Driving through snow and ice can be dangerous because the roads tend to be slippery, making it easy to lose control. However, there's a way to improve your car's grip on the road even when it's snowing. All you need to drive in these freezing conditions safely is the best tire chains for truck driving in winter.

This post covers the best options for you and the buying considerations you need to make.

Contents

Which are the best tire chains for trucks?

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1. Security Chain Company Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain

Sale
SCC SZ137 Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain for Passenger Cars, Pickups, and SUVs - Set of 2, Silver
  • Ideal solution to prevent vehicle slipping
  • Fast easy installation with no need to move...
  • Designed-in rubber tightener means there is...
  • Designed for cars, pickups, and SUVs with...

The best snow chains on the market are the Super Z6 tire chains which are versatile enough to fit passenger cars, pickups, and SUVs. So if you are searching for a snow chain, you can use on different vehicles, this is the right pick for you. In addition to the snow chains, the package includes a detailed instruction manual to help you navigate through the installation process with ease.

You'll also get a pair of waterproof gloves that you can wear as you set up the snow chains on the tires to avoid touching them directly in cold weather. The Z6 is among the best pickup truck snow chains because it comes with some rubber tensioners to ensure you can customize the fit of the chain to the size of your tires without hassle.

Plus, the snow chains are designed to provide traction control without damaging your vehicle, making them a safe option for most light trucks. So it's safe to say that if you want to drive safely through snow and ice, the Super Z6 tire chains are an excellent pick.

Pros

  • Diagonal pattern cable chain
  • Durable snow chains
  • Easy to install
  • Improved traction
  • Compatible with electronic control systems like all-wheel drive

Cons

  • Become noisy when driving at fast speeds

2. Newest Snow Chains for Ice Snow Mud and Sand

Newest Snow Chains, Tire Chains for Suvs, Cars, Sedan, Family Automobiles,Heavy Trucks with Update...
  • Installation is easier: Free jack...
  • Update Super Quality: Build up with 3 Steel...
  • Occasions: In snow, ice, climbing, sand, mud...
  • Universal model: It can be applied to all the...
  • Package Including: 12 * non slip chains, 1 *...

Next on our list of the best snow chains for driving in deep or packed snow is the Newest Snow Chains, designed for maximum longevity. They are made from manganese alloy steel, making them resistant to quick destruction from pressure and wear associated with low temperatures. It's a durable option that you won't need to replace too soon.

There is a wear-resistant pad on these chains that protects your tires despite the aggressive grip of the chains. As such, you won't have to replace your tires because of damage from contact with the chains. Whenever you are driving through snow, ice, mud, or sand, these snow chains are the best way to ensure you get back on the road as soon as possible.

Since these tire chains are universal, they can easily adjust to your tire width depending on the size of your car. Plus, you'll get a snow shovel, a pair of gloves, and a storage bag in the package to make your purchase more satisfying.

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to install
  • Accessories included
  • Great price range

Cons

  • Better for light snow than deep snow

3. Super Z LT Diagonal Pattern Cable Chain

Sale
SCC ZT729 Super Z LT Light Truck and SUV Tire Traction Chain - Set of 2, Silver
  • Fastest, easiest installation of any traction...
  • Built-in rubber tensioner means there is no...
  • Better all-around traction performance than...
  • Greater durability than conventional tire...

Another great option for a smoother ride on snow and ice is the Super Z LT Light Truck and SUV Tire Traction Chain. It's an excellent solution for safer movement during serious winter driving. It's designed to work with SUVs, pickup trucks, and other vehicles with low clearance adding traction stability for a smooth ride.

Sometimes, traditional chains end up damaging the mechanical components of your vehicle. Fortunately, you won't see this issue with the Super Z LT snow chains since they are designed to limit damage to the intricate parts of your car. This product has an integrated rubber tensioner, eliminating the need to retighten the chains after installation.

The installation process is easy, and the snow chain is compatible with traction control, anti-lock brakes, all-wheel drive, and other functions. So it's no surprise this light truck snow chain is among the best tire chains for truck driving in heavy snow.

Pros

  • Durable tire chains
  • Minimal tire damage
  • Self-tensioning capabilities
  • Excellent traction
  • Easy to install and remove

Cons

  • Prone to rust

4. Huttoly Snow Chains Heavy Duty Chain

Snow Chains, 8 Pack Tire Chains for Pickup Trucks Car SUV Heavy Duty Chain for Tire Width 215 225...
  • 100% Manganese Steel: Resistant to low...
  • Compatible Size: Tire chains for pickup...
  • Easy to Install: Adjustable tension straps...
  • Perfect for A Variety of Roads: Such as snow,...
  • Anti-Side Skid: Cross chains provide better...

We can't fail to mention the Huttoly Heavy Duty Snow Chains when discussing the best tire chains for truck driving in the winter months. They are made from manganese allow steel which gives them wear resistance and compressive strength for maximum durability. So whether you are moving through snowfields, icy roads, or mud, these chains are an excellent choice for improving your traction.

The cross chains have a pattern that helps improve stability, like a premium tire traction device. Unfortunately, these snow chains won't fit iron-hole wheels since they require 3 centimeters of space between the hub. Once you start using these metal chains, you won't ever go back to using plastic snow chains.

The adjustable tension straps allow you to achieve a custom fit around your tires for a smooth performance. It also makes it easier to mount the chains on your tires without removing them from your car, which is pretty convenient.

Pros

  • Long-lasting performance
  • Skid-resistant
  • Easy installation
  • Ideal for various terrains

Cons

  • Expensive

5. Peerless Auto-Trac Traction Chain

SCC Peerless 0231705 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain - Set of 2
  • Worry-Free Self-Tightening Ratchets Provide...
  • Easy Installation And Removal In Minutes
  • Do Not Exceed 30 Mph With These Chains On
  • Diamond Pattern Cross Chain Provides A...

Closing today's list is the Peerless Traction Chain which is among the best pickup truck snow chains available. It's a convenient buy since it'll ensure you won't have to stop to tighten the snow chains while driving, thanks to the self-tightening ratchets it comes with. As such, you can focus on the drive without any distractions along the way.

Installing and removing these chains is a breeze since they come with an instruction manual that's easy to follow. Unfortunately, you'll have to maintain a speed under 30 MPH when using these chains to ensure a smooth and safe drive. Nevertheless, the diamond pattern of these cross chains guarantees a smoother ride on snow and ice.

You can mount these snow chains on your tires without jacking the vehicle up, thanks to the ratcheting tightening system. Also, you won't have to buy additional tensioners, which will help you cut costs. Finally, since they are made from manganese alloy steel, you can expect long-lasting and fulfilling performance from these snow chains.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • Automatic tension function
  • Great traction on heavy snow
  • Snug fit

Cons

  • The tensioners are a bit weak

Benefits of Snow Chains When Driving in Snow and Ice

1. Improved Traction

When driving in winter, the snow and ice that builds upon the roads make the surface slippery. As a result, the treads on vehicle tires are rendered useless, and the car can quickly lose control because of low traction. This is one of the causes of road accidents during the winter months in various places.

To solve this problem, tire chains can increase friction between your tires and the road for better traction. As a result, you can drive on ice and snow with better stability and minimal risk of causing an accident. So if you are looking for a way to make safer drives through packed snow, you'll want to get the best tire chains for truck driving.

2. Ice Break Down

When snow turns to ice, it becomes increasingly difficult to drive from place to place. While there are different ways of breaking down the ice, like using salt to lower its melting point, they are time-consuming and hardly convenient. That's why it's essential to find a way to break the ice down when driving in snowy conditions.

With a tire chain, the weight of your car can easily break the ice and create a less slippery surface to drive on. This way, you won't feel like the car can spin out of control as you travel on icy roads.

3. Smoother Turns

One of the challenges of winter driving is making safe turns when the road bends. It's easier to drive light trucks through the snow in a straight direction. However, it becomes harder to keep the car under control when you have to make a turn.

Luckily, you can make smooth turns if you have snow chains around your tires since they help grip the road. This means that you can safely make turns without losing control of the car. Unfortunately, you'll still have to drive slow as you turn, but you'll be sure that there is a lower chance of slipping.

4. Speed

It's possible to drive through snowy and icy roads without snow chains but, you won't be able to drive as fast as you'd like. The best snow chains are designed to make it easier to move on slippery surfaces within a shorter period. In other words, driving with regular tires on snow is possible, but you'll take a lot of time.

If you are on a clock and have to get to your destination quickly, you can get a snow chain for your car. That'll help you drive faster without compromising your safety, making it an ideal choice for cutting down drive time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Tire Chains

There are thing's you'll have to consider before you narrow down on the best snow chains for your car. Let's discuss them in detail below.

1. Size

The first factor to consider should be your tire size. You'll want to determine the exact size of your tires to ensure you get tire chains that fit without difficulties.

There are some cars that offer little clearance between the wheel and other components, making it hard to equip them with chains. If you aren't sure whether your car is designed to work with snow chains, you can check your owner's manual or maintenance instructions for guidance.

There are three specific metrics that you should note: tire width, tire height ratio, and wheel diameter. With this information, you'll find the perfect size for your tires in no time.

2. Self Tensioning

The low temperatures of winter can affect the tightness and looseness of metallic chains. When the chains get loose after installation, they won't perform their function as efficiently. This means you'll have to stop and tighten the chain after several hours of driving, which can be time and energy-consuming.

Fortunately, the best snow chains come with self-tensioning features that ensure the chain is as tight as it needs to be as you drive. This helps eliminate the need to stop and tighten the chain manually, which most drivers will appreciate.

3. Ease of Installation

You'll want to select a snow chain that you can easily install without hassle. Unfortunately, some cars aren't compatible with traditional snow chains either because of their low profile or automated functions. So, you'll want to look for a compatible chain, which will help you save time during installation.

Mounting snow chains in the cold can be a challenging experience. That's why you should look for options that allow you to install the chains without removing the wheel or jacking up the car. That'll help you install and remove them within a short time for maximum convenience.

4. Materials

There are two primary materials that can make your tire chain; metal and plastic. Metallic chains are the best option because they offer maximum longevity compared to plastic chains. The main advantage of plastic chains is that they are rust and corrosion-resistant.

Nevertheless, the most suitable option for light trucks and passenger cars is metal snow chains since they are versatile and have better skid resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which are the best tire chains for truck driving in snow?

The best chain for snow driving is the Security Chain Company Super Z6 Cable Tire Chain.

2. Do 4x4 trucks need chains for snow?

Yes, but only when in chain control areas where regulations require them.

2. Are snow tires better than tire chains?

Snow tires are easier to fit, need no tightening, and don't need removal on empty roads. These features make them more appealing to drivers than tire chains.

3. How much should I pay for tire chains?

The best tire chains for truck driving can cost anything from $40-$100. 

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