To read this guide, you will surely have questions and want to learn more about snow chains such as:

• What types of anti-skid devices are there?
• What are the differences in chain thickness?
• How can you easily find the compatible size of snow chains for your tires?
• Which type is ultimately the best for your needs?

Let's get started!

#Anti-slip chains

This type of chains is the most well-known to the general public, as it was the first type of anti-slip device invented in 1904 by American Harry D. Weed. Snow chains of this type are made with galvanized steel links and have great durability during use. They require frequent cleaning from salt and ice in order to maintain their optimal condition and be fully functional. Additionally, their installation is relatively easy but it is necessary to have tried them before, in order to be familiar with the installation process.

Advantages: Their performance even in severe snowstorms, their reliability, and the low cost of purchase.
Disadvantages: The vibrations they cause during use and the relatively difficult installation process.

#Snow Blankets or Fabric Snow Chains

The easiest way to install among all other anti-slip devices is with snow blankets. You can see for yourself in this guide that explains in 3 simple steps How to Install Snow Blankets.

They are made from durable specially designed fabric that covers the tires of the car. They provide effective grip on soft snow as well as ice, increasing friction. Their design makes them silent during use. They are usually used in light snowfall, on lowered passenger cars, and on those with low-profile tires.

Advantages: Easy installation, performance on fresh snow and ice, as well as silent operation.
Disadvantages: Their use is recommended only in light snowfall. Additionally, they wear out relatively quickly if used off ice or snow, e.g., on dry asphalt, dirt, etc.

#Anti-Skid Spider Chains

This type of anti-skid chains has all the advantages of regular chains and blanket chains, with the only difference that they require pre-installation before use. For their placement, there needs to be a fixed section on the wheel, usually a special bolt or base, which should be installed from the beginning. They have great durability and provide effective grip.

#Tipsbyskroutzteam: For safer installation, before starting the placement, read and understand their instructions for use.

Advantages: Practicality and durability over time.
Disadvantages: High purchase cost.

#Anti-Skid Chains

These are plastic chains that are secured onto the car's tire using special straps and buckles. They wrap around and "hug" the tire's tread, increasing traction. They are suitable for occasional use and not recommended for heavy snowfall conditions.

Advantages: Easy installation, practicality, and low purchasing cost.
Disadvantages: Occasional use and inefficiency in heavy snowfall conditions.

What are the differences between chains based on their thickness?

The classic anti-skid snow chains and the spider-type anti-skid chains are determined by the thickness (millimeters / mm) of their links. Usually, thickness sizes of 7mm, 9mm, and 10mm are intended for lowered passenger cars and those with low-profile tires. Additionally, sizes with a thickness of 12mm and above penetrate the snow more, offering better grip. They are usually installed on vehicles that have sufficient clearance between the arch and the wheel, e.g. SUVs and 4x4s.

How can you find the dimensions of your tires to choose the right car chain?

In order to choose the correct snow chain that is compatible with your tires, you should look at the dimensions always indicated on the side of your tires in this format 175/65R14.

Additionally, in many cars, there is a sticker that displays the factory dimensions of the tires on the driver's door or on the fuel tank door at the rear.

Several cars have different tire sizes, as shown in the photo (185/65/15 & 195/55/16), meaning a different size for the front axle and a different size for the rear. So the choice of compatible snow chains will be based on the car's driving axle, e.g. Front-wheel drive cars are fitted on the front axle to make the steering system work more effectively, rear-wheel drive cars are fitted on the rear axle, and 4x4 cars that have power to the front wheels and optional power to the rear are fitted on the front axle.

In case the opposite is true, the fitting is done on the rear axle. It would be advisable, in any case, to consult the manufacturer's manual, as the fitting for 4x4 cars varies depending on the manufacturer.

Explanation of indicative tire size: The following tire size consists of three different measurements, such as the width of the tire in millimeters (mm), the height or profile as a percentage of the width, and the diameter of the rim in inches. In order to find the correct size of snow chain, you need to know the complete size of your tire.

Indicative example of size 175/65R14:

• Width: 175mm
• Height/Profile: 64
• Diameter: 14 inches

Snow Chains, Snow Blankets or Snow Socks? Which type ultimately meets your needs?

In order to choose between these different types that we mentioned above, you should first consider if you have a passenger car, 4x4 or truck. Then, compare their advantages and disadvantages, so that you can exclude those that do not meet your needs.

Next, you should consider the purpose for which you intend to use them, e.g. will you use them occasionally in an urban environment, where there are usually light snowfalls, or will you use them in more challenging conditions such as in a mountain village?

The type of vehicle, the frequency of use, and even the place you live will help you choose the right type of anti-slip device for you.

Did you find the right type for you? If yes, don't forget to equip yourself with a pair of work gloves and an ice scraper, which you will need during installation!

Important: 

According to the relevant decision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the use of anti-slip devices is mandatory when relevant traffic restrictions are imposed due to adverse weather conditions.