Rating of the 30 best winter tires: for passenger cars and SUVs, studded and Velcro

In winter, the conditions for the movement of cars are especially dangerous. Snow, ice, slush - all these are completely different road surfaces that require a special approach. Rubber manufacturers are trying to best combine in their products the cross-country ability, the quality of adhesion to the road surface, resistance to aquaplaning and other qualities. However, not everyone can achieve a balance between the listed properties. The rating of winter tires will help you choose the optimal rubber for a passenger car and an SUV, as well as describe the highest quality studded models and Velcro.

Best Studded Winter Tires

Studs give the car better grip on the road, preventing skidding and skidding when stopping. They are especially effective on ice and heavily packed snow. Their disadvantages include a relatively high noise level and increased rigidity when driving on asphalt.

The studded rubber rating includes the following tire models from well-known manufacturers:

Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta 9

This is the highest quality winter tires with a double row of studs. In the center there are studs made of a durable metal alloy (contribute to quick acceleration and deceleration). A slight bevel in their location helps to reduce the noise level when driving on asphalt. Side cleats significantly improve handling. The rubber is based on a proprietary compound with the addition of rapeseed oil and bioplasticizers, which helps to maintain elasticity during frost. Tires are moderately soft: the car runs smoothly, and they also provide good swivel stability, controllability and maintain durability.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	215-315
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65
Diameter	R13-22
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	530…1250

Review: “Keeps track clearly, does not feel the track at all. Controllability is absolutely predictable. "

Pirelli ice zero

One of the most popular models of winter wheels from the Italian manufacturer with the perfect balance between price and quality. The solution is focused on the harsh northern winters, including models with RunFlat available. The love for this rubber is due to predictable and completely controllable behavior on snow, ice and asphalt. The braking distance is really short, and some more expensive analogs can envy the directional stability. Its disadvantage is a high noise level even at a speed of 40-50 km / h, and at 100 km / h the hum becomes intrusive. It is also worth considering that these are soft tires that can be easily damaged at freezing temperatures.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-315
Profile height	35, 45, 55, 65
Diameter	R13-21
Maximum speed index	H / T
Maximum load, kg	475…1285

Review: “I liked this rubber for a passenger car. Why? First, for the balance of price and quality. Secondly, for predictable behavior on snow, ice and asphalt - this is exactly what you expect from a winter spike. "

Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000S

Bridgestone tires have rightfully become popular and have earned a place in the TOP for cars with wheel diameters R13, R14, R15 and R16.It has a directional tread pattern, so the rubber does not experience stability problems, there is no side drift. They are in demand because of their decent wear resistance; only a couple of studs can fall out during the season, even with occasional driving on clean asphalt. It features a strong and durable sidewall. The car on this rubber will confidently keep on the road even on ice.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-275
Profile height	50, 55, 60, 70
Diameter	R14-20
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	475…1000

Testimonial: “The quality is immediately visible: it is ideally controlled and balanced. I put it on and enjoy it. Gone are the constant slippage. For 2 seasons I have lost only 1 thorn ”.

Yokohama Ice Guard IG55

Decent winter studded tires can be considered one of the best for ice riding. It has a directional pattern and deep slats, so there are no problems with water drainage. Shows itself positively on ice and slush. However, its weak side is driving on clean asphalt, in which case the braking distance turns out to be relatively long. In terms of handling on ice, it is one of the best options for the money.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	185-295
Profile height	30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R13-22
Maximum speed index	Q / T
Maximum load, kg	475…1360

Review: “The behavior on the snow and on the ice is wonderful! The thorns really didn’t fall out, even though I mainly drive on asphalt (urban Russian winter) ”.

Nokian Tires Nordman 5

The most affordable studded tires worthy of the attention of motorists. These are the best inexpensive tires for budget and mid-range cars. They hold the road perfectly, and a car with such tires does not prowl in a rut. Rides through the snow, too, quite confidently, without hints of aquaplaning or demolition. Like the rest of the spike, there is noise, but it only increases when accelerating to 100 km / h. Differs in low rolling resistance, so the consumption is practically the same as driving on summer tires. However, bare asphalt is not their element, they slow down worse than we would like.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	155-275
Profile height	45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R13-18
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	387…1180

Review: “When driving around the city, the tires do not fail. Offers excellent grip on snow, ice and even porridge. Consider her quiet for spiking. During the winter, the thorns were practically not lost. "

The best winter tires without studs

The best winter tires without studs, popularly "Velcro", are less noisy and have good running parameters on snow, road porridge and bare asphalt. However, they are worse on ice and this is their main drawback.

Winter tire rating 2020:

Yokohama Ice Guard IG60

The product from a well-known Japanese company is aimed at passenger cars. This rubber version combines the best qualities of the entire family. The model received a 15% longer useful life, reduced rolling resistance by 14% and reduced braking distance by 5%. The noise level has dropped by a quarter. Even without studs, the rubber offers sufficient stability for comfortable riding on icy or snowy roads.Differs in good cross-country ability, directional and rotational stability, high braking speed.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	185-285
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 60
Diameter	R13-20
Maximum speed index	Q
Maximum load, kg	325…900

Feedback: “I think these are good tires, especially for Moscow. I can advise for snowy roads without ice. "

MICHELIN Alpin 5

Perhaps the best winter tire for those who love fast driving and require maximum responsiveness from the car, even with minimal steering deflections. The tread pattern with a large number of grooves protects the car from aquaplaning and copes with the removal of snow, preventing strong clogging of the sipes. The special composition of the compound shows itself perfectly at subzero temperatures, does not become too tough, but it also does not "flow" into the thaw (the machine maintains directional stability and reaction rate).

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-315
Profile height	30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55
Diameter	R16-22
Maximum speed index	H / T / V
Maximum load, kg	462…1120

Review: "Good rubber for the mild Moscow winter, but during the snowfall period I got stuck on it several times."

Bridgestone Blizzak Revo

It is worth buying this rubber for urban driving conditions, as it can have problems with the removal of high snow. The strengths of the tires include: short braking distances, high-quality grip (no slipping even during acceleration), confident handling. On wet pavement, it feels great: responsive, quiet and generally accepted. The rubber is notable for wear resistance, even on poor asphalt it runs relatively smoothly and smoothly. True, at freezing temperatures it begins to soften a little, creating a feeling of flat tires.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-275
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70
Diameter	R13-19
Maximum speed index	Q / R (up to 170 km / h) / S (up to 180 km / h)
Maximum load, kg	475…1030

Review: “When accelerating quickly on dry and wet asphalt, there is a slight whistling noise, but I even like it. Driving performance for the city is in perfect order. "

Viatti Brina V-521

Another representative of the rating of urban winter tires, which is ideal for people who live in the metropolis and rarely leave it. The model provides decent driving conditions with the usual comfort both on snowy, bare road and in slush. True, on dry and wet asphalt, they show low stability and braking distances, but on snow they are among the leading tires according to the test results. On ice, too, behave quite predictably, keeping the car responsive to steering movements.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-255
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80
Diameter	R13-18
Maximum speed index	Q / R (up to 170 km / h) / T
Maximum load, kg	475…1030

Review: “I am completely satisfied with the rubber. In the snow it goes as it should, gets out of the snowdrifts without problems. On the ice, of course, not as on the thorns, but there were no problems pah-pah. Our roads are cleaned very badly, but the rubber copes. A good manufacturer, it suits me. "

Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV

Good tires for harsh winters that target SUVs and crossovers. It received all the best qualities of a similar passenger car tire (without SUV identifier). It has an aggressive symmetrical pattern. Thanks to the crystalline parts in the rubber compound, the tires are optimized for rigidity. A sufficient number of sipes will protect against aquaplaning, and the tires are resistant to slashing. Suitable for all winter driving conditions.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	185-295
Profile height	30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R14-21
Maximum speed index	R (up to 170 km / h)
Maximum load, kg	530…1360

Review: "This is the quietest rubber I've ever ridden." Holds confidently on wet asphalt, especially on wet and even packed snow. "

Best inexpensive winter tires

You can't sacrifice safety when buying winter tires, even on a tight budget. Having a small amount for the purchase of tires, it is worth choosing manufacturers of a more affordable price category. Some of them can be compared with more expensive counterparts, providing sufficient safety in use.

Best inexpensive winter tires:

KAMA Kama-505

Before us is a budget studded tire for small cars with a rim diameter of R13-R15. Her thorns are scattered so that there are always several of them in the contact patch. Thus, the rubber not only holds well on the road in snow and ice, but also does not create too much noise. Easily transfers slush, which is facilitated by an extensive network of lamellas for instant water drainage. Its sidewall is quite strong. In general, the tires row well even in deep snow. The quality of the fit of the studs is normal, but if used carelessly, many of them fly out.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175, 185, 195
Profile height	60, 65, 70
Diameter	R13-15
Maximum speed index	Q / T
Maximum load, kg	462…615

Testimonial: “Rubber is very comfortable to use, honestly nurses the allotted time without losing the quality of grip for three winters. Many positive qualities for a small price. "

Belshina Artmotion Snow

Tires from the Belarusian manufacturer are distinguished by an attractive combination of price and quality. According to the test results, the rubber showed average and low values ​​in comparison with premium models, while being slightly inferior to competitors. The tires did not receive studs, which is why they behave somewhat imposingly on ice, but on snow, asphalt it drives perfectly, fully working out its price. The rubber slows down quickly, does not create noise, is moderately elastic and durable, perfectly paddles through snowdrifts. True, it is more suitable for city driving and a relaxed driving style.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-225
Profile height	55, 60, 65, 70
Diameter	R13-16
Maximum speed index	H / T
Maximum load, kg	475…775

Review: “If you don’t have extra money and even if you have it, feel free to buy, the quality of rubber is at a height, compared to Pirelli, Belshina is better”.

Cordiant Snow Cross

One of the most popular and affordable car tires on spikes that are suitable for Russian winters. They have high grip on ice, aided by lightweight and durable Spike-Cor studs. Inside the aluminum housing is an 8-sided tungsten carbide carbide core. The spines are located in such a way that about 10 claws are always located in the contact patch. All this made it possible to make a short braking distance and a high-spirited start. During braking and movement, the car drives smoothly and predictably without skidding and slipping, even on virgin soil.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-265
Profile height	45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70
Diameter	R13-18
Maximum speed index	Q / T
Maximum load, kg	387…1250

Review: “2 winters on this rubber. Delightful !!! Plus one long trip in the spring on the asphalt 140 km / h. (makes noise, but does not deafen) ".

Yokohama Ice Guard IG50

One of the most popular Velcro is presented in a large assortment of sizes and received an asymmetric pattern. The tires are perfect for city residents who rarely travel outside the metropolis: the maximum speed is 160 km / h. The rubber is soft, literally swallows bumps in the road, and also quiet even when compared with analogues without spikes. The increased elasticity of tires affects the lubricated response when driving, and it is also sensitive to breakdowns when driving on flat wheels.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	135-265
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80
Diameter	R12-19
Maximum speed index	Q
Maximum load, kg	315…900

Review: “I put four of these wheels on Grant. They have good directional stability, excellent softness, and ride quietly. I also liked the low rolling resistance. "

Gislaved Nord Frost 200

This is not the most affordable, but still high quality and quite inexpensive winter tires with spikes. It produces noise that most owners describe as moderate. Thanks to the deep tread, the rubber quickly wicks moisture away from the contact heel, and the rather sharp edges on the outer shoulder contribute to good handling at any speed. It uses Tri-Star studs for excellent grip and quiet on asphalt. In general, tires are soft, so the risk of damage is worth considering.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	155-245
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80
Diameter	R13-20
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	387…1250

Testimonial: “Very quiet for the spike. Before that there was Michelin Ace 2 spikes. These win in all respects. However, in winter, the driving style must be CAREFUL. If a fool, no wheels will help. "

The best premium winter tires

World-famous manufacturers regularly release flagship car tires, which are the best product of the company at the moment.They have the highest driving characteristics, but they are also quite expensive.

The best premium winter tires are:

Hankook Tire Winter I * Cept Evo 2

This is a high-performance tire from a well-known manufacturer, which allows you to travel with sufficient comfort even at high speed on a winter road. Thanks to the special tread pattern, the rubber is practically impervious to aquaplaning both on a wet track and on a road with snow slurry. The tires are remarkable for their excellent maneuverability at any speed. The only weak feature of rubber can be called cross-country ability, the tires do not row in the snow in the best way. All other types of coatings are "tough" for them, while the noise level while driving is similar to summer counterparts.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	195-295
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70
Diameter	R15-22
Maximum speed index	H / T / V / W
Maximum load, kg	545…1250

Review: "In general, while the rubber is satisfied, the weather is -2, -5 warm, it can row on the snow perfectly, on the asphalt it is super, but the ice has not yet been found."

MICHELIN Latitude X-Ice 2

High-quality, but quite expensive winter tires are specially designed for cars that need increased cross-country ability even in severe winters and poor quality road surfaces. Even without studs, they grip slippery roads well, providing a short braking distance. However, first of all, they are focused on movement on asphalt, rolled snow and virgin soil, while rowing really well. The listed properties became possible due to the large traction spot, which contributes to the stability of the car on ice and asphalt.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	215-285
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70, 75
Diameter	R15-20
Maximum speed index	H / T
Maximum load, kg	800…1360

Review: “Great tires! Soft, comfortable, handling at a height. "

Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3

We have before us a high-performance Velcro, focused on mid-range and high-end SUVs. Its tread pattern promotes rapid fluid drainage, protecting against aquaplaning. The rubber provides decent grip in all riding conditions and is suitable for a variety of driving styles. Tires are based on a mixture of SmartNet Silica, which shows moderate elasticity even at significant positive and negative temperatures. From it you can expect really high-quality grip on dry roads, excellent cross-country ability over snowdrifts and an accurate response to changes in the position of the steering wheel in snow and slush.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-355
Profile height	25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65
Diameter	R16-21
Maximum speed index	H / T / V / W
Maximum load, kg	387…1120

Feedback: “If you use it only on the track - that's what you need. Good for high speeds. In the off-season and on a dry track, it feels like a quality summer. "

Continental ContiWinterContact TS 810 Sport

One of the best winter tires without studs for almost all passenger cars.It is distinguished by the high quality of grip with the road surface in the winter period and the absence of the need to give up high-speed driving. Suitable for both classic sedans and sports coupes. The tires offer decent handling, directional and dynamic stability on difficult surfaces, as well as on dry asphalt. Even on ice, the tires behave adequately both laterally and longitudinally. Optimum rubber stiffness allows you to enter corners at any speed.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-295
Profile height	30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65
Diameter	R15-20
Maximum speed index	H / T / V / W
Maximum load, kg	475…975

Review: “It may be expensive, but worth the money. Even at speed, it feels confident. Of course, on the ice I behave more cautiously, after all, it's Velcro. On other types of coatings it is practically like on summer tires ”.

MICHELIN Pilot Alpin 4

It is a popular non-studded rubber for large passenger cars and belongs to the UHP class. The tires are intended for installation on vehicles designed for fast movement and differing in dynamic characteristics. However, it can be recommended for regions with mild winters, in Siberia it becomes too harsh. In addition to excellent dynamic properties, the tires offer sufficient stability on snow, icy roads. They have a relatively short braking distance even on ice.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	215-335
Profile height	25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55
Diameter	R17-21
Maximum speed index	H / V / W
Maximum load, kg	560…1060

Review: “Much better than the previous model. On a wet road and through puddles beyond praise. Everything is fine on the snow, really fast acceleration and fast deceleration. "

The best winter tires for a passenger car

Not all tires that are suitable for SUVs are equally good for a passenger car. It is usually best to choose tires specially designed for sedans and similar bodies.

The best quality winter tires for a passenger car:

Hankook Tire Winter i * Pike RS2 W429

This is an updated version of the popular tire series with a new tread pattern that features more drainage grooves. Thanks to them, the rubber is quickly cleared of snow and instantly removes moisture from the contact patch. The 12-row stud pattern allows for excellent grip, with no slipping or skidding during start or braking. At the same time, the compound is quite soft, it “swallows” surface irregularities, and also tolerates movement on ice well. Multi-directional 6-edge checkers help protect against lateral and longitudinal drift.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	155-275
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 80
Diameter	R13-19
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	365…900

Review: “I will definitely recommend rubber! Comparing with the W419 model, this one is ten times more tenacious and less noisy. "

Toyo Observe G3-Ice

Premium rubber with a very soft compound that is a pleasure to ride on. It also results in a slightly sluggish steering response. In terms of cross-country ability and comfort, it is one of the best. He also rides confidently on the ice. Calmly overcomes the snow, even rides through snowdrifts normally, although it can still get stuck. The studs hold perfectly, even with regular movement on the track on a dry surface, 1-2 pieces may disappear during the season, or even all will remain in place.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-325
Profile height	30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R13-22
Maximum speed index	H / Q / T / Y (up to 300 km / h)
Maximum load, kg	365…1400

Review: “I drove 70,000 km on this rubber. It's better not to buy anything for this price, and Nokia is too expensive, two or three times higher than this one. "

Yokohama W.Drive V905

Good winter tires from Yokohama do not contain spikes, but this does not prevent it from providing reliable grip on the road in winter. Thanks to the modern rubber compound, the tires have received high tensile strength, as well as better grip on the road, even with a strong drop in temperatures. Moreover, even the “pluses”, she also does not float. A large number of slats make you feel like the king of the roads in rain and slush. The risk of aquaplaning and slashplenning is minimal.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-295
Profile height	35, 45, 55
Diameter	R13-22
Maximum speed index	H / T / V / W
Maximum load, kg	387…1250

Review: “It feels like you're driving on a carpet - the rubber is so quiet. Didn't expect it myself, but really great tires. They cling tightly to any road ... Dry, wet asphalt, snow - nothing at all. Take it, you won't regret it. "

Pirelli Ice Zero FR

The updated tire has found the perfect balance between the soft "Scandinavian" and the "European", which is traditionally harder. She managed to achieve high-quality grip on ice and snow, even in harsh conditions with northern frosts. On pavement, it feels great, including on wet, offering decent grip and handling. Rubber is able to wick moisture and snow slurry out of the contact spot almost instantly. Thanks to the narrow and soft shoulder areas, the tires are confidently out of the rut without stress for the driver and the rear wheels skidding.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	175-305
Profile height	45, 55, 60, 65
Diameter	R15-20
Maximum speed index	H / T
Maximum load, kg	475…1250

Review: “I also changed the shoe into this new product, first impressions are a bomb. Kumho, on which I left for 2 winters, and did not stand nearby. While the asphalt was dry, I did not notice the difference with the summer one. Now a snowball has fallen, spun on the ice - it holds perfectly. "

Kumho I'Zen KW31

Excellent rubber for passenger cars, which will allow you to achieve decent handling even in harsh winter conditions. The manufacturer has put an emphasis on maximum flotation, durability, increased grip and responsiveness in handling. Thanks to the technology of protection against the adhesion of wet snow and mud, the car on this tire will be able to enter turns without any problems and easily paddle on virgin soil. Special tacky tread blocks help achieve stability and traction, and improve ride quality on loose snow.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	145-265
Profile height	35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 80
Diameter	R13-19
Maximum speed index	Q / R (up to 170 km / h) / V
Maximum load, kg	355…1250

Review: “I bought Kumho and WOW, then another WOW Wow Wow, a lot of pluses. I have no regrets, I feel more confident on winter roads than before. "

The best tires for winter on an SUV

SUVs differ from passenger cars by an inflated center of gravity, greater weight and all-terrain properties. All of the above should be taken into account by winter tires for him.

The best winter tires for an SUV:

Continental IceContact 2 SUV

The manufacturer has created tires that allow the driver to experience maximum comfort in any winter situation. They easily row on a snowy slurry, maintain control on snowy, wet, ice-covered asphalt. Studded tires, even on slippery surfaces, bite into the road, preventing skids (with the exception of controlled drifts). As with any spike, there is noise, but it does not interfere, an order of magnitude lower than most competitors.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-295
Profile height	35, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70
Diameter	R15-21
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	710…1250

Review: "The best spiked rubber for use in urban areas today."

GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice Arctic SUV

Tires in the mid-range price category offer first-class grip, ensuring timely braking on ice and snow. It is intended for residents of the northern regions of Russia, since the rubber compound does not tan even in severe frost, allowing you to start driving comfortably even after the night. Multicontrol Ice technology has made it possible to achieve a comfortable stability of the car on difficult tracks, including at high speeds. The spikes are held securely, even though there is no glue in the seat, they do not fall out. Smooth transitions in the size of the cleats help in acceleration and when performing maneuvers when the center of gravity is shifted to the side.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-285
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70
Diameter	R15-20
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	710…1400

Review: “Tires for a solid five. There are tons of snow in St. Petersburg, but despite this, even the ESP did not turn on even once, the tires are shoveled with a bang. "

Dunlop Grandtrek Ice03

Studded winter tires are designed and fit perfectly on SUVs and 4x4 vehicles, especially in premium cars. The model offers reliable grip on the track, both snowy and icy. Retains the traction characteristics and short braking distances laid down by the manufacturer for 3 seasons or more. Ultra High Performance tires can be fitted to vehicles designed for fast travel. The rubber is formulated to resist tanning at low temperatures.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	215-285
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65
Diameter	R16-20
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	800…1250

Review: "I really liked this rubber for an SUV, for the money I think this is one of the best options."

Toyo Open Country W / T

High-quality and very reliable tires with high strength of the sidewall and the compound itself. Invented specifically for SUVs. It can be used in temperate and harsh climates, including on snow-covered tracks in the northern regions of the country. Thanks to the wide asymmetrical pattern, the tires are able to overcome deep snowdrifts without losing control and reducing passenger comfort. Numerous deep-seated sipes make you feel comfortable even on snow-covered ice.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	205-295
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R15-20
Maximum speed index	H / T / V
Maximum load, kg	690…1120

Review: “Overall impression of 4 ++ tires. For three years of use, it has worn off, but the mileage on it is 92,000 km. I think this is a good indicator. I recommend it for a measured ride, for those who like to press on the gas - the edges are too soft (cut off). "

Continental ContiVikingContact 6 SUV

The latest rubber in the rating of an expensive price class, which is rightfully considered one of the best. She has excellent driving characteristics: perfect road holding on snow, retaining elasticity even at low temperatures, excellent grip and ease of cornering. Handling on all tracks remains quite predictable. It shows itself on the positive side both on dry asphalt and on wet ice, although on slippery surfaces you should be more careful with it, as with any Velcro.

Characteristic	Meaning
Profile width	215-275
Profile height	40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75
Diameter	R15-21
Maximum speed index	T
Maximum load, kg	710…1250

Review: “Rows on snow / mud like on asphalt, and on a dry road there is less noise than in summer. Excellent handling on any surface, however, an unusually light steering wheel, as the tires are very soft. "

The best winter tire manufacturers

There are different manufacturers on the market: some make inexpensive products, others offer an assortment of budget and expensive models. When choosing tires, you should focus on a specific rubber modification, because each company has better and less successful options. However, each company has already developed a general attitude and impression about its products, which will be true when considering the majority of tires.

TOP 10 best winter tire manufacturers:

• Continental is a US company that manufactures environmentally friendly rubber for difficult road conditions.
• Michelin - the company develops tires that are durable and comfortable in most respects. They are characterized by high quality and the same price.
• Goodyear ranks among the largest tire manufacturers. Products are distinguished by acoustic comfort, high-quality drainage of water from the contact patch. The best Goodyear tires are made in Germany.
• Pirelli is a supplier of Formula 1 tires. They are renowned for their excellent grip and excellent handling, even at high speeds. Belongs to the premium class.
• Kumho is a fairly young company from South Korea. Its range of tires with the best combination of price and ride quality, as well as self-sealing tires.
• Nokian Tires is a true legend among manufacturers that needs no further introduction.
• Bridgestone is ranked as one of the world's leaders in innovation and testing. Customers value the product because of its durability and agility.
• Dunlop is one of the oldest manufacturers with a huge assortment of tires in different price niches. All of them are of high quality.
• Yokohama is interesting because of its large selection: it has both tires for bicycles and tires for cars, trucks and even airplanes.
• Hankook is a proven tire manufacturer with the largest range of tire sizes available.

Which winter tires are better: studded or not?

It all depends on the region of residence. If there is frequent ice on the roads or there is a lot of snow on a regular basis, studded winter tires will be much better. It cuts into slippery surfaces, providing stability in motion. However, on asphalt it is too noisy, and the grip quality will be worse.

In metropolitan areas, where roads are cleared or snow melts quickly, it is better to buy a model without spikes. The so-called "Velcro" are an order of magnitude quieter and offer better handling on hard surfaces. On the other hand, on ice they are significantly inferior to spikes.

What to look for when choosing quality winter tires?

To make the right choice, you need to carefully study the main characteristics:

• Under what conditions is rubber intended. The Scandinavian tread is softer so it is better on snow. The European is more suitable for driving on cleaned roads, it is better off track and more maneuverable.
• The presence of thorns. More details in the previous section.
• Standard size. Consider the tire width, profile height, rim diameter, load index and speed. The most suitable option should be chosen based on the car model.
• Driving performance. From the tip it is easy to understand the positive and negative aspects of rubber, which are difficult to visually determine.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive winter tires?

The price differences are due to:

• Manufacturer's surcharge. There are firms that produce expensive products, all tires are expensive and vice versa.
• The amount of modern technology. The more a company spends on technology development, the more expensive and better the rubber is.
• The composition of the rubber compound. More expensive manufacturers often add additives that will prolong the life.
• Thorns material. Models with a stronger base are more expensive.

In general, there are good and bad models among both expensive and cheap tires. You should not choose based on price, it is better to focus on driving performance.

To cope with this difficult task of choosing the best winter tires, this rating will help. It contains all the necessary information that is needed to select the ideal tires for the winter for a passenger car and SUV, with and without studs, cheap and expensive price category. Set the correct tasks, and we will help you with the selection of the optimal rubber.