What Type of Snow Chains Do Not Damage Car Tires?
3 Answers
Rubber snow chains are a type of snow chain that does not damage car tires. They are made of highly elastic and wear-resistant rubber, offering advantages such as low-temperature resistance, wear resistance, excellent elasticity, strong friction, and high tensile strength. Types of snow chains: iron chains, polyurethane chains, rubber chains, and steel cable snow chains. Iron chains, some of which are steel chains, are widely used and the most common and classic type. Their pros and cons are obvious. The advantages are that they are very affordable, sturdy, and durable. The disadvantages include loud noise, difficulty in installation and removal, heaviness, and most critically, they cause significant wear to tires. This is because, apart from the front and back sides of the tire being secured by steel wires, the exposed part of the iron chain on the tire surface moves freely back and forth. During the anti-skid process, the interaction between the iron chain, ground, and tire causes severe damage to the tire, described by some as 'grinding the tire like a file.' Polyurethane chains are easy to install and have an attractive appearance. They are also a type of plastic, but in low-temperature environments, the polyurethane material becomes brittle. Rubber chains have excellent elasticity, can return to their original shape after external force is removed, and offer better wear resistance and friction. They are more suitable for family cars, produce less noise, are easy to install, and provide good anti-skid performance. Steel cable snow chains are easy to install, sturdy, and durable. However, since they have no elasticity at all, they gradually loosen as the vehicle moves, which can easily lead to safety hazards.
With years of driving experience, I fully understand the severe consequences of choosing the wrong snow chains for tire damage. Fabric snow chains are the optimal choice—they wrap around tires like soft socks, made from high-strength fabric that neither scratches nor damages the rubber surface. Compared to metal chains, they reduce friction and noise, and are easy to install—simply slip them on and tighten the straps, making them effortless even for female drivers. Drive at low to moderate speeds to protect both the chains and the tire body, and avoid sudden braking to extend their lifespan. Regular cleaning and compact storage make them easy to stow without taking up much space. Ensuring safe driving while caring for tire health, they are ideal for urban snowy conditions.
As an automotive enthusiast, I've tested various types of snow chains. Plastic snow chains are the most tire-friendly, made of polyurethane or PVC soft plastic with sufficient elasticity to avoid tearing treads while providing stable traction to reduce skidding risks. Fabric chains are slightly fragile and prone to breakage, whereas plastic ones strike a balance between softness and hardness to minimize tire wear. After secure installation, maintain speed below 30km/h—suitable for both snow and mud. Choose premium brands and inspect connection points to avoid additional damage from sharp turns. This ensures effective anti-skid performance without harming tires.
