It is unpredictable to determine how the road will be for the time you will be driving. An unexpected ice rain or a massive snowfall may happen, and if you're trying to face the icy roads with nothing but the winter tires, it could be a nightmare. This is why the best tire chains for snow and ice are so important.
Tire chains can improve how a car performs on a slippery road. They come in different designs and materials, with some new innovative options that are easier to install and remove when required. However, it can be challenging to find one that perfectly matches your needs with the wide range of options.
For this reason, we have curated a review of the five best tire chains, their pros and cons, as well as a number of factors you need to consider before buying the best tire chain for snow and ice.
5 Best Tire Chains
1. Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain
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Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain for Passenger Cars, Pickups, and SUVs - Set...
- Country of origin : China
- Designed for cars, pickups, and SUVs with very limited operating...
- Fast easy installation with no need to move the vehicle
- Designed-in rubber tightener means there is no need to stop and...
The Security Chain Company is a popular brand that has been in the chain business for quite some time. The Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chains are the best tire chains and boast a utilitarian design that can be used on cars, trucks, SUVs, etc.
They feature a low profile that allows them to sit well on most wheels, which means that the clearance between the car body and the tire is not a problem. The chains give some of the best traction available for a cable style chain. The cable system is designed to improve traction, and the all-embracing design gives traction across the whole tire.
Furthermore, the rubber tightening device will ensure that the snow chain fits well and won't fall off while driving. With the six clips, the tensioner pulls the connecting cable, ensuring the tire chain system remains tight on the tire. The constant tension system helps eliminate the need to stop every now and then to check the tire and will also make it simpler to mount the chain on the tire.
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2. Peerless Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain
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Peerless 0232805 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain - Set of 2
- Worry-Free Self-Tightening Ratchets Provide Automatic Tightening...
- Easy Installation And Removal In Minutes
- Do Not Exceed 30 Mph With These Chains On. Meets Class "S"...
- Diamond Pattern Cross Chain Provides A Smoother Ride And Superior...
If you're looking for a set of tire chains with a classic chain link design, then the Peerless Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain might be the best option. This chain can fit passenger cars and light trucks with ease and are rated by many users as the easiest chains to install.
These chains feature a ratcheting system that will automatically tighten them to the tires when you start driving. All you're required to do is to connect the exterior tighteners and internal cables correctly and hit the road. These chains have a diamond design that provides a smoother ride compared to other designs.
The durability of these heavy-duty chains is on another level. They feature a manganese alloy steel construction which promotes the lifespan and strength of the snow chains. The chains can be lighter and narrower than other models because of the added strength bu the steel alloy material. The style also creates more surface area for improved traction and increases the grip on tires.
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3. Glacier 1042 Passenger Cable Tire Set of Chains
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Glacier 1042 Passenger Cable Tire Chain - Set of 2
- Case hardened steel rollers on cable cross members
- Suitable for front and rear wheel drive vehicles
- Type "S" limited clearance
- Meets all state requirements for cable traction devices.Spring...
- Will NOT void vehicle warranty
The Glacier 1042 Passenger Cable Tire Chain Set is designed for tires that are between 14 and 20 inches. These chains will seamlessly fit onto the tire and hold in position. They are simple to install and have adhered to all the legislation relating to road safety and traction, which means they are safe to use.
Moreover, they come with a non-invasive design that consists of hardened steel and can be used with any warranty. The design really stands out with small and cylindrical pieces which connect loosely to ensure the chains don't snap. This also helps the grip of the chain to slippery surfaces, whether it is ice or snow,
However, it is crucial to note that the cable cross design can mean more metal is being held close together, and for this reason, extreme cold can lead to breakage, as a result of them becoming brittle. This is why it is important to give them some time to adapt to the temperature changes before they hit the road.
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4. ISSE Textile Snow Chains, Snow Socks
ISSE Textile Snow Chains, Classic, Size 70
- Quick and easy to fit (a matter of minutes)
- Lighter and less bulkier than traditional chains (easy to store...
- For occasional use on ice and snow surfaces. Great for normal or...
- Optimal for passenger cars, vans pickups and 4x4s. Max driving...
- Reusable and washable 100% made in Europe Composition: 100%...
The ISSE Textile Snow Chains, Snow Socks are tire-traction devices that are relatively new to the market. If you're looking to move away from the trouble of installing and generally dealing with snow chains, then these might be a perfect option for you. The Snow sock covers the whole tire, and the installation process is easier.
It is made from a polyolefin fabric that can't be driven faster than 30 miles per hour. However, the low profile design, the flexibility of the fabric and the different sizes available means that it can fit most, if not all, tires from large trucks to small passenger vehicles. It provides excellent traction even in deep snow or ice conditions.
Once the chains are installed, you won't experience any vibration or rumbles, which is common with other chain styles. Moreover, since they are made of fabric, there is no risk of them damaging your vehicle. They have an outstanding legal design that provides traction in an area where chains are not allowed.
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5. Soyond Snow Chains Car Anti Slip Snow Tire Chains
Soyond Snow Chains Car Anti Slip Snow Tire Chains Adjustable Anti-Skid Chains Car Tire Snow Chains...
- ❄️【High Quality Tire Chains】Tire snow chains made of...
- ❄️【Upgrade buckle Design】 The new gear type tightening...
- ❄️【Snow Chains for Car Easy to Install】 The snow chains...
- ❄️【Easy Compatible & Universal】Special design car tire...
- ❄️【Warranty For Your Satisfaction】Don't worry about our...
If you're a budget shopper looking for a unique winter tire traction device, you will definitely love the Soyond Snow Chains Car Anti Slip Snow Tire Chains. Soyond chains may look different from other snow chains in the market, but their unique construction serves a great purpose.
The tire chain features a hollow design that prevents snow buildup on the tires and provides traction on slippery roads. It features thermoplastic polyurethane plates that were made to prevent harming both the tire and the road. Every plate is reinforced using steel studs for maximum grip, even on the iciest roads.
Soyond snow chains are easy to install and store without tangling and can also be put on tires without moving the vehicle. The chains can work in most vehicle types with proper sizing. However, you should avoid these chains if your car has an iron or steel wheel hub because they can cut through the ribbon at the attachment point.
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Features to Consider Before Buying the Best Tire Chain
1. Material
Tire chain technology has evolved over the past years. While some classic materials are still being used, some new materials are being introduced to the market. Generally, the higher end metal chains are made using titanium, manganese and nickel steel alloys to offer great durability and strength.
However, while metal chains may provide more traction on the roads, they may cause damage to the vehicle and road. This is why snow socks and rubber chains have been introduced. While they are not the best when it comes to extreme environments, they are more friendly to the roads and vehicle.
2. Size
It is important to find the correct size no matter the style of chain you're going for. This is because it is required that chains should properly fit for them to function as designed. Luckily, it is easy to identify the tire size because most of the time, the tire size is printed in the sidewall where there are dimensions for the width, height ratio in comparison to the diameter and width.
However, you don't need to worry too much about finding the specific size of the chain. The manufacturer will provide the chain number, and all you will be required to do is to match it to the tire size.
3. Weight
As you find the right chains for your tires, it is crucial to consider the weight. While lighter chains may give better traction and fuel economy, heavier chains provide better friction and durability. Lighter chains are also easier to store and transport, while heaving chains are more cumbersome to carry, store and transport.
The fuel economy won't matter a lot as you probably won't be driving a very long distance with the chains on your tire. Moreover, if you're buying the chains as an added driving precaution during winter or you don't plan to use them too much, then the heaviest option may not be necessary.
4. Self Tensioning
Most modern and high-end chains come with a self-tensioning technology that comes in handy during the installation process. As the tires rotate when the vehicle is moving, the self-tensioning chains will adjust the inbuilt ratchets. This, in turn, helps eliminate the excess slack and increase the overall performance while on snow.
If you're planning to use the chains often, then this self-tensioning function is recommended. There are a wide range of manual and assisted tensioning chains in the market, where they're more affordable and easier to install. However, they may require drivers for retightening them after the drive.
Both manual and self-tensioning chains have their pros and cons. It's a matter of preference and the location the vehicle is going to be used.
5. Automatic Release
The automatic release function will come in handy if you drive over big mountains with variable snowy conditions or are planning to cover a lot of miles that require chains. Since driving on pavement and bare asphalt can damage both the chain and the road, the automatic release feature will help manage this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Tire Chains
1. Which is better, tire chains or cables?
Tire chains are considered better than cables because they provide more traction, durability and also tend to be corrosion resistant. This is why they are a great option for heavier trucks or SUVs. On the other hand, the tire cables are lightweight and easier to install.
2. What are the easiest tire chains to put on?
The Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Tire Chain is the best tire chains when it comes to ease of installation. This is because you only need to drape them around the tire and stretch over the rubber tread, then connect the coupler on the face of the tire.
3. Do you need to put snow chains on all four tires?
Yes. It is important to put the tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles because it provides the best possible traction and balance. If you only put the snow chains on the front of the tire, the back of the vehicle can be unpredictable when it comes to braking or during driving. On the other hand, if you put the snow chain on the rear tires only, the steering of the vehicle might be affected.