When towing a heavy trailer, sway control is critical for safety. We researched and compared the top sway bars available for tow trucks and heavy-duty vehicles. Our evaluation is based on manufacturer specifications, published industry standards (SAE J684 and related), and aggregated owner feedback from verified purchasers. We focused on real-world performance, durability, ease of installation, and value. Here are our findings to help you choose the best sway bar for your towing needs.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control Best Overall Up to 15,000 lbs GTW, 1,500 lbs tongue weight, integrated sway control |
9.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Reese Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control (Round Bar) Best Value Up to 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs tongue weight, round bar design |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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CURT TruTrack Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control Best Innovation Up to 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs tongue weight, trunnion bar, integrated sway control |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control Best for Trailers Up to 12,000 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs tongue weight, round bar with built-in sway control |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Andersen Hitches Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control Lightest Option Up to 14,000 lbs GTW, 1,400 lbs tongue weight, chain-based design, no spring bars |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Husky Towing Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control (Round Bar) Budget Pick Up to 10,000 lbs GTW, 1,000 lbs tongue weight, round bar, includes friction sway bar |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pro Series Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control Basic Reliable Up to 8,000 lbs GTW, 800 lbs tongue weight, round bar, friction sway bar included |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: Best Overall
In our research, the Blue Ox SwayPro consistently received high marks from owners towing large trailers and fifth-wheels. The integrated sway control uses a unique design that applies friction directly to the spring bars, providing active damping without a separate friction unit. This results in a stable, controlled tow even in crosswinds or when passed by semi-trucks. The 15,000 lb capacity makes it suitable for most heavy tow trucks and large RVs.
However, the SwayPro is bulkier than some lighter-duty systems, and installation requires a bit more effort due to its sturdy components. It may be overkill for those towing under 8,000 lbs. Some owners reported that the integrated friction mechanism can wear over time, requiring occasional adjustment. Skip this if you need a lightweight, budget-friendly option for occasional light towing.
- Integrated sway control eliminates need for separate friction bar
- Built for heavy-duty towing with 15,000 lb capacity
- Trunnion bar design for smooth weight distribution
Pros: Excellent sway damping on long trips; Easy to hitch and unhitch
Cons: Heavier than some competitors
2. Reese Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control (Round Bar): Best Value
The Reese Round Bar system is a workhorse that has been trusted by towers for years. We compared its specifications and owner feedback against newer designs and found it delivers reliable weight distribution and decent sway resistance when paired with a Reese friction sway bar. The round bars are durable and easy to maintain, and the bracket system allows for adjustment to fine-tune the load leveling.
However, the system does not include integrated sway control, so buyers should plan to add a friction sway bar for optimal stability. Some owners noted that the round bars can be noisy (creaking) under heavy loads. It is best suited for those who want a proven, affordable system and are willing to add a separate sway control. Skip if you prefer an all-in-one solution.
- Classic round bar design proven over decades
- Includes adjustable sway control bracket
- Available in multiple capacities for different tow rigs
Pros: Well-priced for the build quality; Good parts availability and support
Cons: Requires separate friction sway bar for best performance
3. CURT TruTrack Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: Best Innovation
The CURT TruTrack impressed us with its innovative design that uses cams within the trunnion bar system to provide sway damping without a separate friction unit. Owner feedback highlights its stability and ease of use, especially when towing large boats or travel trailers. The rotating latch handle makes hooking up the spring bars simpler than many competitors.
That said, some users reported that the integrated sway control is less aggressive than a dedicated friction bar, so extreme sway conditions may still be felt. It also requires periodic greasing to maintain smooth operation. This is an excellent choice for those who want a modern, integrated system and tow moderately heavy loads. Skip if you need maximum sway control for very heavy or unstable trailers.
- Trunnion bars with integrated sway control cams
- Rotating latch handle for easy hookup
- Greaseable pivot points for long life
Pros: Smooth sway control with no added friction bar; Easy to adjust and maintain
Cons: Slightly more expensive than basic kits
4. Fastway e2 Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: Best for Trailers
The Fastway e2 is a popular choice among travel trailer owners for its adjustable built-in sway control. We found that the cam-based system provides effective damping for most towing situations, and the ability to adjust the resistance level is a nice touch. Owners report a significant reduction in sway from passing trucks and crosswinds.
However, the round bar design is not as durable as trunnion bars for very heavy loads, and some users noted that the sway control can be inconsistent in extreme conditions. It is also not the best choice for fifth-wheel trailers. Skip this if you are towing over 12,000 lbs or require a more heavy-duty system.
- Built-in sway control using a unique cam mechanism
- Adjustable to 4 levels of sway resistance
- Compatible with most standard hitches
Pros: Easy to adjust sway control force; Good for travel trailers and boats
Cons: Round bars can be less stable than trunnion under heavy load
5. Andersen Hitches Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: Lightest Option
The Andersen Hitch is a departure from traditional bar-based systems, using chains and a friction ball mount to distribute weight and control sway. We researched owner experiences and found that many appreciate its light weight and simplicity. It is particularly well-suited for those who frequently hitch and unhitch, as it is much easier to handle than heavy bar systems.
However, the chain-based design does not provide the same level of weight distribution as spring bars, and some owners report that it can be less stable with heavy or poorly loaded trailers. The friction-based sway control is effective but can wear the hitch ball over time. Skip if you tow very heavy loads (over 10,000 lbs) or require maximum sway control.
- Unique chain-based weight distribution, no heavy spring bars
- Very lightweight and easy to handle (under 50 lbs)
- Built-in sway control using hitch ball friction
Pros: Lightest system on the market; No grease, no noise, easy setup
Cons: Chain system can be less precise than bars
6. Husky Towing Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control (Round Bar): Budget Pick
The Husky Towing system is a budget-friendly option that includes both weight distribution and a basic friction sway bar. In our evaluation, it performed adequately for lighter loads (under 8,000 lbs) but struggled with heavier trailers. Owner feedback indicates that the components are not as strong as higher-end systems, and the sway bar bracket may require frequent readjustment.
It is a reasonable choice for occasional towing of small travel trailers or utility trailers. However, for regular heavy towing or for tow trucks that carry significant tongue weight, we recommend stepping up to a more durable system. Skip if you tow over 10,000 lbs or need long-term reliability.
- Includes a friction sway bar for basic sway control
- Affordable entry-level system
- Round bar design with standard bracket
Pros: Low price point for a complete kit; Decent for light to medium towing
Cons: Less durable than premium brands; Sway bar bracket can be finicky to adjust
7. Pro Series Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control: Basic Reliable
The Pro Series hitch is a no-frills option for those towing smaller trailers. We found that it provides basic weight distribution and sway resistance, but it is not designed for heavy-duty use. The round bars are thin and the friction sway bar offers limited damping. Owner reviews note that it works fine for light loads but can be overwhelmed by strong winds or large trucks.
This system is best for occasional towing of small boats or pop-up campers. It is not recommended for tow trucks or heavy loads exceeding 8,000 lbs. Skip if you need solid sway control for frequent or heavy towing.
- Simple and straightforward design
- Includes friction sway bar for basic control
- Good for small to medium trailers
Pros: Very affordable; Lightweight and easy to install
Cons: Limited capacity for heavier towing; Sway control is minimal
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sway bar for towing and how does it work?
A sway bar (or anti-sway bar) is a device that reduces side-to-side movement (sway) of a trailer while towing. It works by adding friction or tension that resists the rotational forces that cause sway. Many weight distribution hitches incorporate sway control, either as an integrated mechanism or as an add-on friction bar. For tow trucks, a good sway bar is essential for safe handling, especially in crosswinds or when passing large vehicles.
Do I need a sway bar if I have a weight distribution hitch?
Not all weight distribution hitches include sway control. Some provide only load leveling, while others have built-in sway control. Even if your hitch distributes weight, you may still experience sway from external forces. We recommend using a system with integrated sway control or adding a separate friction sway bar for optimal safety, especially for tow trucks towing heavy or long trailers.
Can I use a sway bar with a fifth-wheel trailer?
Fifth-wheel trailers typically have a different hitch design and do not use the same type of sway bars as bumper-pull trailers. However, some fifth-wheel hitches have built-in sway control or can be equipped with add-on devices. For fifth-wheel towing, look for a hitch specifically designed for that application. The products in this guide are primarily for conventional bumper-pull trailers.
How do I choose the right sway bar for my tow truck?
First, determine your trailer’s gross trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight. Choose a sway bar system rated for at least those weights. Consider the type of towing you do: for heavy or frequent towing, a trunnion bar system with integrated sway control is best. For lighter loads, a round bar system with a friction sway bar may suffice. Also check compatibility with your hitch receiver and trailer coupler.
Are friction sway bars effective?
Friction sway bars are effective for moderate sway control and are a common add-on to weight distribution hitches. They work by applying friction to the trailer tongue or hitch ball. However, they require proper adjustment and can wear over time. For heavy or unstable trailers, integrated sway control (such as cam-based or chain-based systems) often provides more consistent and stronger sway resistance.
Our Verdict
After researching specifications, industry standards, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Blue Ox SwayPro for its integrated sway control and heavy-duty capacity. For those seeking a balance of value and performance, the Reese Round Bar system with a separate friction sway bar is a solid runner-up. Always match the sway bar to your specific towing needs and trailer weight.
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