DeFenders are fabricated entirely from CNC laser-cut, precision brake-formed 3/16" plate heavy duty P&O steel. The DeFender has an extra "return", or lip along the underside of the fender, which provides better protection from cutting into a fully stuffed tire, while also lending extra strength to the outer edge of the fender, where it is most likely to come in contact with rocks, canyon walls, trees, etc. The DeFender with Negative Flare provides the maximum clearance for tire articulation and tight trails. We call it the "Negative" flare because it actually subtracts from the stock fender width, tapering inward to closely hug the edge of the Jeep's hood, leaving just enough of a fender edge to mount the hood latch and provide a beefy steel rub rail to protect the side of the hood. For those looking to maintain a low center of gravity by running big tires with minimal lift, the Negative Flare is a great way to allow full suspension articulation while still having a beefy, armored non-highline fender. Why deal with the cost or hassle of replacing your existing inner fenders? DeFenders are designed to work with your Jeep's OE inner fenders, saving cost as well as the hassle of removal/installation/relocation of all of your under-hood gear. Even on the non-highline version, the DeFender provides a much larger wheel opening than stock or some competitors' tube fenders. The back of the wheel opening, where larger tires tend to rub when the steering is at full-lock, is approximately 21/2" further back compared to typical tube fenders, and about 4" further back than the stock Jeep flares. Shipped unpainted and ready to install on your Jeep.