Choosing well

Tire chain pattern comparison

The link pattern changes everything: traction, ride comfort and wear. Here is what separates our five models, and why you would pick one over another.

The principle

2-link or 4-link spacing: what the number means

On a ladder-style chain, the number is how many side links sit between two cross bars — the bar that runs over the tire. Fewer links between bars means more bars on the ground.

Twice as many bars on the ground

2-link spacing

Near-continuous contact with the ground, so traction stays steady.
Less jolting for the operator: the ride stays smooth.
The right compromise for packed snow, ice and heavy mud.

One cross bar every four links

4-link spacing

Lighter and cheaper, so easier to handle and to fit.
The bars sink between large lugs and bite into soft ground.
Rougher ride on hard roads: the wheel drops between the bars.

The five patterns

Structure and behaviour of each chain

The same pattern will not suit an ATV on sheer ice and a forklift on concrete. Here is what each model brings.

ATV

Structure: Fine 5.5 to 6 mm links, with steel studs welded directly onto every link.
On the ground: Extreme grip on sheer ice and hard frozen surfaces. Made for ATVs, side-by-sides and small off-road machines.

Diamond

Structure: A continuous web of crossed diamonds over the whole tread.
On the ground: The links stay on top of the tread at all times, so the chain does not sink between the lugs of large tires. Excellent sideways hold on a slope, which stops the machine sliding sideways.

2-link spacing

Structure: One cross bar every 2 side links — twice as many cross bars as the 4-link version.
On the ground: Near-continuous contact with the ground: steady traction in packed snow, ice and heavy mud, with a smoother ride and less jolting for the operator.

TRYGG Hélène

Structure: A supple diamond mesh with flat-welded wear bars instead of pointed studs, to protect hard floors.
On the ground: Built for handling and easy adjustment on material-handling machines — forklifts, loaders — working on concrete, asphalt or snow.

4-link spacing

Structure: One cross bar every 4 side links — half as many cross bars as the 2-link version.
On the ground: Lighter, easier to handle and cheaper. The cross bars sink further between large lugs and bite into soft ground, but there are fewer contact points and the ride is rougher on hard roads.

Still torn between two patterns?

Give us your machine, your tire sizes and the ground you work on. We will recommend the right pattern, and what it costs.

Monday to Friday : 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. · Saturday : 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.