Tire Chain Alternatives
Winter is one of the most dangerous times for people to be out driving their cars. Weather such as freezing rain, ice and snow can make for hazardous conditions, in addition to the fact that cold roads grip poorly. Many people use tire chains, or snow chains, which are chains wrapped around a tire for added traction in snow or ice; however, these chains often cause road and vehicle damage when used. Fortunately, there are alternatives to tire chains.
Other People Are Reading
-
M + S Tires
-
Tires made with a certain geometry meant for winter conditions in the tread design are usually designated M + S (or M/S, MS). These tires are studded and knobby and are meant to be used on muddy or icy ground to get a better grip on the surface and to achieve better traction. These studded tires can be effective, but they're also expensive.
Studless Tires
-
Studless winter tires are an alternative to tire chains that drivers may want to examine. These tires, which are considered Q-rated and have a snowflake design on them, have a tire tread made of a chemically different rubber and use a different tread design than that of standard tires. Though not as effective year 'round, these studless tires are a good alternative to tire chains---they do not damage the road when used.
-
Innovation
-
Another variety of tires, called innovative tires, are also a common alternative to tire chains. These tires have a rougher substance spread over the tread of the tire; that substance helps the tire grip better in all sorts of slippery conditions. These substances can vary by manufacturer, from crushed walnut used by Toyo to silica used by Goodyear. When tested, it's been shown that these tires perform just as well, if not better, than studded tires or those with tire chains.
Studded Tires
-
Studded tires are another alternative to tire chains. These come in a heavy and lightweight versions. The heavy weight uses thick, steel studs to grip the road and provide traction. Lightweight studs, on the other hand, are smaller and are made from other metals than steel, which helps them cause less damage. Performance-wise, the two are roughly the same in most winter weather.
Why Tire Chains?
-
The purpose of using any of these alternatives is to achieve the same effect as using tire chains. However, tire chains do have several advantages as well. They provide excellent traction and can be removed from one tire to another. All of the varieties listed here are part of the tire, and, if a replacement is needed, a new tire must be purchased. With tire chains, all that's needed is a new chain if one breaks. That, combined with the lower cost of tire chains, is why they still remain a popular choice for those who must drive in hazardous conditions.
-
