This characteristic is the most significant differentiating factor between these two styles of straps. Recovery straps are incredibly flexible, absorbing some of the impacts of a recovery procedure and providing an additional "tug" due to kinetic energy. Tow straps, however, are incredibly stiff with little to no give.

Recovery straps are safer for this type of usage than chain. These products are easier to use and they are not nearly as heavy. Making sure your recovery strap is in good shape is very important before using. Any frayed or worn straps increases the likelihood of breakage during a recovery.

Simply put, a tow strap should not stretch much, making it ideal for static recoveries, and a snatch strap or kinetic rope does stretch, making them safe for dynamic recoveries. A good tow strap is typically made of 100% polyester, because of the strength and lack of stretch that polyester webbing offers.

Tow straps contain little to no elasticity making them perfect for towing vehicles. Due to the lack of "give" in a tow strap, they should not be used for yanking a stuck vehicle out of whatever it's stuck in. Even though tow straps should not be used for aggressive tugging, they still have a place in recovery.