Snow chains and/or winter tyres are a legal requirement on all European mountain roads. France expanded the area covered by this law in 2021 to include much of the South and East of France, and introducing fines for non-compliance. More info... How fast can I drive whilst using snow chains?

Tire chains are designed for particular types of tires. Improperly fitting chains cause extensive damage to the wheel wells, braking system, and the wheel. Next is a look at some of the factors to consider when buying snow chain tires. Snow chains are classified into four categories; entry level (for snow and ice), premium, standard, and alternative traction snow chains. Standard chains are designed for areas with regular snowfall while premium ones are ideal for daily driving purposes on snowy regions as they offer superior performance and enhance the car's braking system on an icy surface. For low-profile tires, alternative traction devices are best. A gentle driving style is essential when using snow chains. Excessive acceleration or hard braking can put too much pressure on snow chains and may cause them to snap. What accessories do I legally have to carry in my car when driving on the Continent?These textile snow chains are extremely comfortable to drive and compatible with all electrical safety systems such as ABS and ESP. Due to the small space requirement and the low weight, they can be stowed practically and are thus ready to hand in the vehicle when needed. Textile snow chains are approved as snow chains in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France and many other countries. Take it slowly (less than 30mph) and gently, slow down for bends and avoid harsh acceleration and braking. Most vehicles have the clearance to accommodate properly sized snow chains. The manufacturer's manual comes in handy if the vehicle does not have such clearance as it tells the motorist if the vehicle can be fitted with the chains. Tires have the width, height, and diameter printed on the sidewalls or the driver's side door placard. Usually, the size of the tire is displayed in the form of P225/75R16. P denotes a passenger vehicle, 225 the tread width, 75 the aspect ratio of the side wall, R a radial tire, and 16'' is the rim size in inches. Polar Automotive supports the Self-Regulatory Principles for Online Behavioral Advertising of the Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA), the Digital Advertising Alliance of Canada (DAAC), and the European Interactive Digital Advertising Alliance (EDAA).

Heavy snowfall is becoming more common in the UK during the winter months. Driving in snow and ice is highly dangerous unless you’re got the right gear. Thankfully, you can get everything you need at Halfords. On a lot of mountain roads in France it is a legal requirements to carry snow chains with you, and while proper Winter tyres make a lot of difference on snowy and icy roads, they will only get you so far (especially on big heavy two wheel drive vehicles like motorhomes!) If you don't want the expense of winter tyres, but are looking for more grip when snow strikes, then chains might be an option but bear in mind:

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With this country’s policy of gritting and clearing major roads you’ll probably have to fit and remove chains several times during a journey. Note: Please observe the legal regulations in the country in which you want to use the textile snow chains. But if you’re splashing out on a second set of wheels and tyres it probably makes sense to fit specialist winter tyres too. When to use chains Choose snow chains rated SAE Class S as they are designed for modern front-wheel drive vehicles and lower ground clearances. Tire chains for other classifications have higher ground clearance and may damage the automobile. If you want to treat yourself I can also recommend a pair of these snow-chain gloves, they help keep your hands warm when working in the snow/ice and the extended cuffs keep your arms clean and dry when reaching round behind the tyre to fasten the chains!

Many SUV/4x4 vehicles also have clearance problems, and again the Thule K-Summit (XL or XXL) offers a very comprehensive solution. The XG-12 Pro snow chain can be used on some of these vehicles as it protrudes 12mm off the wheel, compared to our standard 4x4 snow chain protrusion of 16mm. How many snow chains do I need? There is a link below for the chains we use for our 215/75R16 tyres – note that it is important you get the right size chains for your tyres so if you need a different size make sure that you look at the other options in the listing. This snow chain features a high-grade TPU material that lasts long, is temperature resistant, and has an anti-tear feature. The three-bar reverse non-slip design enhances friction and helps reduce the isopsophic index for improved performance of the chain. The chain is ideal for tire models 205/60R16, 205/65R16, 205/55R17, and 215/65R15, among others. To find the right size for Goodyear Ultra Grip Textile Snow Chains, available in S, M, L, XL and XXL sizes.

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Your handbook may give specific advice but generally the minimum is one pair on the driven wheels though two pairs are better.