Winter is one of the most cheerful times when the world is dressed in glittering snow. However, everything that glitters is not gold when the snow amid cold wintry wind becomes a roadblock for vehicles on the go. After all, there is nothing worse than being stuck in the snow when you have someplace to go.

While most drivers are prepared for a dead battery by keeping jumper cables in the trunk, most are not prepared for when their vehicle gets stuck. For 99 percent of drivers, there are tire traction devices ready to assist when you need them the most.

If you’re unsure of what these are, don’t worry!  Here’s a guide on tire traction devices, how they work, and the different types that are available.

The Ins and Outs of Tire Traction Devices

What Are They?

The best tire traction straps & devices are tools that help tires achieve a better grip in the snow. Some are even ideal for helping your vehicle unstuck from the snow. However, it’s important to know which one to use when you need them most.

Stuck In the Snow

Trac-Grabber: This is a vehicle rescue device, not a product for ordinary winter driving. This product – a traction block and strap – is small enough to carry in the backseat or a trunk. It is attached to a tire stuck in the snow. When the driver applies the gas pedal, the device spins with the tire, makes contact with the surface, and lifts the tire out of the hole. The product is then removed.

Traction Mats:  Drivers use traction mats by placing them on the ground right in front of their vehicle tires to drive on them to get unstuck. However, since they are not strapped to a tire, traction mats can easily be dislodged if a tire spins in the hole, making the hole even deeper.

Driving In The Snow

Tire Chains:  As the name suggests, they are actual chains that drivers can put on their tires. They come in handy in drawing a firm grip on the road and cutting through the snow. However, chains can be difficult to put onto tires.

GoClaws: This type of traction device makes the best possible use of spikes to upgrade your tires’ grip on the go. They’re laid down on the tire with the help of straps that attach to the “corners” of the tires.

AutoSocks: This technology is an alternative to using tire spikes and chains. AutoSocks employs textile-based technology that wraps around your vehicle’s tires and helps you grip the road more evenly.

Tire Spikes: As compared to tire chains, tire spikes offer a much cleaner look and are easier to install. Most spikes are installed as one piece on the front face of the tire and the spike settles into the tread.

Final Thoughts

Traction devices are the superheroes behind the willingness you need to make your way out of a stuck-in-snow situation. Knowing about every kind of traction device you can tap on is the best way to stay a step ahead of whatever challenges come on the go.

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