Skip to main content

Oregon State Flag An official website of the State of Oregon »

Oregon.gov Homepage

Traction Tires


Key Takeaways

  • Because studded tires damage pavement, ODOT encourages drivers to use chains or non-studded traction tires.
  • Make sure you are following applicable laws if you use studded tires and always follow chain requirements.
  • If you use chains, make sure you check your vehicle’s owners manual for the right option for your car.

traction tire symbol

Graphics and Resources

You Have Options

Need traction for your vehicle this winter? Tires that meet Rubber Manufacturers Association standards for use in severe snow conditions carry a special symbol on the tire sidewall: a three-peaked mountain and snowflake. Remember to check TripCheck.com before you head out to see the latest conditions and chain requirements. 

Here are your options and things to consider: 

Chains 

  • Chains are more effective than studded tires and are now easier to use. 
  • Check your vehicle’s owner manual to find out what is recommended for your vehicle.  

Fabric alternatives to chains 

  • If your vehicle cannot be fitted with tire chains, one potential option is “snow socks” that slip over your tires.  
  • These provide temporary traction to get out of snow and are only intended for short stretches of road. 

Other traction tires 

  • Traction tires provide increased traction in winter conditions over regular all-weather tires.
  • They work about as well as studded tires on ice, but work better than studded tires or regular tires in most other winter conditions.  
  • Traction tires cause no more damage to road surfaces than regular tires. 

Studded tires 

  • Studded tires are winter tires with small metal spikes embedded in the tread to provide extra traction on ice and snow.  
  • You can use studded tires in Oregon from Nov. 1 through March 31. Driving with studded tires before Nov. 1 or after March 31 carries a fine of nearly $200.  
  • Studded tires are more effective than all-weather tires on icy roads. But they are less effective in most other conditions because they may reduce traction between the road and the tire. 
  • Studies show that studded tires damage roads causing holes and ruts that can create icy patches and that damage requires more frequent repaving to fix holes and ruts.