10 Best Snow Chains 2025 in the United States

The SCC Peerless 0231805 Auto-Trac snow chains are designed for light trucks and SUVs with specific tire sizes, fitting a range of popular dimensions such as 225/55-19 and 295/30-20. Made from alloy steel, these chains offer good durability to handle snowy and icy conditions. One of their strongest points is how quickly and easily they can be installed compared to many other traction products, which can save time and effort when you need them most.

The chains provide reliable traction for driving safely on snow-covered roads, with a recommended maximum speed of 30 mph when installed. However, these chains are somewhat limited to certain tire sizes, so they may not fit all vehicles. The material is sturdy but being made in China might raise some concerns about consistent quality for some buyers.

Weighing about 14 pounds per set, they're not overly heavy but not the lightest either. If you want a dependable product that’s easy to put on and fits many common SUV or truck tires, this set is a solid choice. Just double-check your tire size before buying, and keep in mind you should drive cautiously and not exceed the speed limit advised for safety and chain longevity.

The K&K Auto Accessories Snow Socks serve as a smart alternative to traditional metal snow chains, designed to enhance traction on snowy or icy roads. Constructed from durable, tear-resistant polyester, these fabric-based traction devices are gentle on tires and rims, making them safe for vehicles equipped with modern stability systems such as ABS and ESC. They are lightweight and compact, easily fitting into an emergency car kit, and come with gloves and storage bags for added convenience.

Installation is quick and straightforward, typically taking around 5 minutes, which makes them ideal for users seeking an easy-to-use solution without the hassles of complicated chain setups. These snow socks are approved by European and Colorado authorities, assuring compliance with legal and safety standards for winter travel. They fit a wide range of vehicles including cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans, but it is important to consult the size chart carefully to ensure proper tire fit.

These snow socks improve steering and braking compared to having no traction devices, though they might not offer the extreme durability or traction level of heavy-duty metal chains in very harsh conditions or deep snow. Being made of fabric, they can wear out faster if used extensively on bare pavement. They provide a quiet, tire-friendly traction aid suitable for winter emergencies or lighter snowy conditions, while drivers anticipating frequent heavy snow driving may prefer more robust metal chains.

The AutoSock AL79 offers an innovative alternative to traditional metal snow chains for commercial vehicles like trucks and buses. Made from durable polyester textile, these snow socks are designed to fit large tire sizes commonly found on heavy vehicles, ensuring good size compatibility. One of their biggest strengths is ease of installation: they are lightweight and can be quickly slipped onto tires without the hassle of dealing with metal chains. This textile design also means they won’t damage tires or rims and work smoothly with your vehicle’s safety systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of traction, the AutoSock provides reliable grip on snow and ice, with an outer webbing that helps prevent snow buildup and enables steady, vibration-free driving. They are reusable for many miles if used properly, which adds value and durability. Since these are fabric-based rather than metal chains, they may not offer quite as aggressive traction on extremely icy or rugged conditions compared to traditional chains.

These snow socks are specifically sized for larger tires, so they are not suitable for smaller passenger cars. If you drive a commercial vehicle in snowy conditions and want an easy-to-use, tire-friendly option approved for road use where chains are required, the AutoSock AL79 is a solid choice. For the harshest icy roads, metal chains might provide stronger grip.