Snow Tires or Snow Chains? And How to Fit Chains Step-by-Step
Driving up to a ski resort in winter conditions? Here's how snow tires and snow chains compare, which one you actually need, and exactly how to fit chains if the mountain road requires them.
Snow (Winter) Tires
- Best for the whole trip — safe on any road, snow or dry
- No installation needed each time you hit snow
- Better comfort and handling than chains at speed
Best if: you're driving a long distance through winter conditions, or renting a car at a snowy destination for a week or more.
Snow Chains
- Maximum grip on steep, heavily-snowed mountain passes
- Often legally required on specific alpine access roads
- Cheap, compact backup you only fit when needed
Best if: you only hit snow for the final stretch up to the resort, or your car has regular tires and local law requires chains on that road.
Quick Answer
If you're renting a car for a week-long ski trip, ask for winter tires — they're safer for the whole journey. Keep a set of chains in the trunk anyway (or check if the rental already includes them), since some mountain roads require chains regardless of tire type during heavy snowfall.
How to Fit Snow Chains: Step-by-Step
Lay the Chain Out
Park on flat ground and stop the engine. Lay the chain flat behind the drive-wheel tire, untangled, with the fastener side facing away from the tire.
Drape It Over the Tire
Drive the car forward a foot or roll the tire slightly onto the chain, then drape the chain over the top of the tire so it's centered, with equal amounts hanging on the inside and outside.
Connect and Tighten
Connect the inner fastener first, then the outer one. Hook the tensioning cams or clasps and pull tight so there's no slack. Drive a few meters and re-tighten — chains always loosen slightly once the tire has rotated.
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