John B. Marek is a storyteller with dirt under his nails who weaves tales inspired by a lifetime immersed in nature. His insightful essays and award-winning fiction delve into the complexities of sustainable living, the heart of rural communities and the thrill of outdoor adventure. You can find more of his writing at johnbmarek.com.
Technically, I joined the assembly of Jeep owners in 1988 with the purchase of a well-worn J-10 pickup. A few years later, I upgraded to a brand-spanking new Cherokee, the classic, boxy XJ model. It wasn’t until 2014, though, that I burnished my cred as a Jeep owner by purchasing a vintage TJ Wrangler.
In the realm of automotive enthusiasts, few communities are as tight-knit and traditions-rich as Jeep owners. Two peculiar practices have emerged over the years that exemplify Jeep culture’s camaraderie and playful spirit: “Jeep ducking” and the “Jeep wave.” These unique customs have become integral to the Jeep ownership experience, fostering a sense of belonging among drivers worldwide.
The Jeep wave is a long-standing tradition that dates back to the aftermath of World War II. As soldiers returned home, they often recognized Jeeps as familiar military vehicles and would wave in acknowledgment. This practice gradually evolved into a civilian custom, symbolizing mutual respect and shared passion among Jeep owners.
The Jeep wave is beautifully simple: When two Jeep drivers pass each other on the road, they exchange a brief wave. This can range from a full hand-off-the-steering-wheel wave to a subtle lifting of a few fingers – personally, I tend toward the two-finger “peace sign” lift. Sometimes, it’s accompanied by a quick nod or a flash of headlights.
While not officially codified, there’s an understood etiquette to the Jeep wave:
• Hierarchy: Generally, the driver of the “lesser” or newer Jeep initiates the wave.
• Model preference: Wrangler owners are the primary participants, though other Jeep model drivers sometimes join in.
• Modifications matter: More modified Jeeps often take precedence in the wave hierarchy.
• Reciprocation: Returning a wave when initiated by another Jeep driver is considered courteous.
The wave serves as a quick acknowledgment of shared experiences and interests, reinforcing the sense of community among Jeep enthusiasts.
In contrast to the long-standing wave tradition, “Jeep ducking” is a relatively new addition to Jeep culture. This whimsical practice emerged in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a contactless way for Jeep owners to connect and spread cheer during challenging times.
The concept of Jeep ducking is charmingly simple:
• A Jeep owner purchases small rubber ducks.
• They write encouraging messages on the ducks.
• The ducks are then placed on other Jeeps found in parking lots or on the street.
This act of “ducking” another Jeep has quickly gained popularity, with participants sharing their experiences on social media platforms using hashtags like #jeepducking or #duckduckjeep. What started as a local initiative in Ontario, Canada, by Jeep owner Allison Parliament, has blossomed into a global phenomenon. The practice has been embraced by Jeep enthusiasts worldwide as a fun, lighthearted way to acknowledge fellow owners and foster a sense of community.
While the Jeep wave and Jeep ducking differ in their longevity and execution, both practices serve similar purposes within the Jeep community. They act as unique identifiers, allowing Jeep owners to recognize and connect with one another in the vast sea of automobiles on the road.
These customs also reflect the evolving nature of car culture in the digital age. The traditional wave has stood the test of time, while the more recent ducking trend has rapidly spread through social media, demonstrating how modern technology can amplify and reshape automotive traditions.
The Jeep wave and Jeep ducking exemplify the strong sense of community and playful spirit that have traditionally defined Jeep culture. As Jeeps, in general, and Wranglers, in particular, have gone from niche vehicles for the outdoor-minded to mainstream family haulers, some of the mystique of the Jeep experience has been diluted. Still, a simple wave on the highway or a rubber duck left on a windshield continues to bring Jeep owners together. As Jeep culture continues to evolve, the passion and camaraderie of its community will remain at the heart of the brand’s enduring appeal.