EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ Review

Worth the Money? My Take on the EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″

For anyone who spends significant time on the water, securing gear properly is paramount. I’ve spent over a decade wrestling with loose equipment, especially on my boat. Recently, a particularly choppy outing where a cooler almost went overboard got me thinking about better tie-down solutions. That’s when I stumbled upon the EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″. This product promises a simple, robust way to add extra tie-down points using existing rod holders.

My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The material, a high impact corrosion and UV resistant PVC, felt substantial and well-suited for marine environments. There’s a satisfying heft to it, suggesting it can handle the stresses of active use. Unlike flimsy plastic alternatives I’ve encountered, this felt like a serious piece of equipment. I briefly considered a more permanent mounting solution, but the ease of installation and removal offered by this rod-holder-based system was too appealing to pass up. It offered a quick, no-fuss answer to my immediate need for more tie-down points.

Real-World Testing: Putting EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds were primarily my 22-foot center console boat, specifically focusing on securing a cooler and a tackle bag to the deck during a full day of fishing. The initial installation was as straightforward as advertised; it slid effortlessly into my flush-mounted rod holders with a slight twist. No tools were needed, which was a welcome change from fumbling with screws and wrenches on a pitching deck.

In terms of performance, the tie-down held firm throughout the day. The 22″ length provided ample room to secure my items without excessive slack. Even with moderate chop and the boat rocking, the cooler remained securely in place. I did notice a slight tendency for the PVC to grip the inside of the rod holder, but it still allowed for easy removal once the tie-down was unclipped.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple fishing trips, the EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ has proven its worth. It’s become a permanent fixture on my boat, used to secure everything from coolers to gear bags and even a small portable fish finder. The PVC has shown no signs of degradation, despite consistent exposure to saltwater, sun, and the occasional splash of sunscreen.

There are absolutely no visible cracks, stiffness, or performance drops. Maintenance is practically non-existent; a quick rinse with fresh water after each saltwater excursion is all that’s needed. Compared to bungee cords that stretch and fray, or custom mounting solutions that require drilling, this auxiliary tie-down offers a fantastic blend of durability and user-friendliness. It significantly outperforms budget tie-down straps that often degrade quickly in harsh outdoor conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″

Specifications

The EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ is designed with practicality and marine durability in mind. Its primary component is a 22-inch long tie-down strap made from high impact corrosion and UV resistant PVC. This material choice is crucial, as it directly addresses the common failure points of outdoor equipment exposed to the elements.

The design leverages existing infrastructure: it slides easily into and out of most flush mounted rod holders. This eliminates the need for permanent alterations to your boat or vehicle. The product boasts a five (5) year replacement warranty, which is a strong indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in its longevity and resilience.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of this product is to provide a secure, temporary tie-down point. In this regard, it excels. The PVC strap, when tensioned properly, creates a very secure hold for a variety of items. Its ability to integrate with standard rod holders means you can quickly add multiple tie-down points across your vessel or workspace.

Its main strength is its simplicity and robustness. The materials are clearly chosen for their ability to withstand marine environments, resisting saltwater corrosion and UV damage. The only minor functional quibble is that the PVC can be a bit snug in some rod holders, requiring a firm pull to release, but this also ensures it won’t accidentally come loose. It comfortably meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ is elegantly simple, focusing on function over form. The high impact PVC construction gives it a sturdy, reliable feel, unlike the flimsier materials some competitors use. Its 22-inch length is a practical choice, offering sufficient reach for most common tie-down needs without being excessively long.

Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of use. The smooth surface of the PVC makes it comfortable to handle, even with wet hands. The integration into rod holders is seamless, and the lack of complex mechanisms means there’s virtually no learning curve. The cleat itself is straightforward, providing a secure anchor point for any bungee cord or tie-down strap you choose to use with it.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the high impact corrosion and UV resistant PVC material, this auxiliary tie-down is built for the long haul, especially in demanding environments. For typical use on a boat or in an outdoor workshop, it should easily last for many years. The manufacturer backs this with a five (5) year replacement warranty, which is a testament to its expected durability.

Maintenance is practically a non-issue. A simple rinse with fresh water after exposure to saltwater or dirt is sufficient to keep it in top condition. There are no moving parts to seize up or lubricate. The primary potential failure point would be extreme, prolonged abuse that could potentially abrade the PVC, but under normal operating conditions, this is highly unlikely.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ is designed to work with your existing tie-down systems. It doesn’t come with its own specific bungee or rope, allowing you the flexibility to choose what best suits your needs. This means you can pair it with your preferred heavy-duty bungee cords, ratcheting tie-downs, or even simple rope.

The primary “customization” comes from where you choose to insert it. Its compatibility with “most flush mounted rod holders” means you can deploy it in numerous locations. There are no other official accessories, but its design is inherently adaptable to whatever tie-down method you prefer.

Pros and Cons of EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″

Who Should Buy EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″?

This auxiliary tie-down is an ideal solution for boat owners, anglers, and anyone who frequently uses trailers or outdoor equipment with rod holders. If you’re looking for a quick, reliable way to add secure tie-down points without permanent modifications, this product is for you. It’s particularly well-suited for securing items like coolers, tackle bags, toolboxes, or even temporary seating.

Individuals who should consider skipping this are those who do not have flush-mounted rod holders or who require sterile, medical-grade equipment. If you need tie-down solutions for environments where extreme abrasive resistance is paramount, you might need something more heavy-duty. A must-have complementary item would be a set of quality bungee cords or a versatile ratchet strap system to pair with this cleat.

Conclusion on EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″

The EZ BOARD Cleat Auxiliary Tie Down 22″ delivers precisely what it promises: a simple, robust, and incredibly useful way to add secure tie-down points using existing rod holders. Its durable PVC construction, ease of use, and the peace of mind offered by a generous warranty make it an outstanding value at $49.99. This is a product that solves a common problem effectively and built to last.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this tie-down to anyone with compatible rod holders. It’s an investment that quickly pays for itself in convenience and the security of your gear. If you’re looking to reduce clutter and prevent items from shifting during transit or while out on the water, this auxiliary tie-down is an excellent addition to your setup.