Snow tire chains are a must for driving in inclement winter weather when snow covers the roadways. They provide extra traction that prevents skids and provides better traction than snow tires alone. There are many top brands available today and several different types of chains that are better for car tires.
All purpose tire chains can be used on all types of cars, including four-wheel drive vehicles. Diamond Tire Chains are one of the best brands on the market. Their SAE class "S" tire chains provide a smooth ride with reduced noise. The diamond-shaped chain patterns and alloy D-link chain design provide an excellent amount of traction in snow and on ice. They cost around $60 as of 2010.
The Shur Grip Z series by Security Chain is a lightweight traction chain with diagonally aligned cables that stretch across the tire surface. For lighter snows, when you want added traction but better fuel mileage, this is an ideal choice and the best for the money at around $50. The Thule 10 mm and 12mm chains (CB10 and CB12 models) are another option for lightweight traction. They are also inexpensive ($50 to $75). They use 10 mm or 12 mm D-link chains respectively, and they have a balancing and tension system to keep the chains on the wheel.
The Super Premium series of Thule tire chains provide the most traction and cost about $150. They feature ice breaker attachments and D-shaped chain links. They also release quickly in one second, with a patented design. The 9mm CG9 Premium Grip chains by Thule provide extra traction in heavy snow. These use a series of hexagonal and square linked chains that run diagonally and vertically across the tire to provide increased traction. These chains cost around $100.
