Table of content
Snow chain alternative for cars: the new technology from Kia and Hyundai
In the icy winter months, when temperatures quickly drop below freezing and heavy snow can make driving on the roads tricky, we’re faced with an obvious question: when do snow chains make sense? There is no legal obligation to use winter tyres or snow chains for normal cars in the UK, but you may need to wear these chains when driving on roads with very thick layers of snow, particularly in remote areas. For example, when driving in the Highlands, through mountain passes or on a skiing holiday abroad.
They may come in handy when you need a stronger grip on icy, snow-covered roads. However, it is prohibited to use them on roads that are not protected by ice or snow to prevent costly damages to the road surface.
Many online reports discuss the pros and cons of snow chains vs snow socks. Snow socks have been established as a solid alternative to snow chains. In this article we will compare them with the tried and tested solution before looking to the future of an exciting new technology that is currently being developed by Kia and Hyundai - integrated snow chains.
Snow socks - a fully fledged alternative
Until the new solution from Hyundai and its subsidiary brand Kia is available on the market, drivers of their vehicles will have to make do with a customised and fully-fledged alternative to conventional snow chains - snow socks. As the name suggests, snow socks for tyres are generally easier to attach as they simply slip over the tyres of the vehicle in a similar way to ordinary socks. But are there any other advantages? And what are the disadvantages compared to conventional snow chains for cars? Let’s compare the two below.
-23%
RIDEX Snow chains
Article number: 5171A0008
RRP
£ 61,80
£ 47,51
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-24%
RIDEX Snow chains
Article number: 5171A0010
RRP
£ 66,50
£ 50,24
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-51%
Article number: 5171A0007
RRP
£ 113,60
£ 55,34
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 008307
£ 109,91
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 008313
£ 152,92
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Snow chains vs snow socks
In this section, we’ll explore the features of both wheel accessories and use certain criteria to determine and compare the pros and cons of both tyre chains and socks.
Attachment
Snow socks clearly take the lead in this respect. Fitting snow chains can be a challenge for vehicle owners, especially if they are not experienced or are doing it for the first time. The first step is to remove snow and dirt from the tyres to ensure the chain is clean when attaching them. Then place them over the tyres and move the vehicle a few metres to put them on completely. Finally, fasten the snow chains and check the tension.
Snow socks are much easier to fit as you only have to pull them over the tyre and secure them with their fasteners (tensioning hooks or elastic bands).
Transportation & storage
Once again, the point goes to the socks because they are made of a lightweight textile material and not metal or plastic. They’re also often sold in practical bags in which they can be easily stowed away in the boot of the car. Snow chains are heavier and can weigh up to 8 kg. They should also be greased after use and stored in a dry place.
Efficiency
Many ski enthusiasts know the benefits of wheel chains only too well: reliability and safety thanks to improved traction and increased grip on icy and snowy roads. You can check out our blog to learn more about how to use snow chains and how they work. Snow socks are no less advantageous as they often offer a comparable grip and are even able to achieve shorter braking distances in certain test conditions compared to snow chains.
Durability
Snow socks are robust and, with moderate use and proper care, will last several winters without any problems. However, the service life of socks is no match for that of properly maintained snow chains as they’re made of a more durable material that lasts longer and is better able to withstand the effects of the harsh weather.
Driving experience
Of course, this point is subjective, but many users report a more comfortable ride after switching from chains to socks. The elimination of the metal links of snow chains and the reduced noise and vibrations reportedly has a positive effect on driving comfort.
Article number: 008315
£ 152,92
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 008331
£ 76,86
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 008428
£ 82,74
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 008314
£ 152,92
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Maximum speed
There is no difference in this respect. Throughout Europe, it is recommended that you do not exceed a speed of 30 mph (50km/h) if you are using either snow chains or socks.
Available sizes
When buying both snow socks and chains, you should know the size of the tyres on your vehicle, as not every chain or sock is suitable for every tyre. The tyre dimensions determine which chain or sock fits your vehicle. For example, 215 65 R16 snow chains are suitable for tyres with a width of 215 mm, a height of 65% of the width and a diameter of 16 inches.
The same tyre dimensions can also be found in the product descriptions of snow socks. Although the textile material of the socks is more flexible than plastic or metal chains, you should choose the right dimensions to ensure an optimum fit and performance.
Pricing
Compared to snow chains, the price range for snow socks is much lower. Prices typically range between £40 and £80, depending on the brand and vehicle model and manufacturer. The prices for a pair of snow chains can be significantly higher. Each set can be expected to cost anywhere from £35 to over £250.
Integrated snow chains - an exciting development
Finally, let's take a quick look into the future. There is currently an exciting new development in the pipeline that is being driven forward by Hyundai and Kia. These are snow chains that are integrated into the wheels. At the touch of a button, modules anchored in the wheel rim change shape and protrude from the surface of the tyres. This is made possible by so-called memory metal, which is activated using electricity and has the ability to change shape.
If the integrated snow chains are no longer needed, simply press a button and the shape memory alloy returns to its original shape. When this technology is ready for the market, a third option will be added to the two previously described. The advantages of this innovation are obvious: you no longer need accessories for safe driving on snow- and ice-covered roads and you are able to react immediately according to local conditions. The cumbersome task of stopping and putting on chains or socks would therefore be a thing of the past. Above all, drivers who often travel in freezing temperatures and want to react more quickly would benefit immensely from this technology.
