Driving on snow and ice, chains and snow socks: the answers
Practical winter questions: how to behave, what you need on board and how to fit snow chains.
How do you drive on snow and ice?
With smooth movements on steering, accelerator and brake, a much greater safety distance and reduced speed. On snow and ice grip is very low and sudden manoeuvres cause loss of control. Brake early, avoid accelerating in corners and, if possible, avoid icy roads. If you are not sure, postpone the journey.
How do you fit snow chains?
Before setting off, do a trial at home, on dry ground and in good light, as DEKRA advises. On the spot stop in a safe place and fit the chains on the drive wheels, as indicated in the car's owner's manual and in the chain manufacturer's instructions. After a short distance stop again to retension them. The chains must be the right size for the tyre and speed must be kept low.
Sources: dekra.com
How fast can you go with snow chains?
Slowly: in general not above about 50 km/h, to avoid damage to chain, tyre and vehicle, but the precise limit is the one given by the chain manufacturer. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and remove the chains as soon as the road is clear of snow or ice, because on dry tarmac they wear quickly and can damage the rubber and the road surface.
Sources: dekra.com
Are snow socks an alternative to chains?
They are an alternative that is easier to fit, but with limits: they are technical fabric covers that slip over the tyre to increase grip on snow and ice. They are fitted on the drive wheels indicated in the owner's manual, used at reduced speed within the limit given by the manufacturer and removed when the road is clear. Before buying them check that they are compatible with the tyre size and with the car manufacturer's instructions.
How does aquaplaning change with tyre wear?
The deeper the tread, the more water the tyre can clear; with wear this capacity decreases and the risk of aquaplaning increases. Michelin states that correct pressure also reduces the risk, especially in the wet, and recommends slowing down in heavy rain and looking ahead to anticipate deep puddles. Regularly checking pressure and tread is the most effective prevention.
Sources: middle-east.michelin.com
What should I do if the car aquaplanes?
Do not brake sharply and do not make sudden steering corrections: Michelin recommends keeping the steering wheel as straight as possible and slowing down gradually until the tyres regain grip. To prevent it, reduce speed in heavy rain, switch off cruise control, watch the road to anticipate puddles and keep correct pressure and tread in good condition.
Sources: middle-east.michelin.com
What are studded tyres and how do they behave?
They are winter tyres with small metal studs inserted in the tread, designed to improve grip especially on ice and packed snow. They are typical of countries with very harsh winters. The rules on their use change from country to country, often also by time of year and type of road, so before using them or travelling abroad find out about the rules in force at your destination.
Questions reviewed on October 5, 2026 by Pneumatici SuperStore, Via Enrico Cosenz 63/1, Milano.