Best Snow Chains

• What You Need to Know
• If you often go skiing in the mountains or live there, you should put on full-size snow chains in winter road conditions or at least have them handy.
• In some countries in the EU (such as Austria) snow chains are even compulsory. Violations can result in heavy fines.
• Snow chains significantly increase the grip level on roads covered with snow and ice.
• Drive and track chains are functional specialisations for the steering and drive axles.
• When buying snow chains, it is particularly important to make sure that they are the right size for the tyres.

Safe on the road with snow chains

When winter road conditions at high altitudes, for example in ski resorts, push even winter tyres to their limits, it is time to put on snow chains. Not only for reasons of safety or to be able to move forward at all or not to slide off the road: In some regions of Europe that are popular holiday destinations for skiing, snow chains are compulsory.

Snow chains are a special driving aid designed for snow-covered roads, usually made of steel, which is mounted directly on the tyres. In principle, a distinction must be made between full snow chains and so-called approach aids. When using full-fledged snow chains, a net is used that extends over the entire tread of the tyre. Depending on how the chains are arranged, a distinction is made between track chains and drive chains. To prevent the wheels from spinning, drive chains run across the tread of the rear tyres. Track chains are mounted on the steering axle, largely in the direction of travel. As a result, it is no longer possible for the car to slip sideways as quickly.

Depending on the model and manufacturer, the individual chain links can be made of plastic, hardened steel or alternative materials. To remove snow from the chain running on the wheel, there are often round loose chain links.

How do snow chains work?

The net on the tread of the tyre means that it spins less. Figuratively speaking, the individual chain links push themselves between the ground and the rubber like a wedge: this creates the resistance needed to generate propulsion. Without snow chains, the tread of winter tyres alone would no longer be able to grip very deep snow; progress would no longer be possible, especially on inclines. A higher and closed snow cover therefore makes the use of suitable snow chains an unavoidable alternative.

Who needs snow chains?

In urban traffic, snow chains are certainly the absolute exception or limited to extreme weather conditions, especially since snow clearance services usually clear at least major main roads promptly. However, if you live in the mountains and have to expect a lot of snow every winter, you should not do without snow chains. The same applies to passionate skiers who drive to winter skiing regions several times a year. If you belong to the target groups mentioned, you can drive well in every respect with snow chains on.

An overview of the advantages of snow chains:

• Noticeable increase in the adhesion level (grip) of the tyres
• Greater safety due to shorter braking distances
• Useful or necessary addition for winter tyres at high altitudes (ski resorts)
• Vehicle remains more controllable on winter roads
• Driving off on heavily snow-covered roads remains possible
• Installation of most snow chains is quite simple
• With fully-fledged snow chains, drivers comply with the mandatory requirements in some countries
• High-quality materials ensure durability

While the list of safety benefits is long, the use of snow chains can still present the following challenges:

• Lack of flexibility in changing road conditions: Chains should be driven a maximum of three kilometres without snow
• The added safety is due to the fact that the overall driving behaviour is bumpier with snow chains fitted
• On some models, fitting snow chains requires patience and a great deal of sensitivity.
• Special protection systems are required for light alloy rims to prevent damage.

The different variants

If you are a motorist who regularly needs snow chains, you will certainly want to check the available range carefully. This is exactly what we want to do in this chapter, so that we can then move on to the most important purchase criteria in the following paragraph.

Basically, a distinction must be made between full-fledged snow chains, drive chains and track chains. A characteristic feature of full-fledged snow chains is that they completely enclose the tread of tyres. In terms of function, drive and track chains represent a specialisation:

• Drive chains: … provide traction and thus drive on the rear axle. For this purpose, it is necessary that the chain links run transversely to the direction of travel. Drive chains are therefore to be mounted on the drive axle. On vehicles with all-wheel drive, such chains can be used on both axles.
• Track chains: … increase the stability of a vehicle’s driving characteristics by minimising breakaway. For this purpose, it is necessary that these chains run lengthwise to the direction of travel. Tracking chains are therefore to be mounted on the front tyres due to the steering axle.

Why full snow chains are the “safe” choice

In countries or regions where snow chains are officially compulsory, only full snow chains can be considered. From a purely legal point of view, and also from an insurance point of view, driving aids or other aids such as adhesive sprays or snow socks are not permitted. Compulsory snow chains can be recognised by a blue sign with the corresponding symbol.

If you decide to use a drive or track chain, it is imperative that you mount it on the correct axle, as the chain links are only ever arranged in one direction. It is conceivable, for example, to use a drive chain at the rear for more grip and a track chain at the front for stable steering.

The combination of drive and track chain as an integrated solution

Those who choose a high-performance, full-fledged snow chain do not necessarily have to decide for or against one variant: Most full-fledged snow chains are a combination of drive and track chain anyway. The term full-fledged is to be understood in the sense that there are chain links in and across the direction of travel. The disadvantage is that, depending on the system, putting on such chains is not exactly easy. A little practice therefore seems necessary in order to be very well prepared for an emergency. The advantage is that these all-rounders can be considered by all drivers who regularly have to drive on snow-covered roads.

Top speed with snow chains on?

Safety is the most central motive for using snow chains. In this respect, the maximum speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour should be observed, which should not be exceeded with snow chains on. Since the driving experience can feel bumpier, drivers should get used to it slowly.

An overview: These types of chains are available

Rope and ring chains are among the classic models that enjoy great popularity, especially due to their low prices. In practice, putting on these chains requires a little practice so that they can be quickly mounted on the tyre when needed.

Different designations of available snow chains are primarily based on how the individual links are arranged and what pattern appears in the snow:

• Y-chains
• Honeycomb chains
• Cross-track chains

Regardless of which model drivers choose: In terms of grip level as a key functional feature, there are only minor differences between all types of snow chains.

Are there alternatives?

In contrast to full-fledged snow chains, approach chains cover only part of the entire tread. They are less suitable for permanent use: rather, approach aids can be used if a vehicle is stuck in the snow and can no longer be moved. It is conceivable to use this grip support to master climbs on snow-covered roads. If you are planning further routes at high altitudes, it is better to use snow chains directly.

Those who want to react very flexibly to sudden wintry road conditions can rely on the so-called spray-on snow chain: This involves spraying a special spray onto the tread which, after a short drying time, provides an increase in the grip level. However, this effect depends very much on the condition of the surface. Moreover, it can only be used for a few kilometres. So this alternative is not suitable for long distances. However, drivers can keep it in their glove compartments for emergencies, for example if they have to climb a slope.

Another very modern alternative, especially in Norway, is the so-called snow sock. This is a special cover made of hard polyester fibre that is put over the tyre. The surface is permeable, which results in dry friction. Moisture is efficiently wicked away so that the fabric has direct contact with the snow or ice. Due to the high weight of the car, this allows for significantly more propulsion. An advantage is that snow socks are lighter in weight and easier to fit. A major disadvantage, however, is that the effect is less than with full snow chains. For very demanding road conditions at high altitudes, snow socks are rather out of the question.

Snow chains for large and sporty vehicles

What matters when buying

It is important that the snow chain fits the tyre size. Only if this criterion is met can a snow chain be put on easily and lie perfectly on the tread. To buy a suitable snow chain, check the tyre size in the vehicle registration document or directly on the tyre. Chains that are too large should be avoided at all costs: They can damage the vehicle and, regardless of this, do not provide the desirable additional grip and propulsion.

Rule of thumb for selecting a suitable snow chain

If the whole fist fits between the tyre and the wheel arch, all snow chains for a vehicle will usually be considered. If there is less space, a ring chain may be a sensible alternative. SUVs usually offer enough space, so many common snow chains with the appropriate load capacity and size are eligible.
In order to choose the right snow chains based on this basic information, the following purchase criteria are also decisive.

Steel: The best choice in terms of material

Since a snow chain is exposed to high mechanical loads, many experts consider steel to be the most robust solution. Some models also have plastic or textile components. However, the advantage of lower weight often means significantly higher wear. If snow chains are compulsory in the destination area, a steel version is the safest choice in every respect.

The right thickness of chain links

A look at different models shows that the range in terms of link thickness is between 3 and 20 millimetres. For orientation: the thicker the chain links, the more weight they can carry and the higher the level of adhesion. Owners of manoeuvrable small cars can use smaller chain links. In general, slightly thicker chain links are sometimes effective in combating wear when used frequently.

In addition to the chain thickness, the shape also comes into focus when choosing: chain links are often angular, which improves the grip level by increasing rolling resistance. Some models have round links in the chain. These bring the functional advantage that there is no significant sticking.

Mounting systems: How convenient can it be?

It is important to consider in advance whether the snow chains should be for manual fitting or for self-tensioning. If you opt for the manual version, you will have to drive a few metres after putting them on and then straighten the chain again. With somewhat more expensive self-tensioning systems, this second step is usually omitted. Those who do not want to invest time in fitting snow chains should take a closer look at quick-fit chains. Comfort chains already make fitting easier in that users do not have to reach behind the tyre.

Check approval and standards when choosing

If you regularly drive in areas where snow chains are compulsory, you should pay particular attention to this aspect of your choice. Drivers can only comply with the snow chain obligation if the model fitted has the required approval or complies with the applicable road traffic regulations. For the destination country Austria, the standards ÖNORM V5119 and V5117 must be observed. Such regulations do not yet exist in Germany.

Snow chains with rim protection

In recent years, more and more drivers are leaving aluminium rims mounted all year round. Conventional snow chain systems can damage sensitive alloy rims. Therefore, special models with integrated rim protection should be considered, especially in the case of mounted light alloy rims. Rim protection essentially consists of preventing the chain from touching the rim by means of special fixing mechanisms.

Tips for use and care

With regard to excessive wear, the maximum speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour should not be exceeded. If road conditions change, the question arises as to whether snow chains should be removed immediately in the event of snow- and ice-free sections. If the chains are of high quality, a distance of up to three kilometres can be covered without snow – but no more than that, as the snow chains and the winter tyres themselves could suffer massive damage.

To ensure the longevity and stability of snow chains, they should be thoroughly cleaned with water after each use and then dried. The reason for this is that constant exposure to road salt can lead to considerable material damage. Grease-containing care products do not have to be used in the case of regular cleaning. However, a thin film of oil can be a caring option if the snow chains are to be stored in a dry place after the winter for the next season.

Tips for using snow chains

If you mount the chains a little looser, you can increase their service life. However, a tight fit is necessary for a noticeable grip effect, especially on icy roads.

It is not only the fitting of snow chains that needs to be practised: Drivers should also approach the driving experience slowly. Many describe it as bumpy. And the possible speed of up to 50 kilometres per hour on winter roads should not be underestimated in this context: Braking distances naturally increase on slippery surfaces, so always drive with foresight.

Especially in the case of ultra-modern vehicles, it is important to consider the effect of snow chains on electronic driving aids. Statements on this should also be checked in the enclosed operating instructions, which must not only contain instructions for proper fitting.

Snow chains and electronic stability programmes

Quite a few experts recommend switching off ESP whenever possible when using snow chains. If this electronic stability control is active, its intervention can interfere with the optimal performance of snow chains. After removal, think about reactivating ESP to take advantage of optimal driving characteristics in “normal” winter road conditions.