---
title: How do I use GoTreads for traction?
description: "GoTreads are traction boards, also called recovery boards or traction mats, for getting a car, truck or RV unstuck in snow, mud or sand. #### Instructional Video [How to use GoTreads](https://www.youtube.com/embed/FVjUfYCIZpk?feature=oembed) ### Instructions for Traction #### Step 1 Put the…"
url: "https://gotreads.com/docs/how-do-i-use-gotreads-for-traction/"
updated: "2026-11-03"
category: "Product Usage & Features"
---

# How do I use GoTreads for traction?

GoTreads are traction boards, also called recovery boards or traction mats, for getting a car, truck or RV unstuck in snow, mud or sand.

#### Instructional Video

[How to use GoTreads](https://www.youtube.com/embed/FVjUfYCIZpk?feature=oembed)

### Instructions for Traction

#### Step 1

Put the vehicle in park and set the emergency brake before using GoTreads.

- If you can rock the vehicle back and forth and get a gap in front of the tire toward travel, this will aid in GoTreads placement.

![Instructions - GoTreads Placement](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/gotreads-instructions-placement-768x512.jpg)

#### Step 2

Unfold the GoTreads and place the starter panel of the GoTreads, grooved side up, near the stuck tire.

![GoTreads Instructions - Starter Panel Placement](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/instructions-starter-placement-768x512.jpg)

#### Step 3

Center the short section as close to the stuck tire as possible.

- If you were able to create a gap in step 1, wedge GoTreads as far under the tire as possible.
- Clear any additional debris out of the path of travel.
- Sometimes digging out a small area in front of the tire in which to wedge GoTreads will help them grip better.
- It’s the weight of the vehicle on GoTreads that helps them dig into the ground. The further GoTreads are under your tire, the better they will work.

![GoTreads starter panel under center of tire weight](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/instructions-tire-weight-point-768x512.jpg)

#### Step 4

Keep in mind that you want to drive up the GoTreads, so you will need to align the treads in the path of the stuck tire.

#### Step 5

Return to the driver position, make sure all bystanders are clear, and release the brake.

#### Step 6

Put the vehicle in the lowest gear. As you begin ***SLOWLY*** accelerate.

- You want the vehicle to CRAWL out of the stuck situation so be very light on the accelerator and let GoTreads do the work.
- Speed is your enemy and can cause the GoTreads to melt if you spin your tires on them.
- If the GoTreads are not feeding under the tire, repeat the above steps and reposition them so more of the vehicle weight is on the starter panel.

![GoTreads instructions - self feeding under the tire](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/gotreads-insturctions-slef-feeding-under-tire-768x512.jpg)

![GoTreads instructions - drive slowly out](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/gotreads-instructions-driving-out-768x512.jpg)

#### Step 7

Once the vehicle is out and moving, drive to a safe stopping place before retrieving your GoTreads.

- GoTreads can be tapped on their side to release any loose dirt, sand, or snow.
- If used in mud, we recommend storing GoTreads in a waterproof bag until you are able to clean them off for the next use.

![GoTreads Instructions - retrieve your GoTreads](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/gotreads-instructions-retrieve-768x512.jpg)

     [PDF Version

Download a digital copy of the GoTreads instruction manual. PDF format.](https://gotreads.com/wp-content/uploads/GoTreads-Instructions.pdf)