Snow socks
(also known as
auto socks
) are
textile
alternatives to
snow chains
. Snow sock devices wrap around the
tires
of a
vehicle
to increase
traction
on snow and ice. Snow socks are normally composed of a
woven fabric
with an
elastomer
attached to the inner and/or outer edge. The woven fabric covers the
tire tread
and is the contact point between the vehicle and the road. The elastomer keeps the snow sock in place and facilitates with installation. Some snow sock models have an additional component that covers the rim of the tire, which prevents snow or
debris
from gathering between the tread of the tire and the inner side of the woven fabric.