The best defensive ETFs are ideal for investors seeking out safety as Treasury yields hover near their highest levels in nearly two decades and stocks struggle in reaction. And with higher interest rates driving up costs for consumers and businesses and a possible recession on the horizon, those who haven't already reallocated their portfolio towards more defensive investments should certainly consider it. It's worth admitting that over the very long term, stocks always recover and move higher. So, one way to get through volatility on Wall Street is to simply refuse to look at stock quotes for a few weeks or months and hope things look better on the other side. But long-term investors worried about the outlook on Wall Street can also find relief in defensive ETFs, which help provide some cover in an uncertain market environment.