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If you’ve had a Jeep® Wrangler for any period of time, you’ve certainly seen or heard of the Jeep® wave. I remember my first Jeep® wave. It was thrilling, heartwarming, intimidating, and so much more. There’s something about a fellow Jeeper acknowledging the comradery that naturally comes with owning one of these vehicles. It’s like you’re being welcomed into a society of fun-loving, adventurous souls. Over the years, I’ve been curious about the Jeep® wave. How did it start? Are there rules? I’ve also noticed that there are a few different waves out there.
World War II: The Original Jeep Wave
The Jeep® brand began during World War II, and many believe this is also the origin of the Jeep® wave. Jeeps® were the workhorses that carried everything they could close to the front lines. The military has its own sense of comradery, so it only makes sense that a passing Jeep® filled with supplies, mail from home, and wounded soldiers would invite others to make a friendly gesture. Other stories of the Jeep® wave begin after the war when soldiers bought their own Jeep®, namely the CJ and VJ. The wave was an acknowledgment of a shared honor for the vehicle and service to our country. The military connection to Jeeps® continues to be strong to this day, as denoted by the “Since 1941” emblem on the glovebox.
The Birth of the Off-Roading Culture
As with so many things Jeep®, the World War II origins have been modified by some, and there is a third story behind the Jeep® wave. It is said that when off-roading became a popular pastime in the 1960s and 1970s, Jeeps® became the ultimate symbol of unfettered freedom and defiance against societal norms. It was this shared spirit that motivated Jeepers to raise their hands in friendly greetings as fellow rebels, explorers, adventurers, and kids at heart passed by.
Why Do Jeep® Owners Wave at Each Other?
There are two things that happen without conscious thought when you buy a Jeep®. One, you will name your Jeep®. Mine is Jax. The second is that you will find yourself wanting to capture the attention of fellow Jeep® owners in the opposite lane, at the intersection, at the grocery store, in the drive-through, on the interstate, and, of course, on the trail. The Jeep® wave is the most appropriate way to do this. If I had it my way, I would hang out my window looking like Forrest Gump on a shrimp boat welcoming his cool, calm friend Lieutenant Dan. For me, it’s a temporary escape from the mundane and a way to connect with “my people.” To me, everyone who drives a Jeep® is family.
Jeep® Wave Rules: Are There Any, Really?
If there are Jeep® wave rules, I have probably violated them a million plus times. The only rule you need to remember is that, as a Jeep® owner, it is rude not to wave. In fact, you are expected to wave. If someone waves at you, wave back. If you see a Jeep® heading your way, wave. I’ve read that there are some requirements about who waves first. For example, stock Jeeps® wave first out of respect for modified Jeeps®. Hey, we’re all family. Let’s not argue about chores and duties. Let’s just enjoy each other’s company for those precious, brief moments. Is there a time when I don’t wave? Yes, when I sense a bit of snubbery about my beautiful Jax. He may be mostly stock, but he kicks ass on the trail. We all have the same spirit. Enough said.
Jeep® Wave Styles: What’s Yours?
Now the other thing that I have noticed is that there isn’t one specific Jeep® wave that everyone is expected to use. That’s good because I always like to instill a bit of creativity in my Jeep® waves. So, let’s look at the most common Jeep® wave styles that I have noted in my relatively short membership in this incredible community.
Comment below about your personal Jeep® wave style and your thoughts about this long-standing tradition.