Snow chains
Snow chains
You do not want to get stuck in the snow with the car and get safely to your destination? Then snow chains as a vehicle accessory in the trunk certainly offer. In order to choose the right snow chains, you need some information about the tires of the car. The required information is then, for example, as follows on the tires:
- 205/60 R16
From these numbers you need the first three for the purchase of snow chains. The first number (here 205) stands for the tire width in millimeters, the second for the ratio of tire height to tire width (60), often simply called tire height, and the third number describes the rim size in inches (16). If you know these three numbers, you can easily enter your tire size in the "Matching tire dimensions" filter and find snow chains that fit your tires exactly.
Depending on the type of snow chain, the mounting of the snow chain looks different. Basically, we distinguish between 4 types:
Rope chains
The rope chain system is probably the best known snow chain system. Here, the chain net is attached to an open steel cable, which must be placed behind the wheel during installation and is closed there. The actual snow chain is then pulled onto the tire and closed at the front.
Ring chains
Similar to the rope chain system, the actual chain hangs on a ring, but unlike the steel rope, it cannot be opened completely. Again, the ring is brought behind the wheel and the chain is pulled over the tire. Ring chains are particularly suitable for cars with narrow wheel arches, as they do not have to be closed behind the wheel because of the elastic hoop ring. However, the car often has to be moved a bit to position and tighten the snow chain correctly.
Especially if you only use snow chains a few times a year, rope or ring chains are recommended, as they are the cheaper option and tend to take up less space in the car.
Quick mount snow chains
Snow chains with a quick-fit system are often referred to as comfort snow chains. Such snow chains, unlike others, are not mounted behind the tire, but attached to a wheel nut with an adapter. This adapter remains mounted on the wheel throughout the season, which means that you can then easily and quickly mount the snow chain as needed. Such snow chains are especially suitable for drivers who often have to put on snow chains.
Textile snow chains
Also often referred to as car snow socks, textile snow chains, which by the way are made from a mixture of steel and textile, are well-suited alternatives for classic snow chains. Installation looks basically similar to traditional snow chains, with the exception that automatic or manual retightening of the chain is often not necessary.
In addition to choosing the right mounting system, the link height/chain thickness of the snow chain is an important criterion that should be considered when making a purchase. In general, thicker chains provide more grip and have a longer service life. However, the disadvantage of thick snow chains is the increased weight. It should also be noted that a thinner snow chain is recommended for narrow wheel arches to avoid potential damage to the car.
Regardless of which mounting system and which chain thickness you are looking for, you can choose between brands like König Chain, Michelin or Ottinger and different tire dimensions and thus safely start your next trip into the winter landscape.