Home / Automotive Reviews / Best Tire Chains For Snow [Top Reviews & Buying Guide] 2023

Best Tire Chains For Snow [Top Reviews & Buying Guide] 2023

It is always challenging to drive in the winter or rainy season. Anytime, your vehicle can be damaged due to the bad weather or snowfalls. To make it easier, you need to keep the extra tire snow chains all the times.

Now you will find different kind of vehicle tire chain in the current market, and some of them are very easy to put on and can increase your efficiency and safety. As the options will be many, you might find it challenging to choose the right one.

If you want to make a choice straightforward, then go through the following best tire chains for snow review. Fitting snow chains to a vehicle requires compatibility checkup. First thing you must do is read the owners manual.

Once you know if your car is compatible to use, then the next step is to find out what is your cars tire size. Also, If your vehicle does not have winter tires, then you should consider replacing your current tires for better snow traction. Don’t forget to read our buyers guide down bellow.

Best Tire Chains for Snow

RankingsNamePrice and More Details
#1
KONIG CB12 Snow Chains for Passenger CarsClick Here
#2
Security Chain Company ZT735 LT Light Truck and SUVClick Here
#3
KONIG XG12 PRO 245 Snow Tire ChainsClick Here
#4
TerraKing TerraGrips Tire Chains For SnowClick Here
#5
Security Chain Company ZT729 Super Car Snow ChainsClick Here

1. Security Chain Company ZT729 Super Z LT Chains

Best quality tire chains

The Super Z LT tire chains is one of few chains to meet the Class “S” requirements for vehicles with low or limited ground clearance. The ABS, all-wheel drives, 4×4’s and anti-lock brakes make these car chains the most effective ones available for SUV and pickup trucks.

Also, the Super Z LT chains have a built-in rubber tensioner elaborated to eliminate the need to stop the vehicle and retighten the chain after installation. These chains for icy and snowy roads come with one of the easiest and fastest installations of any other metal chains.

Furthermore, it is built with high-quality chain material for added durability. These car chains also has a low potential for damage to your vehicle and mechanical components. The ZT729 Super Z LT SUV chain set can be installed while stuck in snowy roads. They can be used on the road at less than 50 miles per hour.

Pros
  • Comes with video instructions
  • Can install chains while stuck
  • Self-tightening, no need to stop and retighten
  • Includes waterproof gloves and rubber tensioners
Cons
  • Some customers experienced short duration service
  • The model does not fit all SUV’s

2. Konig XG12 PRO 245 High Quality Snow Chains

Passenger cars pickups tire chains

The Konig XG-12 tire chains are constructed with a unique pattern chain design with welded double-traction plates for increased traction on icy roads. The patented self-tensioning chain system on these chains means you only have to tighten the tire cables once and the will automatically retighten during tire movement.

Also, this Konig XG-12 brand model brings a patented micro-regulation system which allows for the tensioning of the chain increasing traction aids and effectiveness of the tires on snow. The featured anti-scratch nylon bumpers protect your vehicle’s wheels from damage. Overall the Konig XG-12 is best suited snow chains for SUV, it can be installed in minutes, and it performs well in rough and icy conditions.

Pros
  • It can be installed in just minutes
  • Superior driver comfort and performance
  • Tension system self activates
  • Fits a variety of tire sizes
Cons
  • Chain links can break prematurely
  • Must park with the orange link at the top to remove chains

3. Security Chain Company SC1032 Radial Chain Cable

Light trucks and suvs radial tire chains

The SC1032 radial chain cable sports has an all-steel construction for longer service. This tire cable for snowy weather meets SAE Class “S” for vehicles with limited or low clearance.

This SC1032 tire cable is manufactured with Peerless Industrial Group Inc.’s coils instead of traditional steel rollers which flatten quickly. This chain can be removed easily. Also, the Security Chain SC1032 tire cable is suitable for a wide range of vehicles including standard vehicles, pick-up trucks, and minivans.

Furthermore,  this SC1032 allows low-operating around snow tires. These radial chain cable are alsa known as tire socks and they work well and are easy to install. Owners recommend verify size to make sure the actual chains are compatible.

Pros
  • Amazing grip on icy and in snowy tracks
  • Saved money by not buying snow tires
  • Made from same steel material
  • Better stopping, starting and cornering
Cons
  • Slightly noisy while driving on asphalt
  • Driving above 40m/hr increases noise

4. Konig CB-12 090 Snow Chain For Tires

Best for snow traction control tire chains

The Konig CB-12 chains for deep snow can easily fit any vehicle with the simple installation procedure and color-coding on the links. These snow chains are extremely durable and offer maximum traction. The Konig CB-12 sports a manual tension system which means you will have to retighten the chains after serious winter driving.

Plus, this D-shackle chains enable the Konig CB-12 to perform exceptionally well in the harshest weather conditions. The Konig CB-12 is fitted with closed shortening hooks and a locking device with wheel protections.

Overall the installation of these heavier duty tire chains are easy and works well with all size tires. Owners should check the tire sizes before ordering to obtain the correct size of the chain. The self tightening ratchets makes things simpler for the user.

Pros
  • Before installation remove all kinks in the chain
  • Install in less than 5 minutes, without moving the car
  • Perfect tensioning of the lighter chains
  • Manual tension system to fit and tighten
Cons
  • Check size of winter tires before ordering
  • Sometimes more difficult to remove

5. Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Tire Chains

Tire snow chains for cars and chain review

The Super Z6 chains can fit pick-ups, SUV’s, and passenger vehicles with minimal operating clearance around the drive tires. These snow socks are easily and quickly install with no need to move the vehicle. The Super Z6 cable tire chain is elaborated with a built-in tightener which removes the need to stop your car and retighten the chains after traveling for some time.

Moreover, this Super Z6 tire chains are elaborated to provide better all-round grip than conventional tire chains or cables. The Super Z6 also sports better compatibility with all-wheel drive and other electronically monitored systems. It is simple to install snow chains like these ones and they have extra grip on snowy and icy roads.

Pros
  • More traction when other vehicles could not move
  • Install without moving the vehicle
  • Self tightening ratchet system
Cons
  • Extra control but not for hard packed snow
  • Clearance may be an issue on some vehicles

6. Konig XB16 245 Snow Chains

Good purchase if you need tire snow chains

The Konig XB16 chains are developed with a hardened manganese nickel alloy steel for long term service. Thse winter tire chains have dual-sided D-shaped links which are created to provide exceptional traction and extend the life of the tire chain.

All of the Konig XB-16 traditional chains have a patented auto-tensioning systems which automatically adjust the chain for a perfect fit. The 16mm D-link chain in the Konig XB-16 bites deeply into ice and snow, giving large commercial vehicles unsurpassed traction and safety.

The quick-adjust tension and color-coded assembly points allow for hassle-free when it comes to installing it. These original tire chains are highly rated by a limited number of buyers. They are more expensive than other products, however they perform very well.

Pros
  • Can be used with alloy rims
  • Solid grip in the bare pavement
  • Made from manganese nickel alloy
Cons
  • The manual tensioning systems are simple to use

7. Security Chain Company ZT735 Super Z LT  Alternative Chains

Rubber tire snow chains for snowy and icy highways

The Zt735 tire chain is manufactured to provide better all-round grip than other competitor tire chains or cables. These winter tire chains have a color-coded assembly points and fast adjust tension control for a faster and easier setups. The ZT735 Super Z LT model is easy to install as well as rollup and repack.

Also, the ZT735 tire chain is created with good material for more exceptional durability and long-term service. Meets the Class “S” SAE specifications, which means these snow socks are suitable for vehicles with low or limited clearance. The ZT735 is made to ensure the low potential for damage to your autos mechanical components and body.

Remember that these snow socks have better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, and other electronically monitored control systems. The ZT735 comes complete with a built-in rubber tensioner which eliminates the need for re-tightening the chains ever so often. Buyers love how well they worked in snow and ice, especially black ice during winter season.

Pros
  • Worked well on a logging road pulling a trailer
  • No problem navigating black ice
  • Includes automatic release function
  • Large, tough components for longer life
Cons
  • Broke within two days
  • Some buyers think the cables are too thin

8. Dolloly GT Snow Tire Chain

Wiath a builtin rubber for better traction tire chains for snow see stars

The Dolloly tire chain is elaborated with wear-resistant non-slip nails and 100% gummy material for durability and added safety. The build quality makes these tire chains friction resistant, wear-resistant, and resistant to low temperatures of minus 50 degrees Celsius.

Furthermore, the Dolloly tire chain is a universal model and can be applied to all the models of the tire size from 6.5 inches to 10.4 inches. The sturdy construction ensures you experience a comfortable drive with minimal vibrations and noises.

The Dolly tire chain is developed to provide maximum traction with minimum brake distance and skidding. These chains are constructed to work in snow and mud conditions. Some drivers found the studs would break or become loose.

Pros
  • Short drives in snow or ice, they worked great
  • Did not need to jack up the car to install
  • Works well at cold weather as low as -50C
  • Can be used on almost any tire rim
  • Includes packing bag, shovel, and gloves
  • Straps adjustable to fit various tires sizes
Cons
  • Lost some metal studs after 60 minutes of driving
  • Clamps broke after two trips

9. Terra Grips Tire Chains for Snow

Allwheel drive or heavy duty chains Light Truck, Van or SUV snow tire chains

The Terra Grips tire chains are developed with a plated steel components which makes them durable and suitable for harsh weather conditions. These heavy duty chains for snow are designed to be removed easily with no need for tools.

More so, the Terra Grips heavier chains feature rubber slats which guards the road surface from damage and provide increased traction both the road and muddy off-roads. The size of these metal chains makes them suitable for ATV’s, tractors, or any other industrial vehicles.

The rubber slats are soft enough to allow the Terra Grip to be driven in snow, gravel, mud, ice and any other surface. Some customers found they did not grip well. Adding weight improves the grip, and most importantly, they do not scratch the surface of the driveway.

Pros
  • Smoother ride and less noisy than chains
  • Does not tear up or mark my driveway
  • Grips are holding up well even when tires spin
  • Did not scratch stone driveway or pavement
  • Rubber belts provide a firm grip
  • No scratching or chipping of surface areas
Cons
  • A little difficult to install tightly and straight
  • Some customers found they did not work well

10. Quality Chain Cobra Snow Traction Tire Chains

Great for light trucks and SUVs snow tire chains

These chains are created with sturdy light-weight carbon steel rollers for durability and improved traction. The Sturdy build quality makes it rust-resistant and also weather resistant. It goes around the entire tire just like the regular metal chains.

Plus, these rubber chains passed the Class “S” clearance making them great for low profile vehicles while increasing the car’s tire to road contact. The 1665 Cobra Light chain is designed to emit minimal vibration and noise while the vehicle is in motion.

This rubber chain works with a wide range of tire sizes and is also relatively low cost as compared to other chains with the same capabilities. These Cobra cable chains are elaborated for light truck applications to be used in snowy and icy surfaces.

Pros
  • Affordable tire chains for the price
  • They store easily and are easy to install
  • Fits a variety of tire sizes, check your tires
  • Can only be used up to 30 MPH
Cons
  • Some drivers experienced breakage
  • Not all parts needed are included

11. KONIG CG-9 104 – Best Snow Chains

Lots of positive reviews and good price with key features

Thule Super tire chain comes with rapid removal system. This particular chain is made in Italy and comes with five years warranty. It is made of the hardest steel available that makes the driving comfortable. It has color-coded assembly points that make it simple for installation.

You can remove the chain in a couple of seconds without any difficulty. Some of the key specs of these metal snow chains are easy installation, ample traction, and self-tensioning install.

These chains can be safely used for the alloy drive wheels and ABS/ESP systems. Thule snow chains employ a patented tensioning system to maintain proper tightness on your tires. They perform well in snow and ice.

Pros
  • Once installed, it performs well for a long time
  • The self-tensioning chain keeps tire chains snug
  • 9mm tread clearance and has ample traction
  • Protect alloy rims with nylon bumpers
  • Low profile allows them to work on luxury vehicles
Cons
  • For snow chains pricing is quite expensive
  • As some customers say, it is not durable

12. Thule Cross Over Pro Deluxe Snow Chain

Super secure cable design and easy to be installed tire chains for snow

Thule Cross over Pro Deluxe Snow Chains come with many developed and advanced specs. It comes with five years warranty. It has an improved design with double traction plates to offer a proper grip and to increase efficiency and performance.

The chain set comes with a micro-regulation system that provides great tensioning. Some of the key features of this chain are on-the-thread clearance, self-centering, double traction plates, and self-tensioning.

Besides, it comes with an innovative and unique color-coded touch design. The Thule Konig pro deluxe system employs a self-tensioning system with a self-centering system for easy installation and operation.

Pros
  • It is easy to install and remove
  • It is lightweight and offers an excellent fit
  • Selftightening ratchets are brilliant
  • Perfect tensioning via micro regulation system
  • Double traction plates with patterned chain design
Cons
  • It does not have a rapid external release
  • This chain is expensive

13. Security Chain with Quik Grip Light Truck Tire Chain for Snow

Lots of security features with these cable stratps snow chains

Security Chain with Rapid Grip Tire Traction Chain is one of the best selling products. It comes with some developed features that include base link chain, durability, and off and on-road use. If you want to buy a chain for multiple purposes, then these snow chains will be an ideal option for you.

It comes in a CAM style, and it is specially designed for every type of use. You can use it for passenger cars, airport transports, Garden tractor, forklift machines, snow blowers, and ATVs.

This product has received appreciation for the proper grip, easy put on and removal system, and multi-uses. The rapid grip traction chain set performs well in snowy and icy roads. The links are heavy duty compared to many other chains.

Pros
  • It is a good heavy duty chain
  • It offers a great fit and a perfect grip
  • Can be used for on and off-road situations
  • Use on the highway as well as urban roads
Cons
  • Some vibrations might come while driving
  • These are too small and might not fit all tires
  • Verify size before buying any snow socks

14. Soyond Snow Socks With Snug Fit

Automobile chains for your vehicle tire chains for snow

The Soyond snow chains are made of a special plastic that helps in comfortable riding and also improves the driving experience. It comes with the color-coded assembly points that make it easy for the installation.

Some of the key specs that these chains have are an easy installation, self-centering install, and self-tensioning. It is specifically elaborated to ride on the external surfaces of your tire. The plastic chains come with a superior design and the latest engineering technology.

You need to lay the chain on the tire and attach the chain to a bolt and then activate the ratchet. The Soyond snow chains are easy to install and perform well in snow and ice conditions. There is an attractive case included for storage while not in use.

Pros
  • It self-adjusts with your tires after the proper fitting
  • Held in place by the bolt of the wheel
  • Does not touch your alloy rims
  • Delivered with storage case while not in use
Cons
  • The ratchet mechanism is not that good
  • It is easier to put on but difficult to keep on

15. Security Chain Peerless Auto-Trac Tire Chains

Tire chains for heavy snow

The Auto-Trac tire chains have received much appreciation from the users for some of its advanced features. As it comes with the self-tightening system, you will not have to make any effort for the proper fitting, adjustment, and the tightening.

These chains are automatic tightening, centering, easy put on within a couple of minutes, superior traction mat, cross-chain for a smooth ride, and meets the S clearance as well. It comes with an easy to use and a convenient nylon carrying case.

Very easy to install and work well in snow and ice conditions. Limit to 30 mph. Self-tensioning and tightening add to ease of use. The size might not be proper for all the tires. Hence, make sure that you have a decent idea about the size of your vehicle’s tire and the traction chain. Otherwise, it will not fit well.

Pros
  • Radial tires traction is tremendous
  • Self-tightening system offers a perfect grip on the ice and snows
  • Automatic tightening and centering tire chains
  • Limited to 30 mph with tire chains installed
  • Meets class S clearance requirements
Cons
  • Ratchet may stop working for no reason
  • Very expensive

Best Snow Tire Chains Buying Guide

In some places where there is heavy snow during winter, the braking system might not be enough to get to a complete stop. Finding traditional tire chains for your car tires is a must during this extreme driving conditions.

They also help car owners reduce vibrations and achieve better fuel economy when driving on icy surfaces. We have put together these excellent buyers guide to help make a better selection when it comes to traditional chains.

Frequent drivers know the difficulty in navigating icy roads and heavy snow during the winter. During these weathers, one of the best ways of safely and efficiently driving is by installing snow chains on your vehicle’s tires.

What is a tire chain?

A lot of snow gets accumulated on several roads and freeways in winter, which soon turns into hardened ice over the days. This brings several problems for drivers as their passenger vehicles either get stuck in snow or skid on icy, slippery surfaces.

Premium tire chains are used to cover the entire tire of your car while driving on ice-laden roads. Most snow chains assists in traction mat of rear wheels and stops vehicles from skidding. The regular ones are made with metal chain links instead of a rubber tightening system.

What to look for in tire chains for snow?

With so many snow chains to choose from, selecting the right tire chain for you may prove to be a bit overwhelming. We conducted extensive research to make sure you have all the information to help you pick out the best snow tire chains.

Before buying snow chains, there are some few considerations to take into account. Self-tensioning is one factor to consider. Self-tensioning tire chains utilize a ratchet to tighten the chains when the vehicle’s tires are in motion. You should also check for metal chains with an automatic release.

The classification of tire chains is also an essential factor to consider. Some chains for snow are classified into alternative, standard, and entry-level traction. Choose according to the level of traction you want.

Other vital factors to consider may include your tire size, the material used to construct the tire snow sock or chain, the weight of the chain, and installation process. Moreover, rubber adjusters and hardened steel help if you live in an area with lots of cold weather.

F.A.Q.

How Tire Chains Work?

Installing tire chains doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Almost all sets of tire chains come with installation instructions, and often manuals for a four-wheel drive, and similar features will specify which tires should be tired chain clad for maximum efficiency when operating in a given mode.

Some online tutorials offer brief videos and step-by-step tips which can be useful for first-time users. Before installation, it’s essential to verify that the chains are indeed the right size for the tire. Make sure the tire sidewall is marked and they indicate the size with a combination of numbers and letters.

One or two letters may come first and refer to the kind of vehicle-P for passenger, and the other three numbers that follow can refer to the tire’s width in millimeters. The numbers which follow tire width refer to the tire’s width to height ratio.

Then, the letter R will seem, to indicate radial-ply tires. Lastly, two numbers will refer to the rim diameter. Based on the plethora of information imprinted on the tire, selecting the correct size chain should be much more comfortable.

Different Types Of Tire Chains

Winter top tire chains for snow secure traction chainsDrivers have several options to original. Some of the initial designs include diamond tire chains, cable tire chains, and V-Bar tire chains. Cable tire chains are economical, lightweight, and ideal for carriers with low fender clearance. If you are to buy a new set, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different models available.

Cable Chains

Cable tire chains are the most common chains sold for personal vehicles. They are lightweight, and you can easily put them on without much effort. Some of the chains are designed of metal strips that you can place directly onto the tires. These are secured using a rubber tightener, making them very simple to use on most types of tires.

Ladder Chains

Ladder chains are considered to be an old design, but they can be very effective for more control. These were an extremely popular type of chain during the last decade. While they have fallen from being the number one most preferred product, they are still popular in the marketplace.

This ladder design goes directly over the tire’s tread. Their only disadvantage is that small spaces between the crossbars allow the tire to contact the road. We recommend these types of chains for individuals who only require driving short distances.

Diamond patterned

Diamond pattern chains are recommended for people that require to travel long distances frequently. These products use strands that interlock using a diamond pattern. Also, the chains cross the tread at angles allowing more coverage over a bigger surface. Another nice feature of the diamond-patterned chains is there are less vibrations from them while driving.

Zig-zag patterned

Zig-zag pattern chains are commonly used on vehicles that have anti-lock brakes. The cables come with a zig-zag pattern that crosses the tire tread for more control. This creates what experts called “maximum contact with the road,” and it is known to offer excellent traction than other types of chains on the market.

How to Install Tire Chains for Snow

Keep your snow chains in your trunk during wintertime. Obviously, you have to learn how to put them efficiently. You do not want to wait to learn until you need them. Just keep in mind that when you first try to put the chains on, it is going to require more time than usual. Don’t try to do this for the first time when it is freezing outside.

Make sure that your automobile is parked away and far from traffic. Try using your garage or a parking lot just to be safe. Ensure that the chains haven’t tangled or twisted. It is important that the side that has the cleats of the chain should be facing up when installed. Start placing the chains over the top of the tire.

Keep the chain as straight as possible and evenly distribute them over both sides. Make sure that the chain is secured around the tire. Use the latches that comes with the chains to secure them as tightly as you can to the sidewall. Drive a moderate distance, and get out and check to ensure the chains are secured.

The wide array of tire chains enables drivers of all varieties of vehicles to guard themselves against dangerous driving conditions. While tire chains are meant to give more protection by providing better traction, drivers must make sure to follow all directions precisely.

Snow Chains Tips and Tricks

Finding traction devices that fits your vehicle is not an easy task. Even though snow chains are designed to work with most of the vehicles antilocking braking systems, always check your car owners manual to make sure they are compatible.

One of the key features on the snow chains that we suggest to look for is the builtin rubber tensioners. Having a rubber tightener as a feature will allow you to have a practical manual tensioning system. Other snow socks will provide more traction control.

A combination of winter tires, and snow chains can keep you safe during winter driving. Some chains are a must-have during the snow season, and are a simple device that may help save your life while driving on snow. This is the best guide for snow chain pricing out there.

Last Updated on: January 11, 2023

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