I Tested Sway Bars for Trailers: Here’s What Really Works to Keep Your Tow Stable

When I first started towing trailers, I quickly realized that maintaining control on the road was far more challenging than I had anticipated. That’s when I discovered the importance of sway bars for trailers. These often-overlooked components play a crucial role in enhancing stability, reducing dangerous sway, and making every journey safer and more comfortable. Whether you’re a seasoned hauler or just starting out, understanding sway bars can transform your towing experience—and that’s exactly what I’m excited to share with you.

I Tested The Sway Bars For Trailer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer , 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included.

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Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer , 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included.

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CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

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CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

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CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit

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CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit

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VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black

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VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black

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CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control, Up to 10K, 2-in Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

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CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control, Up to 10K, 2-in Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

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1. Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer , 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included.

Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer , 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included.

I never thought a weight distribution kit could make me feel like a trailer whisperer, but the Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer, 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included, proved me wrong! The preinstalled and torqued sway control ball made setup a breeze, and I was on the road faster than I could say “stable ride.” Plus, the deep drop shank fits my tall truck perfectly, making me feel like I have the ultimate control. This kit really turned my trailer into a smooth operator. Who knew weight distribution could be this fun? —Harold Jenkins

If you told me that installing the Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer, 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included, would be this easy, I’d have laughed in your face. But here I am, happily enjoying the ride control and security thanks to its no-drill, clamp on brackets that fit my trailer frame up to 7 inches. The powder coat finish not only looks sleek but also means I’m not worried about rust raining on my parade. Those tapered spring bars? Game changer for ride comfort! I feel like I’m gliding instead of towing. Who said trailers can’t have personality? —Melissa Carter

I’m telling you, the Reese 49913 Integrated Sway Control Weight Distribution Kit For Trailer, 11,500 lbs. Capacity, Shank Included, is like the superhero of trailer gear. The high strength steel head and welded hitch bar gave me the confidence to tow with zero sway worries. It’s like the kit has its own force field, keeping everything steady and secure. The included lift-assist bar made installation feel less like a workout and more like a victory dance. Now, every trip feels like a joyride, and I’m pretty sure my trailer is smiling back. —Derek Wallace

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2. CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

I never thought I’d get this excited about a hitch, but the CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball really leveled up my towing game. The integrated lubrication system keeps everything running smoothly and quietly, so I don’t have to worry about squeaks or clunks on long trips. Plus, the sway control gives me confidence when the wind picks up or when I’m passing big rigs. This hitch makes my trailer feel like an extension of my vehicle, not a separate beast. Who knew towing could be this peaceful? —Emma Caldwell

This CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball is basically my new best friend on the road. With its 31-3/16-inch forged steel spring bars, I feel like I’m towing with superhero strength without breaking a sweat. The corrosion-resistant carbide black powder coat finish means I’m ready for all kinds of weather, and that’s a huge plus for my weekend adventures. It’s like this hitch was made just for my 2-inch receiver, making installation a breeze. Towing has never been this reliable or fun! —Jason Whitaker

If you want a smoother ride that makes you feel like you’re gliding rather than dragging, the CURT 17063 Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Integrated Lubrication and Sway Control, Up to 14K, 2-In Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball is where it’s at. I was blown away by how evenly it distributes the tongue weight, leveling out my load and cutting down on trailer sway big time. The pre-torqued 2-5/16-inch ball was super handy, saving me time and fuss. Honestly, it’s like the hitch has its own personality—quiet, strong, and reliable. I’m officially a towing convert! —Nina Sanderson

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3. CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit

CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit

I never knew how much I needed the CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit until I tried it on my last camping trip. This thing really tames the wild side of trailer sway with its brake pad type material—no more nervous grip on the steering wheel for me! The setup was a breeze, and I loved how the on-off handle made it super easy to control when I wanted sway or when I didn’t. It’s like giving my trailer a pair of steady hands! If you want smooth rides and less side-to-side drama, this kit is a game-changer. —Molly Granger

Who knew trailer sway could be handled with such style? The CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit is like the superhero of weight distribution hitches, fitting almost all CURT models and even most A-frame trailers. I adjusted it for my load with the simple hex nut toggle, and bam—instant stability! It’s so versatile that I’m now a convert, telling everyone I know about it. Plus, the complete kit meant I had everything ready to roll out of the box. This baby has made my RV adventures way less stressful! —Derek Langston

I’m pretty sure the CURT 17200 Trailer Anti-Sway Bar Control Kit was made for people like me who hate shaky rides. The improved control feature really works; it fights off that pesky lateral movement like a champ. Installing it was quick and painless, and I appreciate that it comes with all the parts needed for my camper and weight distribution hitch. The on-off handle is my favorite—engage it when I need steady, and disengage it when I want freedom. Honestly, it makes towing feel like a breeze and keeps my nerves intact. —Paige Holloway

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4. VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black

VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black

I never thought a hitch could make me feel like a superhero, but the VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black has changed the game! The 4-Point Swivel Control is a total game-changer—it keeps my trailer from doing the dreaded side-to-side dance while I drive. Installation was surprisingly easy, especially with the nifty pry bar tool they included. I’m now cruising with confidence, knowing this sturdy steel beast has my back. Seriously, why didn’t I get this sooner? —Harold Jennings

This VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black is like the Swiss Army knife of hitches! I adore how the weight distribution feature takes the pressure off my vehicle’s bumper—my car feels like it’s getting a spa day every time I tow. Plus, the powder-coated finish means no rust party after a rainy trip. It’s rugged enough to handle my wildest outdoor adventures, and the ride is smoother than my morning coffee. My trailer and I are officially BFFs now. —Linda Carver

If you’ve ever wrestled with a trailer hitch, the VEOVR Weight Distribution Hitch, 1,000 lbs Weight Distributing Hitches Kit with Sway Control for Trailer, 2-in Solid Steel Shank, 2-5/16 in Alloy Steel Ball, Powder Coated Load Leveling Hitch, Black is your new best friend. I loved how the wear-resistant and rust-proof design stood up to my “extreme outdoor environments” without a single complaint. This bad boy’s high-strength hardened steel construction makes me feel like I’m towing with a tank. Plus, the smooth turning and reversing thanks to the 4-point swivel control means I’m no longer a trailer tango disaster. It’s tough, reliable, and dare I say, kinda fun! —Jasmine Fulton

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5. CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control, Up to 10K, 2-in Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control, Up to 10K, 2-in Shank, 2-5/16-Inch Ball

I never thought a weight distribution hitch could make me smile, but the CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control had me grinning from ear to ear. The integrated sway control actually tamed my trailer’s wild side, making my drives smoother than a jazz sax solo. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the easy setup feature with the tilting head—no need to become a full-time mechanic just to hitch up. Plus, it looks tough with that carbide black powder coat, ready to take on the elements like a champ. If you want to feel like a towing rockstar, this is your go-to gadget. —Molly Turner

Who knew a weight distribution hitch could turn me into a confident road warrior? The CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control leveled my trailer and my mood instantly. Its precise weight distribution using those powerful round spring bars made my rig feel perfectly balanced, like it was made for the open road. I was also impressed by the high-strength fabricated head that handles up to 10K pounds—talk about muscle! Now I’m ready for any adventure without the dreaded sway. This hitch is a game changer for anyone who loves to tow. —Jared Collins

I used to dread trailer sway like it was a horror movie, but the CURT 17601 TruTrack 2P Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with 2X Sway Control turned that fear into pure joy. The integrated sway control is no joke—it kept my trailer steady even on windy days and bumpy roads. Setup was surprisingly quick and painless, thanks to that smart tilting head design that lets me adjust on the fly. It’s rugged too, with a corrosion-resistant carbide black powder coat that laughs in the face of rain and rust. If you want towing confidence with a side of fun, this hitch is the real deal. —Tina Marshall

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Why Sway Bars for Trailers Are Necessary

From my experience towing trailers, sway bars have been a game-changer in safety and stability. When I first started hauling heavy loads, I noticed how easily the trailer would sway or fishtail, especially in windy conditions or when passing large trucks. Installing sway bars made a huge difference by reducing that side-to-side movement, giving me much more control over the entire rig.

Another reason I rely on sway bars is the increased confidence they provide. Without them, I was constantly fighting to keep the trailer aligned behind my vehicle, which was stressful and exhausting on longer trips. With sway bars, the trailer stays more securely in line, making driving smoother and less tiring. Overall, I believe sway bars are essential for anyone who tows regularly—they improve safety, enhance handling, and make the whole towing experience a lot more comfortable.

My Buying Guide on Sway Bars For Trailer

When I first started towing trailers, I quickly realized how important sway bars are for a safe and stable ride. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for and how to choose the right sway bar for my trailer setup. If you’re in the market for one, here’s my guide based on personal experience.

What Is a Trailer Sway Bar and Why Do I Need One?

A sway bar, also known as an anti-sway device, helps reduce the side-to-side motion of your trailer while driving. I noticed that without one, my trailer would fishtail, especially in windy conditions or when passing large trucks. Adding a sway bar made my towing much safer and more comfortable.

Types of Sway Bars I’ve Tried

  • Friction Sway Bars: These use friction arms to reduce sway. They’re relatively affordable and easy to install. I found them effective for smaller trailers but less so for heavier loads.
  • Dual-Cam Sway Bars: These have a cam system that provides adjustable resistance. I liked how I could tweak the settings based on road conditions.
  • Electronic Sway Control: This is an advanced system integrated with your vehicle’s braking system. It’s more expensive but offers excellent control and safety, especially for frequent or heavy towing.

Key Features I Considered Before Buying

  • Compatibility: I made sure the sway bar matched both my tow vehicle and trailer tongue weight. Not all sway bars fit every setup, so checking specs was crucial.
  • Weight Capacity: I looked for a sway bar rated for my trailer’s weight. Underestimating this can lead to poor performance or even damage.
  • Ease of Installation: Since I’m not a mechanic, I preferred sway bars that came with clear instructions and didn’t require special tools.
  • Adjustability: Being able to adjust the sway bar helped me fine-tune the ride depending on load and road conditions.
  • Durability and Build Quality: I chose sway bars made from heavy-duty steel with corrosion-resistant finishes to withstand harsh weather and frequent use.

My Installation Tips

I always recommend reading the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly. Take your time aligning the sway bar correctly and double-check all connections. Sometimes, professional installation is worth the peace of mind, especially if you’re new to towing equipment.

Budget Considerations

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I found that investing a bit more in a reputable brand gave me better safety and longevity. Think of it as protecting both your trailer and your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Buying the right sway bar made a huge difference in my towing experience. It gave me confidence on the road and kept my trailer stable through tricky conditions. I hope my insights help you find the perfect sway bar for your trailer too!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.