chock
Best Motorcycle
MaxxHaul 70075 Motorcycle Wheel Chock
Our Verdict on Wheel Chocks
My top pick for the best tire chocks are the MaxxHaul 70472 Heavy Duty Chocks. They’re sturdy, durable, portable, and keep most vehicles and trailers securely in place. If you’re looking for something a little less costly, check out the Camco 44414 Wheel Chocks. Their bright color and solid design make them a great budget choice.
What to Consider When Buying Wheel Chocks
The basics of the wheel chock market are simply about replacing the old two-by-four you’ve been using to keep your trailer from moving. For many, a basic chock is exactly what you need. But, for people with a different application, the wide range of available wheel chocks is sure to have a solution.
Types of Wheel Chocks
Plastic Wedges
As the name suggests, plastic wheel chocks are made of plastic. Although plastics do vary in durability, most aren’t as heavy-duty as rubber or metal chocks. It’s a good idea to invest in something more sturdy, especially if you’re planning to use your chocks for a larger vehicle or trailer.
Rubber Chocks
More durable than plastic wedges, rubber chocks are the most commonly used ones out there. Made from durable natural rubber, these chocks are made to withstand heavy loads and will safely and effectively block off large vehicles and trailers. The quality of materials still vary, so make sure you’re buying from a trusted brand. Also, keep in mind that the design of the chocks matters as well, so it’s a good idea to look for something with extra grips on both the wheel side and underside.
Metal Chocks
From basic wedge shapes to locking chocks, and even fancy pivoting motorcycle wheel chocks, metal is often the most durable choice. Everything I picked for this list that isn’t rubber or plastic is made of steel. Simple triangular chocks made out of aluminum would be strong and lightweight too. Metal chocks won’t stink like rubber, and won’t become brittle after sitting in the sun, so their price premium is more justifiable if you plan to leave them outside a lot.
Wheel Chock Key Features
Grip
The most important feature of a solid wheel chock is the amount of grip it provides. There are two main sources for that traction: the underside of the chock and the wheel side. The underside should have notches, spikes, or other traction patterns to provide the most secure hold. On the wheel side, it’s important to look out for large grooves and deep patterns. These will provide the most hold and effectively block your wheels from moving.
When looking at different chocks also consider the surface they’ll likely be used on.
Size
Different wheel sizes require different size chocks. The best way to figure out the size of chock you’ll need is to measure the height of the tires. The size of the wheel chock should be about 25 percent of the tire’s height for it to be effective. Also, keep in mind the terrain you’ll be using them on. If it’s a steep incline, you’ll want to add a bit of height in order to ensure safe chocking of the wheels. In those cases, it’s also critical to use more than one wheel chock.
Design
If the wheel chocks will be used in a construction environment, consider getting them in a bright color such as orange or yellow. This will help with the visibility of the chocks, amping up the overall safety of the site. As a rule of thumb, metal is the most durable, with rubber, and plastic following. The way the chocks were manufactured and the overall quality of the materials also affect durability.
Additionally, some chocks have adjustability mechanisms. Most commonly, metal chocks have this feature, allowing you to change some part of how the mechanism functions or locks
Wheel Chocks Brands to Know
Camco
An online retailer specializing in everything relating to automotive tires, Camco has been making high-quality products for more than five years. Its wheel chocks are well-built and brightly colored, making them the ultimate safety tool. Some of its bestsellers are the Heavy Duty Leveling Blocks and the 44414 Wheel Chocks.
MaxxHaul
Headquartered in Camarillo, California, MaxxHaul is known for its innovative automotive and towing gear. Proudly producing high-quality products since 1999, it has since gone global. Its top products include the 70472 Heavy Duty Chocks and the 70271 Motorcycle Wheel Chock.
Trimax
Headquartered in Centennial, Colo., Trimax is known primarily for its locks. They are a division of Wyers Product Group and have been in business for more than 20 years. They make the Trimax Deluxe Universal Wheel Chock Lock.
Vestil
Headquartered in Angola, Ind., Vestil Manufacturing is a family-owned and operated business that was founded in 1957. They make a lot of products for material handling, so a heavy-duty wheel chock is a natural next step. They make the Vestil Wheel Chock, Serrated Steel.
Ironton
Headquartered in Burnsville, Minn., Northern Tool has a number of in-house brands, including Ironton. They operate everything from manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and retail stores, in addition to a direct sales website. They make the Ironton Car Parking Mat and the Ironton Trailer Wheel Dock Chock.
Wheel Chock Pricing
Wheels chocks are one of those products that come in a wide range of prices, though cheap doesn’t mean they aren’t useful. For under $15 you can find a lot of chocks, but the most durable is going to be solid rubber. Be prepared for the “rubber stink,” though, with many of the cheap Chinese ones. Move up into the $15 to $40 range and you’ll have multiples made of composites that will stand UV well, are lighter, and don’t stink. Get over $40 and you’re sure to be looking at some of the more specialized chocks, like the locking ones or some of the heavier duty ones.
Tips and Tricks
As with something you do for decades upon decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks along the way in terms of selecting the right product, and/or using it. That’s the case for me and wheel chocks. To help you bridge the information gap, here’s a selection of what I’ve learned along the way.
- Always chock your vehicle carefully. You’ll want to make sure that your tires won’t slip or move, as this may lead to damage or injury. The best way to do this is to set your vehicle’s parking brake and install the chocks snugly against each tire, centered with the tire’s tread.
- Never place your hands or fingers between the tire and chock. This can lead to serious injury. It’s best to chock while wearing protective gloves.
- Consider your use case as you shop for chocks, since basic chocks will do everything the expensive ones will, in most situations.
- Check if your vehicle or trailer has radial or bias-ply tires. In the case of the former, it’s important to use chocks that are larger than the recommended size, as these tires tend to wrap around wheel chocks more easily.
- Keep in mind that improperly inflated tires can lead to chocking failure. An under-inflated tire can easily roll over even the best-placed chock, possibly causing damage or injury in the process.
- Chocking works best if the chocks are placed securely on both sides of the tire being blocked. Blocking more than one tire is also a great way to increase safety.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers!
Q: Do I need to use two wheel chocks, or can I get away with using just one?
A: Consider your chocks a safety device. To follow best practice guidelines, you’ll always want to use two wheel chocks. This will give you the optimal amount of wheel stabilization and safety, ensuring that your vehicle doesn’t unexpectedly start rolling away.
Q: Are metal chocks better than rubber ones?
A: That depends on what you’re using them for. In general, metal chocks are made for larger vehicles, such as RVs, fifth-wheels, or trailers made for hauling. These chocks offer the best grip, traction, and durability to safely block off the wheels. In many cases, however, high-quality, heavy-duty rubber wheel chocks will also get the job done.
Q: Do rubber chocks work on ice or snow?
A: The simple answer is no. That’s because ice and snow don’t provide a good surface for the rubber to grab onto. In the event that you need to block off your car’s wheels on this type of terrain, grippy metal chocks are the only way to go. Be careful, too, as ice and snow are extremely slippery, and chocking won’t be easy.
Q: What kind of chocks should I use on dirt or other soft terrain?
A: The best kind to use is a wide-base rubber or metal chock to resist soil compression. The last thing you want is for your chock to sink into the ground, rendering it ineffective. Take extra care to chock your vehicle on this terrain and use more than two chocks.