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

Made of high-grade woven fabric with an elastomer that resists damage and extreme temperature changes, AutoSock comes in a variety of sizes to fit most tires and vehicles. They're easy to install and remove, and a breeze to stow away for next time.

These tire traction straps help slipping tires get unstuck from poor traction situations such as snow, ice, sand, or mud—a perfect car emergency kit item for winter weather and a must-have device for hunters and outdoor adventurists. Plenty of sizes are available to suit all types of vehicles and tires.

Textured, rubberized rungs with galvanized steel connecting cables make these traction mats tough and durable for many uses. Each block measures 39.3 inches long by 10.8 inches wide. As long as the ground is reasonably level, these make a fine alternative to carrying around bulky tire chains.

These nylon traction strips set includes 10 strips, and while the picture shows 10 on one tire, we think you could get away with five each on two tires. The strips are basically giant nylon zip ties with grips on the bottom—so while they're not exactly reusable, they should help you get out of the snow when you need to. However, if you have wider tires, double-check the sizing chart to make sure they'll fit.

These tire wraps are a bit beefier, but at the same time pricier. You get only one wrap per purchase, but they're more durable and have a larger grippy surface area than the nylon strips. Grip also comes from the depth of the built-in steel nails digging into the snow.

Lightweight, durable, high-impact polypropylene plastic construction make these built to last. Escaper Buddys can hold up to 10 tons and are made to bend, not break. Ideal for vehicle recovery and traction in snow, each mat is 48 inches long and 14.5 inches wide, and the pair weighs just 17 pounds.

These entry-level snow socks install easily on all sizes of tires in a large range, from small cars to SUVs. They're made of polyolefin and designed to be used at a maximum of 30 miles per hour on snowy or icy roads. Ideal for use where snow chains are prohibited.

At a glance, they might look like conventional chains, but they're metal traction cables. Peerless says the cables are for two tires and meet Class S clearance requirements if you have a small gap between fender and wheel. Installation is a bit trickier than with singular anti-slip wraps, but these offer much more all-around coverage.

If you're looking for maximum surface area for grip, check out these anti-slip tire straps. This set gives you six straps, which is plenty for two wheels. They're beefy too—built with tough TPU plastic, steel studs, and an aluminum-alloy fastener. If you want maximum grip, these are the ones to get.

Another snow sock that comes in multiple sizes, K&Ks are tear-resistant, washable, and reusable. And they're safe for ABS, ASR, ESC, ESP, and TCS systems. They're designed in Canada and manufactured in Europe.