Jeep Fenders: Essential Upgrade

Hooke Road Fender Flares Review & Install

After over 10 years of wheeling with my OEM plastic fenders it was time for a change. Those plastic fenders were looking pretty rough—faded, beat up, and not built to last through the abuse of off-roading. So when Hooke Road reached out and asked me to review one of their products, I jumped at the chance to test out their Front & Rear Tube Fender Flares Kit on my 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.

Newly installed Hooke Road inner fender liners
& Fender Flares on Jeep Momma’s Rubicon.

My OEM fenders had served their time, but it was clear I needed an upgrade. The Hooke Road Fender Flares instantly appealed to me for their aggressive look, durability, and functionality on rocky trails. These fenders aren’t just about looks (well maybe 😁) —they’re built to handle the real-world demands of off-roading.

Key Product Features:

• Fits 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK models

• Made from 1.5" diameter steel tubing and 16-gauge steel plate

• 11-gauge mounting structure

• Textured black powder coat finish with E-coating inside

• Flat upper plane with tube edge for rugged styling

• Increased tire clearance for better suspension articulation

Hooke Road fender flares
seamlessly integrated on my Rubicon.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, I was impressed. The packaging was professional and secure. The steel construction felt solid and the powder-coated finish was clean and consistent. These flares scream trail-ready toughness.

The Install – What You Should Know

I attempted the install on my own, and here’s the truth: it’s not a beginner install. If you’re new to Jeep mods or don’t have experience with rivnuts and metal drilling, I recommend enlisting the help of a friend or a local off-road shop.

Tools I Used:

• Ratchet & wrench

• Hammer

• Drill with 1/2" drill bit

• Aluminum 5/16" rivnuts, bolts, washers, lock washers (these were hardware that worked for the tool I borrowed)

• Rivnut tool (note: the one provided didn’t work well for me)

Steps I Took:

1. Removed OEM plastic fenders – easy. You can find those videos How to Remove the Jeep Wrangler JKU Rear Fenders and How to Remove the Jeep Wrangler JKU Front Fenders.

2. Installed Hooke Road Inner Fenders – highly recommended, especially in the front. These help reduce the number of rivnuts needed and improve fitment.

3. Lined up fenders with Jeep body and marked rivnut locations.

4. Drilled rivnut holes, hammered them in, and used the rivnut tool. I borrowed one from one of the technicians at my shop. The one provided didn't work for me. 

5. Bolted the flares on – the most difficult part was aligning everything properly. I used 5 rivnuts on each fender and they’re holding strong.

Turn Signal Lights:

The flares include a spot for side turn signals. I picked up a pair at a local auto parts store, but you can find similar ones on Amazon - LED Side marker light. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Super durable steel construction

• Increased clearance for better articulation

• Rugged, aggressive styling

• Protects against mud, debris, and trail damage

Cons:

• Not beginner-friendly

• Provided rivnut tool didn’t hold up

• Some minor fitment issues

• Might require custom hardware or adjustments

I absolutely love these fender flares. They completely transformed the look of my Jeep, and I’m confident they’ll handle anything the trail throws at me. While the install had its challenges, the result is worth it—especially if you’ve got the right tools or a helpful friend nearby.

Whether you're upgrading from faded factory plastics or building your rig for serious trail use, the Hooke Road Fender Flares are a solid choice.

👉 Watch the full install and review on YouTube here

A Jeep Momma’s Guide to Starting Your Day Right

Mastering Cold Mornings

Beating cold mornings is both an art and a science, and living in Wyoming with a love for camping has taught me to find the best solutions. Whether you're getting up for a day or work or prepping for a day of off-roading or a cozy winter camping trip, starting your morning warm and ready is essential for tackling the day ahead.

Embracing the Jeep life

Start Your Day Warm: Why Thermals Matter

The key to beating a chilly morning is starting off warm and cozy. Equip yourself with essentials like thermal socks, which are perfect for those early mornings around the campfire or gearing up for winter Jeep adventures. A good pair of thermal socks not only keep your feet toasty but also ensure you're ready for whatever comes next, whether you're out exploring the trails or just tackling your daily routine.

Don't forget to add other layers, like a comfy fleece or a cozy jacket, for the ultimate warmth.

Optimize Your Morning: The Power of a Good Thermostat

Just like you maintain your Jeep for peak performance, you need to optimize your home environment to ensure a smooth start to your day. Set your thermostat to the perfect temperature, usually between 68°F to 71°F, so that your home is warm and inviting when you wake up. Programming the thermostat to kick in an hour before you rise can help you avoid that dreaded cold shock when you step out of bed.

A cozy home is the first step to feeling energized and ready for any adventure, from morning chores to your next Jeep trip.

Routine is Key: How to Make Mornings Work for You

Self-care isn’t just about skincare or relaxation—it’s about setting up your environment and routine for success. A consistent morning routine not only helps you get out of bed faster but also sets the tone for the entire day. When you're well-rested and prepared, you're more likely to feel energized, whether you're hitting the trails or handling your everyday tasks.

Did you know that a regular sleep schedule can make it easier to wake up and get going? It’s all about creating habits that help you start the day on a positive note. Make it a priority to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

Sleep Like a Pro: Bedding Tips for a Better Morning

Much like you customize your Jeep for comfort, your bedding plays a huge role in how well you sleep. Invest in high-quality bedding—like supportive pillows and duvets with the right tog rating. The right bedding ensures you're well-rested and ready to take on the day. A good night’s sleep makes it easier to wake up and feel energized, whether you’re planning a day of off-roading or just getting through your daily routine.

Remember, too much warmth can disturb your sleep, so balance your bedding for comfort, especially if you're sleeping in a tent on a camping trip.

Wake Up to the Sun: Natural Light’s Impact on Your Day

Natural light may feel like your enemy when you're snuggled under the covers, but it’s actually one of the best ways to wake your body up naturally. Sunlight not only signals to your body that it’s time to rise, but it also helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. If you're in a place where the sun doesn’t shine much during the winter months, consider using a sunlamp to mimic natural light. It’s a great tool for keeping your circadian rhythm in check, especially on those early mornings when you need a little help getting up.

Plus, during winter camping or in your home, the sunlight streaming through your windows will naturally warm up your space, adding a little extra coziness to your morning.

A crackling campfire
An Essentials for Jeep-life nights

Starting your day warm and ready is the key to beating those cold mornings. Equip yourself with essentials like thermal socks, create a solid morning routine, and set up your space for maximum comfort and efficiency. Whether you’re at home or gearing up for a camping adventure, a cozy, well-planned morning will help you take on the day with energy and confidence.

What are your best tips for making cold mornings easier? Share them with me in the comments below!