I have these…
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
If I am wheeling over hardpack or rocks and get stuck, it’s usually because I don’t have lockers. Deploying traction pads did very little to help. It generally requires a friend and a tow strap/winch to pull me over the obstacle.
I like to spend most of my time in the desert and drive in the sand/dunes. I easily convinced myself years ago this was a necessity for the type of off-road driving I do but I was glad to prove myself wrong. Over the years I have improved my off-road driving skills and equipment, namely tires which made a massive difference. I can confidently say I haven’t gotten myself stuck nearly as much as I used to after learning how to drive in sand.
Truthfully I find little value in owning traction pads. I haven’t used mine in 3 years. I think the last handful of trips I didn’t even bother taking them because I was familiar with the area and terrain. The confidence level to leave without them is pretty high if I go to my usual spots. If I trek out to someplace new I’ll bring them as cheap insurance.
From my own experiences, I couldn’t see myself spending Maxtrax money if I had to buy again today considering I can barely justify what I already own.
On a side note… people have been doing traction recovery for years with firewood, floormats, rocks, plywood… there are ways to get this done for a lot less if one was really in a pinch. Mother nature can provide you with a lot in times of need. Bring a shovel, bring 4 if you want passengers to help. Buy the best damn shovel money can buy. It’s probably the best recovery tool I own.