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Official Q&A: VEX V5 Robotics Competition 2025-2026: Push Back
3086: Alternatives to velcro straps
<T6> states “Assembling a VEX Portable Competition Field Perimeter without including the securing straps” is prohibited.
The Vex portable field straps are like the figurative sock in wash that goes missing. Either one or both straps are not where they should be at the start of the next competition. Unless one has a supply of spare straps, an EP is scrambling to find someone with spare straps or run a competition out of compliance with the rules.
As an alternative, I use ratcheting tie down straps, specifically https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-15-ft-x-1-in-Ratchet-Tie-Down-Strap-with-S-Hook-FH0867/31299449. I found that these are easier to install and provide better wall support than the Vex portable field velcro straps.
My question is simple, may event partners use the same (or similar) tie down straps as a solution? If yes, is the solution temporary or it permissible to always use it?
This is a reasonable field modification, provided the straps are similar in size and function to the provided straps and do not create any raised areas under the field tiles.