One of the major challenges faced by most of us during wintertime is driving. Imagine you want to go to one of your favorite places in the night and the road is filled with snow, you couldn’t see well. At the same time, you couldn’t accelerate the car due to the snow; eventually, you got stuck in the middle of nowhere, perhaps without any heated jackets to provide you with warmth. Then life dawn on you to get something to latch your tires
To latch your tires and give it the maximum traction required to move perfectly on a snowy or icy road, all you need is a pair of SUV snow chains. SUV snow chains are worthy investments needed during wintertime. These accessories are mainly wrapped around your vehicle’s tires to prevent slipping and reduce the issues of road accidents.
However, there are lots of snow chains on the market today. Each is designed for specific purposes; some are designed for different types of vehicles, and sincerely speaking, some are decent than the others.
Therefore to choose the best show chain(s) for your SUV and drive confidently in the winter, you will need a guide. Lucky you, this buying guide has been carefully done based on product reviews and recommendations to alleviate any form of dilemma you might be facing in choosing the best snow chain(s) for your SUV.
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Here are the top picks when it comes down to the best snow chain!
1
Spikes-Spider 14.522 SPXL Sport Series Winter Traction Aid - Set of 2
This is one of the best SUV snow chains you can ever get. This is because of the value it can add to your vehicle. Therefore, if you want value for money, this could be your best pick. This snow chain comes with excellent features that differentiate the old-fashioned snow chains and studded tires.
One of the innovative features of this snow chain is that it comes in a package of two, each with a four-armed traction element that gives you the benefit of easy installation and removal. This is because the four-armed traction elements are built from permanently flexible and elastic materials wearing resistant polymer materials plus tungsten carbide stud embedded on their traction surfaces. Each arm is connected to by links to rest on top of your tire tread without destroying it.
With these advanced innovations, you can be sure to drive in snowy, icy, or even a hilly terrain confidently because the combination of features will give you maximum traction to drive in any of this route without affecting the treads of your tires. These features also make it possible to use vehicles with wider tire widths hence suitable for SUV, FWD, AWD, RWD, and the likes.
The brand recommends a driving speed of 30mph, so your safety has also been put into consideration. Plus, you have lots of options to choose from, such as the compact package, sports package, and alpine pro package depending on your preferences
Key Features:
- Alternative to conventional tire chains
- Flexible, elastic, wear-resistant four-armed traction element
- Tungsten carbide studded traction bars
- Heavy-duty hub
- Designed for wider vehicles tires
- 30mph maximum recommended speed
Specification:
- Brand: Spikes-Spider
- Product dimensions: 25.1 x 25 x 7.8 inches
- Weight: 7.95 pounds
Pros
- Easy installation and removal
- You don’t need to reach the dirty wheels before installing
- It does not affect the tread of your tires
- It does not tangle
- Perfect for vehicles with wide tires
- Perfect for snowy, icy, and hilly terrains
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- You will need a lot of storage space
- Not durable compared to traditional snow chains
2
Konig 12mm XG12 Pro Deluxe SUV/Crossover Snow Chain, Size 265
You might have heard about Konig because this brand is one of the largest producers of the best snow chains, particularly for SUVs. For your superior driving comfort, Konig pro deluxe snow chain is all you need.
It has some exceptional features such as the patented, in-built self-tensioning system. This feature gives you the advantage of easy installation because the chains will effectively regulate themselves properly during installation, plus it has a double traction plate welded to enhance the grip and performance in snowy conditions. It comes in a set of 2 with 265 inches, making it perfect for different SUV tires.
You don’t need to worry about the tractive force in a snowy, icy, or hilly terrain because the chains are made of manganese-nickel alloy steel. This heavy-duty construction bestows the durability of the show chains. Besides, the apparent unique cross patterns of the chains around the tires guarantee remarkable traction and grip in any terrain.
Moreover, there is an anti-scratch nylon bumper designed to protect the alloy wheels of your SUV.
Key Features:
- Patented, in-built self-tensioning system
- Anti-scratch nylon bumper
- Double traction plate
- Manganese-nickel alloy steel chains
- 265 inches
- 12mm tread clearance
Specification:
- Brand: Konig Distribution
- Product dimensions: 15.68 x 14.88 x 4.32 inches
- Weight: 14.55 pounds
Pros
- Perfectly fit after installation
- Maximum traction and grip
- Durable construction
- Perfect for any snowy, icy, and hilly terrains
- Designed for SUV
Cons
- It might require a manual tensioning
- It is expensive
- It might not be compatible with cars below 12mm clearance
3
Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain
If you are looking for a versatile snow chain that can work on different vehicles with minimal clearance and reasonably priced, SCC SZ143 super Z6 tire chain is your best option. First, the chain makes it one of the best for SUVs, regular passenger cars, and a pickup truck.
The build quality and design are quite different from other snow chains because the standard chains do at least 15mm clearance to operate. Still, this particular snow chain uses a limited 6.3mm clearance and can support tires with sizes ranging from 215 to 285 millimeters.
Also, it features a sort of cross-linked pattern that is almost similar to a diamond.
The cross-linked pattern gives the vehicle an optimal traction force when moving on any snowy, icy, or hilly terrains. Moreover, the diagonal cables are made of alloy steel which makes it lightweight.
Easy to handle during installation and the traction coil is compatible with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems.
Key Features:
- 6.3mm sidewall clearance
- 215 to 285 millimeters
- In-built rubber tightener
- 30mph Vehicle speed
- Manganese alloy steel chains
Specification:
- Brand: Security Chain
- Product dimensions: 7 x 4 x 18 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
Pros
- Reduce scratching of alloy or high-performance tire rims.
- Durable than conventional snow chains
- Improved traction performance
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Reasonably priced
- It does not interfere with the typical handling characteristics of your vehicle
- Easy to install and remove
- Perfect choice for tight clearance
Cons
- Complaints of wheel damage
- Reports of rust and weaker design
4
KONIG XB-16 245 Snow chains, set of 2
You will notice this is the second time we are reviewing Konig’s. This is because Konig is one of the best terrains that produces the best show chains compatible with SUV. One of the main features that separate this snow chain from other models is the manual tensioning system. With this system, you can install the chain just in a single-halt, plus no only is it useful when you are driving on snowy terrain and perfect on muddy grounds.
On a design level, this model of Konig is typically hand-made. It is made of manganese steel alloy chain which has dual-sided D-shaped links to give maximum traction in any terrain you find yourself plus, this quality made chain has a longer-lasting option
It is relatively easy to fit because of the self-centering and auto tensioning system made available. It is easily adjustable ones you move the car, the chains automatically conform. Because you might want to fix the snow chains in the dark or at night, you have nothing to worry about as it comes with color-coded attachment points, plus it is also easy to remove. It fits a 16mm tread clearance vehicle to give you full traction in snowy and icy grounds.
Key Features:
- Manual tensioning system
- 16mm tread clearance
- Manganese steel alloy chains
- Color-coded attachment point
- Traditional designs
Specification:
- Brand: Konig
- Product description: 15.12 x 4.06 x 14.72 inches
- Weight: 18 pounds
Pros
- Easy to fit in just a single stop
- Durable
- Perfect for heavy-duty
- High quality
- Good traction
Cons
- It is expensive
- Not compatible with vehicles below 16mm clearance
- If you are a novice, you might not be able to install it without an installation guide
5
Sanku Snow Tire Chains
If you have different kinds of cars and you want a single snow chain that can be used for all, then Sanku snow tire chains could be your savior! Sanku snow tire chain is one of the best snow chains out there based on its universal compatibility. The snow chain comes with strange designs that are entirely different from those listed above.
Sanku Snow Tire Chain is an antiskid pair of snow chains that extends from each pad down to the snow or icy ground. This feature alone protects your vehicle traction wheels and other components, including the driving surface. It gives you the ultimate grip on slippery grounds.
Due to its universal compatibility, it is versatile, and you don’t need to worry about your tires’ sizes because it is compatible with 165 mm to 265 mm vehicle tires. Furthermore, this snow chain cannot be installed like the previous ones. It comes with a set of 8 tire chains, the installation tools, a user manual that will give you the proper instruction on how to go about the chain installation, and a pair of safety gloves. No worries!
If you still doubt this cool snow chain tire, here is another special feature. The snow chain is made of excellent material for Dichotomathes. With this material, this chain has the potential to resist low and drastic temperatures quite well. A driving speed of 40km/h is recommended to enjoy this incredible show chain
Key Features:
- Antiskid property
- Made of Dichotomathes material
- 165mm to 265mm vehicle tires compatibility
Specification:
- Brand: Sanku
- Product dimension: 15.85 x 8.3 x 4.5 inches
- Weight: 5.44 pounds
Pros
- Super simple installation procedure
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Good traction
- Can withstand temperature changes
- Advanced security
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not durable
- Not effective on hilly terrain
6
Peerless 0232105 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain - Set of 2
If you are a novice that is probably new to using a snow chain, you will need a trustworthy and reliable brand; therefore, Security Chain can be your best brand. Just like the brand, this particular snow chain is reliable and dependable because it comes in handy in any snowy or slippery ground.
This model of the Security Chain brand’s snow chain is a patented ratcheting tightening system that ensures the automatic tightening of the chain while driving. During installation, the inside cables are connected to the alternating self-tighteners found outside. It is pretty easy to install without brief riding the vehicle; additional chain tensioners are not required with this snow chain. When driving, you will notice the perfect fit of the show chain to the traction surface of your vehicle tires’.
Based on the snow chain build-up, the chains are made of high-quality manganese alloy steel that meets the Class’ S’ clearance requirement crucial under the safety regulation; therefore, you have nothing to worry about it when it comes down to safety. With this regulation, a driving speed of 30mph is recommended to enjoy the benefits of the snow chain. You will also notice the low-mass “D” cross-section of the links on the show chain. This feature gives the chain a longer-lasting option and wear-resistance.
Key Features:
- Patented ratcheting tightening system
- Self-tighteners
- Manganese alloy steel chains
- Class ‘S’ clearance requirement
- Low-mass “D” cross-section
Specification:
- Brand: Security Chain
- Product dimensions: 11.8 x 11.7 x 3.3 inches
- Weight: 13.9 pounds
Pros
- Superior traction
- Automatic tightening
- Safe to use
- Can be easily installed
- Wear-resistance
- Reasonably priced
- Perfect for SUVs
Cons
- The in-built tensioners cannot be replaced
7
Quality Chain Cobra Cable Passenger Snow Traction Tire Chains (1046)
Next on the list is the Cobra Chain cable. If you are budget conscious and want a low-profile snow chain design that is quite efficient, this is your best pick. It is reasonably priced, and it is effortless to install. It is one of the most durable snow chains to use during the frosty period. It comes with an innovative design that will provide superior traction on snowy, icy, or hilly surfaces while keeping the overall clearance minimal.
Hence, the SAE Class’ S’ clearance makes it quite flexible for use across different low-clearance SUVs.
With great features come excellent benefits; the low-profile rollers on this show chain enable it to be used on low-clearance automobiles. Furthermore, the low-profile roller reduces the noise and vibration that may result when driving. The rubber adjuster ensures that the snow chain is adequately tightened to give maximum traction and grip.
Unlike most of the snow chains discussed above, this particular snow chain uses a carbon steel alloy, which is also wear-resistance and hence a longer-lasting option plus, the chains are galvanized to make them more efficient for adverse weather conditions.
Key Features:
- SAE Class’ S’ clearance
- Low profile roller
- Carbon steel alloy
- Rubber adjuster
Specification:
- Brand: Quality Chain
- Product dimensions: 16.3 x 7 x 6.7 inches
- Weight: 9.1 pounds
Pros
- Very adjustable
- Maximum traction
- Perfect fit for minimal clearance SUVs and pickups
- Wear and tear resistance
Cons
- It does not come with the rubber adjuster; hence you will have to buy it separately
- Weaker design
- It might ride a little low for some people
8
Newest Easy Snow Tire Chains
Another reasonably priced snow chain is the Newest Easy Snow Tire Chain. The snow chain is heavily built, and the chains are the alloy-made buckle type. So, you can be assured that it will be pretty adjustable and fit well plus a lateral intimate match design.
Installation is quite easy to perform with the presence of a strong strap and buckle. Moreover, the strap can be fastened around the traction tires with the buckle joined to provide the best traction and grip over any slippery surface.
It also features an antiskid design just like one of the snow chains mentioned above to give you the best protection on snowy, icy, muddy terrains. The antiskid design also enhances road-holding ability. It is perfect for use in all weather conditions plus there is no wheel limitation because it can be used on tire wheels ranging from 155 to 325 inches
Key Features:
- Alloy-made buckle type
- Lateral intimate match design
- Antiskid design
- Abrasion free design
- Universal compatibility
- 40mph recommended speed
Specification:
- Brand: Fineget
- Product dimensions: 47 x 1.6 x 0.2 inches
- Weight: 4.52 pounds
Pros
- Compatible with SUVs, Vans, trucks, and other four-wheelers
- Easy installation and removal
- Multipurpose
- Can be used in all weather conditions
- Durable
- Super traction and grip
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Cannot be used on vehicles that are not within the specified size range
9
OTUAYAUTO Car Snow Tire Chains, 165mm-285mm Emergency Anti Slip Adjustable Traction Upgraded TPU Tire Chain, for SUV ATV Truck Winter Universal Tire 6.5
One of the best adjustable snow chains with an anti-slip design is the Otuayauto snow chain. It is made of high-quality, 100% pure Dichotomanthes material, just one of the previously reviewed snow chains. This material confers a wear-resistant property plus non-slip nails. You don’t have to worry about the nails because they can not destroy the tires. They only lower noise and vibration when the vehicle is moving.
Furthermore, Dichotomanthes material makes the show chain the best in terms of extreme temperature conditions.
With the universal compatibility design, it can be used on varieties of vehicles with a tire width of 165mm-285mm; fortunately, an SUV falls within. With the upgrade in design, there is the presence of tightening buckles plus adjustable straps that goes into the tires’ spokes so that they can fit perfectly into any tire’s width. You don’t have to worry about installation because it is relatively easy to do in just a single stop. You don’t need to jack or take a brief ride before you can install it
Key Features:
- 100% pure Dichotomanthes material
- Non-slip nails
- 165mm-285mm tire width
- Tightening buckles
- Adjustable straps
- 45km/h speed limit
Specification:
- Brand: OTUAYAUTO
- Product dimensions: 11.2 x 8.8 x 0.5 inches
- Weight: 5.84 pounds
Pros
- Easy to install and remove
- High-quality material
- Strong and durable fastener
- Maximum traction and grip
- Ideal for all kinds of terrains
- Wear-resistance tightening belt
- Reasonably priced
- 30-day full refund and a 12-month warranty
Cons
- It is difficult to install on tires without spokes
10
VeMee Snow Chains for Car Snow Tire Chains Car Safety Chains Emergency Traction Adjustable Chains Universal Anti Slip TIRE Snow MUD Chains
Last but not least is the VeMee snow chains. For people who do not want an expensive snow chain but still want to enjoy the benefit of a snow chain, this could also be your best option—this snow chain is compatible with SUVs and other types of vehicles.
In fact, in many cases of a snow emergency, these snow chains can be used on the truck. It is also an anti-slip tire chain design that is pretty adjustable.
It is made of an upgraded patented chain of pure steel and thickens pure TPU plus steel studs material. It also features robust fasteners made of quality materials that simply wear resistance. So you can be sure that it will provide optimal traction and grip on slippery surfaces.
On its compatibility features, tires with widths ranging from 185mm-225mm are compatible with this snow chain plus it is quickly installed following the anti-slip requirement with adjustable tension straps that make it so easy to install. This is a real deal if you are considering the price!
Key Features:
- Anti-slip design
- Upgraded patented chain of pure steel
- Thicken pure TPU steel studs
- Tension straps
- 185mm – 225mm tire compatibility
Specification:
- Brand: VeMee
- Product dimensions: 16.7 x 5.8 x 5.6 inches
- Weight: 4.64 pounds
Pros
- Easy to install and remove
- Lightweight
- Durable
- High-quality material
- Prevent tire damage with steel studs
- Fits perfectly with the specified tire width
Cons
- It demands a lot of attention because of too many precautions such as no slamming on brake, no sharp turn
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In winter conditions, there are lots of investments that should be done, among them is getting the best snow chains. There are many snow chains on the market today, and it is a pretty challenging task to secure the best for yourselves. That is why this guide has been done to give you the necessary information about finally securing one.
However, before you make your purchase, you must consider the following – chain pattern, durability, installation and removal, and lastly, your budget. You must also know about the traction, and how frequent you are going to be using the snow chains too.
In case you still have any doubts or objections, we have prepared a question and answer session for you, and we hope it helps to tackle the objections
What is the best type of snow chain?
The best type of snow chains should feature; self-tensioning, automatic release, and link patterns. Self-tensioning removes any form of slack on the chain, making it more tightened when the vehicle is moving and preventing any form of damage that can result in the tires. You don’t want to get stuck when trying to remove some chain after use hence the adjustable release.
Furthermore, the pattern in which the chains are linked gives the snow chain excellent traction and grip. Therefore, the best type of show chains must have these features, and most of the products listed in this guide have the features so you can check through the guide to pick your favorites
Also, the best types of chains are produced by brands such as Spikes-Spider, Konig, Security Chain, and much more.
Do I need 2 or 4 snow chains?
It is ideal to use four snow chains on your vehicles in all-wheel as this will give you excellent traction, but it depends on your preferences and budget
What tires do you put snow chains on?
This depends on personal preferences. Usually, all four tires should have a snow chain to provide adequate traction and balance. Therefore, it is generally advisable to put some chains on the tire’s wheel that provide traction.
Does SUV need snow chains?
Yes, and not only SUVs but also other vehicles like trucks, mini-vans, pickups, and so on require snow chain in winter conditions, mostly when the road is filled with snow and icy. It is also essential you have snow chains on your SUV when you are driving on hilly terrains to provide you with maximum traction and grip. But before you use a snow chain, check for your manufacturer’s recommendation to know the tread clearance of your SUV.
Can you put snow chains on an AWD car?
Absolutely yes. You can put a snow chain on any vehicle as long as the snow chain is compatible with the vehicle. Spider-Spikes snow chain, which is our best pick, is compatible with the AWD car. You can check it out
Do you need to put snow chains on all four tires?
It is not compulsory, but it is ideal. You should put tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles. Using four tire chains will give you the best traction and balance. If chains are only put on the front tires, the back of the vehicle can counter-driving and brake. Also, the steering ability of vehicles can be difficult when snow chains are placed on the rear tires.
Do chains ruin your tires?
Yes. In most cases, when the snow chains are not compatible with the vehicle, probably because of clearance, tire’s width, or they do not fit perfectly, then they can damage your tire based on that instance. They can even tear the tires’ wheels if not used properly.
How fast can I drive with snow chains?
The recommended driving speed when using snow chains is 30mph. Also, when driving, you should avoid slamming the brakes
What can I use instead of snow chains?
There are available options. An example is using studded tires or cable chains made from pieces of steel cable that create a webbing to cover a tire. They often feature small metal rings on the cables for better grip and are typically lighter and smaller with a lower profile than metal chains. They are suitable for occasional use but offer less traction than metal chains.
Are snow tires better than chains?
Chains are substantially less expensive than snow tires – to some folks, that fact alone may tip the scales in favor of chains. Chains also provide the most incredible amount of traction on ice, packed snow, and deep snow (in which snow tires do not have the advantage)
Check out more guides with tips, tricks and more on buying equipment HERE
Conclusion
Snow chains are very compulsory in the wintertime, especially on a snowy or icy surface. There are lots of advantages that come with using a snow chain. It protects you from unpredictable weather scenarios; it minimizes the risk of accidents and gives you good traction and grip on snowy, icy, muddy, or hilly terrains.
Despite all these advantages, snow chains come in different forms that are present on the market today. So you must know which one you want, look for your best option considering all the factors and information you have obtained from this guide. Click on the links provided to correlate the prices amongst themselves, and you will see the best one that suits your purpose.
Finally, you can do more research to educate yourself and explore the perfect SUV snow chain(s) convenient for you to use. You can also check our websites for more reviews that interest you. Thanks for reading, if you have any queries feel free to reach out in the comments section below.
Learn more about survival tips, tricks, and more HERE.