Navigating the icy, snow-laden roads of winter requires the right set of wheels. As such, we’ve brought in experts to review and test various products to compile this list of winter tires.
Not just any tires will do when driving in these challenging conditions; you need the best snow tires.
Through rigorous evaluations, our experts have identified the top-rated options that have proven their worth in the toughest winter weather. We also discuss studded vs. studless tires and what types of tires you’ll need for deep snow.
Table of Contents
Best Snow Tires
Before diving into our comprehensive list of the best snow tires, we want to make sure you choose the perfect set for your vehicle. We’ve researched and tested various options to bring you the top performers in terms of safety, traction, and durability.
Above is our easy-to-view list of the best winter tires. We discuss each one in more detail below.
MICHELIN X-Ice Snow Car Tire
The MICHELIN X-Ice Snow tire is a reliable and long-lasting option for SUVs, crossovers, and passenger cars in winter conditions.
Pros
- Excellent braking on ice
- Long-lasting tread life
- Improved resistance to aquaplaning
Cons
- It may be less budget-friendly
- Heavier than some competing tires
- Limited to 40,000-mile warranty
We recently used the MICHELIN X-Ice snow tire on our SUV during harsh winter conditions. We immediately noticed the impressive performance in terms of braking on ice and navigating through deep snow. The Flex-Ice 2.0 compound, in combination with the EverWinterGrip rubber inclusion technology, ensured safety and traction even in the most challenging situations.
The longevity of this tire is exceptional, thanks in part to the full-depth sipes on the tread pattern. This tire can last a few winters with proper care and maintenance, consistently providing improved snow grip. Additionally, the wider transversal grooves on the V-shaped tread pattern design enhanced the tire’s resistance to aquaplaning and improved slush performance, keeping our vehicle more stable on wet and slippery roads.
One drawback we faced was the relatively higher price point compared to some alternatives and the tire’s heavier weight. This may affect performance for certain vehicles, but it was manageable and didn’t deter from our overall satisfaction with the MICHELIN X-Ice Snow tire. The 40,000-mile manufacturer’s treadwear limited warranty and 6-year standard limited warranty provided peace of mind, although we would have preferred a longer coverage period.
In conclusion, the MICHELIN X-Ice Snow tire is a solid choice for those seeking improved safety, traction, and longevity for their SUVs, crossovers, and passenger cars during winter. Despite its cons, the tire’s overall performance, durability, and excellent grip on snow and ice make it a worthy investment for those who frequently drive in harsh winter conditions.
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 Winter/Snow SUV Tire
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is an ideal purchase for drivers seeking reliable performance and improved grip on winter roads in CUVs, SUVs, and light trucks.
Pros
- Confident stopping power on snow and ice
- Reliable handling in winter conditions
- Impressive traction on ice with bite particles
Cons
- Higher-end price range
- Not ideal for warmer temperatures
- Might receive older stock
We recently equipped our SUV with the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 winter tires, and we’re highly impressed with its performance on the snow and ice. The braking and handling of our vehicle have significantly improved during harsh winter conditions, thanks to the tire’s next-generation Multi-Cell compound that effectively removes water from the ice’s surface.
In terms of traction, the Blizzak DM-V2 has a newly designed tread pattern with 15% more block edges. This feature increases the tire’s snow-shearing force, providing a better grip on roads covered in snow and slush. We also appreciate the uniform pressure dispersion in the tire’s contact patch, giving it enhanced grip and overall stability on slippery surfaces.
We must note that the Blizzak DM-V2 is priced higher compared to other winter tires, but the reliable performance and safety it provides justifies the investment. However, these tires can be less effective in warmer temperatures, so it might be a good idea to switch back to all-season tires once the winter season is over. One downside is you might receive older stock when purchasing, so be sure to check the manufacture date. Overall, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 winter tire offers excellent performance and safety on winter roads and is a highly recommended choice for those willing to invest in their driving experience during the snowy season.
Firestone Winterforce 2 Studdable Winter/Snow Tire
The Firestone Winterforce 2 is a reliable winter tire option, perfect for driving confidently through cold weather conditions.
Pros
- Excellent grip on snowy and icy roads
- 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake designation
- Long-lasting performance
Cons
- Optional studs can be loud on dry roads
- Not ideal for all-season use
- It may not be suitable for some larger vehicles
Having just used the Firestone Winterforce 2 Studdable Winter/Snow Tire on our car, we can vouch for its impressive performance in challenging winter conditions. The superior grip provided by this tire has made our drives through snow and ice much safer and more enjoyable.
The Winterforce 2 boasts the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake designation, which certifies its suitability for harsh winter environments. The specialized cold-weather compound, open shoulder slots, and tread design ensure excellent traction on slippery surfaces. Moreover, this tire maintains long-lasting performance due to its full-depth tread features.
However, the optional studs that can be added for increased grip can be quite noisy on dry roads, creating a slight disturbance. Additionally, this tire is not designed for all-season use; it’s best suited for winter months where its unique performance capabilities truly shine. Lastly, the Firestone Winterforce 2 is built for coupes, sedans, wagons, and minivans, which means it may not be compatible with larger vehicles.
In conclusion, the Firestone Winterforce 2 Studdable Winter/Snow Tire provides great value for its price, especially for those residing in colder climates. With its exceptional winter performance and long-lasting design, we highly recommend these tires to add another layer of safety and control to your winter driving experience.
NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire
The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 is a reliable option for those seeking a studdable winter tire to enhance traction in icy and snowy conditions.
Pros
- Studdable for improved ice and snow traction
- Excellent performance on various winter road surfaces
- Unique 3D kerf technology for better snow performance
Cons
- Studs not included require separate purchase
- Thinner sidewalls than some competitors
- Some users report tire appears narrow when unmounted
Our experience with the NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 truly showcased its ability to perform at a high level during wintertime conditions. We were particularly impressed with the studdable design that allowed us to further enhance traction on icy roads, making for a safer and more reassuring driving experience.
The unique NEXEN 3D kerf technology and star-shaped design around the stud pin contribute to the tire’s performance on snow, effectively dispersing ice powders and increasing the contact surface on the road. In our tests, we noticed a significant improvement in handling on snowy and wet surfaces, and the tire provided reassuring control on both sedans and SUVs.
While we appreciate the performance capabilities of the Winguard Winspike 3, some users have reported that the sidewalls of the tire are relatively thin compared to others, and the tire can appear narrower when unmounted. Despite these minor issues, the overall value and performance of this winter tire outweigh these drawbacks.
In conclusion, the NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 is a solid choice for individuals seeking a high-performance winter tire for their vehicle. With its studdable design, excellent grip on snowy and icy roads, and unique 3D kerf technology, it provides a confident and secure driving experience during the winter months.
General Altimax Arctic 12 Studable-Winter Radial Tire
These tires offer exceptional grip and performance in extreme winter conditions, ideal for those seeking reliable and safe driving during the coldest months.
Pros
- Outstanding grip on snow and ice
- Durable and long-lasting
- Impressive load capacity and universal fit
Cons
- Relatively high up-front cost
- Limited to winter use only
- Can be noisy on dry roads
We recently tried out the General Altimax Arctic 12 Studable-Winter Radial Tires on our vehicle and were thoroughly impressed with their performance in snowy and icy conditions. These tires are specially designed with winter sipes that reduce squirm and block deformation, ensuring a secure grip even on slippery roads. They are also made with German quality that provides durability and a long-lasting product.
The load capacity of these tires is 1654 pounds, which is quite remarkable in comparison to other snow tires available on the market. Additionally, the universal fit of these tires means we had no trouble installing them on our car, making them a versatile choice for a variety of vehicles.
One downside to consider is the initial cost of these tires, which may be higher than other options. However, their durability and performance make them a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize safety and reliable performance during the harshest winter months.
It’s important to note that these tires are specifically designed for winter use and may not perform optimally on dry roads or during warmer months. Additionally, some drivers might find the tires to be noisy on dry roads. Despite these drawbacks, we strongly believe that these tires are an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and safe solution during the winter months.
In summary, the General Altimax Arctic 12 Studable-Winter Radial Tires are a top choice for those in need of dependable and high-performing snow tires. Their exceptional grip, durability, and impressive load capacity make them a valuable investment for anyone prioritizing safety during those cold, wintry months.
Buying Guide
Consider the Climate
When choosing the best snow tires for your needs, it’s essential to consider the climate you’ll be driving in. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall and icy conditions, you’ll want a tire that can perform well in extreme conditions. On the other hand, if you live in an area with milder winters, a more versatile tire may be suitable.
Look at the Tread Design
The tread design plays a crucial role in the tire’s ability to grip the snow and ice. Look for tires with deep, aggressive treads that can dig into the snow and provide excellent traction. Additionally, many specialized snow tires have zigzagging tread patterns or siping to increase the contact surface area and improve grip on slippery surfaces.
Rubber Compound
Another essential factor in choosing the best snow tire is the rubber compound used in the tire’s construction. Tires designed for winter use typically feature softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures, allowing them to maintain better traction when the temperature drops. In contrast, all-season tires may become stiffer in cold weather, leading to decreased grip and handling.
Studs or Studless
When considering snow tires, you’ll come across two main types: studded and studless. Studded winter tires have small metal protrusions in the tread to provide extra grip on ice. Though they can be very effective, these types of tires can be noisy and may damage the road surface. For this reason, many states have restrictions on studded tires or ban them entirely.
Studless winter tires, on the other hand, rely on advanced rubber compounds and innovative tread designs to provide optimum traction on snow and ice. They tend to be quieter and more comfortable to ride on than studded tires and are unrestricted in use. However, their performance on glazed ice may not be as strong as studded tires.
Tire Size and Load Capacity
Be sure to select a tire that is compatible with your vehicle’s manufacturer-recommended tire size and load capacity. This information can typically be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the driver’s side doorjamb. Choosing a tire that meets these specifications ensures you’ll achieve the best performance and safety for your vehicle.
By keeping these factors in mind, we can make an informed decision regarding the best snow tires for our needs, ensuring enhanced performance, safety, and peace of mind during the winter driving season.
Should I Get 2 or 4 Snow Tires?
When considering snow tires, we often face the dilemma of choosing between equipping just two or all four winter tires. We might think that installing only two snow tires on our vehicle can save us money. However, in this case, it is crucial to understand the safety implications of these choices.
Having four snow tires provides consistent traction and control throughout the vehicle. It ensures that all tires react similarly to road conditions, giving us confidence during icy and snowy situations. In contrast, using two snow tires might create an imbalance between the front and back tires, resulting in the potential for oversteering or understeering. This can compromise the stability of our car during winter driving conditions.
Furthermore, the type of vehicle we own can also impact this decision. For front-wheel-drive vehicles, installing two snow tires on the front is better than not having any at all, as it provides better traction and steering. However, this setup may also lead to oversteering. On the other hand, for rear-wheel-drive vehicles, two snow tires on the rear will offer better traction, but steering and braking might still be compromised.
Here is a simple comparison:
| Advantages | Two Snow Tires | Four Snow Tires |
|---|---|---|
| Traction | Limited | Better |
| Control | Limited | Improved |
| Stability | Partial | Optimal |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
To sum up, while using only two snow tires can save us money, we highly recommend installing a full set of four snow tires to ensure the best safety and performance during winter driving conditions. This will provide adequate traction and control, allowing us to handle various road situations with confidence.
