Snow sock recommendations?

California likes to require chains on bare pavement. I don't know if they are legal in California but if they are they would not be a good idea.

 

Yeah, it drops a few flakes and its chain up time in the Peoples republik of Kalifornia!

 

Save your money, buy chains.

 

Socks hit anything but compacted snow and they are obliterated.
Just get chains and if you don't know how to put them on... it's pretty easy.

Go to You Tube and watch any of the numerous vids on the subject.

Then... PRACTICE putting them on in the daylight when it's dry and warm and there is nobody buzzing past you roadside while you apply the drivers side.
You'll be so happy that you're comfy with the process when its time to do the deed. It seldom happens in the daytime. Its at night.. its cold... its wet.
Watch your weather forecast and don't go driving into Hells Fury when you can sit it out. You said you've not much experience up here, and there's no shame in that. Get it gradually.

If you get into a pinch, there are normally Chain Monkeys that will put your chains on for you for a price at the chain up stations.

Don't forget bungee cords or spiders.

 

Don't forget a headlamp so you aren't trying to work without light or sucking on your flashlight for 45 minutes.