Best Traction Agents to Use in 2022

We’re all looking for ways to improve our time in the snow. Often we use the best ice melt for concrete to deal with snow and ice, but traction agents do a perfect job when you have to access your driveway instantly. In this article, we will evaluate 5 traction agents and discuss which one you should use. We will also discuss if using the best cat litter for traction works.

Traction Magic

Traction Magic is a traction aid that is available in a variety of sizes. It’s made from natural minerals. Traction Magic can be applied to tires and driveways on the ground or on your shoes to help you walk on snow and ice without slipping.

Traction Magic contains no harmful chemicals or additives, making it environmentally friendly and biodegradable. It will not harm the environment once it breaks down after application, so you don’t need to worry about leaving any harmful chemicals behind when using this product!

Kitty Litter

Kitty litter is one of the most common traction aids on the market, and it’s made from clay, a type of soil that acts as an absorbent in many products. Its low price makes it attractive to drivers looking for a cheap solution to slippery conditions. They think using the best cat litter for traction will solve their problems.  But be wary: kitty litter can harm your car if not handled properly. Never use it in wet weather or on roadways with high traffic volume. Additionally, many brands contain harmful chemicals that may harm you or your vehicle.

Sand

Sand, a common traction aid for winter driving, can be more effective than kitty litter and has the advantage of not being messy. However, sand does not compare to Traction Magic when it comes to providing the best grip on ice. If you decide to use sand as your traction aid, remember that it will need to be spread out before you start driving so that it doesn’t get into your wheels or under your car’s engine compartment and cause damage.

Eco Traction

EcoTraction is another traction agent in the market. It prevents slipping and falling on concrete and asphalt and claims to be safe for children and pets. 

However, there are some disadvantages to using EcoTraction: 

• it doesn’t last long enough compared to other products; 
• it can be hard to apply evenly, and 
• some users say- it doesn’t provide enough traction when used on snow-packed surfaces. 

So you’ll need to apply more than you would with other products.

Anti-Skid Gravel

Anti-skid gravel is a traction aid for snow and ice. It’s an inexpensive alternative to snow tires and is better than sand or kitty litter for traction.

As with all products, there are some drawbacks. Anti-skid gravel can get messy if you don’t use it properly since it’s designed to be spread out on the road before you drive over it. Also, it might scratch your car’s finish if you aren’t careful while spreading it out over your driveway or parking space.

Best Traction Agents and the Threat of Black Ice After Snow

One critical moment when traction agents prove their worth is immediately after snowfall, when temperatures drop and melted snow refreezes into black ice after snow. This thin, nearly invisible layer is treacherous—it looks just like wet pavement but is deceptively slippery. Unlike regular snow you can see and avoid, black ice blends with the road surface, catching drivers and pedestrians off guard. That’s where having the best traction agents on hand becomes not just helpful but essential.

Now, what is black ice on roads exactly? It’s a clear coating of ice that forms when snowmelt refreezes, typically overnight or in early morning hours. It’s most common on shaded road sections, bridges, or underpasses. Many people aren’t prepared for how slick and fast it forms—making fast-acting traction agents like Traction Magic a literal lifesaver. Whether you’re trying to walk to your mailbox or get your car out of a sloped driveway, applying a traction product can instantly stabilize the ground beneath you.

What to Do When You Hit Black Ice After Snow and Lose Traction on Ice

Every winter driver asks the same panicked question: what to do when you hit black ice? First, don’t slam your brakes—ease off the gas, keep your steering wheel straight, and let the vehicle slow down naturally. Once you’ve regained control or if you’re already stopped, applying a traction agent around your tires can get you moving again. If you’re wondering what to do if you lose traction on ice, the answer often lies in preparation. Keeping a bag of the best traction agent in your trunk allows you to respond instantly and safely, without waiting for tow trucks or resorting to ineffective alternatives like kitty litter or sand.

Also, it’s good to remember that black ice tends to strike during very specific time windows. What time of day does black ice occur? Usually right before sunrise or in the early evening after the sun dips low. Knowing this pattern can help you stay ahead by applying traction agents during these risk windows—before stepping out or hitting the road.

Conclusion: Traction Agents + Timing = Winter Survival

As covered earlier, traction agents like ice Traction Magic outperform kitty litter, sand, or gravel not just in grip, but also in safety and convenience. Adding this deeper understanding of black ice after snow and knowing what to do when you hit black ice empowers you to take proactive steps instead of reactive ones. Keep a trusted traction aid handy and be alert during critical black ice windows. It’s not just about driving—it’s about stepping out, walking safely, and getting through winter without slips, panic, or costly mistakes.

Other Ice Melt Products

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