snow tires or chains

[Deborah]

I have a 2006 RR Sport with 22 puce rims. Should I down size to 18 or 19 puce rims with snow tires or the cheaper option just get chains ( for the occasional ski trip).

Thanks, Deborah

[David Sparkes]

Check in your vehicle handbook whether the 22s will take chains. You may not have the option of fitting them on those wheels. I don't know one way or the other about the availability of snow tyres for 22s.

For just occasional use I suggest you look at snow socks - Start reading the FAQ at http://www.autosock.co.uk/autosock-faq.php As these don't have the clearance problem that chains have you should be able to fit them on your 22s BUT looking at the size guide you will have to check whether they do an offering that suits your tyre size (and as it says, read the tyre wall, not the handbook, for this information).

Weissenfel also do snow socks, but as I don't know your tyre size I can't see if they do one for your fitment. http://www.snowchains.co.uk/main/weisssock.htm

The UK firm also hire out chains. http://www.snowchains.co.uk/main/rentals_4x4.htm

HTH

[Maverik]

Hi Deborah,

Depends on where you live a little bit too, I live out in the sticks and I managed to get along with some low profile chains (this in on my front wheel drive ford focus) but I know a lot of people put proper winter tyres on and they found them very good. Athough you get more road noise when your not on the snow.

I'd certainly look into snow socks if its just the one off use or some slim chains.

Mav

[cackshifter]

Some Alpine places insist on your having chains; they can be a bit of a pain to put on and take off but are very effective.

Nigel