One of the things that can often prevent getting stuck when driving on snowy and icy roads is a good set of tire chains. These vehicle accessories consist of metal chains that are installed around the wheels of the vehicle to maximize traction in icy conditions, making them a necessity for people living in areas that experience extreme winter weather every year. In fact, some states even require chains if traveling in certain mountainous areas during extreme winter weather.

Finding the right set of tires can be challenging because not all tire chains are created equal. They come in different sizes, materials and tread patterns to accommodate different types of vehicles and different harsh winter weather. Many models are designed to be easy to install and reduce the amount of time one spends in the cold.

Best Heavy Duty: AutoChoice 6-Piece Auto Chain

Best Low-Profile: Glacier Passenger Cable Tire Chains

Best for Trucks: Security Chain Company Quik Grip

How We Choose the Best Anti-Skid Chains？

In reviewing more than 25 sets of tire chains for this article, we considered the best fit for vehicles ranging from small cars to large SUVs and heavy-duty pickup trucks, keeping in mind the following considerations:

Traction: While traction is not the only factor, it is clearly the most important factor in chains. We have only selected models that provide adequate traction.

Durability: I only included chains made of steel alloys that can support the weight of the vehicle in harsh weather conditions. This includes both conventional chains and chains that use steel rollers or coils.

Installation: Tire chains are usually installed on roadsides or snow-covered driveways in extreme winter weather. With this in mind, we have selected only tire chains that can be installed in these conditions. Tire chains with a self-tightening feature are superior to those that require manual tightening.

The best anti-skid chains recommended:

No matter what kind of car you drive, you don't want to go out in the winter without the best chains, because even the best heated gloves, socks and undershirts (or even a battery-powered electric blanket) won't keep you as comfortable as you are getting home safely and escaping the storm. We've gathered the best options on the market. From heavy-duty to budget-friendly options.

Best heavy-duty: AutoChoice 6 Packs Car Snow Chains

Why they cut back: The thickness and coverage of these chains takes the traction one gets from a set of tire chains to another level. While installation may take longer, it's not complicated.

Advantages

●Heavy-duty chains provide optimal traction

●Separate components make them easier to install

●Fits a variety of tire sizes

Disadvantages

●More time consuming to install

●Expensive

Take a look at this set of tire chains from AutoChoice and you'll see that they are much stronger than other models thanks to the 6 sets of thick chains per tire. With their thicker gauge and square design, these chains can reach deep into the snow and ice to provide plenty of traction. Each wheel's chain is divided into six separate sections - a six-piece set - that are independently connected. The chains have thick straps, made up of tendon material, that pass through the rim and fasten to the wheel in a manner similar to ratchet tie-downs.

There are both positive and negative aspects to this design. By having separate parts, they are easier to install because there is no need to undo and align a section of chain or jack up the wheel. Only one set needs to be applied and then continue with the rest of the operation. On the other hand, attaching six separate sets of chains to each wheel is very time consuming.

While this set of tire chains is pricey - you'll need to buy a set of six for each wheel - it does include some useful extras, including two pairs of gloves, a long hook to help with installation, and a fiber-absorbent towel.

Best low-profile: Glacier Passenger Cable Tire Chain

Reason for selection: While there are trade-offs in terms of traction, we like the low-profile design of the chains, which makes them suitable for most cars.

Advantages

●Fits S-type low-profile vehicles

●Lighter weight makes them easier to install

● Affordable price

Disadvantages

● Not as much traction as standard tire chains

Tire chains can be tricky for passenger cars with an S gap, which means there is limited space between the wheelwell and the tire. Adding extra thickness to the chains can damage the car, as they can scrape the wheels when the suspension flexes. In fact, some automakers will even void warranties if they find that the chains used on a car are too bulky for the wheelwell.

Glacier solves this problem by making chains that aren't chains at all; Glacier's tire chains actually consist of a set of hardened steel rollers that run perpendicular to the tire tread and are secured to a thick gauge wire rope that runs along the circumference of the tire's outer sidewall.

The result is tire chains with a low enough profile to fit S-class licensed passenger cars. And, at 6 pounds, these chains are also easier to install than heavier chains. Remember, this is a trade-off. While these roller-style chains can improve vehicle traction in snow, they do not provide the same traction as a set of traditional tire chains.

Best for trucks: Security Chain Company Quik Grip

Why choose them: While they may be more difficult to install, you can't deny the fact that these chains provide the superior traction and durability needed for heavy trucks on snow-covered roads.

Benefits

●Durable full chain construction

●CAM tightening system makes installation easy

●Thicker chains provide excellent traction

Disadvantages

●More difficult to install than other types

●Not suitable for low clearance vehicles

Larger trucks and SUVs require heavy-duty chains that won't break under heavy loads or extreme conditions. Because of their durability, these thicker steel alloy manganese chains are one of the best choices for full-size trucks. They can even be used with farm equipment and two-wheeled trucks.

Security Chains' chains are designed in a square configuration to provide maximum starting traction. We especially like this setup because the integrated CAM tightening system eliminates the need for a tensioner to tighten the chain. Quik Grip chains that don't have this feature are less expensive, but we think it's worth the extra money to save the hassle of buying a separate tensioner.

Even with the CAM fastening system, these chains are more difficult to install than other options, but the superior durability and traction they provide make them a must for heavy trucks facing harsh winter weather. Keep in mind that these chains are not suitable for trucks with Class S permit requirements.

Things to consider before buying anti-skid chains

Traction

Perhaps the most important feature to consider is how well the chain will prevent you from getting stuck. When it comes to traction, the rule of thumb is fairly simple. The thicker the chain and the greater the coverage on the tire tread, the better the traction. Chains with heavier gauge steel links dig into the snow better and provide better traction than coils or rollers. Also keep in mind the shape: square chains may provide better traction for getting started, but diamond-shaped chains provide better directional traction, which means better handling.

Material

Pay attention to the material of the chain, this will determine its durability. Generally speaking, steel alloys containing manganese are considered "high strength" steels and can better withstand the stresses placed on them when used as chains. While chains may have higher strength, steel alloy rollers and coils are also very strong. In addition to chains, pay attention to the other materials they use to hold them in place. While rubber and thick nylon straps may be durable enough for cars and light trucks, heavy trucks require full chain construction.

Size

Size is important because the tires must be compatible with the size of the tires on your vehicle. Anti-skid chains are not one-size-fits-all. Most models of tire chains are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different tire sizes. The manufacturer of the chains provides a size chart that corresponds to their product model. Check the size of the tire (printed on the sidewall of each tire) and match that size to the correct model of chain.

Installation

You will most likely be installing tire chains in inclement weather, so it is important to purchase chains that can be installed as soon as possible. If you have a car or small truck, consider purchasing a set of self-tensioning chains. Self-tensioning chains require more work to install initially, but they do not require you to manually tighten (and re-tighten) the chains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need chains for all four tires?

Legally, you only need one set of tire chains for winter travel in the mountains. However, if you have a 4×4 vehicle, it is best to have two sets. Even for a two-wheel drive vehicle, two sets of chains can improve traction.

Q: Will the chains damage the tires?

When there is snow and ice, the tire chains will go deeper and do not put pressure on the tires. However, driving on bare roads for a long time may cause the chains to go deep into the tires and damage them (as well as the road itself). Chains can also damage tires if they are not installed properly.

Q: Is it hard to drive with chains?

Although chains will improve traction and help prevent your car or truck from getting stuck, driving in snowy conditions can still be dangerous. When driving with chains, you should not exceed 30 mph.

Final thoughts on the best chains

Best Heavy Duty: AutoChoice 6-Piece Auto Chain

Best Low-Profile: Glacier Passenger Cable Tire Chains

Best for Trucks: Security Chain Company Quik Grip

Choosing the right chain requires finding a product that combines good traction with ease of installation, and the Tirechain Center Light Duty Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain excels at both, making it one of the best all-around tire chains you can install on your car or truck. If you're looking for a set of chains to outfit your heavy-duty pickup truck, consider Security Chain Company Quik Grip, which offers excellent traction and durability.