We have a full 1/4' 5052 aluminum skid plate. Not to say they will not bend, but as this material has a higher modulus of elasticity it will bend far greater than steel and return to shape. If you do get it past the "return" point it will bend. Part of our engineering to to plage the skid plate out at a distance that will absorb the energy and allow the brackety to provide a sub-structure strength.

Like I have said before, I launch our JK on our skids and have always driven away with al my vitals in working order! I really can't say so much for U-Joints and Trackbar mounts though.....