20 best winter tires

The tires of this brand are designed for the Russian winter and have practically no negative reviews, with the exception of acoustic characteristics. Like all studded tires, Nokian Tires Nordman 7 is very noisy, especially on asphalt. With proper running-in, the level of sound irritation decreases and becomes quite tolerable.In addition, the performance of this budget tire is on top (it is a complete analogue of the legendary Xakka 7). The rubber is very soft, and on a winter road it demonstrates excellent stability and handling.

The directional swept tread provides high steering sensitivity, and the anchor-type studs hold the car perfectly on ice. Operation in the off-season at positive temperatures is fraught with tearing out tubercles in front of steel rods (the so-called bear paws) due to too soft rubber. For the same reason, the tire has a somewhat weak sidewall, which is easily damaged by hitting a large pothole with sharp edges at speed. At the same time, tread wear due to composite components occurs rather slowly - even with intensive use, tires can last 4 or more seasons, and careful driving on bare asphalt will keep the studding of this rubber intact.

The tire manufacturer of this brand has direct access to the developments of the world leader Continental, which allowed the created products of the budget category to compete on equal terms with more expensive tires. Winter studded tires are designed for operation in harsh weather conditions and are perfect for most regions of our country. Having appeared on sale at the end of 2016, these tires instantly became popular with many owners. Unlike the previous model, NordFrost 200 has a directional asymmetric tread, reminiscent of one of the first ContiIceContact tires.

The reinforced outer part stabilizes the position of the tires in corners and improves directional stability on winter roads. The tread pattern also reduces hydroplaning, successfully removing a large amount of liquid or slush from the contact patch. In the reviews of the owners, spikes with several faces were awarded high ratings (outwardly they look like a truncated star). They literally "bite" into the ice, making handling and braking in difficult areas much more efficient than many competing analogues.

An ideal tire model for those who are looking for acceptable quality at a bargain price. Sava Eskimo STUD cannot be called a top tire, but this is exactly the rare case when pro tests reflect the true essence of the tested sample. Firstly, it is worth noting the external beauty - it is clear that the tread pattern was developed not without a creative look and creative thought. Secondly, good grip characteristics. Many car enthusiasts say that tires are equally good on dry, snowy and even icy surfaces. Moreover, there is a low percentage of stud loss, even after several seasons of use. Deformation is present, but losses are minimal.

In fact, on bare pavement the Sava Eskimo STUD does not behave as confidently, which is very different from driving on a winter road covered with snow - when braking, they literally slide due to the studded tread. In addition, the noise level leaves much to be desired, and it is almost impossible to get used to the constant hum. However, most owners in their reviews positively evaluate the performance of this rubber, and the affordable price more than compensates for the features of these tires.

Despite the initial skepticism of domestic motorists regarding the consumer characteristics of the Hankook Winter i * Pike RS, after the first experience of using the tires of this model, they almost always receive high marks.Their element is brushed, icy and slippery snow-covered roads, the passage of which is ensured by the presence of spikes and a large area of ​​contact between the wheel and the surface. On the other hand, a large number of sharp edges on the tread provides good flotation of loose deep snow, typical for off-road. Thus, the Hankook Winter i*Pike RS is a perfectly balanced and inexpensive tire suitable for both city roads and unpaved country roads.

Owner reviews indicate an excessive noise level, which increases with speed, but if the break-in is correct, acoustic vibrations will not be very annoying. At the same time, almost all users are satisfied with the behavior of rubber in winter conditions, and believe that tires are one of the most worthy in the budget segment. Along with excellent flotation, tires exhibit low rolling resistance (economical) and wear out less quickly than many expect. With a careful driving style, this car shoe will probably last 3-4 seasons, or even more.

The Michelin X-Ice North 4 didn't make it to the top of the list, but it deserves to be one of the best studded tires around.The performance characteristics of the tires are quite balanced, and, despite the studded tread, the rubber is practically silent during movement. Demonstrating predictable behavior on a winter road, last year's novelty is especially stable on ice and when driving in snow slush. Resistance to low temperatures has reached a new level - the glass transition of the rubber compound occurs at -65 ° C, which allows you to safely operate tires in the Far North.

Optimized tread and a record number of anti-slip studs (250!) provide the best grip on winter roads. The steel rods have a special design that duplicates the tips for rally tires, which ensures complete control on slippery surfaces. In addition, in their reviews, the owners pay attention to the high resistance to external factors (chemical stability to road reagents and resistance to shock loads). Deep sipes demonstrate the properties of Velcro tires and, together with the studs, create the most reliable grip on the road, which is crucial for winter conditions.

The recognized leader among studded tires, Pirelli Ice Zero, has absorbed all the best from previous enchanting models. Wide longitudinal and transverse grooves are designed specifically for the effective removal of snow and snow porridge, so the tires are not picky when driving on roads with such a surface. Thanks to the massive side blocks, the tires have good grip and are able to effectively get out of the rut.All this is ideal characteristics for driving on dirt roads and off-road, which clearly hints at the priority of using Ice Zero.

The only visible drawback is the rigidity of the rubber - largely because of this component, a lot of noise appears during movement, as well as a slight instability on clean, dry pavement. Despite this, drivers liked the immunity to possible external damage - hitting potholes with sharp edges at speed will not have fatal consequences for the tire. In addition, slow tread wear will allow Pirelli Ice Zero tires to be used for a long time, provided that the owner observes the rules for storing rubber in the off-season.

One of the best types of rubber for harsh winters. The Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic has been designed with the realities of Arctic weather in mind, which is reflected in its capabilities. The feeling of driving control is close to ideal, with no unpleasant surprises in the form of unforeseen drifts on either snowy or icy roads. The braking speed is also not bad - from 40 kilometers per hour the braking distance on bare ice is about 27-30 meters. Alas, on urban pavement, Ice Arctic does not behave as well as in off-road conditions. Handling is still stable, but in corners you have to steer to catch the balance and keep the car from a small skid.

Despite this, in the reviews of the owners there are quite a lot of positive ratings, which makes it possible to consider this winter tire as one of the best.The presence of composite impurities in the composition of raw materials used for the production of tires ensures a long service life that does not affect the degree of softness of tires at all. This characteristic repeatedly covers possible shortcomings, which, against the background of an openly dumping price, do not even have the slightest significance.

The undisputed market leader in studded winter tires impresses with its ability to keep the car on the road. Regardless of whether snow, ice or slush is under the wheels, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 9 tires provide the best handling and show the shortest braking distance on ice. The location of an additional row of spikes closer to the outer edge allows you to confidently enter turns - despite the fact that it is winter outside, the car on this rubber behaves in the same way as in summer.

Studded with two different types of steel tips, the directional tread has received a new pattern and demonstrates better directional stability. Until now, this technology has been used exclusively on sports tires and was not available to the average consumer. In the feedback, the owners express their sincere satisfaction with the new properties of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 9 rubber, which was able to demonstrate incredible performance on winter surfaces. In addition, the modern design of the spike seat provides a comfortable noise level. The use of the new raw material base Green ElastoProof guarantees that the rubber remains elastic at low temperatures and demonstrates high tear resistance.

Surprisingly, the Chinese studless Velcro tire has the most affordable price, while demonstrating the characteristics of more expensive European counterparts. Moreover, with an increase in the landing size, the difference in cost becomes simply huge and can reach several times. At the same time, judging by the reviews of the owners, Sailun Ice Blazer WSL2 demonstrates excellent handling on winter roads and effective braking on snow. Without spikes, behavior on ice is predictably dangerous, so for a driver who chooses the right speed mode, this will not be an unpleasant discovery.

While maintaining an affordable price, rubber manufacturers used the experience of leading European brands. An aggressive directional tread pattern with a clear separation of the shoulder zones provides stable behavior and informative steering, while the block architecture provides excellent acceleration dynamics. At the same time, the rubber mixture does not tan and retains its elasticity in severe frosts.

Budget friction tires from a Chinese manufacturer, used by both motorsport enthusiasts and ordinary warriors.Not to say that in terms of quality they are comparable to more well-known branded samples, but the performance is very good. First of all, it is worth noting durability. Tires quietly roll back two or three winter seasons, after which they safely go on a well-deserved rest.

They are harsh, which does not work very well during severe frosts - the rubber literally “dubes” and grip deteriorates. But down to -25 ° C, it feels good - you can’t ride sweepingly on ice, but on snowy and clean roads, handling is good. To sum up: Maxxis SP02 Arctic Trekker is a good and affordable tire model that can replace most branded tires without compromising the performance of the car. In addition, they are quite quiet and for urban conditions are considered one of the most attractive options among budget proposals.

A very popular set of tires, the production of which is spread over a vast territory. It is this fact that constitutes the main problem of this particular model. Russian motorists complain about the semblance of a game of "Russian roulette" - if you get the original, Japanese set, you are lucky. Otherwise, you should just hope for the best. Judging by the original, the Ice Guard IG30 combines excellent handling and cross-country performance on snowy sections of the tracks, as well as a comfortable ride in the city. On the ice, driving confidence does not arise, but scolding Velcro for this is the last thing.

Despite such erratic behavior in the reviews of the owners, the tire is mostly evaluated on the positive side. Not the last role in the popularity of rubber in the domestic market is played by an attractive price and low noise level, which is not the least important when operating in a city. In addition, Yokohama Ice Guard IG30 holds the winter road well at high speed and wears out slowly - with a careful driving style, it lasts more than 5-6 seasons (with proper storage).

Among the budget non-studded rubber Toyo Observe GSi-5 HP stands out for its high wear resistance and low noise level. Designed for harsh operating conditions, the tire performs well on icy or snowy roads, and in icy melted porridge or on wet asphalt it retains reliable grip. Confident maneuvering is ensured by a directional tread with many stiffening ribs, which provide excellent acceleration and braking dynamics in winter conditions.

The performance of these Velcro tires on ice has been to the liking of most owners. In their reviews, many also highlight excellent directional stability and short braking distances on slippery roads due to deep sipes made using different technologies. The alternation of soft and hard blocks in the tread pattern also favorably distinguishes the Toyo Observe GSi-5 HP tires, increasing the area of ​​​​rubber contact with the road when maneuvering.

Non-studded tires from a well-known manufacturer were not at the top of the rating only because of their price, which is a little lacking in democracy. The tires are ideal for winter driving, and despite being Velcro, they are effective both in the city and on the highway. Reliable grip in corners is provided by a pronounced shoulder area, made according to a block scheme, which, with increasing loads, uses more and more new tread blocks, increasing the contact area with the road.

The inner part of the working surface is responsible not only for directional stability, but also for efficient passage on loose snow. Here, the lamellae are much stiffer, and the evacuation channels are equipped with bridges that prevent sticking under excessive loads. In the reviews, the owners note excellent braking parameters on bare ice - a huge number of lamellas do their job, a little, of course, yielding to studded counterparts.

A unique friction tire featuring a tread configuration and a special rubber compound.Indeed, the Finnish company used a new tire material manufacturing technology - Nokian Cryo Crystall - the main innovation of which is the introduction of diamond-like hard crystals into the composition, which improves grip. This is especially well felt in icy conditions - the car confidently picks up speed and slows down, while not experiencing instability and without losing control. However, there is one factor that keeps consumers from buying these tires in sizes R 18 and larger - the high cost, which, however, is fully justified by production costs.

For mid-range car owners, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 does not stand out from its closest competitors, except for its performance. In the numerous reviews of drivers who have tested this rubber on ice, there is one remark - quickly getting used to reliable grip in winter, many users forget that the tires are not studded. As a result, there are overestimated requirements for braking distances on icy sections of roads, but this in no way applies to the disadvantages of rubber.

Inexpensive tires from a Japanese brand, ideal for driving in adverse weather conditions. The Bridgestone Blizzak Revo GZ delivers excellent performance on icy, snowy and muddy tracks. High driving efficiency largely depends on the number and size of grooves that drain snow and water from under the tire, as well as its microporosity.

The latter, along with the special, soft rubber compound, plays a very important role in the durability of the kit, since abrasion of the layer leads to the formation of new open pores. The high quality of workmanship is also supported by an attractive price for users. This is one of the best Velcro on the wide domestic market. Such quality and reliability have been appreciated by many owners. Almost unanimously in the reviews left, the Bridgestone Blizzak Revo GZ tires are considered the best choice. Efficient behavior on winter roads and long service life are a good reason for such a popular choice.

Goodyear's Ultra Grip tire line is not only famous for its great studded models. Ice 2 is a phenomenal Velcro that suits all weather conditions of the Russian winter. The strongest side of these tires is the urban roadway. Whether it's snowy, icy or perfectly dry, the Ice 2 feels great everywhere. Acceleration from snow "porridge" (worse only from ice) does not require much effort, as well as braking.

Tires perfectly hold the road, do not contribute to driving the car from side to side and the occurrence of unforeseen drifts. And in terms of noise, everything is also fine - soft rubber gives a large area of ​​​​contact with the asphalt surface, and therefore the noise is leveled to very small values. This feature and amazing handling, judging by the reviews, like the owners of Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice 2 rubber most of all.During operation in completely different conditions, including climatic ones, no obvious shortcomings were found in these tires.

Italian crossover Velcro tires are one of the quietest crossover tires, and are designed for warm winter or metropolitan conditions. The directional tread pattern, densely dotted with multidirectional sipe grooves, provides really good grip on loose snow, in slush, and even tries to stay on ice. The latter is quite feasible with the optimal choice of speed mode. A studless tread on bare pavement (a common thing for urban conditions in winter) behaves perfectly - it does not make noise and provides effective braking.

The owners, leaving reviews, are generally satisfied with the behavior of the Pirelli Scorpion Winter - the rubber is durable and, with careful operation, will last a long time without damage. As for driving performance, this is an excellent choice for the city or southern regions, with relatively warm European winters. For operation in conditions with "snowdrifts to the waist" it was not designed initially.

Despite the release of the updated model (Hakka 9), it is too early to write off this rubber. It is hardly possible to find more suitable "shoes" for a crossover, which is used exclusively for its intended purpose. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV tires have firmly taken the place of one of the best models for SUVs, and are unlikely to give up this title for a good few more years. There are many remarkable things about them. Firstly, the Nokian craftsmen rethought the concept of the stud, carefully redesigning the flange and placing a so-called “cushion” under it, due to which the base of the stud is completely immersed in the rubber profile, leaving only the central composite rod on the surface.

Secondly, they changed the composition of the rubber, made it rougher to provide better grip on ice and snow. All this splendor has a decent price, but it's worth it to buy it. Wear resistance and low noise levels (a surprising feature for studded tires) have provided additional benefits that SUV owners are not the least looking for. Despite the high cost, users who have tested rubber in practice declare with confidence that these tires are worth their money.

The inexpensive Dunlop Grandtrek Ice02 tires have earned exceptionally high ratings from users. This attribute of SUVs is ideally suited to fulfill the role assigned to them, for which it is worth paying tribute to the Japanese manufacturer.Wide grooves and massive diamond-shaped blocks provide excellent snow removal from under the wheel, and reinforced studs perfectly cut into ice, which increases the tenacity and control of the car on straight sections of roads.

The central part of the tread, made in the form of alternately changing wedges, is responsible for smooth entry into turns. The only significant drawback of the model is the noise inherent, however, in all studded tires. The owners are impressed by the effective grip with any winter surface. In reviews, Dunlop Grandtrek Ice02 is deservedly considered by many to be one of the best studded crossover tires that allows you to enjoy high-speed driving on winter roads.

Surprising fact: the friction tire (Velcro) from the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 has one of the best braking performance on flat snowy surfaces. Moreover, it confidently keeps the trajectory on an icy track, does not wag and deviates very slightly from a given direction even during fast acceleration. This is facilitated by the original "two-section" tread pattern, conditionally divided into central and lateral parts, separated from each other by wide radial grooves.The chevron run of the side blocks provides an already good removal of snow and moisture from the contact zone, and the chaotic position of those in the center has a positive effect on the stability of SUVs when cornering.

Low cost and good performance make this tire model a profitable purchase. In addition, the tread feature demonstrates good flotation on difficult sections of the road.Many owners are attracted by the high strength of the sidewall and slow wear - the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 has long served the owners of SUVs. The qualities listed above, judging by the reviews, are considered the most outstanding characteristics of these tires, which practically do not have any weaknesses.