Tire Chain Alternatives for Improved Traction in Snow, Ice, and Even Sand

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This story was updated in December 2022 with new products and info.

Winter storms seem to be getting more and more fierce—and more and more frequent. As winter time ramps up, it’s important to be prepared, especially with our vehicles. No matter where you live, snow and ice can make the roads treacherous. But tire chains are big and heavy, not very portable, and can be a pain to install and remove. Luckily, there are plenty of options for chains to get you unstuck and back on the move quickly.

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Along with a good winter emergency kit, anti-slip tire wraps are an essential part of a contingency plan. These act like conventional tire chains but are much easier to install—and often, far more portable. Plus, in many areas around the country, metal snow chains smashing up pavement is frowned upon.

If you’ve been putting off getting a set of tire chains, consider one of these tire chain alternatives. Even if you don’t use them regularly, you’ll have them ready when the next big storm comes. Now that’s good planning.

Tools to Get Your Car Unstuck from the Snow

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AutoSock

Snow Socks for Cars, SUVs, & Pickups

TracGrabber

Tire Traction Straps

Jojomark

Tire Traction Mats

Hemousy

Nylon Traction Strips

UHUSE

Anti-Skid Tire Wraps

Maxsa Innovations

Escaper Buddy Traction Mats

Shark

Classic Issue Snow Socks

Peerless Chain Company

Metal Traction Cables

Buyplus

Anti-Slip Tire Straps

KNK Boutique

K&K Automotive Snow Socks

Collin Morgan
Associate Commerce Editor
Collin Morgan is the Associate Commerce Editor at Hearst Autos, where he presents the best gear for your automotive endeavors.

Jon Langston
Senior Commerce Editor
The Senior Commerce Editor for Hearst Autos, Jon Langston is an avid motorcyclist and gear collector whose work has appeared in Men’s Journal, The Drive, Rider, Iron & Air, Cycle World, and more.

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