Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains for snow, best overall pick
Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains for snow, best overall pick

Best Snow Tire Chains: Top Picks for Winter Driving in 2025

While winter offers many exciting activities, icy roads are undeniably one of the most significant hazards of the season. Investing in the Best Snow Tire Chains is a proven method to enhance your vehicle’s grip on slippery roads and ensure safe winter travel.

At GearJunkie, our editors are based in the mountain regions of California, Wyoming, and Colorado. For us, as the seasons change, carrying tire chains becomes as routine as watching the leaves turn and anticipating the first snowfall. We’ve rigorously tested, used, and even broken numerous chains over several winters, and we’ve installed countless sets on vehicles for both locals and tourists alike.

This guide presents a curated list of effective and high-quality tire chains to help make your winter adventures safe and enjoyable. After all, nothing can spoil a ski trip faster than losing control and ending up in a snowdrift.

Always remember to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you travel. Conditions can vary dramatically, and in many areas, law enforcement will require proof that you are carrying tire chains before allowing you to proceed. Our primary goal is to promote safe driving in all winter conditions, and purchasing the best snow chains for your vehicle is a crucial step in achieving this.

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on January 21, 2025, to recognize the Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains as our top overall recommendation. Their broad vehicle compatibility and exceptionally easy installation set them apart.

Top Rated Snow Tire Chains of 2025

Best Overall Snow Tire Chains: Peerless Auto-Trac

Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains

$78 at Amazon

  • Type: Chain
  • Tension Adjuster: Yes, Auto-adjusting
  • Weight: 8.5 lbs.

Pros:

  • Simple, effective, and straightforward design
  • Affordable price point
  • Provides a smooth ride on snow-covered roads
  • Relatively easy installation compared to traditional tire chain systems

Cons:

  • Chain thickness could be improved for enhanced traction

Derek Mau

Among all the snow chains we evaluated, the Peerless Auto-Tracs ($59-145) stand out as the easiest to install, maintain, and store. They also offer the best fit for smaller vehicles with limited tire clearance within the wheel wells.

For drivers who occasionally travel to mountainous or wintery regions, these are the best snow tire chains. While there are options that offer even greater traction, their ease of use and robust durability make them an excellent choice for those who require chains throughout the winter season.

The Peerless Auto-Trac design utilizes a rigid, circular cable frame that maintains the chain’s shape around the tire. Traditional chain designs are prone to tangling during storage and require more effort to lay out and orient correctly before fitting them onto the wheel.

Installing the Peerless Auto-Tracs is straightforward: simply slide the frame behind the wheel and drape the chains over the tire. The only slightly tricky part is connecting the frame together by reaching around the tire. Then, connect the two fasteners and secure the auto-tensioning latches. The chains automatically tighten snugly against the wheel, preventing them from hitting the wheel wells while driving.

Our first installation took just over 4 minutes (we timed it). We recommend pulling over to readjust and retighten the chains after driving a few miles, as they may slightly shift position initially. After this minor adjustment, they are set for longer journeys.

The only potential drawbacks we noted are related to the adjustable auto-tighteners. We question the long-term durability of the plastic latch that releases the spring tensioner within the plastic casing. As with any mechanism, more moving parts can mean more potential failure points, and we are curious how these tensioners will withstand moisture, salt, gravel, and extreme cold over time.

However, one of our testers has used these chains on his Sprinter van for five winters, frequently traveling to Mammoth Mountain during periods of heavy snowfall. His Peerless Auto-Trac chains are still in excellent working condition.

If you need a dependable set of snow chains for your car or light truck, the Peerless Auto-Trac chains are an excellent choice. If stored dry, they will last for many seasons, saving you time and frustration in the snow and getting you to your destination faster.

Best Budget Snow Tire Chains: König CB-12

König CB-12 Snow Tire Chains

$75 at Amazon

  • Type: Chain
  • Tension Adjuster: Yes
  • Weight: 7.89 lbs.

Pros:

  • Simple, effective, and straightforward design
  • Affordable price point
  • Provides a smooth ride on snow-covered roads
  • Generally easy to install for a traditional tire chain system

Cons:

  • Not the most durable chains available
  • Tire size matching online can be challenging

Derek Mau

For those seeking a simple, reliable, and budget-friendly option, the König CB-12 tire chains ($99-110) are an excellent choice. König tire chains are not known for being flashy, but they don’t need to be. Their simple, time-tested design is a major advantage. König’s avoidance of unnecessary features is part of their appeal.

Despite their simple concept, the König CB-12 chains are robust enough for the snowiest conditions. Many drivers in mountain regions favor König chains because they have consistently proven their ability to make challenging drives over icy mountain passes more manageable. They provide ample tire coverage for a smooth ride on snow, while also minimizing noise and vibration when driving over patches of bare asphalt.

Given their traditional design, these chains are relatively easy to install. Similar to the Peerless Auto-Tracs, you don’t need to jack up your car to install these traditional-style chains. While the König CB-12s use a manual tensioning system, it’s effective and easy to learn. As a bonus, these chains include a kneeling mat for installation in harsh winter conditions.

While these chains are high-quality and simple, they do not meet Class S requirements. This means they may not be suitable for all vehicles, especially those with limited clearance in the wheel wells.

Best Snow Chains for Low Clearance Vehicles: Security Chain Company SZ143

Security Chain Company SZ143 Snow Tire Chains

$50 at Amazon

  • Type: Cable
  • Tension Adjuster: Yes
  • Weight: 1 lb.

Pros:

  • Very low profile on tires
  • Relatively easy to install

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive compared to some options
  • Installation can be tricky with small components in cold weather
  • Chains may slip off if not installed correctly

Derek Mau

The SZ143 Cable Tire Chains ($51-212) are relatively easy to install, and their simple design with few moving parts makes them a reliable choice for the coldest winters. They provide good tire coverage with a crisscross pattern, and because they are cable-style traction devices, they maintain a low profile against the tire and are safe for vehicles with low-clearance wheel wells.

We installed these cables on the front wheels of a Toyota Prius C, a vehicle not particularly designed for snow, in just 7 minutes. Installing chains on vehicles like the Prius, with low clearance wheel wells, can be challenging due to limited space to maneuver. More rigid, low-profile cable-style chains are easier to handle in the confined spaces of smaller cars.

The SZ143 features three attachment points, allowing you to slip them under the tire and connect them, rather than having to lay them out and drive over them like older two-point designs. This is especially helpful when you are already struggling for traction.

Positioning the cables so that all three fasteners could be connected proved slightly difficult initially. While easy on dry pavement, in a few inches of snow, we had to clear some snow from around the wheel to allow the fasteners to reach each other. Gloves are definitely recommended.

Once positioned, six clips attached to a robust rubber band secure the cables in place. The band proved to be more than adequate for keeping the cables secure as we drove up steep inclines and carefully navigated short sections of dry pavement.

The SZ143s are not quite as easy to install as the Peerless Auto-Trac chains. Stretching the band into place and securing all the clips requires some effort. For older individuals, or those who are cold and tired, installation might be difficult, especially in unexpected winter weather at night. The Peerless Auto-Trac chains only require a simple latch to tighten. As with all chains, practicing installation in dry, warm, and daylight conditions is always recommended.

Best Snow Tire Chains for Trucks: Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip

Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip Snow Tire Chains

$93 at Amazon

  • Type: Chain
  • Tension Adjuster: No
  • Weight: 6.5 lbs.

Pros:

  • Highly durable
  • Relatively easy to install
  • Effective on various surfaces

Cons:

  • Prone to rust faster than some other chains
  • Does not meet SAE Class S clearance requirements

Derek Mau

Security Chain Company is renowned for its extensive range of high-quality snow chains. From compact passenger cars to robust trucks and SUVs, they offer a purpose-built chain model to suit every need.

The QG2228CAM Quik Grip Model ($111-135) is a heavy-duty chain designed to withstand the weight of tough 4×4 trucks. Long-wearing square link cross chains ensure maximum long-term durability. Constructed from manganese alloy steel, these chains offer excellent grip and reliability on virtually any surface. They are available in multiple sizes to fit trucks of all sizes.

Thanks to an integrated CAM tightening system, additional tensioners are not necessary for installation. Most users find these chains relatively easy to install, although the initial attempt may require a bit of familiarization. Fortunately, clear step-by-step instructions are included.

Best Low-Profile Cable Snow Tire Chains: Glacier Chains Tire Cables

Glacier Chains Tire Cables for Snow

Check Price at Amazon

  • Type: Steel Rollers
  • Tension Adjuster: No
  • Weight: Approximately 1 lb.

Pros:

  • Quick to install
  • Lightweight and easy to store
  • Excellent for vehicles with minimal wheel well clearance

Cons:

  • Offers less traction than more robust tire chains
  • Not durable enough for extended, long-distance use

Derek Mau

While many snow chains use thick and bulky chain links, the Glacier Chains tire cables ($59-67) are made from relatively thin hardened steel rollers. This low-profile design is ideal for smaller passenger vehicles with limited wheel well clearance.

Despite their simple construction and minimalist design, these snow chains perform effectively and meet all state requirements for tire traction devices. Additionally, Glacier Chains traction cables are less likely to cause damage to your vehicle or void its warranty.

When not in use, these tire cables are significantly lighter and easier to store than conventional heavy-duty chains. While we do not recommend these cables for heavy-duty or long-distance use, they are a practical and convenient option for small passenger vehicles when snowy weather strikes.

Best Alternative to Traditional Snow Chains: ISSE Shark Snow Sock

ISSE Shark Snow Sock – Tire Traction Device

$95 at Amazon

  • Type: Polyolefin Fabric
  • Tension Adjuster: Self-Tensioning
  • Weight: 2.25 lbs.

Pros:

  • A good alternative for drivers wanting to avoid traditional chains
  • Easy to install
  • Suitable substitute for roads fully covered in snow
  • Provides a workaround for areas that prohibit traditional tire chains

Cons:

  • More expensive than some chain options
  • Not the most durable product on the market
  • Significantly reduced lifespan when used on asphalt

Derek Mau

A newer entrant to the market, the ISSE Shark Snow Sock ($74-100) offers a different approach to tire traction for those seeking to avoid the challenges of snow chains. While chains are effective and have been for decades, some drivers are deterred by the hassle of untangling them, the installation process, or the noise and vibration they create while driving. The Snow Sock aims to address these concerns.

The ISSE Shark Snow Sock covers your entire tire and is constructed from a polyolefin fabric. Like chains, it is intended for speeds under 30 mph. The fabric’s flexibility, low-profile design, and range of sizes allow Snow Socks to fit almost all tires, from small passenger vehicles to large trucks.

Installation of the ISSE Shark Snow Socks is exceptionally easy. Once installed, you won’t experience the rumble and vibration common with chain-style traction devices. Because they are made of fabric, there is no risk of vehicle damage, which can be a concern with some types of tire chains.

Although Snow Socks might not appear as rugged as chains, they offer excellent traction in challenging and hazardous snowy conditions. In areas where snow chains are prohibited, the ISSE Shark Snow Socks provide a legal and effective alternative to enhance traction.

Snow Tire Chains Comparison Chart

Chains Price Type Tension Adjuster Weight
Peerless Auto-Trac $59-145 Chain Yes, Auto Adjusting 8.5 lbs.
König CB-12 $99-110 Chain Yes 7.89 lbs.
Security Chain Company SZ143 $51-212 Cable Yes 1 lb.
Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip $111-135 Chain No 6.5 lbs.
Glacier Chains Tire Cables $59-67 Cable No 1 lb.
ISSE Shark Snow Sock $74-100 Polyolefin Fabric No, Self-tensioning 2.25 lbs.


A simple cable set is more affordable but can be more challenging to install; (photo/Chris D 2006)

How We Tested the Best Snow Tire Chains

Installing tire chains can be a very unpleasant task. Imagine fumbling around in slush puddles with freezing fingers, trying to locate a metal clasp around your tires. Perhaps you’ve been driving for hours with restless children in the backseat. Suddenly, that family ski trip doesn’t feel like much of a vacation. Our testers are very familiar with this scenario, and we are happy to show you a better way.

Our Expert Testers

Matt Bento, one of our primary testers, has lived and worked in the High Sierra for over ten years, spending snowy winters in Yosemite Valley, shoveling snow in Mammoth Lakes, and briefly enduring a grueling daily commute from Reno to South Lake Tahoe.

Bento spent several formative winters working in Yosemite National Park, commuting daily in and out of the park, experiencing the transition from bare pavement at lower elevations to ice-covered roads in the often sunless valley. Local law enforcement takes chain control very seriously, and each day he was required to install chains on his way into the park and remove them on his way out.

He was frequently approached by other drivers needing assistance with chain installation. This experience has given him extensive hands-on experience with nearly every make and model of snow chain available, on a wide variety of vehicles, providing him with a solid foundation to assess the advantages and disadvantages of each type of tire traction device.


Off to the races! We timed our initial installation attempts and found that the Peerless Auto Trac chains are very quick to install straight out of the box; (Photo/Matt Bento)

Our Testing Grounds

We conduct our tire chain testing during winters in the Eastern Sierra of California. Our adventurous testers travel up and down Highway 395 throughout the season, searching for fresh snow from Tahoe in the north to Lone Pine in the south. Inclement weather frequently means chain controls and other driving restrictions.

The varying elevations provide ample opportunity to install and remove chains on our vehicles, often multiple times per trip. We evaluate traction and braking performance in stop-and-go traffic in busy ski towns, and we typically put around 50 miles on each set of chains during a season — plenty of use to identify any durability issues.

The best snow tire chains for you are those that perform well, fit your tires, meet your vehicle’s clearance requirements, and are easy to install and remove. Secondary considerations include durability and price. Our recommendations include excellent options for a wide range of vehicles and drivers. As new and innovative models become available, we will test them to ensure our list always features the best of the best.

If you’re anticipating a harsh winter, consider investing in a set of dedicated snow tires. While they don’t offer the same extreme traction as chains, they are significantly better and safer than regular tires. Check out our guide to the best snow tires here. If you are new to winter driving, we also have tips for winter drivers.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Snow Chains for Your Vehicle

Like any outdoor gear purchase, the closer you get to making a decision, the more details emerge that differentiate one product from another. Selecting the best snow chains for your specific needs is especially important. It can be the critical factor in a safe journey versus an accident on an icy road.

When comparing different types of snow chains, here are key factors to consider.

Tension Adjustment and Self-Tensioning

Many modern, higher-end chains on the market feature self-tensioning technology, which simplifies the installation process. As the vehicle moves and the tires rotate, self-tensioning chains automatically center and adjust using built-in ratchets.

This system eliminates excess slack in the chain, which enhances their overall performance in the snow. If you expect to use your chains frequently and need to install and remove them multiple times per week, self-tensioning chains are highly recommended. The Peerless Auto-Trac is an excellent choice if you are looking for a self-tensioning set.

Many assisted tensioning and manual tensioning chains are also available. These chains are often more affordable and can be easier to initially fit. You can loosely fit the chain over the tire and hook it together without excessive tension, drive a short distance, and then retighten. This adds a step but can make the initial struggle of fitting the chains easier.


Proper tensioning is crucial for the chains to function correctly and to prevent damage to your vehicle.

Automatic Release Mechanisms

Some premium tire chains include an automatic release feature. If you frequently drive over mountain passes with varying snow conditions or travel long distances where chains may be required intermittently, an automatic release function can be very beneficial.

An automatic release can significantly reduce the time spent manually removing your chains in cold and potentially hazardous roadside conditions.

Correct Sizing for Snow Chains

Regardless of the chain style you choose, purchasing the correct size is essential. Proper sizing is critical for the chains to fit correctly and function as intended.

Fortunately, determining your tire size is straightforward. It is printed on the tire sidewall, providing dimensions for tire width, sidewall height ratio, and diameter.

You don’t need to be overly concerned with the size specifics. Simply match the overall tire size number to the model number provided by the chain manufacturer. All of the recommended chains in this guide are available in a variety of sizes.


The ability to make tension adjustments without reaching behind your tires to unhook chains is a valuable feature; (photo/Tom Reynolds)

Snow Chain Material Considerations

Tire traction chain technology has advanced significantly over recent decades. While some classic materials are still used, new innovations have also been introduced.

Generally, higher-end metal chains are constructed with manganese, titanium, and nickel steel alloys. These materials offer superior strength and durability. If you drive a large truck or other heavy-duty vehicle, we recommend chains made from these robust materials. Mid-range and budget chains are typically made of hardened steel.

While metal chains generally provide superior traction compared to alternative materials, they can also cause more wear to roads and potential damage to vehicles. To mitigate these issues, the industry has developed rubber chains and snow socks. While they might not be ideal for extreme conditions, they are certainly gentler on vehicles and road surfaces.

Weight of Snow Chains

As you shop for snow tire chains, you’ll notice variations in weight. Lighter chains offer adequate traction and better fuel efficiency. They are also easier to install, remove, and store.

Heavier chains, while reducing fuel economy, provide significantly better traction and are generally more durable. However, they are also more cumbersome to transport, handle, and store than lighter alternatives.

Considering that you likely won’t be driving for extended distances with chains on your tires, fuel economy should not be a primary concern. Similarly, if you are purchasing chains as a precautionary measure and don’t anticipate using them frequently (or at all), investing in the heaviest-duty option might not be necessary. Regardless of your choice, safety should always be your top priority.


Practice is essential! Ensure you are proficient in installing chains on your vehicle to minimize time spent in the cold and snow; (photo/George Wesley & Bonita D)

Price & Value of Snow Tire Chains

While you can buy a very inexpensive set of chains simply to show to highway patrol at a chain control checkpoint, investing $90-150 will get you a functional set that can last for many seasons. Spending more will often provide features like auto-tensioning, and more expensive sets are typically easier to install.

Choose a lower-priced option, and you might spend more time struggling under your vehicle in the snow, but with a bit of practice, installation is manageable in most conditions (provided you have the correct size). The prices listed are ranges because most models are available in multiple sizes, with larger sizes costing more.

Budget-Friendly Snow Chain Options

For around $100 in smaller sizes, the König CB-12 tire chains ($99-110) are simple, effective, and offer better traction than cheaper cable-style chain sets. You do need to lay them out and drive onto them, so a snow-free surface simplifies installation. The tensioning system is easy to use, but it is manual, and you might need to stop and adjust them after driving a few miles.

The main limitation of these chains is that they do not meet Class S requirements. This means they require a minimum of 1.46” of clearance from the tire tread to the fender and 0.59” at the sidewalls.

If you are driving to the ski resort in a Tesla or Mini Cooper, you should consider the Glacier Chains Tire Cables ($59-67). While their traction is not as robust (drive slowly and cautiously), they have a much lower profile and are less likely to damage your vehicle. They are not as durable as actual chains, so avoid relying on them for long distances and inspect them regularly for damage.

Premium Snow Chain Options

For over $125, you will find chain sets designed for longer distances and more severe mountain conditions. People who live in mountain towns understand these are essential for smaller cars or SUVs. When combined with a four-wheel-drive truck, you can navigate almost anywhere, as long as the snow isn’t too deep (be mindful of other drivers).

If you own a truck or high-clearance vehicle, we recommend the Security Chain Company QG2228CAM Quik Grip Model ($111-135). These are heavy-duty chains available in larger sizes. Installation isn’t the quickest, but there are no tensioners to lose or break, and they provide excellent traction. Store them dry, and they will last for many seasons.

For owners of sedans, sports cars, light trucks, and SUVs, we recommend Security Chain Company’s SZ143 Cable Tire Chain ($51-212). It’s our top pick for chains that meet Class S requirements. They have proven to be more durable than cheaper cables, while still being easy to install and less likely to damage your vehicle.


Low clearance vehicles are often less capable in snow and present challenges for chain installation; (photo/Matt Bento)

How to Install Snow Chains Correctly

Installing snow chains is truly a skill that improves with practice. Every brand and style of chain will have slight variations in installation. Each set of chains comes with specific instructions, but there is a general procedure that all drivers should follow.

Practice Snow Chain Installation

First and foremost, ensure you purchase the correct size chains for your vehicle. Using the correct size chains will prevent significant frustration during installation. Once you have your chains, we highly recommend practicing installation in dry and favorable conditions.

Practicing beforehand will make it much easier to install your chains in a sub-zero blizzard on the side of the highway! The more practice, the better prepared you will be.

When you plan to store your chains in your vehicle, assemble a quick winter emergency kit to accompany them. If you are caught off guard and need to install chains, it’s helpful to have gloves, a spare coat, a headlamp, and something to kneel on readily available in your car.

Basic Snow Chain Installation Steps

When it’s time to install your chains, pull safely to the side of the road. Ensure you are wearing warm winter clothing, activate your hazard lights, and safely move to the tires where you will install the chains.

For front-wheel-drive vehicles, install snow chains on the front tires. For rear-wheel-drive vehicles, install them on the rear tires. If you have an all-wheel or 4WD vehicle, chains usually perform best when installed on the front tires, but consult your owner’s manual to confirm.

From this point, specific installation steps will vary. It is best to follow the instructions provided with your particular set of chains.

Generally, you will unpack the chains, untangle them, and begin wrapping them around your tire, connecting the attachment points as needed. Repeat this process for both tires.

Once the chains are attached, slowly drive forward 10 to 20 feet to allow the chains to settle. If you do not have self-tensioning chains, get out and manually tighten them to remove any slack. After confirming they are securely and correctly attached, carefully merge back onto the road and begin driving.

It is normal to hear and feel a slight rumble with most chains, but stop driving immediately if you hear any loud noises. Unusually loud noises or physical jolts could indicate that your chains are not tight enough and are hitting against your wheel well. Pull over safely and readjust them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Tire Chains

What type of snow chains are best?

The “best” type of snow chain is subjective and depends on individual needs. Considering factors like material, link patterns, weight, style, and price will help you make the most informed decision for your situation.

If you frequently drive in challenging winter conditions and use chains often, invest in a higher-quality, more heavy-duty model. However, if you only want a set of chains for emergency purposes, a more budget-friendly option might suffice.

Ultimately, the best decision is yours, as each snow chain type on the market has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

What is a better alternative to snow chains?

Several alternatives to snow chains might be better suited to your vehicle, lifestyle, and the severity of winter conditions you typically encounter. Tire straps offer an easy-to-use traction aid compared to snow chains. They attach similarly to snow chains but offer more flexibility.

Tire straps are appropriate for cars, crossovers, and other small to medium-sized vehicles. Install them over the tires when driving in snow or when you need extra traction on muddy, sandy, or rocky terrain.

Snow socks can be a better choice than tire chains for some because they won’t damage your vehicle, and installation is simpler. Another benefit is a quieter ride without the vibration and rumble of bulkier traction devices. Snow socks are recommended for short-term use and low-speed driving.

Are snow chains or snow socks a better option?

Snow socks can be a good alternative to snow chains in certain situations. However, generally, snow socks do not provide the same level of traction as traditional chains.

Snow sock fabric wears out faster than durable metal chain options. That said, snow socks are a great option for those who do not plan to regularly drive in the most demanding winter conditions.

Furthermore, some vehicle manufacturers explicitly advise against using snow chains on certain vehicle models. This is often due to limited tire clearance, and snow socks can be a suitable solution in these cases. They may not provide the same level of traction as metal chains, but snow socks are better than no traction device for vehicles that cannot safely accommodate chains.

Can snow chains potentially damage my car?

Yes, there is a possibility that snow chains can damage your car. However, they are designed to minimize this risk. In most cases, vehicle damage from tire chains is due to improper installation or use.

Snow chains must fit your tires correctly. If they don’t, damage to your wheel wells can occur while driving. Also, if not installed correctly, they can come loose and damage the undercarriage. When installing your chains, double-check that they are securely and correctly fitted.

All chains come with a recommended maximum driving speed, usually around 30 mph. Exceeding this speed can break the chains and cause further vehicle damage. When driving with chains, be extra cautious when driving over bare pavement.

While the best snow tire chains for snow can potentially cause damage, they are engineered for traction and safety. If you install them as instructed and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, snow chains should not cause any issues. If you are concerned about potential damage, consider snow socks as an alternative traction device.

Is it necessary to install snow chains on all four tires?

For all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles, it is best to use snow chains on all four tires. For front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive cars and crossovers, it is safer and easier to control the vehicle if you install snow chains on all four tires. However, you can manage by installing them on the drive axle wheels.

However, the significant difference in traction can cause oversteer in front-wheel drive vehicles and understeer in rear-wheel drive vehicles when only using two chains.

Can snow chains be used in muddy conditions?

While snow chains are designed primarily for packed snow or ice, they can also provide benefit in muddy conditions. It is common to lose traction when tire treads become packed with foreign material – snow, ice, or mud.

Chains act as an additional traction aid and increase friction. Some snow chains perform better in mud than others, and some manufacturers specify their chains’ effectiveness in mud.

Don’t underestimate the challenges of winter driving. Fortunately, many tools are available to help you navigate snowy and icy roads safely and relatively easily. Snow tires are a valuable asset in wintry, mountainous areas, but replacing a full set of tires can be costly.

While you might not need them often, snow tire chains are an essential tool to keep in your vehicle when conditions become particularly challenging.

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