What Are the Models of Snow Chains?

[LaCharlie]

Automotive snow chains come in models such as T40, T50, T60, T70, and T80. Generally, there are three types of snow chains: iron snow chains, polyurethane (nylon) snow chains, and rubber snow chains. The details are as follows: Polyurethane Snow Chains: Also known as nylon snow chains, they are aesthetically pleasing and relatively lightweight. However, they tend to harden and may break in low temperatures, making them unsuitable for snowy or icy conditions and potentially causing adverse effects on driving. Rubber Snow Chains: Rubber snow chains exhibit excellent elasticity and tensile strength, and they are less prone to breaking in low temperatures. Their installation is relatively convenient, and once installed, they can achieve a complete fit with the tire tread. Iron Snow Chains: Iron snow chains are more affordable and durable. However, they produce significant noise during use, are difficult to install and remove, and cause more wear to tires. They are primarily used for heavy-duty trucks or vehicles that frequently travel on snow-covered roads. Automotive Snow Chain Models Corresponding to Tire Sizes: T40: 165/70R13, 175/60R14, 155R13. T50: 175/70R13, 175/65R14, 185/60R14, 175/65R15, 185/55R15, 165/70R14. T60: 195/60R14, 185/65R14, 185/60R15, 185/70R13, 195/50R15, 195/55R15, 175/70R14, 195/45R16. T70: 195/60R15, 185/65R14, 205/45R16, 185/65R15. T80: 195/70R14, 195/65R15, 195/55R16, 205/60R15, 205/50R16, 195/60R16.

[StPaige]

There are many types of snow chains! For ordinary family cars, the common ones are metal chain type, rubber composite type, and polyurethane rope type. Metal chains are the most classic, costing around 100 to 200 yuan. They look like snake-shaped iron chains wrapped directly around the tires, suitable for icy and snowy road conditions but can be quite noisy when driving. Rubber composite chains have steel spikes embedded inside and are covered with a rubber layer. My family used this type last winter—much quieter and doesn’t damage the tires, but they cost around 300 to 400 yuan. Polyurethane rope chains are the lightest, resembling a mesh made of plastic ropes, especially suitable for temporary emergency use, but they are less durable and may need replacement after driving 70 to 80 kilometers. Remember to check your wheel size and model when purchasing to avoid buying the wrong one!

[JasperLee]

I've been helping people install snow chains for over a decade, and model selection is truly particular. Truck drivers prefer heavy-duty diamond chains, like putting armor on tires. For sedans, I recommend Oxford cloth cover-type chains with steel spikes embedded inside – they stay stable even under 60 mph. The newly popular Z-type quick-install chains in recent years are especially hot, just twist the buckle to secure them, even women can operate them single-handedly. A reminder to everyone: when installing, move the car to level ground, keep the chains taut without slack, and make sure the tire tread faces outward – installing them backwards is dangerous. Thickness is also crucial: choose thin chains for icy surfaces, and thick chains for deep snow to support the chassis.

[Hattie]

The biggest fear on long-distance drives is encountering icy roads, where choosing the right type of snow chains can be a lifesaver. For SUVs, I always carry mesh self-tightening chains made of rubber that can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C, perfect for routes like the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. For sedans, opt for lightweight spiral chains—two sets can fit in the trunk without taking up much space. Key point: Don’t skimp by buying from small workshops. I’ve seen cases where ordinary iron chains snapped and punctured the fuel tank. Reputable brands like SCC and Thule provide tire size compatibility charts—just input your car’s model and year when shopping online for an automatic match. Remember to keep a pair of gloves and a pry bar in the car; frozen chains are impossible to adjust by hand alone!