Do Tire Chain Style and Size Make a Difference with Ride Quality and Traction

Question:

Is a 7 mm pewag sqare link chain going to drive alot worese than the 5.6 mm chain and will the 7 mm square chain get better tracktion than the 5.6 mm

asked by: Morris

Expert Reply:

Link size and design do make a pretty big difference and have pros and cons so you'll have to decide what will serve your 2020 Subaru Crosstrek the best. Bigger links will give a bit better traction in deep snow and will be a bit rougher so there's a trade off there. Link design also has a big impact as well. Square link chains do the best in deep snow, V-bars like what the studded # PWKST2228SC has do the best in icy conditions since they are sharper and break up the ice, and the twist link chains are a bit smoother since the have a lower profile and smoother design.

A 7 mm tire chain like the # PWKST2228SC would be slightly rougher but also have slightly better traction.

You also need to consider if there are any tire chain clearance issues that will be outlined in the owners manual of the vehicle. If you let me know what tire size you have and what vehicle you have I can help you get setup with the best solution!

expert reply by: Jameson C