Snow Socks or cables

Question:

I have a 2017 Outback and am headed to Lake Tahoe CA in a few weeks. As they have had heavier than average snow this year with new storms coming this week I have been advised to at least carry cables in case required by the Hyw dept. We will be four senior women. None of us has had experience with snow cables or socks. Are socks allowed in place of chains? Which would you recommend? Thank you for your help!

asked by: Nancy K

Expert Reply:

Between the Snow Sock and a set of snow cables, the snow cables, all though sometimes cumbersome to install, will give the better traction on ice and snow than the Snow Sock.

According to our fit guide, your 2017 Subaru Outback Wagon had two tire size options available. Your vehicle should have either 225/60R18 or 225/65R17 tires installed. In these tires sizes the only thing available would be tire cables.

If you have the 225/60R18 tires, then the Glacier Cable Snow Tire Chains, # PW1046, would be the confirmed fit. If you have the 225/65R17 tires, then the Glacier Cables, # PW1042, will be the confirmed fit.

However, sometimes the tire that the manufacturer states is suppose to be on the car will not be the actual tire size that is mounted on the car. If you have a different size tire, feel free to contact us with you correct tire size and we will be happy to find you the right cables.

Due to the clearance issues between your wheels and the wheels well of your Subaru, your Subaru owner's manual requires the use of SAE Class S rated cable device. The cables I listed above are Class S rated devices. The owner's manual, page 8-12, also states that the cables should always be placed on the front wheels when in use.

I have linked a review video that will show a typical installation on the Glacier Tire cables for you to review.