What is the difference between snow chains and snow socks?
The main difference is in the design: snow chains are added on top of the tyre tread, while snow socks completely cover the wheels. With snow chains, the grip is a result of the tyre and the chain working together. With snow socks, it is the fabric material of the sock that provides grip.
Performance of snow chains and snow socks
On hard pack snow, the 2 systems work about the same, whereas on fresh snow and black ice, chains are more effective. They are also more resistant and will deteriorate more slowly on roads that have been cleared of snow. Socks, however, are much easier and faster to put into place.
The different types of chains
Until the early 2000s, you could only find metallic chains on the market. For the past fifteen years or so, however, notably at the instigation of Michelin, new concepts of chains—such as socks (S.O.S Grip) and composite chains (Michelin Easy Grip)—have been developed for easier usage, particularly in terms of installation and continually improving performance.
To learn more about our line of snow chains, visit our dedicated website.