Propride Hitch vs Hensley – Which One Suits You in 2024?

In the past, there were only a few hitch options available for the drivers to tow the vehicles. But things have changed completely, as you’ll see more brands producing hitch with new designs and innovations. 

Although more options are good: sometimes the availability of more hitches can make you confused about which one you should choose. Similarly, choosing between Propride Hitch vs Henley is also a work of some thoughts.

But you just don’t need to be confused – as I am here to give you an in-depth comparison guide on these two hitches and allow you to make a final decision. So, if you’re just buying a new hitch, this guide is going to be very important for you.

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Comparison & Differences between Hensley Arrow Vs. ProPride Hitch

The most prominent difference between the Hensley and ProPride hitches is the adjustment of the hitch bar. In Propride hitches, the hitch bar is always flexible and adjustable so you can match the hitch of the trailer and towing vehicle. But in Hensley, you get a firm hitch bar.

Keep in mind that the firm hitch bar of Hensley means that you won’t be able to adjust the height of the trailer and towing vehicle. This is probably the most distinctive difference. But there are a lot more things that we are going to talk about in this guide. So, let’s get started.

Also Read: Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch Vs Equalizer

1- Hitch bar

As I said earlier, the hitch bar is an important thing and there is a big difference between these two hitches. The ProPride hitches come with adjustable hitch bars. 

It means that when you use the Propride hitch, you’ll be able to adjust the height of both the trailer and towing vehicle.

Matching the height of a towing vehicle and trailer is important as it increases efficiency and ease of towing. But unfortunately, the Hensley hitches come with a firm or fixed hitch bar and you won’t be able to adjust it according to your own preferences. 

Winner: So, Propride hitches are better.

2- Compatibility with different trailer types

The compatibility and versatility of both the hitches are equally good as both support almost every kind of trailer. You should always make sure that you tow a trailer whose weight falls within the range of hitch capacity.

But, I still consider Hensley a better option when it comes to towing different trailer types like Airstream Trailers, Horse Trailers, and Fifth-Wheel Trailers. Look, the Hensley hitch has the better capability for reducing the sway and fish-tailing. 

Keep in mind that the Propride hitches are not ideal when it comes to swaying. So, although the Propride can tow almost all kinds of trailers, it won’t be able to handle the sway appropriately. 

On the flip side, Hensley hitches are very good at controlling the sway. So no matter what kind of trailer you tow, you won’t face any sort of sway or fishtailing. Both hitches are equally good in compatibility, but their sway control makes Hensley a better option.

Winner: Hensley Hitch.

3- Weight distribution jacks

Let’s now discuss the weight distribution jacks that are used in these hitches. Hensley hitches have weight distribution jacks hanging outside the frame, which is one of the fundamental differences between these two hitches.

However, the weight distribution jacks stay on top of the frame with ProPride hitches, which is very helpful. You can manage weight distribution more effectively thanks to the weight distribution jacks that are located on top.

However, there are multiple other differences that I will mention. By using Propride hitches, you’ll get the following benefits:

• Weight distribution is easily adjustable and under control by elevating or lowering the head.
• The weight distribution jacks on the Propride Hitch operate independently of the sway control system. 
• By equally distributing the weight, you will experience improved stability.

On the flip side, the Hensley Hitch also incorporates its unique weight distribution jacks to ensure proper weight distribution and towing stability. Here’s how these jacks differ from the Propride Hitch:

• Built-in Geometry of Henley hitch’s weight distribution jacks actively transfers the weight of the trailer to the front axle of the towing vehicle to improve weight distribution.
• Hensley Weight distribution jacks also have the very helpful characteristic of automatically adjusting during spins and maneuvers. These jacks adjust to the shifting weight distribution requirements as the trailer pivots, ensuring stability and lowering the risk of sway.
• The Hensley Hitch’s sway control mechanism is attached to the weight distribution jacks. 

So, these were some basic differences when it comes to the weight distribution jacks. I personally consider 3P hitch a better option here because it gives you control over the weight distribution.

4- Sway & Fishtailing Control

Now, let me share my personal experience. I have used both of these hitches, and I believe that the Hensley Arrow hitches don’t are very good at controlling or reducing the sway and fishtailing effectively.

You should keep in mind that 3P hitches are also very good as they consist of a 3 points control system, but I don’t consider them as effective as I find Hensley hitches. 

The anti-sway technology in Hensley Hitches is built around a distinctive triangle shape. The trailer hitch and a set of spring bars are both included in this design. By exerting tension and resistance at precise locations, these parts work together to prevent trailer sway.

So, this balanced force or resistance from all the locations doesn’t allow any external factors like gust, or sudden maneuvers to cause any sort of sway of fishtailing. I am a big fan of Hensley hitches when it comes to sway control.

Note: The adjustable hitch bar of Propride hitches is another reason that makes these hitches a bad option for sway control. The fixed or firm hitch bar also contributes towards better sway control in Hensley hitches.

Winner: Hensley hitches.

5- Flexibility

I know the fact that many people don’t count the flexibility of hitches. But this small feature is important as it defines if your hitch is user-friendly or not. Guess what, I consider Hensley hitches more flexible and user-friendly than the Propride hitches.

Keep in mind that the Henley hitches are easy to use, and you can remove from one trailer and use them with another in just a few minutes. Its simple design, easy installation is something that makes it a more practical option.

Winner: Hensley hitches.

6- Weight

The weight of both hitches is almost the same, and you won’t feel much difference. I personally consider a tie when it comes to weight. But to give you in-depth knowledge, I consider it important to mention their weight.

The Hensley Arrow hitch has a weight of 190 lbs, on the other side, the ProPride hitch has a total weight of 195 lbs which is not too much that could cause you any sort of trouble. It is a normal weight range.

7- Installation

So, which hitch is more easy to install? This is probably the first question that always pops up in my mind when I go out to shop. I am sure that you must have this question about these two Propride and Hensley hitches.

I personally believe that the installation of propride hitches is very easy and simple. The reason is that you won’t have to drill into the frame. But when it comes to the Hensley hitches, you’ll have to drill which is a bit more complicated process.

Winner: Propride Hitches.

8- Cost and affordability

Another important feature that counts the most. If you are anything like me, I am sure that you will have an active eye on the price and affordability section. So which one suits your budget? Let’s find out.

The Hensley Arrow hitches are more expensive – but their higher price is worth it as these hitches don’t produce any sort of sway of fishtailing. On the flip side, the Propride hitches are less expensive, but their sway reduction feature is not perfect.

The choice is yours now: either spend more and get a hitch that reduces and controls the sway effectively, or go with a lesser-priced hitch that doesn’t work effectively when it comes to sway control.

Hensley vs ProPride Hitches – Ultimate Winner

So, we’re almost to the end of this guide, and it’s time to pick a winner.  But it’s difficult for me to pick one as the winner and the other as the runner-up.  However, in order to provide you with a clear picture, I will choose one.

So, I believe the Hensley hitch is the better choice since it efficiently regulates and decreases trailer wobble and sway. However, you should keep in mind that pro-Pride hitches are also really good as they are reasonably priced. But my winner is Hensley.

In the end, I would say that if you have a tight budget and go with 3P hitches, Otherwise I highly recommend you to go with Hensley as they are more effective in giving you a better towing experience.

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