Springs

[icic]

Can anyone tell me what these are for on the Thule tie downs

 

[Ch1pbutty]

Acts as a shock absorber on the bottom of the strap (see below photo):

 

[B J G]

Acts as a shock absorber on the bottom of the strap (see below photo):View attachment 62459

Not a shock absorber but gives a means of flexibility in the wind to the tie down strap. it can prevent poles getting bowed/bent.