Winter weather can be beautiful, but it can also make driving a daunting task. Snow and ice-covered roads pose a significant challenge, often leading to accidents and inconveniences. That’s where tire chains come into play.
Tire chains are primarily used in regions with heavy snowfall or icy conditions, but are required for the odd ski trip too. For most areas with high snow risk, tire chains are required or mandatory.
In this guide, we will explore the different types of tire chains and what specifications to consider when buying them.
Check out our selection of Best Tire Chains:
Different Types of Tire Chains
Tire chains, also known as snow chains, are devices designed to enhance/improve a vehicle’s traction on snow and ice covered roads. They can consist of a series of metal links, cables or woven fabric that wrap around the tire’s tread, providing extra grip. This added traction improves your vehicle’s ability to start, stop, and steer, making it safer to drive in challenging winter conditions.
Let’s take a closer look at the 3 most common types:
Tire chains or Snow chains
Tire or snow chains are chains made from interconnected metal links, and are designed to put around your tires to provide traction on snow and ice covered roads. These metal chains can come in various patterns: diamond (squared), ladder, diagonal,…
Snow Cables
Snow cables are tire chains that are made of steel cables instead of metal links. These cables are wrapped across the tires to provide extra traction on snow and ice. To enhance their durability, most snow cables are fitted with rollers. Typically, snow cables have a ladder- or diagonal style pattern.
Snow socks
Snow socks are a popular alternative for tire chains. They are affordable, lightweight and easier to pack than their metal counterparts because they are made from woven fabric. They fit over the tires like a sock (hence the name) and are generally easy to fit.
Although not as durable as tire chains with good quality metal links, they can be a great alternative if you don’t use them often or live in a climate with less harsh winter conditions. Also, some car manufactures may advise against the use of tire chains on certain car models that have very low clearance or hardly any space left between the wheel and the suspension or fender. In those cases, snow socks are a viable alternative to improve traction on snowy roads. However, they wear fast when driving on roads with hardly any snow or ice.
Things to Consider When Buying Tire Chains
Installing and removing tire chains on the side of a snow covered road in icy conditions can be a true nightmare. However, if you choose your tire chains wisely, it doesn’t have to be. Let’s take a closer look at some features you should consider to minimize the hassle of installing those chains:
Tensioning
If you use tire chains regularly during the winter season, easy installation is one of the most important factors to consider. But even if you only need them occasionally, easy installation and removal is still important because you won’t be used to installing them routinely.
Manual tensioning: To install these tire chains, they have to be adjusted with a manual tensioner and driven a short distance. Then they have to be readjusted a second time to get them to fit snugly.
Self tensioning or automatic tensioning: Once installed round your tires, self-tensioning chains will self-adjust automatically while driving because they have a self-tensioning system. There’s no need to stop to adjust them a second time.
Material
While tempting at first glance, you want to avoid cheap tire chains made of questionable materials. Some tough-looking innovative designs don’t last long enough to make it out your driveway. You want to invest a bit more and buy from reputed, specialized brands that have a good track record and only use durable materials that last.
Tire Size
It’s important to pick the correct size of tire chains for your vehicle’s tires. You can find your car’s tire size on your tires’ sidewalls. The use of incorrect tire chain sizes may lead to dangerous situations and damage to your car.
Vehicle requirements
Check your vehicle’s owners manual before acquiring tire chains. Some car manufacturers warn about damage from improper or poorly installed chains which can void the car’s warranty. Also, some car types are not suited for the use of tire chains because of technical issues like inadequate spacing between the tire and wheel well. However, in some cases, snow socks may be a viable option.
Always read the instructions on the tire chains’ manual to check for compatibility with your type of vehicle.
Local laws
Depending on the state or area you’re driving through, local laws will vary on when and where tire chains are permitted or mandatory. You want to check local legislation for compliance.
Practice makes perfect
You don’t want to get caught on the side of the road in 2 ft of fresh snow having to install your brand-new tire chains for the very first time. Make sure to practice installing and removing your chains at home without snow first, to get a hang of it. Like the old saying goes: practice makes perfect!
How we did our review
Most people fear the moment they have to mount their tire chains when going on a ski trip or crossing a mountain pass. What starts as a relaxing drive can quickly become a clumsy struggle to mount tire chains knee-deep in snow on the side of the road in the middle of a snowstorm.
We thought that our family holiday skiing trip with two totally different cars was the ideal moment to test the best, easiest-to-use tire chains for different types of vehicles. So, that’s what we did…
Because our low-clearance sports car requires totally different chains than our 4×4, we dove deep in the car manufacturer and tire chain manufacturers’ specifications to see what’s what. We also spent hours reading numerous customer reviews to see what their experience was.
For this review, we only recommend tire chains that did an excellent job for us and the vast majority of other car enthusiasts as well. We’ve selected tire chains for different types of vehicles and for different budgets, to make it easy for you to make the right choice.
Check out our favorite tire chains:
CCM’s Top Best Wheel Tire Chains
Best Overall
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Best Overall
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Specs:
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- Type: Snow Chains
- Pattern: Diamond
- Tensioning: Self-Tensioning
- Material: High-strength metal links with high-strength non-scratch polycarbonate automatic tensioning case
The reason why we chose these 9mm Michelin tire chains for passenger and high torque cars as our Best Overall is because these high quality chains are so easy to install and remove. Even in the harshest winter conditions they provide maximum traction in a straight line, but also while braking and cornering.
Michelin also makes a Heavy Duty 13mm version we chose for our “Best for SUV’s,4×4’s,…”. That’s how much we love these chains…
Unlike many other chains, you don’t have to move or drive your car to install and adjust them. All you have to do is take them out of their bag, shake them loose, pull the plastified steel cable behind your wheel and tighten it on top. Then simply connect the two front shackles and activate the automatic tensioner. When you start driving, the automatic tensioning system will keep the chains tight and centered for optimal performance.
Because of the clear instructions with drawings and different colored links it’s child’s play to know where to attach what and how. It’s a 3 minute job!
We also like the NVS (Night Vision Security) reflective system for better lateral visibility when the chains are installed. With the reflective label on both sides of your car swirling around when you’re driving, your car will be seen from afar.
We think these tire chains are the best on the market, period. They may not be the cheapest you can find, by far, but we think these high quality steel chains are well worth their money. Besides, they cost much less than some big brand competitors claiming to be easy to install when they’re not. Installing these Michelin chains is so easy that even the least handy person will manage to install them.
Customers confirm that the quality is great and installation is effortless. They say they feel these chains will outlast their car and would recommend them to family and friends.
PROS:
- Suited for intensive use
- Installation and removal only takes 3 minutes or less
- The chains are interconnected, providing constant contact with the road surface
- Comes in a handy protective case with two inner compartments to prevent the chains from tangling
- 2 spare links and a pair of long sleeve gloves are included, as well as a laminated assembly instruction leaflet that can be used as a knee mat as well
- NVS (Night Vision Security) reflective system for better lateral visibility of the vehicle
- Available for most tire sizes
CONS:
- Not cheap, but worth every penny
Best Budget
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Best Budget
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Specs:
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- Type: Snow Cables with rollers (traction coils)
- Pattern: Ladder
- Tensioning: Manual
- Material: All Steel
These very affordable, popular ladder style snow cables are arguably the easiest to install in their price range. They can simply be installed on the traction tires by manually tensioning the cable bushings and hooks after positioning them in front of the tires and driving over them a few feet. For front wheel drive, you can turn your wheels facing outside for even easier installation.
After initial installation, our recommendation for optimal tensioning is to tighten the chains once more after driving 100 feet or so.
The manufacturer explicitly instructs to not use chain tensioners with these chains.
The large customer community says that they love these tire chains because they are simple to use, efficient and very affordable. Because of the ladder pattern, they do not tangle, they state.
However, just like with any other tire chains, they highly recommend to first try installing them in dry conditions, to be better prepared when having to install them in a full-blown blizzard on the side of the road for example.
Practice makes perfect, the saying goes…
PROS:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight, simple construction
- Easy to install and remove
- Because of the ladder pattern, they don’t tangle
CONS:
- Not self-tensioning
Best For SUV’s, 4×4’s, Pickups, Trucks and Campers
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Best For SUV’s, 4×4’s, Pickups, Trucks and Campers
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Specs:
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- Type: Snow Chains
- Pattern: Diamond
- Tensioning: Self-tensioning
- Material: High-strength metal links with high-strength non-scratch polycarbonate automatic tensioning case
The reason why we chose these tire chains as our “Best for SUV, 4×4,…” is because these chains share the same awesome construction and features as our “Best Overall” but with Heavy Duty 13mm chain links and two tensioners instead of one. Man, these tire chains are great!
They are made from the same high quality steel and equally easy to install and remove as their 9mm counterparts, even in the harshest winter conditions. These Michelin chains provide maximum traction in a straight line for all Heavy Duty vehicles, and also perform outstanding while braking and cornering.
Unlike many other chains, you don’t have to move or drive your car to install and adjust them. All you have to do is take them out of their bag, shake them loose, pull the plastified steel cable behind your wheel and tighten it on top. Then simply connect the two front shackles and activate the automatic tensioner. When you start driving, the automatic tensioning system will keep the chains tight and centered for optimal performance.
Because of the clear instructions with drawings and different colored links it’s child’s play to know where to attach what and how. It’s a 3 minute job!
We also like the NVS (Night Vision Security) reflective system for better lateral visibility when the chains are installed. With the reflective label on both sides of your car swirling around when you’re driving, your car will be seen from afar.
We think these tire chains are the best on the market, period. They may not be the cheapest you can find, by far, but we think these high quality steel chains are well worth their money. Besides, they cost much less than some big brand competitors claiming to be easy to install when they’re not. Installing these Michelin chains is so easy that even the least handy person will manage to install them.
Customers confirm that the quality is great and installation is effortless. They say they feel these chains will outlast their car and would recommend them to family and friends.
PROS:
- Suited for intensive use
- Installation and removal only takes 3 minutes or less
- The chains are interconnected, providing constant contact with the road surface
- Comes in a handy protective case with two inner compartments to prevent the chains from tangling
- 2 spare links and a pair of long sleeve gloves are included, as well as a laminated assembly instruction leaflet that can be used as a knee mat as well
- NVS (Night Vision Security) reflective system for better lateral visibility of the vehicle
- Available for most tire sizes
CONS:
- Not cheap, but worth every penny
Best for Sports & Performance Cars
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Best for Sports & Performance Cars
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Specs:
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- Type: Snow Chains
- Pattern: Diamond
- Tensioning: Self-Tensioning
- Material: Hardened Manganese-Nickel Alloy Steel
The reason why we chose these tire chains as our “Best for Sports & Performance Cars” is because the Thule / König CG-9 tire chains have 9mm D-link hardened manganese-nickel alloy steel chains that can handle high torque.
Their low profile links with automatic tensioning system make them the perfect match for vehicles with limited space between the wheel and fender or suspension parts. These smaller chain links take up less room, to prevent damage to braking and steering components and wheel wells. Nylon spacers provide extra scratch-protection for the wheel rims too.
Installation is easy as it gets: The flexible cable with chains attached can be slit behind the tire over the ground and secured on top with a metal clip. Next, all that’s left to do is to attach a metal hook and fasten the patented self-centering and auto-tensioning system. The whole process only takes a few minutes. There’s no need to tension the chains afterwards, they correct and adjust themselves automatically while driving thanks to the König ATC (Active Tensioning and Balancing). Isn’t that awesome?
Customers claim that these chains are the best money can buy. They state that they wouldn’t want to use any other brand. König customers are among the most loyal snow chain customers out there, apparently. Once you go König, you don’t go back…
PROS:
- 9 mm inside and on-the-tread clearance is ideal for sports & performance cars with limited wheel clearance
- Maximizes balance between performance and driving comfort
- D-link hardened manganese-nickel alloy steel is tough as it gets
- Wheel Shield anti-scratch nylon bumpers prevent wheel damage
- Can be installed without moving the vehicle
- Repair links included
CONS:
- High end pricing, but arguably the best performing chains on the market
Best Snow Socks
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Best Snow Socks
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Specs:
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- Type: Snow Socks
- Pattern: n/a
- Tensioning: Automatic / elastic band
- Material: High Grade woven fabrics
Based on our experience and what customers say, we think these snow socks are the best alternative if your car can’t be equipped with traditional metal tire chains because it lacks wheel clearance or you only need chains once in a while. We do feel that they are not designed for intensive daily use.
AutoSocks provide traction on snow and ice to help you drive on slippery roads. They are approved for all 50 US states when and where tire chains are permitted or mandatory.
They are available for most tire sizes and very easy to install: Stretch the black elastic band over your tire’s top half and pull the AutoSock over the tire as far down as you can. Then move your car a few feet until the snow socks sit under the wheels. You can now pull the fabric upward until the fabric covers the whole tire. While driving, the AutoSock will self-center and stay in place because of its elastic band.
Customers confirm that with these snow socks, they can even drive uphill in snow without any problem. They love the fact that these fabric chains are very lightweight and easy to install and don’t take up much space in your trunk. They do however insist on following the manufacturer’s instructions and to not not exceed the recommended maximum speed of 30mph. Several users comment that for them, the most comfortable speed in deep snow is closer to 20mph, and that it is not safe to drive faster in these conditions anyway.
Users clearly advize to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to not drive on dry roads, as this will ruin the fabric. If properly used however, they’re a huge help for a good long while, customers state.
PROS:
- Installation only takes a few minutes
- Easy to use, pack and store because of lightweight foldable fabric
- Available in different sizes for passenger cars, SUV’s, pickups and more
- Works great, even in deep snow
- Affordable
CONS:
- Not for intensive or daily use
- Not as durable as metal counterparts
Comparison Table of the Best Tire Chains
| Brand | Name | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | MICHELIN | Extrem Grip Automatic Tension Snow Chains |
| Best Budget | Security Chain Company | Radial Chain Cable Traction Tire Chain - Set of 2 |
| Best For SUV’s, 4x4’s, Pickups, Trucks and Campers | MICHELIN | Extrem Automatic Grip Snow Chains for SUV, 4x4, Camper Car, Commercial Vehicles |
| Best for Sports & Performance Cars | THULE | KONIG CG-9 104 Snow chains, set of 2 |
| Best Snow Socks | AutoSock | Snow Socks for Car, SUV & Pickup (Pack of 2) |
Final Thoughts
Tire chains are a valuable tool for anyone living in or traveling to areas with snow- and ice-covered roads. They provide the extra traction you need to stay safe on the road and to not get stuck.
Ultimately, your choice of tire chains should be based on your specific needs: your type of car, your car’s tire size and the available wheel clearance. You also want to consider ease of use and ask yourself how often you will need them to come to an informed decision.
A quick recap:
Looking for high quality tire chains that are easy to install and remove and self-tensioning? Our advice, and “Best Overall”: Michelin Extreme Grip.
For SUV’s, 4×4’s, pickups and campers we’d recommend Michelin Extreme Grip’s Heavy Duty 13mm tire chains.
Don’t want to spend that kind of money? Our “Best Budget” snow cables from the Security Chain Company are incredibly affordable and they won’t let you down.
If your sports car has wide tires with limited clearance and you’re worried about damaging your wheel arches or wheel rims, your best option is to go for the König CG-9.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, affordable alternative for sporadic use, why not try AutoSocks? They’re almost as easy to install as putting on your socks and they simply work.
No matter if you choose traditional metal chains, snow cables or snow socks, tire chains will transform your winter driving experience, ensuring both safety and peace of mind during the cold months.
Happy winter cruisin’!
FAQ’s
Do you need snow chains on all four tires?
Although it’s common practice to only put tire chains on the traction wheels, if your budget allows, it’s better to install snow chains on all four tires. If you only put chains on the traction wheels, the significant difference in grip between front-and rear wheels will cause oversteer in front-wheel drive vehicles and understeer in rear-wheel drive cars. If you install them on all 4 wheels, your road handling will be more balanced. Always consult your car’s user manual and follow the car manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can tire chains damage my car?
Quality tire chains are designed to not damage your car. However, things can go terribly wrong if they are the wrong size, installed improperly, damaged or old and worn. That’s why it’s crucial to follow the tire chains manufacturer’s guidelines to the “T” and first inspect the chains for damage or excessive wear before installing them. When in doubt, have a professional inspect them before you hit the road.
If you have trust issues concerning tire chains, why not use tire socks instead? Because they don’t have heavy metal parts, they are the least likely to cause damage to your car in an unlikely worst-case scenario.
How fast can you drive with tire chains?
In most tire chain manufacturers’ manuals you’ll find a maximum speed of 30 mph. However, for safety reasons and to avoid damage to your car, we do not recommend exceeding 20 mph on ice-and snow-covered roads.
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