Truck tire chains

Example: 275/65R18

Most pickup truck and SUV tires use a metric tire size format.

• 275 = tire width in millimeters
• 65 = sidewall aspect ratio
• 18 = wheel or rim diameter in inches

Match the Tire Sidewall

For the best fit, choose chains that match the tire size printed on your tire sidewall. Tire chains should be matched to the tire size, tread type, clearance, and use conditions. Factory tire size, aftermarket wheels, aggressive tread, and Load Range E tires can change the best chain choice.

Diamond Truck & SUV Chains

Best for on-road snow and ice where smoother ride, steering control, and more consistent tread coverage matter. Diamond chains are not the best choice for mud, deep snow, or aggressive off-road use.

Studded Truck Tire Chains

Best for glare ice, frozen hills, steep driveways, and hard-packed snow. Studded chains are the most aggressive ice choice, but they can mark concrete, blacktop, and garage floors.

V-Bar Truck Tire Chains

A strong second choice for aggressive ice bite behind studded chains. V-bars dig into hard-packed snow and ice, but they are also more aggressive on paved surfaces.

2-Link Ladder Chains

Best ladder-style choice for smoother ride and stronger traction than 4-link chains because there are more cross chains contacting the tire.

Square Link Chains

A durable truck chain choice for snow, ice, and work use. Square edges create more biting surface than basic round twist link chains and can wear longer in demanding conditions.

Cable Chains / Alpha Trax

Best for on-road use and limited-clearance vehicles. Cables and Alpha Trax should not be treated as off-road, mud, or deep-snow chains.

Avoid Diamond Chains on Deep-Lug / LRE Tires

Load Range E and aggressive KO2/AT tires can be too large or too square-shouldered for many diamond or cable-style chains. Use the Load Range E / KO2 fitment category where available.

For Mud, Use Heavier Link Chains

Mud is off-road use. For mud, farm lanes, job sites, and deep snow, choose the thickest/heaviest link chain that fits the tire and clearance. More chain profile usually means better bite.

Expect Test Fitting and Adjustment

Deep tread and larger tire casings can change how a chain sits on the sidewall. Test fit before winter, and re-tighten after driving a short distance.

Check Brake Line and Fender Clearance

Trucks and SUVs can have tight clearance around control arms, brake lines, fender liners, and suspension parts. Always check clearance before driving with chains.

Highway Snow & Mixed Winter Roads

Diamond chains, square link chains, and 2-link ladder chains are strong choices for regular snow-covered roads and winter driving.

Icy Hills and Steep Driveways

Studded chains are the most aggressive ice option. V-bar chains are also excellent for icy hills and hard-packed snow.

Blacktop or Concrete Plowing

Square link or non-studded chains are usually a better balance for paved surfaces. Studded and V-bar chains add ice bite but can mark pavement.

Mud, Deep Snow and Off-Road

Use heavy link chains. Cables, Alpha Trax, and most diamond chains are on-road options and should not be used as the main recommendation for mud or deep snow.