Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures make driving in winter’s inclement weather very dangerous. The most common and widely used safety tool for winter driving is snow or tire chains. The metal links act like claws grabbing the icy surface below. This added traction makes driving in snowy or icy conditions safer.
When looking for a great set of snow or tire chains, there are several factors that should be considered:
- What size fits my tires?
- Are there clearance issues between my tires and the fender?
- Which tire chains have the best customer reviews?
- Which tire chains come with the best guarantee?
- Does a higher price equate to higher quality?
You can search for information relating to specific tire chain models. You can also read customer reviews or leave your own review.
The Thule CB12 snow chain size 060 is the functional, heavy-duty solution for passenger vehicles. It fits the small 13″ to 15″ tires of most passenger cars. It provides high performance at a low cost.
The Security Chain Super Z6 SZ123 cable chain provides superior performance for passenger cars, pickups, and SUVs with limited operating clearance around the drive tires. The diagonal cross-member or “Z” pattern provides outstanding traction and the slim design only needs 1/4 inch of clearance around the tires, much less than most tire chains.
Security Z-Chain Z-575 cable chain has been a favorite traction product for police, fire, ambulance, and other fleets throughout the US and Canada. One reason is because of the manganese alloy cross members that provide exceptional strength, durability, and traction in most any situation.
Thule 12mm XG12 premium snow chains are constructed of hardened manganese nickel alloy steel, which ensures that they are strong enough for the toughest challenge and will last longer than normal tire chains. The 12mm chain with dual-sided D-shaped links bites deeply into snow and ice to provide excellent traction in adverse conditions.
The Security Chain Super Z6 SZ435 tire chain is designed to provide superior performance for pickups and SUVs with very limited operating clearance around the drive tires. The diagonal crossmember or “Z” pattern provides exceptional traction and the slim design only needs 1/4 inch of clearance between the tires and fenders, much less than most tire chains.
Beware – my Super Z6 broke after just two uses and the chain got so tangled and wrapped around the wheel (I pulled over immediately after hearing the dreaded THUNK THUNK THUNK) that it took a bolt cutter to get it off and untangled from inside the wheel.