Reduction element for tyre chain and tyre chain

The shortening element has one receptacle that immovably fastens the track chain strands (6) in a blocking position (32) relative to each other in longitudinal direction. A locking slot (18) accommodates the track chain strand in the blocking position. A passage opening (24) allows one track chain strand to move relative to another track chain strand in the longitudinal direction (17). An independent claim is included for tire chain.