How to Choose the Right Traction Aid for Your Truck or SUV

Driving in snow, mud, ice, or sand can be dangerous. When roads are slippery, your vehicle’s tires may lose grip, making it hard to move or stop. This is where traction aids come in. They help your vehicle gain better road grip so you don’t get stuck.

For trucks and SUVs, having the right traction aid can make a big difference, especially in winter or off-road conditions. Whether you drive a commercial truck, pickup, or an off-road vehicle, there are different types of traction aids to help you stay safe. Some attach to the tires, like tire chains and textile tire socks, while others, like traction boards, are used to help a stuck vehicle get moving again.

In this guide, we will explore the best traction aids for trucks and SUVs, how they work, and when to use them. This will help you choose the right option for your needs and drive safely in tough conditions.

Understanding Traction and Its Importance

To understand traction aids, we first need to know what traction is. Traction is the grip between your vehicle’s tires and the road. Without it, your tires spin, but your vehicle doesn’t move forward.

How Friction Affects Traction

Friction plays a big role in traction. There are two types:

• Static friction – This is when the tire grips the road without slipping. It helps your vehicle move forward safely.
• Kinetic friction – This happens when the tires lose grip and start sliding. It makes it hard to control the vehicle, especially on icy roads, wet surfaces, or loose sand.

Traction aids work by increasing static friction and reducing kinetic friction, helping your tires grip the road better.

How Vehicles Improve Traction

Many modern vehicles come with built-in systems to improve traction:

• 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) and AWD (All-Wheel Drive): These systems send power to all four wheels instead of just two, helping your vehicle move in snow, mud, or off-road terrain.
• ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System): Prevents wheels from locking up when braking, helping maintain control.
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control): Helps keep the vehicle stable by controlling power and braking on slippery roads.
• TCS (Traction Control System): Prevents wheels from spinning too fast when accelerating on slippery road conditions.

While these systems help, they are not always enough in extreme conditions. This is why using the right traction aid, such as tire chains, traction boards, or emergency traction mats, is important for commercial trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles.

Types of Traction Aids for Trucks and SUVs

There are different traction aids available to help vehicles maintain grip on icy roads, muddy trails, and sandy surfaces. These aids can be divided into three main categories:

1. Mounted Traction Aids

Mounted traction aids attach directly to your vehicle’s tires. They provide extra grip but require manual installation.

Tire Chains

• One of the most effective winter traction aids, providing strong grip on snow and ice.
• Often required by DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations in certain areas during winter.
• Heavy-duty tire chains work best for commercial trucks and heavy-duty vehicles but can be difficult to install.

Automatic Tire Chains

• Unlike regular chains, these engage with the push of a button, providing traction without manual effort.
• Common in fire trucks, rescue vehicles, and commercial trucks that need instant traction.
• Onspot automatic tire chains are a well-known brand used for commercial vehicles.

Textile Tire Socks

• A lightweight and easy-to-install alternative to chains.
• They provide temporary traction in light snow and icy conditions.
• Brands like Autosock offer DOT-approved options, but they wear out faster than chains.

2. Non-Mounted Traction Aids

These traction aids are not permanently attached to tires. They are used when a vehicle is stuck and needs help getting out.

Traction Boards / Recovery Boards

• Designed for off-road recovery, useful in mud, sand, and deep snow.
• Made from durable plastic or reinforced materials, allowing tires to grip and move forward.
• Popular brands include:
  • Maxtrax MKII – Durable and lightweight, great for off-road vehicles.
  • TRED Pro – Premium traction boards with high durability.
  • X-Bull Gen 3.0 – Budget-friendly but effective in snow and sand.
  • ARB Tred Pro – High-quality, lifetime warranty traction boards.

Friction Mats / Strips

• Portable and easy to use. Simply place them under the tires for extra grip.
• Work well on icy roads and wet surfaces, but not as durable as traction boards.

Sand & Gravel

• A simple, temporary solution for increasing grip on slippery roads.
• Often used in emergencies when no other traction aid is available.

3. Automatic & Built-In Traction Aids

Some vehicles have built-in systems that improve traction automatically.

Electronic Anti-Skid Systems

• ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System): Prevents wheels from locking up during braking.
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control): Helps keep the vehicle stable on slippery roads.
• TCS (Traction Control System): Reduces tire spinning when accelerating.

Sand Spreaders

• Used in commercial trucks and snowplows, these devices drop sand or grit in front of the tires for extra traction.
• Helpful for trucks traveling on icy roads for long distances.

Traction Boards vs. Tire Chains – Which is Best?

Choosing between traction boards and tire chains depends on your driving conditions and vehicle needs. Both traction aids help improve road grip, but they serve different purposes.

When to Use Traction Boards

• Best for off-road recovery in mud, sand, and deep snow.
• Ideal for overlanding, off-road adventures, and self-recovery situations.
• Can be used multiple times and work well for vehicles without 4WD or AWD.
• Common among off-road drivers, campers, and overlanders who explore uneven terrains.

When to Use Tire Chains

• Best for prolonged winter driving on snow-covered roads and icy highways.
• DOT regulations require them in some areas during extreme winter conditions.
• Suitable for commercial trucks, emergency vehicles, and passenger cars that frequently drive on ice.
• Work well for long-distance winter travel, but they require installation before driving.

Pros & Cons of Both

Final Choice: Which is Best?

• If you drive off-road often, traction boards are the best option for quick self-recovery.
• If you live in a snowy region or drive through icy roads, tire chains are the safer choice.
• Some drivers keep both for full coverage – chains for winter highways, traction boards for off-road adventures.

Choosing the Right Traction Aid for Your Vehicle

The best traction aid depends on the type of vehicle you drive and the conditions you face. Whether you’re navigating icy roads, deep mud, or rugged off-road trails, choosing the right traction solution can make all the difference.

For Heavy Vehicles (Commercial Trucks, Fire Trucks, Buses)

Heavy-duty vehicles need strong, reliable traction aids to handle extreme winter driving and emergency situations.

• Steel Tire Chains – The most effective for long-distance winter driving on icy roads. Required by DOT regulations in some regions.
• Automatic Tire Chains – Provide instant traction at the push of a button. Common in fire trucks, ambulances, and commercial fleets (e.g., Onspot system).
• TruckClaws.com– A specialized traction aid for semi-trucks and commercial vehicles. Works when stuck in mud, snow, or ice without requiring full tire removal.

For Off-Road & Overlanding Vehicles (SUVs, 4x4s, Pickups)

For adventurers exploring muddy trails, sandy deserts, or deep snow, traction boards are the best self-recovery option.

• Maxtrax or ARB Traction Boards – Durable, lightweight, and reusable traction aids that provide grip in sand, mud, and snow. Essential for overlanding and off-road recovery.
• TRED and X-Bull Recovery Boards – Cost-effective alternatives for 4WD vehicles. Offer good traction for off-road rescue situations.
• Winches & Tow Straps – Complement traction boards for extreme recovery situations where additional pulling force is needed.

For Everyday Winter Driving

Drivers facing moderate winter conditions don’t always need heavy-duty traction aids. Instead, lightweight and easy-to-use options work best.

• Textile Tire Socks (Autosock) – A simple, lightweight alternative to tire chains. Easy to install but wears out faster.
• Tire Cables – A lighter, more flexible version of tire chains. Great for city driving in occasional snowy conditions.
• Electronic Traction Control Systems (ESC, ABS, TCS) – Help maintain grip on slippery roads without needing external traction devices.

Final Thoughts

• If you’re driving a heavy truck, go with steel chains or TruckClaws™ II.
• If you’re an off-road enthusiast, traction boards are the best investment.
• If you need a quick fix for icy roads, tire socks or cables are great for everyday winter driving.

How to Use Traction Aids Effectively

Using traction aids correctly ensures maximum grip and prevents damage to both your vehicle and the aid itself. Here’s how to use different traction solutions in various conditions.

For Tire Chains: Step-by-Step Installation and Removal

Installation Process

1. Park in a Safe Location – Find a flat area and engage the parking brake.
2. Lay Out the Chains – Untangle the tire chains and ensure they are not twisted.
3. Drape Over the Tires – Place the chains over the drive wheels (front for FWD, rear for RWD, all four for 4WD/AWD).
4. Connect the Fasteners – Secure the inner and outer hooks tightly.
5. Drive Forward Slowly – Move a few feet to allow the chains to settle. Then, retighten for a snug fit.
6. Check Before Driving – Ensure they are secure and evenly distributed before hitting the road.

Removal Process

1. Park and Engage the Brake – Stop in a safe, flat location.
2. Unfasten the Chains – Undo the hooks and tensioners.
3. Drive Off the Chains – Roll the vehicle forward slowly to remove them from under the tires.
4. Store Properly – Dry the chains before storage to prevent rust.

Pro Tip: Avoid high speeds and sudden braking while using tire chains to prevent damage to the chains and your vehicle.

For Traction Boards: Proper Usage Tips

1. Lower Tire Pressure

• Reducing tire pressure increases contact area and improves traction, especially in sand, mud, or snow.

2. Position the Board Properly

• Place the traction board as close to the leading edge of the tires as possible.
• If stuck in mud or sand, dig out excess debris around the tires before placement.

3. Gentle Acceleration

• Avoid excessive wheel spin, which can damage the boards.
• Accelerate slowly, letting the tires grip the board for a smooth recovery.

Pro Tip: Maxtrax, ARB, and TRED traction boards work best when used with reduced tire pressure for better surface contact.

For Friction Mats & Sand: Quick Emergency Recovery

Friction Mats / Strips

• Lay friction mats in front of or behind the tires to create instant grip.
• Best used for short-term traction recovery in snow and ice.

Using Sand or Gravel

• Spread sand, gravel, or kitty litter in front of stuck tires to increase static friction.
• Works as a quick emergency fix but may not be effective for deep snow or mud.

Safety Tips & Best Practices for Winter & Off-Road Driving

Using traction aids correctly is important, but knowing how to drive safely in tough conditions is just as crucial. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind when driving in snow, mud, sand, or icy roads.

1. Adjust Tire Pressure for Better Traction

• Lowering tire pressure increases the tire’s contact area, improving grip on sand, mud, and snow.
• For off-road driving, reduce pressure to 12-18 PSI for better flotation on soft terrain.
• For icy roads, keeping tires at their recommended PSI is best to maintain proper road contact.

Pro Tip: Use a tire pressure gauge and an air compressor to adjust pressure based on terrain.

2. Carry Additional Recovery Gear

Even with traction aids, you may need extra tools for self-recovery or to assist others.

Essential Recovery Gear Includes:

• Shovel – Helps clear snow or mud around stuck tires.
• Winch – A powerful tool for pulling your vehicle out when traction aids aren’t enough.
• Tow Straps & Snatch Straps – Useful for towing or pulling another vehicle out of trouble.
• Traction Boards – Lightweight, reusable, and ideal for self-recovery.
• Gloves & Safety Gear – Protects your hands while working with chains, winches, or traction boards.

Pro Tip: If driving in remote areas, carry a full recovery kit and a satellite communicator in case of emergencies.

3. Check DOT & FMCSA Regulations Before Using Traction Aids

• Some states require tire chains during winter (e.g., Colorado Chain Law for commercial trucks).
• The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) has rules on winter driving safety for heavy trucks.
• Some areas restrict metal tire chains to prevent road damage—always check local laws before traveling.

Final Advice on Traction Aids for Trucks and SUVs

Driving in snow, mud, sand, or icy conditions can be challenging, but with the right traction aid, you can stay safe and avoid getting stuck.

1. Choosing the Best Traction Aid for Your Needs

• For commercial trucks & heavy-duty vehicles: Steel tire chains or automatic tire chains (like Onspot) are the best choice. TruckClaws™ II is also a great option for emergency traction.
• For off-road and overlanding vehicles (SUVs, 4x4s, pickups): Maxtrax, ARB, or TRED traction boards provide excellent self-recovery.
• For everyday winter driving: Textile tire socks or tire cables are lightweight and easy to install, making them a great alternative to traditional tire chains.

2. Be Prepared with the Right Recovery Tools

Having traction aids is just one part of being ready. Make sure you also carry:

• A shovel for clearing snow or mud.
• A winch or tow straps for extra pulling power.
• Gloves & safety gear for handling chains and traction boards safely.
• A tire pressure gauge & air compressor to adjust tire pressure for better grip.

3. Assess Your Needs Before Purchasing

Before buying traction aids, ask yourself:

• What weather conditions do you frequently drive in?
• Do you need temporary emergency traction or long-term traction solutions?
• Is your vehicle off-road capable, or do you mainly drive on highways?

By choosing the right traction aid and staying prepared, you can drive safely in tough conditions and avoid costly towing fees.