At the end of the summer, as autumn starts to pass, many drivers like to invest in winter tyres. Others, however, like to be more prepared and may invest in the likes of snow chains. Yet many drivers do not like snow chains, or simply do not need the level of traction that snow chains provide.
Fortunately, snow socks are a more recent alternative and can prove very beneficial for many drivers in the UK. If you don’t know what snow socks are, or are considering whether or not they are right for you, here is a quick guide on snow socks for cars.
What are snow socks
Also known as winter socks or autosocks, these are alternatives to snow chains. Rather than using metal chains, these accessories use a textile or compound fabric layer to cover the entire tyre. If tyres can be considered the ‘feet’ of a car, it is easy to see how such additional layers could be referred to as ‘socks’.
The benefits of snow socks
Many drivers prefer snow socks because they are both light and small - especially when they are foldable - making them easier to store when not in use. They can also be fitted with relative ease. In general, they are often cheaper than chains as well.
Snow socks provide extra traction and safety on snow-covered surfaces.
However, ultimately, snow tyre socks are not as powerful as chains. They do not offer the same around of traction, especially when on hard ice, and are also more prone to wear and tear. While chains can be untangled, a rip in a snow sock can not be easily fixed and actively reduces the effectiveness of the product.
Are snow socks legal in the UK?
Just like snow chains, car snow socks are legal within the UK. Of course, they are only really useful in regions which expect a noticeable amount of snow. There is often very little snow in the UK - especially in towns and cities where a steady supply of grit can effectively restore roads - but this, if anything, makes snow socks more suitable than snow chains.
Many drivers often choose to keep snow socks for when they travel somewhere more remote, where they cannot guarantee a clear road. This provides extra protection that, unlike the likes of studded tyres, can be added or removed as and when they are required.
However, if you travel outside of the UK, there is some ambiguity to the legality of snow socks. While they are not illegal, there are many European countries - chiefly, the likes of Austria, Andorra, Germany, France, Norway and Switzerland - where you are required to fit snow chains on various signed roads.
In many countries, there is still some legal debate about whether snow socks are a suitable alternative to snow chains.
In these instances, there is some unclarity as to whether snow socks are a valid alternative, so it is important to check with any respective country you are planning to visit.
How to fit snow socks
Snow socks require less work to fit than snow chains, but follow a similar process. First, you need to have your vehicle parked and in gear. Next, find the side of the snow sock that is intended to go on the inside and place this behind the car tyre. Then, use your hands to pull the sock over the tyre, fitting accordingly.
Of course, you won’t be able to completely fit the sock, as the bottom of the tyre is in direct contact with the ground. Instead, fit around three quarters of the socks before driving forward a few feet (or half a meter). This will rotate the wheels and allow you - after parking the car again - to easily fit the remaining part of the socks.
Whereas snow chains need further fitting to adjust the chains, the best snow socks make use of the fabrics more stretchable nature, ensuring a smooth, tight fit. Removing these items is just as easy, as you just need to pull them off, driving the car forwards a little to grant access to the bottom portion again.
Are snow socks right for me?
Ultimately, socks do not provide the same amount of traction as chains, but can be a useful item to have for when there is unexpected snow. Because they are cheaper, many drivers find they can be a useful back-up investment.
Snow socks are useful for various cars, such as those with low profile tyres and little room for larger snow chains thanks to a restrictive rim
Furthermore, snow socks can be used on tyres that, for numerous reasons, can’t fit chains. Low profile tyres, for instance, often don’t have a sidewall tall enough to accommodate the side clasps. Likewise, many cars cannot fit chains, because there is not enough space to safely fit the chains without interfering with the car rim, or the suspension system and brake pads found behind the wheel.
Of course, as with all things related to car wheels and tyres, the right size is important. Always ensure any snow sock is intended to fit with your respective tyre size.