Snow socks (also called tyre socks or auto socks) are basically textile covers for tyres which are often pitched as alternatives to snow chains. The socks work by wrapping around the tyres such that the fabric becomes the outermost layer to be in contact with the road surface. These socks are composed of special fabrics like Kevlar with fibers in the outermost layer of the sock arranged at right angles to increase traction.
Just like snow chains, tyre socks are also installed only on the drive wheels of a vehicle with the exception of 2 wheelers. For 2 wheelers, you can install the socks on both the tyres.
These socks also have an internal or external elastomer that help fasten them securely to the tyres. An additional rim component is also provided in some models to prevent the entry of mud/snow in between the socks and the tyre.
How Do Snow Socks Work?
Since the socks have an outermost layer of protruding fibrous nano extensions, dry snow and ice gets easily stuck to the external surface of the socks. Even as the tyre gets coated with ice or snow, the socks still provide increased traction as nothing grips snow better than snow/ice itself. This helps the socks in providing high levels of traction while driving on snow/ice covered terrains. The fiber also possesses water-absorbing qualities and is thus also able to get rid of any water or moisture that might be present on the surface, thereby providing further safety against slipping and skidding.
Sizing and Speed Limits
Snow socks are often manufactured in pairs according to different tyre sizes. They are available in a wide variety of sizes for different classes of vehicles. However, availability and abundance of variants is definitely more for car and light truck tyres as compared to buses or trucks.
Buses, trucks and larger vehicles often require socks that have to be more optimized and advanced to handle the axle load and larger tyre dimensions. Some companies also manufacture snow socks for commercial vehicles and specialized vehicles such as forklifts.
Also Read: What Are Snow Chains And How Do They Work?
Driving with these socks usually comes with restrictions on speed. The maximum speed usually depends on the snow sock and the vehicle class. Product manuals will usually have the information about the recommended speed to ensure safety and product longevity. For example, the Michelin Easy Grip has a recommended maximum speed of 25 mph while Autosock recommends a speed of 30 mph for its products.
Note: The "Easy Grip" is a snow sock manufactured by Michelin that is made from composite materials. It comprises of a central aramid cable covered in woven polyamide which is then further coated in polyurethane. The structure has been designed to improve the longevity of the chains and to improve resistance to wear and tear. There are also 150 galvanized steel clips that clip the composite wires into their characteristic diamond shape.
Legality of Use
Many regions in the world have mandatory snow chain/snow tyre rules for the winter. Snow socks are generally not included in such mandatory winter policies however some individual brands and their snow chains have been approved. For example, the Michelin Easy Grip is approved in France where snow chains are mandatory.
In some regions where snow chains are prohibited, snow socks can be a really good alternative to get increased traction without flouting any rules in the process.
It's important to note that neither snow socks nor snow chains are viable replacements to snow tyres. They can, however, be used in tandem with snow tyres as an amazing combination that can give you unparalleled traction in winters.
Image Credits: consumerreports, buycott
