Thursday, September 22, 2016

Gift Ideas Under $100 for the Off-Roader

Stocking Stuffer Ideas for Jeep Owners

tocking Stuffer Gift Ideas text on a red background, perfect for holiday gift inspiration.
Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer?
 Explore these creative and thoughtful
gift ideas for the holiday season!


Finding the perfect holiday gift for the Jeeper in your life doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether they’re tackling rocky trails, cruising muddy backroads, or just love customizing their Jeep, these affordable accessories under $100 make excellent stocking stuffers.

As a Jeep owner and off-road enthusiast, I’ve tested and used many of these items on my ownadventures. Each gift is practical, trail-ready, and budget-friendly—perfect for adding to your favorite Jeeper’s holiday surprises.


J.T. Brooks Tire Deflators Pro

Proper tire pressure is key for off-road traction. The J.T. Brooks Tire Deflators Pro quickly and accurately air down your tires before hitting the trail.

  • Features: Precise pressure control, brass construction, compact design.

  • Use-Case: When I wheel in Colorado or Moab, I use these to drop my tires to trail-ready PSI in minutes—no fiddling, no wasted time.

👉  Read my full review of the J.T. Brooks Tire Deflators

 


Close-up of JT Brooks tire deflators held in hand, showcasing their compact design and precise build for off-road tire adjustments.
JT Brooks tire deflators are a must-have tool
for off-road enthusiasts, making tire deflation quick
and precise for optimal traction on challenging terrains


Colby Valves

A damaged valve stem doesn’t have to end your adventure. Colby Valves allow for quick, tool-free valve stem replacements on the trail.

  • Features: Installs from outside the wheel, no tools required, fits standard valve openings.

  • Use-Case: On rocky trails at Rausch Creek, I’ve seen valve stems ripped out. With Colby Valves, you can fix it in minutes instead of waiting for a tow.


These are a must have Recovery Item in your recovery gear. 

A Colby permanent tire valve system package placed on a rugged Jeep tire, highlighting a reliable solution for tire maintenance.
The Colby permanent tire valve system offers a quick
 and dependable fix for damaged valve stems,
perfect for off-road adventures and emergencies.


Wild Boar Grab Handles

Wild Boar Grab Handles add safety and comfort for both driver and passengers, especially on lifted Jeeps.

  • Features: Easy installation, durable construction, improved support.

  • Use-Case: My passengers love these on bumpy trails—they provide extra stability and make climbing in and out of my Jeep Rubicon much easier.

👉 See my Grab Handle Step-by-Step Install Guide


Close-up view of a black grab handle installed on the A-pillar of a Jeep, offering extra support for entry and exit.
A sturdy grab handle mounted on the A-pillar,
 providing enhanced support
and convenience for Jeep passengers.

Gator Jaw Soft Shackle

A safer, lightweight alternative to steel shackles, the  Gator Jaw Soft Shackle is strong, versatile, and easy to use in recovery situations.

  • Features: Synthetic rope, high breaking strength, floats in water.

  • Use-Case: I’ve used mine to recover vehicles stuck in deep mud. Unlike heavy steel shackles, these won’t turn into dangerous projectiles if something fails.

👉 Read my Gator Jaw Review


Gator-Jaw synthetic shackle in black and green, designed for heavy-duty off-road recovery with a breaking strength of 32,000 lbs.
Upgrade your recovery gear with
the Gator-Jaw synthetic shackle,
offering a lightweight yet incredibly
strong alternative for safe off-road recoveries.



Factor 55 Retention Pulley Ring

Boost your winching efficiency with this Factor 55 Retention Pulley Ring which reduces wear on your winch line and increases pulling power.

  • Features: Compatible with various winches, protects synthetic lines, improves efficiency.

  • Use-Case: On angled recoveries, this ring helps reduce strain on my winch line, making pulls smoother and safer.



Transfer Case Shifter Knob

Add a touch of personality to your Jeep’s interior with a custom Transfer Case Shifter Knob.

  • Features: Multiple styles and materials, improved grip, easy installation.

  • Use-Case: My Drake Off Road shifter knob not only looks sharp but gives me better grip when shifting into 4H or 4L on the trail.



Drake shifter knobs installed on a Jeep's gear and transfer case shifters, showcasing a sleek and textured design for enhanced grip.
Upgrade your Jeep's interior with Drake shifter knobs,
 offering a stylish look and improved functionality
for gear and transfer case shifting.


Purple Handle Inserts

Customize your Jeep’s interior with colorful inserts for door handles.

  • Features: Vibrant designs, DIY or pre-made options, simple install.

  • Use-Case: I added purple inserts to match my Jeep’s accents—it’s a small, fun mod that makes your Jeep stand out. Purple Handle Inserts




Jeep Hiking Socks

Functional and fun,Jeep-branded Hiking keep your feet dry and comfortable.

  • Features: Moisture-wicking fabric, cushioned soles, Jeep design.

  • Use-Case: I wear these on long trail rides and camping trips—comfortable, durable, and a great conversation starter at Jeep events.



Mechanix Gloves

Protect your hands during recoveries, maintenance, or cold-weather trail rides with Mechanix Gloves.

  • Features: Excellent grip, durable construction, comfortable fit.

  • Use-Case: I always keep a pair in my Jeep for winching, wrenching, and even winter driving—these gloves are tough and reliable.


Zipper Pulls for the Soft Top

Paracord Zipper Pulls make operating your Jeep’s soft top much easier, especially when wearing gloves.

  • Features: Easy grip, durable, customizable colors.

  • Use-Case: I use purple paracord pulls on my Wrangler’s top—they make zipping windows simple, even on cold mornings.


Set of purple paracord zipper pulls designed for Jeep Wranglers, adding a personalized and functional touch to zippers.
Accessorize your Jeep with these stylish
 and durable purple paracord zipper pulls,
perfect for adding flair and utility to your gear.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are the best Jeep stocking stuffers under $100?
Some top picks include tire deflators, recovery gear like soft shackles, grab handles, and fun interior mods.

Q2: Why are tire deflators a great gift?
They save time and ensure proper tire pressure for off-road traction—something every trail rider needs.

Q3: What recovery gear makes the best budget gift?
Colby Valves and Gator Jaw Soft Shackles are affordable, compact, and can save a trip when something goes wrong.

Q4: Are interior mods good Jeep gifts?
Yes! Items like shifter knobs and handle inserts are affordable ways to personalize a Jeep without major modifications.

Q5: What’s a practical Jeep gift for winter?
Mechanix gloves and zipper pulls are inexpensive but make a big difference in cold-weather Jeep life.


🎁 Final Thought: These Jeep stocking stuffers under $100 combine function and fun, making them perfect for holiday giving or trail-ready surprises.

👉 More gift inspiration from Nate and me on The Off-Road Insiders Podcast 👉 Watch Here


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Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Barricade Rock Sliders Review

Jeep Armor Protection: A Must-Have Upgrade


Jeep Momma installing the hardware on her new Barricade rock sliders.
Pounding washers into the sliders

One of the toughest decisions as a Jeep owner is choosing the right modifications for your rig. For me, this was especially challenging as a new Jeeper, diving headfirst into the world of off-roading and vehicle protection.

When I started researching rock sliders and armor, I wasn’t sure which option would be best. That’s when Extreme Terrain reached out and offered me the opportunity to review their Barricade Rock Sliders—an unexpected and exciting chance to enhance my Jeep's protection.

👉 Check out my full install post: Barricade Rock Slider Install


Easy DIY Installation


Jeep Momma installing her sliders


The installation process was straightforward, exactly what I wanted as a beginner. With durable hardware and a solid design, these sliders bolted right on with ease. Not only are they tough and reliable, but they also double as a step, making it easier to get in and out of my Jeep. Plus, they look amazing and complement my build perfectly!



Off-Road Durability: Tested & Approved

Since installing these sliders, I've put them to the test on rugged trails. They’ve endured countless rock scrapes and obstacles and continue to hold strong. I’ve reached the point where I love hearing them slide across the rocks—because I know they’re doing their job!

I have come down hard on rocks, hitting with full force, and while they have dented from impact, they’ve done their job protecting my Jeep’s body. I’ve scraped them over rocks more times than I can count, and each time, they take the hit instead of my Jeep. If you plan to wheel hard, you’ll want to perform a little maintenance—after scraping over rocks, it’s a good idea to touch up any exposed metal with rust-resistant paint to prevent corrosion and keep them looking great.


Rock damage on my Barricade Rock Sliders.
Slider Damage

Key Features:

Superior Side & Undercarriage Protection
Doubles as a Side Step for Easy Entry
Heavy-Duty Tubular Steel Construction
Reinforced for Maximum Strength
Textured Black Powder Coat Finish for Longevity
Simple Bolt-On Installation—No Drilling Required



My Must-Have Jeep Upgrade

Looking back, I wish this had been my first Jeep mod. These Barricade Rock Sliders have saved my Jeep more than once, taking on rugged terrain without breaking a sweat. If you want reliable armor protection that also looks great, this is the upgrade to get!

🔥 Highly recommend for any Jeep owner who loves to hit the trails!



Rock Slider FAQ's


What are rock sliders, and why are they important for my Jeep?

Rock sliders are sturdy metal bars mounted along the sides of your Jeep's body to protect it from rocks, debris, and other off-road hazards. They're crucial for preventing damage to your vehicle's rocker panels and undercarriage during challenging terrain.


How do rock sliders differ from running boards or side steps?

While running boards and side steps offer easier access to your Jeep, rock sliders are designed for off-road protection. They're built to withstand impacts and scrapes from rocks and obstacles, doubling as a step but with heavy-duty construction that can handle rugged terrain.  


Do I need professional installation for rock sliders?

Most rock sliders are designed for DIY installation, typically bolting directly onto existing mounting points on your Jeep's frame. However, if you're unsure or have a complex setup, professional installation may be recommended to ensure proper fitment and durability.


What materials are rock sliders made from, and which is best?

Rock sliders are commonly made from materials like steel or aluminum. Steel offers superior strength and durability against impacts but can be heavier, affecting your Jeep's weight and fuel efficiency. Aluminum is lighter but sacrifices some toughness. Choose based on your off-roading needs and vehicle specifications.

Will rock sliders affect my Jeep's ground clearance?

Rock sliders are designed to fit snugly along the Jeep's body without significantly impacting ground clearance. However, it's essential to check product specifications and reviews to ensure they're compatible with your specific Jeep model and lift kit.




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