These Snakes Keep Hold On Equipment
Product: Snakes
Description: Elastic braided cords in four lengths (19 inch, 26 inch, 36 inch and 48 inch) and two basic styles: single forming a simple loop and double which forms two loops, one at each end of a longer cord. Snakes secure using a stronger version of hook and loop than standard Velcro.
Pro: No hooks that tear things or snaps that break. Instead, Snakes utilize a unique design, using a very strong version of hook and loop (stronger than Velcro) which secures in a manner that is best imagined if you picture a snake’s mouth, lined with fuzz, biting down on its own tail, covered with bristles (hence the name).
Since the body of the snake is elastic, it stretches, rather like a bungee cord. Unlike a bungee cord, Snakes don’t require tension to remain fastened, which is super if you are using several in a series or creating an interlocking web of Snakes over a car rack to secure items which would be damaged by a constricting elastic cord or rope. Soft cord and no hard metal to scratch either your vehicle or your surfboard, canoe, kayak or other item you are using the Snakes on or with. Washable in cold water.
Con: I noticed rapid wear and tear on the cords after being tightly strung over some materials on my car rack that had sharper edges.
While even a bungee cord would have worn too, the Snakes appeared to wear faster than I would have expected with a bungee and they certainly cost more. I discovered a quick and cheap fix, however, and am now smiling again. I took some thick surgical tubing, cut it into three-inch lengths, slit each length down the middle, popped each over the cord, and then secured each in place with a wrap of duct tape.
My make-shift Snake cord covers slide into place over any sharp object or corner, taking the edge off and adding months of use to my Snakes.
Editor’s note: The manufacturer does not recommend this alteration or the use of Snakes on sharp surfaces.
Comments: If you have ever dodged a releasing bungee cord as the hook snapped unexpectedly past your face, you will appreciate Snakes. They are all I use now on my car rack since after heavy testing I have no more fear of eye injury, paint scratches or inadvertent releases of strapping scattering what I had hoped was secure on my roof all over the highway. No, using a Snake is not a secure as utilizing rope and the good old Trucker’s Hitch, but for convenience and quick-apply-quick-remove security, Snakes can’t be beaten. Ideal fasteners for use when canoeing, sailing, biking, backpacking, RVing or on the family car rack.
Suggested Retail: Prices range from $4 to $12 depending on size.
Company: JFI, 2116 Newman Street, Janesville, WI 53545; 608 756-0428