Best Tires for Snow: 7 Best Choices

Winter’s here, and that means snow and ice. This guide will help you navigate the world of snow tires and snow chains, reviewing seven popular options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. We’ll cover everything from small snow blower tires to car snow socks, helping you make an informed decision before the first snowflake falls.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	MaxAuto ATV Tires 15×5.00-6 15x5x6 Snow Hog Lawn and…	View on Amazon
	Antego 13×5.00-6 Non-Directional Snow Tires (Set of 2) -…	View on Amazon
	K&K Auto Accessories Snow Socks for Tires – Pro Series…	View on Amazon
	Antego 16X6.50-8 ATW-046 6 Ply Snow Blower Tires…	View on Amazon
	Carall Snow Socks for Car, Red Color, Size XL, Textile…	View on Amazon
	AutoSock for Passenger Vehicles HP697, Snow Socks for…	View on Amazon
	PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower…	View on Amazon

1. MaxAuto ATV Tires 15×5.00-6 15x5x6 Snow Hog Lawn and…

These are sturdy tires designed for snow blowers and other small equipment. They boast a deep tread for excellent grip in soft snow. If you need reliable traction for clearing snow with your machinery, these are a solid contender.

• Tire Size: 15X5-6″
• Tread Depth: 0.55″/14mm
• Max Load: 405lbs@20psi
• Sold in pairs

Pros:
– Deep tread for good grip
– Relatively affordable

Cons:
– Only suitable for small equipment
– Not for cars or trucks

User Feedback Summary: Generally positive reviews from users needing replacement tires for their snow blowers. Some report excellent traction, while others note that longevity depends on usage.

2. Antego 13×5.00-6 Non-Directional Snow Tires (Set of 2) -…

Another option for smaller machinery, these Antego tires are designed specifically for snow. Their tubeless design simplifies installation. However, remember these are tires only; you’ll need compatible wheels.

• Size: 13X5.00-6
• Load Range: A
• Tread Depth: 0.394″
• Max Load Capacity: 290 lbs

Pros:
– Designed for snow
– Tubeless for easy installation

Cons:
– Not for cars or larger equipment
– Tires only, wheels not included

User Feedback Summary: Users report decent traction in snowy conditions for their intended application (small tractors, snow blowers). Some mention that they wear faster than other tires in heavy use.

3. K&K Auto Accessories Snow Socks for Tires – Pro Series…

Snow socks offer a convenient alternative to chains. These K&K socks are reusable, washable, and relatively easy to install. They are a great option for occasional snow driving.

• Reusable and washable
• Easy installation
• Legally accepted in many areas

Pros:
– Easy to use
– Relatively compact storage
– Better handling than chains

Cons:
– Limited speed and traction compared to dedicated snow tires
– May not be suitable for extremely icy conditions
– Check for size compatibility

User Feedback Summary: Many users praise the ease of use and improved traction compared to driving without them in light snow. However, some find them less effective in heavy snow or on ice.

4. Antego 16X6.50-8 ATW-046 6 Ply Snow Blower Tires…

These heavier-duty Antego tires are built for larger snow blowers and equipment. The 6-ply rating suggests increased durability for demanding applications. Again, remember these are tires only.

• Size: 16X6.50-8
• Ply Rating: 6
• Tread Depth: 0.512″
• Max Load: 785 lbs

Pros:
– Heavy-duty construction
– Deep tread for good traction
– High load capacity

Cons:
– Tires only, wheels not included
– Not for cars or trucks

User Feedback Summary: Strong reviews for users with larger snow removal equipment. The durability is a frequently cited advantage.

5. Carall Snow Socks for Car, Red Color, Size XL, Textile…

Similar to the K&K socks, these Carall snow socks provide added traction in snowy conditions. Remember to carefully check the size chart to ensure compatibility with your tires.

• Easy and quick installation
• Meets EN 16662-1-2020 standards
• Reusable

Pros:
– Easy to install and remove
– Relatively inexpensive

Cons:
– Size-specific; check compatibility carefully
– Limited speed and traction compared to dedicated snow tires

User Feedback Summary: User experiences are mixed, with some reporting good traction in light snow and others finding them insufficient in heavier conditions or on ice. Proper sizing is crucial.

6. AutoSock for Passenger Vehicles HP697, Snow Socks for…

These AutoSock snow socks present another alternative to chains. They are designed for ease of use and are touted as a safer, more reliable option. As always, confirm tire compatibility.

• Easy 3-step installation
• Reusable and space-saving
• Meets international road standards

Pros:
– Easy installation
– Meets safety standards

Cons:
– Size-specific; check compatibility carefully
– Limited speed and traction compared to dedicated snow tires

User Feedback Summary: Reviews are generally positive regarding ease of use, but traction performance varies depending on snow conditions and driving style.

7. PowerSmart 24-Inch Self-Propelled Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower…

This is not a tire, but a snow blower with 13-inch snow tires. This entry highlights the importance of considering the whole picture. If you need to clear substantial amounts of snow, a machine like this with purpose-built tires might be a better investment than buying separate tires for your existing equipment.

• 24-inch clearing width
• 208cc Briggs & Stratton engine
• Self-propelled
• LED lights

Pros:
– Powerful and efficient snow removal
– Good traction thanks to dedicated snow tires

Cons:
– More expensive than individual tires
– Not a tire itself, but a snow removal machine

User Feedback Summary: Positive reviews emphasize ease of use and power for clearing heavy snow.

Practical Buying Advice:

Choosing the right snow tire or traction aid depends heavily on your needs:

• Small Equipment: For snow blowers and small garden tractors, focus on tire size, tread depth, and load capacity.
• Cars and Trucks: Snow socks or dedicated snow tires (not covered in detail here, but readily available) are your best bet. Consider your driving conditions and frequency of snow driving when making this decision.
• Budget: Snow socks are generally more affordable than dedicated tires or a new snow blower.

Final Verdict:

There’s no single “best” tire for snow; the ideal choice depends entirely on your needs and the type of equipment you’re using. This guide provides a starting point for comparing options and making an informed decision.

FAQ:

1. What’s the difference between snow tires and all-season tires? Snow tires have a specialized tread pattern and rubber compound designed for optimal grip in snow and ice. All-season tires offer a compromise, performing adequately in various conditions but not as well as dedicated snow tires in snowy or icy conditions.

2. How do I choose the right size snow tire? Always check the size markings on your existing tire or equipment. Never use tires of an incorrect size.

3. Are snow chains better than snow socks? Snow chains offer superior traction in extremely icy or snowy conditions but can damage your vehicle and tires if used improperly or at high speeds. Snow socks are easier to use and less damaging but provide less grip.

4. How long do snow tires last? The lifespan of snow tires varies depending on usage, but they typically last 3-5 years.

5. Can I use snow socks on all types of vehicles? No, snow socks are size-specific, so you must check the compatibility chart carefully. Not all vehicles are suitable for snow socks.

6. Do snow socks affect fuel economy? Yes, they can slightly reduce fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance. However, this is typically a small trade-off for the improved safety and traction they provide.

7. When should I use snow tires or chains? Use snow tires or chains when significant snow or ice is present on the roads. Check your local weather forecast and road conditions before traveling.