Gabion baskets are box-like structures, most often filled with rock. Uses for gabion baskets include retaining walls and wing walls but are also used to stabilize slopes and stream banks. Gabion baskets let water drain freely and also offer resistance to moving water.

Gabion baskets have the ability to be stacked in multiple shapes. This makes them very effective with erosion control .

Gabion baskets, are often made of steel wire mesh but most commonly made of Galvanized steel wire. PVC-coated wire is also used for longer life in water or corrosive environments.