It remains undeniable that snow and winter conditions often call for drivers to drive cautiously. Snow and ice on the roads can spell fatal problems for inexperienced drivers and large vehicles. That makes tire or snow chains an essential element of any driver’s winter driving arsenal.
Snow chains are purposely designed to wrap around the tire treads of your vehicle or truck and latch tightly together to prevent slipping while driving. However, despite these chains being a worthy investment during winter, individuals are often overwhelmed by the vast options available in the market. In spite of this dilemma, it remains fundamental to seek out a guide on which snow chains are the best fit for your vehicle. The rest of this post focuses on essentials to helping you make the right decision on a snow or tire chain product for your SUV.
- Features to Consider in Good SUV Snow Chains
- Top 10 Best SUV Snow Chains 2024
- 1. KONIG XG-12 PRO 267 Snow chains- set of 2
- 2. Spikes-Spider 14.522 SPXL Sport Series Winter Traction Aids
- 3. Twist Link Tire Chains
- 4. Quality Chain Volt LT Cable Tire Chains (QV757)
- 5. Peerless 0232105 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain
- 6. Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6
- 7. Quality Chain Cobra Cable Passenger Snow Traction Tire Chains
- 8. Mannice Car Snow Chains for Car Suv Truck
- 9. VeMee Snow Chains for Car Snow Tire Chains
- 10. Security Chain Company SC1032 Radial Chain Cable
- Guide to Buying the Best Suv Snow Chains
- Bottom line
Features to Consider in Good SUV Snow Chains
There is an endless selection of snow tire chains available for all types of vehicles, and SUVs are no exception. To save you from the confusion, here an educative perspective on what goes into selecting the right chains for your vehicle.
Chain pattern
About the make, the chain pattern and linking is also a precarious aspect to consider when purchasing snow tire chains for your SUV. The market currently has different tire chains with different linking patterns- twisted, cables and square.
Twisted or Z-chains are rounded to ensure there are proper balance and grip for a smooth ride. Similarly, square links are best for extra traction within slipper grounds and rough snow conditions. They are probably best in the worst winter conditions.
Installation and removal
You don’t need a tire chain that will require a pro to fit or assemble. To add to this, it becomes vital to check the packaging and ensure the manufacturer provides a comprehensive guide on the chain fitment on your SUV. From here, you are bound to know which snow tire chain is less stressful to put on and remove when it matters. However, an easy installation guide is no guarantee to a comfortable process, and practice is necessary to ensure a smoother process when the chance arises. Remember, snow tire chains require installation, a brief driving, and re-tightening, to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.
Durability
The durability of a snow tire chain mainly depends on the material used in making the chains. Figuring what the snow chains material becomes the first step to decide the durability of the products in the expected winter conditions. Therefore, the best tire chains are made of a durable substance that allows them to remain in tip-top shape throughout use. Even if it’s the use is frequent, the cables should not be subject to noticeable wear and tear. Current snow chain designs utilize hardened steel, and manganese nickel steel to ensure exceedingly durable snow chains. Titanium alloys are also guaranteeing snow chains are worth the investment since their strong durability ensures your safety is not compromised.
Price
A good percentage of people often decide their SUV’s snow chains based on price. Additionally, many are tempted to go for the cheapest models to ensure they save on their budget. Although there are low-cost snow chains that are reliable, not all products on the low-end will meet your expectations. Still, this has not stopped the market from producing inexpensive snow chain designs, with some as cheap as $25. There also exist high-end snow tire chains that would call for more budgeting for car owners. Typically, such models would exceed $120 and could even cost as much as $600 for larger vehicles.
Top 10 Best SUV Snow Chains 2024
1. KONIG XG-12 PRO 267 Snow chains- set of 2
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
If you are an avid user of snow tire chains, then you have probably have heard of Konig. The brand is well-known among reputable companies in the market, and its XG12 Pro Deluxe model is arguably among the best designs out there. It comes in a set of two with 267 inches in size to fit on different SUV tires available. It is also worth noting that it features a pattern of dimensions 15.2″x14.9″x4.2 inches on each pair of the snow chains. These measurements allow the Konig XG12 Pro Deluxe Snow chain to offer exceptional traction in the whole category. There are also anti-scratch nylon bumpers that enable the protection of alloy wheels for those with such SUVs.
Convenient features
The Konig XG12 Pro 267Snow chain material make is arguably its first convenient feature to mention. With manganese-nickel alloy steel chains, there is little to worry about in terms of the car’s tractive force in the snow. The heavy-duty construction is also a worthy mention since it’s a feature that contributes to the snow chains’ long life. Notably, the special cross pattern around the tires ensures the SUV has excellent traction in different surfaces. And as aforementioned, the anti-scratch nylon bumpers protect the rims of your car from the chains’ tension.
Verdict
The Konig XG-12 Pro 267 Snow chains are the perfect fit for SUV owners often facing harsh terrains, environments or winter conditions. Using these snow chains is a sure way to significantly increase the vehicle’s road grip with its perfect tensioning. The fact that they come in a set of two for the chains and tensioners is also a significant win in accommodating the different types of wheel drives.
Pros
- Steel plates guarantee superior road traction
- Snugly fit after installation
- Durable construction for effectiveness
- Appropriate for different snow conditions
Cons
- Manual tensioning is necessary
- Pricier than other models
2. Spikes-Spider 14.522 SPXL Sport Series Winter Traction Aids
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
The Spikes-Spider 14.522 SPXL Snow chain’s design features innovative elements that are different from the traditional snow chains. The package for these winter traction snow chains comes with two four-armed traction elements that allow for a quick snap during installation and removal. The Spikes-Spider brand has also incorporated traction bars embedded with Tungsten studs that together sit on the tires’ treads. The traction bars- four in number- allow for easy adjustment through moving the links to different holes in the traction pads. Such a design feature enables the Spikes-Spider Sport Series Winter traction aids to exceptionally fit in different SUV, FWD, AWD, RWD, and minivan vehicles with tire widths of 235 mm or less.
Convenient features
The superior features present in Spikes-Spider Sport Series Winter traction snow chain make it easy-to-use traction devise for plenty of reasons. First, the combination of the traction bars together with Tungsten studs connected by steel chain links to ensure it never tangles during installation or removal. Such a design with the Sports Series enables anyone to assemble and disassemble the chain in less than 3 minutes.
Verdict
Spikes-Spider Sport Series SPXL traction aids are specially designed snow chains to enable handling of steep grades and environments such as hilly regions. The unique traction system makes them appropriate for use in snow and ice of up to 5″-6 inches in depth.
Pros
- More convenient compared to snow chains
- Designed for use in steep, or hilly areas
- Easily installing and adjusting
- Perfect for vehicles with wide tires
Cons
- Requires storage space
- Less durable compared to chains
3. Twist Link Tire Chains
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
As the name suggests, the Twist Link Tire chain features cross chains made of durable steel construction. The cross chains receive support from level-end fasteners on both sides of the tire. Also, the 41.2 pounds in weight snow chains features side-cams to allow proper locking by the drivers during installation or adjusting. The general steel construction also makes the design easily accommodative in the rear or front wheels.
Convenient features
What makes the Twist Link Tire Chain stand out among snow chain model is the fact that its simplistic design uses strong steel chain twists and links. The steel construction presents in the cross chains makes it an excellent product for considerably massive SUVs, trucks and even vans. Moreover, the cross chains convenient design makes it unique in allowing easy driving and handling on snow, ice, mud and even sand. The level-end fasteners and “CAM” links present in the side chain are also mentionable considering they are practically the features that allow for quick and easy mounting and removal.
Verdict
Twist Link Tire Chain is an excellent option for drivers looking for a cheaper but quality snow chain to use in harsh outdoor environments. Its simple design of steel chains makes it a perfect fit for a wide variety of tire sizes looking for exceptional traction and performance. You should also expect little to no inconvenience in terms of noise, fitment, and durability of these products.
Pros
- Easy mounting
- The locking side-cams ensure a perfect fit
- Can support a variety of tire sizes
- Resistant to wear and tear
Cons
- The mounting process can be cumbersome
4. Quality Chain Volt LT Cable Tire Chains (QV757)
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Quality Chain’s Volt LT Cable Tire Chains (QV757) is another unique pair of tire chains available in the market. The model bears a diagonal cable design with rubber adjusters to help fasten the chains to the tires.
Furthermore, the chains present in the Volt LT Quality Tire Chains come from sturdy and quality materials with the cross cables featuring ally rollers for durability and enhanced traction capabilities. And if your vehicles tire sizes range from 285-295, then these tire chains will perfectly suit your vehicle thanks to the adjustable rubber straps present.
Convenient features
An openly convenient feature with the Volt LT Quality Tire Chains would be the diagonal cable design present in the tire chains. Unlike the ladder style chains, the cross cable chains provide the user with better vehicle traction and a smooth ride. Besides, the cable configuration also prolongs the life of the steel construction by allowing exceptional endurance without comfortable wearing off. An enormous convenient feature also comes in the form of the tire chains; rubber adjusters. Although simplistic, these rubber adjusters ensure the Volt LT Quality Tire chain firmly fits the tire size and have a perfect grip.
Verdict
Quality Chain remains a competitive and reputable tire chain company, and its Volt LT Cable Tire Chain (QV757) is a confession to the quality. Their user-friendly design makes them a simple-to-install tire chain product for better driving capabilities in the snow. However, the lightweight design works fine for occasional users, and extended use would call for getting real hardened chains.
Pros
- Simple installation with ready fasteners
- Versatile design
- Provides all-around traction
- Easy and convenient for light trucks and SUVs
Cons
- A test fit is necessary
- Does not work for heavy trucks
5. Peerless 0232105 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Traction Chain
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Any prudent drivers looking for snow tire chains would also have to consider the Peerless Series 2300-232105 Tire traction chain. The model by the Security Chain brand features a patented tightening system that enables automatic tightening of the chain while driving. Once you connect the inside cable and attach the alternating outside self-tighteners, driving is the only task that remains in the installation process. No additional chain tensioners are necessary as the tire traction chain can be installed without even having to jack up the SUV or Light truck. Besides, the chains’ manganese alloy steel design meet the Class ‘S’ clearance requirement necessary under the Safety regulations. The resulting element is that the certification allows one to comfortably drive with these chains on for speeds of up to 30mph. Much of the advantages in the rapidity come from the self-tightening ratchets to ensure the complete safety of the vehicle without any manual work.
Convenient features
Perhaps the greatest convenient feature with the Peerless Tire Traction model has to be its diamond pattern chain. The design with its cross chain is a standout pattern that allows it to offer superior traction and a smoother ride compared to other models. They also come with self-tightening ratchets that provide convenient installation and removal of the chains when necessary. These rackets are high-impact polycarbonate rackets that facilitate the automatic tightening and centering during driving. Also, the manganese steel allow present in the chain makes them durable and lightweight (13.9 pounds) at the same time.
Verdict
Security Chain gets the thumbs up by making The Peerless 0232805 Auto-Trac Light Truck/SUV Tire Chain a versatile tire chain. Its one-of-a-kind usability eliminates the need for chain tensioners- a feature that we are yet to see in other designs. One can easily install them whenever they are bound to go through snow-covered roads, pavements, and even deserts. It remains an all-embracing overall chain especially considering its price is also pocket-friendly.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Easy to install and remove
- Useful for passenger, commercial and heavy-duty automobiles
- A fantastic auto-tightening feature
Cons
- An irreplaceable tensioner
- Dysfunction with the ratchets’ take-up mechanisms
6. Security Chain Company SZ143 Super Z6
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
In our earlier mention, we gave Security Chain Company the recognition for having an excellent reputation for selling quality tire chain products. Unsurprisingly, its SZ143 Super Z6 cable tire chain is among our best models for passenger cars, light pickups, and SUVs. For beginners, the SCC Super Z6 has a limited clearance to operate with only 6.3mm the necessary size. Besides, the Super Z6 SZ143 design is a match for tires with sizes ranging from 215 to 285 millimeters.
On the part of its pattern, it also features almost diamond-like cross patterns although they are only diagonal. Each of these diagonal cables is made up of alloy steel with the traction coils designed to be compatible with electronic brake systems.
Convenient features
Already the SCC SZ143 Super Z6 Cable chains are among the market’s best-rated products due to their convenient features. For instance, its simple cable chains enable easy installation since there requires less effort compared to the tire chain models. Although the difference, the diagonal cable chins have an all-around better traction performance than other conventional tire chain designs. Their make of manganese alloy steel also makes them quite lightweight and more comfortable to handle than other regular tire chains. Another key stand-out element with these snow chains comes in the presence of rubber tighteners that eliminate the need for retightening after installation.
Verdict
It would be pretty much unfair not to commend SCC for manufacturing another good pair of tire chain brands. The Super Z6 stands out for use due to its versatility, compatibility, and effectiveness in getting the job done. We can’t refute claims of poor quality, but the pros outweigh the instances of frustration from customers. Still, the SCC Super Z6 cable chains are among our consideration of excellent tire chains models to choose for your vehicle.
Pros
- Built-in rubber tighteners
- Greater durability compared to conventional tire chains
- Exceeds the Class ‘S' Clearance requirements
- Versatile for cars, pickups, vans, and SUVs
Cons
- Weaker design
- Reports of wheel well damage
7. Quality Chain Cobra Cable Passenger Snow Traction Tire Chains
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
For a little under $50, the tire chains are sure to hug your tires and ensure that every part is secure for proper traction. The low profile design is perhaps its best ergonomic selling point since it makes them inherently easy, convenient and durable to use during snow conditions. The SAE Class ‘S’ Clearance also makes the rollers quite adaptable for use across different low clearance SUVs. On top of this, the Cobra Cable tire chains are surprisingly robust enough to endure the harsh conditions, regardless of its subtle design.
Convenient features
Apart from the design features, the Cobra Cable Passenger tire chains also possess quite several advantageous characteristics. Key among these is the use of low profile rollers to accommodate its utilization in low clearance automobiles. The low profile roller feature also adds a considerable convenience of reducing the noise and vibration present while the car is in motion. The rollers are also fitted with rubber adjusters that ensure everything is accordingly fastened and provide the necessary traction. Additionally, the carbon steel alloy enables it to have the required resistance to wear and tear during use. Durability wise, Quality Chain’s Cobra Cable snow traction tire chains have undergone galvanizing to enable them to adapt to the adverse weather conditions and rough terrain.
Verdict
Cobra Passenger Cable Chains remain one of the market’s most robust low-profile tire chains to provide quality traction and long wear. The rollers might seem unimpressive, but the steel-model ensures there is increased tire-to-road contact and better stability as a result. Additionally, their design is quite versatile to enable the use of beyond cars with minimal clearance. Even original equipment tires with high tread can use the Cobra Passenger cable chains to ensure better traction while operating.
Pros
- An option of rubber adjusters
- Resistant against rust protection
- Perfect fit for minimal clearance SUVs and pick-ups (SAE Class (S) clearance)
- Provide greater stability with low profile design
Cons
- The adjusters are available for sale separately
- Subtle design
8. Mannice Car Snow Chains for Car Suv Truck
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
The Mannice brand offers the most simplistic design among the tire chains ranked in our list. The Snow Anti Slip Tire Chain is designed for universal use especially in times of emergency during active winter, or rainy conditions. The packaging comprises of ten pieces of the global anti-snow chains with width 7.2- 11.6 inches (185mm-295mm). The dimensions fit for most cars, SUVs and even trucks.
On the design make, it comprises of 100% gum-rubber material that is resistant to low temperatures of -50s. On top of these rubber material, is the humanized alloy nail pieces traction necessary to prevent anti-skidding while driving. The high hardness alloy nail slip ensures contact with the ground is covered to enable stability.
Convenient features
A major convenient feature present in this low-end tire chain is perhaps it rubber make. Surprisingly, the pattern can enable the Mannice Snow tire chains to achieve speed limits of 40km/h. While this is up for contention, it still offers quite an evidence of the convenience of the make. Additionally, the high hardness of the alloy nails covers the entire tires to the extent of breaking the ice to ensure better traction. The premium quality material of gum-rubber also enables the humanized design to offer the great convenience of resisting low temperatures, 3600 all-around. They further can be put to use in muddy roads and climbing rough terrains, which is further proof of the capabilities.
Verdict
Despite having the universal use capability and other plenty of apparent convenient features we still think that the Mannice Snow tire chain ranks lowly among the list of best products. Judging from the reviews, consumers outright gave negative feedback on their experience while using the product. Most of them report having to use the Mannice snow chain pieces due to them breaking and even damaging their vehicles’ brake systems. From this, we can confidently give it a low ranking since the low pricing seems to be the only selling point with these Mannice universal snow chains.
Pros
- Allows high speed when in use (40km/h)
- Universal use
- Easy installation
- Use of premium material
Cons
- Apparent one-time use at best
9. VeMee Snow Chains for Car Snow Tire Chains
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
VeMee Snow Chains are a model sold in individual pieces of ten pieces in each package. Each anti-slip tire chains is an adjustable and universal model that can be put to use on cars, SUVs and even trucks during snow emergencies. The set pieces have a 7.3-11.7 inch of width, and this makes it appropriate for different vehicles. There are further steel stud materials in each VeMee snow chain piece that protect the car tires and treads. Alongside the steel studs is the thick pure TPU make that holds the original steel construction.
Convenient features
A major convenient feature with the VeMee Snow tire chains is the presence of adjustable single chain products. Each piece features adjustable tension straps that offer the convenience of fitment for different tire sizes. The straps also make the chains quite easy to install and you won’t need to take down your tires to fit them. The packaging of individual piece snow chains also makes it easy to store or transport VeMee line of snow tire chain brand. You can easily collect them whenever needed and at a go. The TPU material makes, and Steel studs provide an excellent tough and durable design for excellent grip while driving on different conditions, be it snow, mud, sand or ice.
Verdict
The VeMee Snow chains rank among the best durable tire chains in the market. Their pure TPU and steel designs protect the tires while also providing the much-needed traction for snow or icy roads. However, we also have to consider that the product is practically inexpensive and this means there may be a compromise in terms of the quality and apparent use. Most of the attention is on the fact that a considerable number of customers consider the VeMee snow chains as potentially unsafe for use.
Pros
- Universal fit
- Prevent tire damage with steel studs
- Made from pure TPU and steel construction
- Easy installation with the individual pieces
Cons
- Plenty of precautions while using them (No brake slamming, sharp turn, etc.)
10. Security Chain Company SC1032 Radial Chain Cable
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Security Chain Company also presents its SC1032 Radial Chain Cable as an alternative to high-end snow tire chains. The radial pattern introduces a light-weight yet straightforward construction, perfect for passenger automobiles and light trucks. The chain is made up of traction coils with cross-links to add more traction during use on ice and snow. Initially, the design of the SCC Radial Chain was aimed to reduce the wear on the tires’ sidewalls, hence the name cable chain. These highly affordable chain cables also come in a heavy-duty carrying case that allows for easy transportation across different travels.
Convenient features
Priced per pair, the SCC SC1032 are so light that they are the most comfortable tire chains to put on or take off. There is little need to lift the vehicle since the light construction is easy to install. But don’t let fool you since the stainless steel make is extremely durable enough to withstand corrosion and damage. And with a long history in the industry, the Radial cable chain from SCC incorporates the consumer-friendly features of proven traction coils instead of the typical steel rollers. The loops are much resistance to corrosion or damage and barely get flat over time.
Verdict
From the tire chain experts at Security Chain Company comes the SC1032 chain cable. And it is safe to say that it remains the perfect fit for individuals looking for an inexpensive and old-fashioned tire chain to offer them a long service life. Its all-steel construction is already a tested and proven traction system that performs better than present steel rollers. However, we still take issue with the quality inside the Radial Chain Cable traction chains. Most negative incidents indicate a lowly quality product especially since customers’ report of the coils breaking after little use.
Pros
- Meets the SAE Class ‘S' clearance requirements
- Long service life
- Improved longevity with the traction coils
- Low-operating space necessary
- No need for chain tensioners
Cons
- Complex installation process
- Need regular checks on the tightness
Guide to Buying the Best Suv Snow Chains
Snow tire chains can save you plenty of stress and inconveniences during winter conditions. However, any avid tire chain users will confess that they are a pretty hard task, since they remain, well, chains. But while making the purchasing decision might be easy, there is still a lot that goes into the final decision of actually purchasing the snow tires chains. You should be aware of the specific placement of importance on the following.
Which snow chain fits best?
The designs with tire chains work with specific tire sizes in mind. All tires are sized according to their diameter and width, as well as the height ration. It, therefore, becomes vital to ensure post-fit exercises before choosing a chain.
Legalities
It is also necessary to be conversant with your state’s SUV snow chain laws to understand the precautionary measures authorities expect the public to take. Each state has different rules regarding the use of tire chains for traction control. It is especially important to know when it is necessary to use the tire chains, particularly in the Northern states.
Traction control
All tire chains have different levels of traction control and it’s imperative to ensure you understand what you want from a tire chain. Some would like a smooth ride while others would love superior traction and a faster speed limit. Regardless of the level of friction necessary, it becomes vital to understand the traction levels of each tire chain to guarantee your safety before use.
Frequency of use
In addition to picking a perfect fit snow tire chain, it is also necessary to consider the number of times you expect to use the product. Areas with frequent snow conditions should consider heavy duty tire chains that can conquer the harsh terrain. Likewise, areas with less snowy experience should keep in mind less complex snow tire chains that experience less work rate.
Bottom line
Tire chains remain the best options whenever there is snow, be it extreme or mild situations. Tire chains give the necessary grip to the road, allowing for free rotation of vehicle’s wheels without any problems. SUVs, trucks and other particularly heavy car require plenty of attention when it comes to using the chains. Overall, educating yourself on the aspects mentioned is a great place to start while exploring a perfect snow tire chain for your SUV. You can never expect to go wrong once you know of the best tire chains and what convenience they offer.