Two of the most readily available solutions that help improve traction on snow are snow socks and snow chains. Many people use them on summer tyres as a cheaper alternative to winter tyres. Many are also legally bound to invest in one but don't know which one to buy. So we thought we'll make things a little easier and help you make that decision by performing a comprehensive analysis of the differences between snow chains and snow socks.
| SNOW CHAINS | SNOW SOCKS |
| CONSTRUCTION AND BUILD | |
Stronger, more resistant and heavier in comparison to socks. More durable than snow socks Harder to store and easily get tangled Consists of chains made up of different materials that wrap onto your tyre. | Lighter and less resistant than snow chains. Less durable than snow chains. Foldable and much more easier to store Made of Different types of fibers or composite material. |
| TRACTION LEVELS | |
| Offer better traction than snow socks. Ideal for extreme winters with significant snow cover on the roads | Offer lesser traction than snow chains. Ideal for areas that have unpredictable and light snow cover, like in the UK. |
| LEGALITIES OF USAGE | |
| Legally required to install them in many countries such as Andorra, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. | Not all socks are considered as 'legally approved' alternatives to chains in countries where snow chains are mandatory. Only limited socks like the Michelin Easy grip are legally allowed in some countries like France etc. |
| Ease Of Fitting | |
| Usually take longer to fit in comparison to snow socks. Can get tangled sometimes which adds to the headache. Minimum clearance of 10 mm required between tyre and other parts of your vehicle. Incorrect fitment can cause a lot of damage to the car and potentially ruin the chains as well. | Usually easier to fit in comparison to snow chains. Can be used on vehicles with a smaller wheel clearance although we recommend you check the package thoroughly before buying. Incorrect fitment is nowhere near as risky as with snow chains, however, there is a possibility of them getting torn as well. |
| COMPATIBILITY WITH SUMMER/ WINTER TYRES | |
| Can be used with winter tyres and summer tyres both. | Can also be used with summer and winter tyres both. Although, winter tyres work better in snow alone than with snow socks while snow socks are better on ice as compared to stand-alone winter tyres. |
We suggest that you make your decision based on the amount of snow that your area receives and the kind of terrains that you encounter in winters. Both the products have their own individual utility in different sets of circumstances. So make sure you buy the correct one depending on what your needs are.
