FAQ

Q: What are snow socks?

A: Snow Socks are fabric-based covers that you slip over the wheels of your vehicle to enhance traction in snowy or icy conditions. They serve as a lightweight and easy-to-install alternative to traditional snow chains.

Q: Why have I never heard of snow socks before?

A: The simple answer might be economic: industries thrive after winter accidents, with repair shops, towing services, and emergency responses boosting GDP. Snow socks, which can prevent such mishaps, disrupt this profit cycle, so their benefits may not be as widely advertised or endorsed by those with vested interests in post-accident revenues.

Q: How do they work?

A: The special fabric sticks to snow and ice, providing extra grip that can help prevent slippage. Their unique weave and material ensure a firm grip on slippery surfaces, improving your vehicle’s handling during winter conditions.

Q: Are snow socks a suitable replacement for snow chains?

A: While snow socks are not a direct replacement for chains, they are an effective alternative for drivers who require extra traction on icy roads but prefer a lighter, easier-to-install option. However, in many situations, they actually perform better than snow socks. See here and here.

Q: Are snow socks really better than snow chains? That sounds hard to believe.

A: Under most driving conditions, snow socks appear to indeed be better than snow chains. However, the gap does seem to narrow in terms of decelerating on snow, as can be seen in the graph above.

Q: What if I have snow tires, they’re just as good aren’t they?

A: Snow tires are effective, but in extreme conditions, snow socks outperform them by offering superior traction on deep snow and ice. The fabric technology of snow socks grips surfaces in ways that snow tires can’t, ensuring safer travel with improved control and shorter stopping distances.

Q: How do I install snow socks on my tires?

A: Installation is simple: stretch the snow sock over the top of your tire and move the vehicle slightly forwards/backwards, then pull the sock completely over the tire. No special tools are required, and the process can be completed in a couple minutes.

Q: Can I use snow socks on all my tires?

A: Yes, snow socks can be fitted on all tires, but it’s essential to install them on the drive wheels at a minimum to ensure proper traction.

Q: What is the maximum speed I can drive with snow socks?

A: For safety and product durability, it’s recommended not to exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) when driving with snow socks on, and to aim for a cruising speed of about 40km/h (25mph).

Q: How do I choose the right size snow socks for my vehicle?

A: Refer to our sizing chart, which matches snow sock sizes with tire dimensions. Ensure you know your tire size before purchasing.

Q: Can snow socks be used on dry roads?

A: Snow socks are designed for use on snow and ice and should be removed before driving on clear, dry roads to avoid holes, teals and otherwise premature wear.

Q: What is the difference between the super-x and extra-pro series?

A: The Super-X and Extra-Pro Series have 30% and 60% thicker fabric than the Active series. This means that they are more durable when encountering brief or momentary periods of dry pavement. The increased thickness allows for better wear resistance and longevity, ensuring that the snow socks retain their integrity and traction capabilities even when passing over patches of road without snow or ice. However, it is still recommended to minimize driving on dry roads to extend the life of your snow socks.

Q: How long do snow socks last?

A: With proper use and care, Matte Snow Socks are durable and can last multiple seasons. Always inspect them after use and store them dry.

Q: Are snow socks legal everywhere?

A: Laws vary by region, so it’s best to check local regulations. However, snow socks are generally accepted as a winter traction aid in many areas with snowy conditions.

Q: How do I care for my snow socks after use?

A: Remove the snow socks after use, shake off any loose snow, and let them dry completely before storing them in their carrying case.

Q: Can snow socks be used on any type of vehicle?

A: Snow socks are versatile and can be used on most vehicles, including front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive. Ensure you select the correct size for your vehicles tires.

Q: What are the best conditions to use snow socks in?

A: Snow socks excel in conditions where large amounts of snow have recently fallen and before the snow has been cleared by plows. This is due to their design for low-speed traction—typically between 40-50 kph—which matches (and sometimes exceeds) the reduced speeds common in heavy snowfall, before roads are treated. In such scenarios, the pace of all traffic is naturally slower, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by overtaking vehicles. Conversely, using snow socks when the roads are clearer can result in your vehicle moving slower than the flow of traffic, which could pose a risk as faster-moving vehicles may attempt to overtake you. Therefore, snow socks are most advantageous and safest in near-impassable road conditions, where travel is essential, and the goal is to reach your destination securely despite severe winter conditions.

Q: Where can I purchase snow socks?

A: Our snow socks are available directly on our website, through select automotive retailers, and can also be found on various online marketplaces, although they appear to be quite difficult to come by.

Q: Where can I find more information about snow socks and the manufacturer?

A: For more information, you can visit matteauto.com, where they showcase a few more of their amazing products.