Good studded tires. Making the right choice

Winter is just around the corner, so it is important for every motorist to prepare their iron horse to the period of frosts, black ice and other adverse weather conditions, which in some regions of our country may come very soon. Naturally, the most important moment in such preparation is the answer to the question - which winter tires are better? Today there is a very large selection of such products, but no one wants to buy shoes for a car for their money, which will not justify the hopes placed on it. It is for this reason that it is recommended to carefully read this material, as it provides a rating of the best winter tires.

It should be noted right away that the proposed data are the result of the work of experienced experts from the Finnish company Test World, who always delight people with relevant and truthful information in the automotive field.

What is the importance of choice?

No, most car owners, of course, understand that it is better to choose, buy and change their car in winter tires than to play a kind of roulette when traveling in the summer version. Especially when you consider that the stake in this game can be the life and health of the owner of the car. But at this moment there is one nuance that many people do not take into account - all non-studded or studded winter tires have serious differences in their characteristics. But a person may not pay attention to this important fact, preferring to purchase the products he needs where it is cheaper or closer to his home.

Is there such a big difference between the best winter tires and their not quite quality analogues? Of course, if you do not take into account such an obvious fact as the service life? Yes, the difference can be very significant.

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What could it be? For example, in increasing the braking distance by several tens of meters, even if all other conditions are completely the same (the same road and surface, one car, and so on). Or in changing the handling of the vehicle during cornering.

Finally one more important nuance before proceeding with the review of the rating of the best winter tires: this line of activity does not stand still, improving its products every year and providing the consumer with new options. The consequence of this fact is that tires that were considered the best just a few years ago will today be inferior in many respects to more modern competitors. Therefore, in this matter it is not recommended to be conservative and buy the same option for your car every year.

The best non-studded winter tires

To compile a list of the best non-studded winter tires, hot Finnish guys from Test World selected 12 of the most popular models, which can be worn on wheels with a radius of 16. A variety of tests were carried out, and each model was evaluated on a ten-point system.

As a result, the tested products are located as follows:

1. Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2, made in Poland. The trademark received 8.2 points. A very balanced product that behaves equally well in absolutely any climatic conditions. Another important plus is the minimum noise during operation.
2. Finnish Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 with the same final result. They performed best on tracks covered with ice and snow, but just wet asphalt caused some problems for this option.
3. Continental ContiVikingContact 6 from Germany. Score - 7.8. A good choice for those who expect to ride a lot in the snow. Wet asphalt creates some difficulties, but on dry pavement this option feels great. Naturally, the Germans took care of the low noise level of their products.
4. French-Spanish Michelin X-ice Xi3 with the same result as the German representatives. On ordinary road rubber behaves a little slowed down. Her element is snow and ice. One of the drawbacks is that when rolling, the car stops very quickly.
5. Maxxis SP02 ArcticTrekker. Rating - 7.7 points. Chinese representatives. Of course, there are small flaws, but in general, they transferred testing to different options pavement, especially when you consider that the cost of these products is very pleasant for the pocket of an ordinary consumer.
6. Japanese Bridgestone Blizzak WS70. Previously, they were the undisputed leaders, but now they have somewhat stopped in their development and, therefore, have lost high places in the ranking. According to the results of the test, they received 7.3 points. Particular problems are caused by cornering on a wet asphalt road.
7. Pirelli Winter IceControl and Sailun Ice Blazer WSL2. Two more representatives of the Middle Kingdom with the same score of 7.2. In the first case, the performance is slightly reduced when driving on ice, in the second - on asphalt. All other texts of these tires went quite smoothly - at a good level.
8. Dunlop SP Ice Sport. german trademark with a final score of 6.8 points. The only plus of this option is the good behavior of the vehicle in the snow. Everything else is rather bad and dull.
9. Dutch Vredestein Nord-Trac 2. Score - 6.7. Weak grip, poor stability. From positive qualities– only acceptable passage of texts on ice.

The last two places were shared by the South Korean Kumho I*ZEN KW31 and the Chinese Sunny SnowMaster SN3830, although they scored higher than the products from Germany and the Netherlands, which took ninth and tenth place, respectively. The problem with these tires is the fact that they performed well only on clean or wet pavement, but not on snow and ice. That is, their use in the conditions of this winter is highly undesirable.

List of the best studded winter tires

To compile the top of the best studded winter tires, 13 were selected various options, from the world's best manufacturers. It is interesting that in this version of the rating, the products of Finnish manufacturers were at the very top. What is this? Is it testers' bias or does Finland really produce some of the best winter tires in the world?

Among studded winter tires, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 takes the lead

However, according to the results obtained, studded products are located as follows:

1. First place - Finnish Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 with a score of 8.8 points. Everything is almost perfect. The only thing where this option let us down a little is braking testing on wet road surfaces and in road holding.
2. The second result was shown by the German Continental ContiIceContact - only two tenths less in the final assessment. The reason for this was the worse behavior of the car on snow, which is very important for good winter tires. Similar results were shown by another representative of Germany - Pirelli Ice zero. But in this case, a completely different drawback was discovered - a longer braking distances on wet road surfaces.
3. Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic. Poland. The result is 8.4 points. Excellent, balanced product. But, like all universal options, this one is slightly inferior in some respects to its competitors.
4. 8.3 points. And Germany again Gislaved Nord*Frost 100. Everything is fine, but the braking distance on normal surfaces is too long, and the rolling resistance is quite high.
5. Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 from South Korea with a score of 8.1. Although these tires did lead to some nervousness in the behavior of the car on ice and snow, nevertheless, the test result is quite good, especially considering that this manufacturer is located in a rather hot country.
6. Polish Dunlop ice touch with a round eight points of the final result. Too many uncontrolled skids and no better grip. On the other hand, very good results wet pavement tests.
7. Russian Michelin X-Ice North 3 with 7.9 points is only in eighth place in the ranking. Dry and wet asphalt, snow - everything is fine, but driving on ice lowered the final result.
8. Japanese Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-01 - 7.7 points. The purpose is to drive on snow and ice, so they do not behave in the best way on cleared roads.
9. Close the top ten Dutch Vredestein Arctrac with a score of 7.5 points. I got an average mark on almost all tests. For every plus there was a minus. For example, they brake great in the snow, but the level of car handling decreases catastrophically at this moment.

At the very bottom of the rating are its outsiders: Russian Nokian Nordman 4 and two Chinese - Jinyu YW53 and Sunny SN3860. It is recommended to pay attention to them only in cases where there is simply no better alternative - there are too many shortcomings.

Rating of good winter tires according to owner reviews

It is quite logical that the results of such specialized checks do not always coincide with the opinions and reviews of a simple consumer. After analyzing many automotive forums devoted to this topic, we can draw the following conclusions about the real preferences of ordinary car owners:

• Gislaved Nord*Frost 100 - positive impressions with prolonged use;
• Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 - most owners are very satisfied;
• Nokian Nordman 4 - confirm the results of Finnish testing. That is, not the most the best option for domestic conditions, although their manufacturer is located in Russia;
• Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 is another disappointment, although this option was very popular in the past.

All other options considered by the Finns, for the most part, are fully consistent with their assessments. And this is not surprising, since the company of testers from Test World enjoys great prestige among automotive specialists.

Most sane drivers agree that you should not drive all season tires. It works more or less sanely only in the near-zero zone - from -5 to +10. But still loses to its core competitors. And outside the boundaries of the designated temperature zone, its specifications leave much to be desired. Therefore, it is imperative to have two sets of tires - winter and summer.

Start over. Buy winter tires in advance. As a rule, serious dealers begin to import it already from the end of August to the beginning of September. It is logical that at that time the prices were even more or less adequate, and the kits were quite fresh. Closer to the cold weather, demand will definitely jump, which means that the cost will also increase. You can go the other way by buying winter tires at the spring sale. Then discounts can reach impressive amounts, and it will be possible to purchase the best studded or non-studded winter tires of 2019-2020 for sane money.

Today there are a huge number of various models for every taste and budget. There are inexpensive budget kits, there are models of premium brands. Different sizes, different price, different specifications.

Everything is limited solely by the imagination of the buyer and his financial capabilities. Which winter tires are better to choose - studded or non-studded? Russian, Chinese or European? Below we will try to answer these questions by ranking the top 10 best models.

Making the right choice

Which tire is better - friction or studded? There is an opinion that studded winter tires are the most tenacious and hardy. This opinion is only partly true. The fact is that the composition of the mixture of friction tires is much softer, because they do not need to hold "claws".

Such softness lies in the special composition of the rubber compound, which includes ingredients such as silicon dioxide (silica), natural rubber, rapeseed oil or orange juice. This means that a winter studless tire will perform better when over low temperatures than its studded counterpart. In addition, Velcro, as a rule, has a larger number of lamellae, which has a positive effect on the contact patch, as well as behavior when driving on packed snow or asphalt.

friction tires		Studded tires
Advantages	Flaws	Advantages	Flaws
Acoustic comfort; Wide contact patch; Soft rubber compound; Excellent performance when driving on asphalt or rolled snow; Hydroplaning resistance; Profitability;	Low permeability; Weak performance on slippery surfaces; Poor braking on ice; The soft composition of the rubber adversely affects the life of the tire;	Excellent behavior on the ice or loose snow; Hard tires wear out longer; Reliable behavior in aggressive conditions; More resistant to mechanical damage rubber;	The spikes gradually "leave" their combat position; Tires "sing" perfectly, especially on asphalt; Significant stopping distance and mediocre traction in the same place;

Overall rating

Of course, even the best 2019 2020 non-studded winter tires will not be able to compete on ice with older (2015) studded models. But, nevertheless, non-studded wheels still have a lot of advantages. Just like their spiked counterparts. So the final choice of which ones to take remains with the pilot.

The owner must analyze which qualities are most preferable for him, and which he can sacrifice. It is worth taking into account the peculiarities of the climate and operation of the car, the driving style of the owner, and also take into account his expectations.


We tried to help by ranking the best winter studded and non-studded tires of 2019-2020.

Model	Properties		Minimum price (Russian rubles)
	Advantages	Flaws	Mos- qua	SP-b	eka- those- rin- burg	Kyiv	Min- sk
Studded models
Nokian Hakkapelitta 8 (Finland)	excellent behavior when driving on ice, deep, loose snow (190 studs on each wheel). In the most severe conditions, this rubber will show itself from the best side;	imperfect grip on dry pavement, increased braking distance. For Moscow, with its cleared roads, it is hardly suitable. Increased noise and tangible cost;	From 7200	From 7000	From 7500	From 8000	From 6800
Continental Ice Contact 2 (Germany)	One of the best studded winter tires on the market. excellent grip when driving on icy surfaces, confident grip on snow;	somewhat uncertain behavior on asphalt, increased consumption fuel, not the most affordable price;	7300	7250	7500	7400	7300
Goodyear Grip Ice Arctic (USA)	They do a great job with snow, both loose and rolled. On ice, tires only slightly lose to competitors;	A certain tendency to slip in corners, insufficient responsiveness to steering wheel turns during sharp maneuvers;	7800	7600	7500	7800	7400
Pirelli Ice Zero (Italy)	Special figured spikes help to keep up with the leader in terms of performance on ice and snow. Confident acceleration, braking and directional stability when driving on these surfaces. Adequate price	Increased noise when driving on almost any pavement. Acoustic comfort is below average.	5800	6000	5900	6200	5700
Hankook Winter i Pike RS Plus (South Korea)	Closes the ranking of the best winter studded tires 2019-2020. good behavior when driving both on ice and on loose snow;	significant noise on the pavement and imperfect behavior in critical situations;	5300	5250	5440	5515	5250
Studless tires
Nokian Hakkapelitta R2 Suv (Finland)	Confident behavior when driving on ice, snow. Good handling on asphalt. Profitability.	High price, tendency to side slip during sharp turns;	From 7800	From 8000	From 7650	From 8100	From 7400
Michelin latitude X-ice 2 (France)	Another worthy representative, able to impose a fight on even the most the best tires with spikes. Excellent indicators of the level of comfort and stability when driving on ice, snow, dry and wet asphalt;	High cost, increased fuel consumption;	8500	8200	8000	7900	8300
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 (Japan)	Good grip on almost any surface;	low economy, elevated level noise;	5600	5800	5400	5700	5600
Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT (USA)	Excellent traction in snow, acceleration, braking and directional stability;	Increased noise, rolling friction resistance, not the best wear resistance;	3500	3700	3400	3600	3600
Pirelli Ice-Zero FR (Italy)	Excellent stability on almost any surface, excellent handling when braking;	Imperfect moisture removal system, as a result - a tendency to aquaplaning;	3600	3540	3700	3550	3600

Owners of SUVs, hatchbacks or sedans who care about comfort and safe driving in winter, it is important to change your car's shoes in time to friction or studded tires. Of course, there is still time before winter. But it is important to take care of safety in advance. In addition, today a huge number of models are presented on the tire market at seasonal discounts. Which option is suitable exactly in your case? Especially for you, we have compiled a rating of winter studded tires 2018-2019. Using this rating, you can choose the best solution for your vehicle in the shortest possible time.

Price - from 2056 rubles

These are inexpensive winter tires with a symmetrical tread pattern designed for driving on ice and hard-packed snow for cars which have proven themselves in the territory Russian roads. Tire type: for northern winter. Maximum load for one tire Nokian Tires Nordman 5 is 630 kg.

The advantage of this car tire is low rolling resistance, low fuel consumption - everything practically corresponds to the summer version. Such quality tires are not noisy enough, keep the trajectory well, are stable on the road. They have a very strong sidewall. Among the shortcomings of this model, as users note, is that they do not brake well on bare pavement.

Nokian Tires Nordman 5

No. 9 - Pirelli Ice Zero

Price - from 2777 rubles

These are reliable tires designed specifically for driving in winter time, on snow and ice. This model is in high demand because it has low resistance rolling. At the same time, it stands out for its good strength and minimal wear. Among the advantages of the Pirelli Ice Zero are directional stability, good grip on ice, on porridge and on ordinary asphalt, as well as an adequate price. According to numerous user reviews, braking on wet and dry asphalt in acceleration is practically no different from a summer tire, despite the presence of spikes. Among the shortcomings is that the Pirelli Ice Zero is quite noisy at the very beginning of the break-in due to a large number spikes, this is especially noticeable at speeds that exceed 55 km / h.

Pirelli Ice Zero

#8 - Continental IceContact 2

Price - from 3162 rubles

Such inexpensive but very high-quality tires with an asymmetric tread pattern are designed for passenger cars for use in the winter, they stand out for their excellent braking performance. Among the advantages of this model are stud landing, cornering stability, excellent directional stability, good handling on snow, mixed surfaces, ice, on wet and dry pavement. The tires are not noisy, there is no discomfort during use. At speed, there is practically no noise, the braking distance is minimal. After running in, after a while, Continental IceContact 2 become even quieter.

Continental Ice Contact 2

No. 7 - Yokohama Ice Guard

Price - from 4003 rubles

Modern tires High Quality with a symmetrical tread pattern, designed for the northern winter. The uniqueness of this model is concentrated in stable indicators for various evaluation criteria, which indicates their balance. They do a great job with the Russians. snowy winters. They are quiet and have excellent wear resistance. According to multiple user reviews, the tires hold asphalt well, including wet ones, and behave well on ice. Rubber in comparison with other models is not noisy. ABS almost does not work, slows down well, is well controlled. Yokohama Ice Guard on ice it is predictable, it keeps perfectly.

Yokohama Ice Guard

#6 - Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-02

Price - from 5040 rubles

Popular winter tires with a maximum load per tire of 750 kg, designed for SUVs to operate in harsh Russian winter conditions. They are distinguished by an original design, which gives the product excellent adhesion properties. Among the advantages of this model are sealing on the sidewalls, the presence of a strong tire, good grip, the tread is not clogged with dirt, the tires are quite rigid, with good coverage. Bridgestone Blizzak Spike are not noisy enough, when braking they demonstrate a high level of braking quality and a short braking distance.

Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-02

No. 5 - BF Goodrich g-Force Stud

Price - from 5084 rubles

BFGoodrich g-Force Stud due to its functionality takes its rightful place in the top 10 best winter studded tires. These tires with a symmetrical pattern of high-quality directional tread are designed for off-road vehicles, for the northern winter. The BFGoodrich g-Force Stud performs well in icy conditions, has a reinforced sidewall and rides well even on a water-filled road. From the very beginning of use it is quite noisy, but after running it becomes much quieter. The tire to the track is quite sensitive, but not critical. The model is distinguished by excellent predictable handling and excellent braking on winter roads, wet and dry pavement, as well as good wear resistance.

B.F.Goodrich g-Force Stud

#4 - GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice WR

Price - from 6115 rubles

GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice WR - tires with a symmetrical tread pattern are designed for off-road vehicles, for the northern winter. This model is quite quiet and soft. The tread is quite deep, stands out for wear resistance. Users note that thanks to such tires, the chassis starts to work more pleasantly, the responsiveness of the steering wheel increases. Other advantages include excellent braking on wet and dry pavement, good cross-country ability, fairly confident movement and handling on slush and snow. The disadvantage is the roll characteristic of aggressive maneuvering.

GOODYEAR Ultra Grip Ice WR

#3 – Dunlop Grandtrek Ice

Price - from 7320 rubles

Dunlop Grandtrek Ice is a high quality winter tire with a symmetrical tread pattern and reinforced sidewall, for northern winters, with studs, designed for off-road use. The maximum load per tire is 875 kg. Among the advantages of this model is that there are no drifts on the ice, the tires provide a confident ride on slush, guarantee good cross even off-road. They are soft, not afraid of ruts, they are distinguished by normal balancing. Among the shortcomings, many users highlight noise, especially in the early days. After running in, the noise is significantly reduced.

Dunlop Grandtrek Ice

#2 - Gislaved Nord Frost 200

Price - from 4500 rubles

Gislaved nord frost 200 - high-quality winter tires with spikes, with an asymmetric tread pattern, designed for off-road vehicles. The maximum load per tire is 875 kg. Tires are the best option especially for big city and regular trips out of town. The model has good braking on dry and wet pavement and even on slush. On loose snow - braking leaves much to be desired. The sidewall of the tires is soft but strong enough. Among the advantages is a quite acceptable noise level, which noticeably decreases after running in. The tires are not sensitive to ruts, they sit very well, which is very important for aggressive driving.

Gislaved Nord Frost 200

No. 1 - Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta 9

Price - from 15762 rubles

Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta are high quality tires with studs and symmetrical tread pattern for SUVs. The maximum load per tire is 975 kg. Tire type - for the northern winter. Tires fully comply with the characteristics declared by the manufacturer. This model has excellent handling, excellent braking on winter roads, firm fit spikes.

Thanks to the excellent characteristics of the tires, rutting is practically not felt. Among other advantages - a short braking distance, predictable handling, various spikes for cornering and straight. Such a product fully corresponds to the description as the best winter tires, since it fully meets the declared characteristics and functionality.

Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta 9

Optimal choice

The top 10 winter tires presented in our review combined models selected according to consumer reviews and the characteristics declared by manufacturers. All of these options do an excellent job with tests and delight users with their parameters - braking, handling, stability. All these properties are very important to consider when choosing, because what you should pay attention to in the first place is always safety. And good tire quality is your ally in this matter. However, the choice also depends on personal needs, as well as financial capabilities. That is why the decision is yours.

Tires for operation at low temperatures, snow drifts and ice have a special design, composition, and performance techniques. When choosing tires, it is important to consider climatic features terrain, type and carrying capacity of the vehicle. Tire rating for the winter season 2018-2019 includes studded and non-studded tires.

Winter tires have special protection that maintains speed and cornering maneuverability at low temperatures. Tires are made from wear-resistant elastic raw materials. The main element of the design is a protector with high strength. The base unites the protector with internal levels, reduces jolts from bumps in the road surface.

The metal cord keeps the shape of the tire in a stable state, increases the stability of the car. Under the steel surface there is a textile layer preventing internal pressure. The edges of the tire are protected by the carcass. The fender strip soldered into the edge of the tire dampens and maintains the stability of driving.

Depending on the design solutions, the type of raw material and the texture of the surface of the tire, they are divided into:

• products with spikes;
• non-studded (friction);
• studded (supplied with tapes with false spikes).

Studded tires are equipped with inserts made of durable alloys that help reduce slip. The view is suitable for driving on snowdrifts outside the city, ice-covered roads. The constructive solution improves control over the car when crossing loose snow cover, crust. Studded tires reduce the braking distance of the car on icy roads. For the manufacture of medium hardness rubber is used; the height of the elements reaches 1 cm.

The design protector is supplied with:

• spiked;
• channels for the withdrawal of water and snow mass;
• lamellas.

A subspecies are studded elements that are provided with holes for studs. Can be used with or without inserts. The road grip of this type of tire is less reliable.

Non-studded (friction) tires are equipped with sipes that are attached to the outer coverings of the tires. The adhesion to the roadway is increased by increasing the thickness of the lamellae. Designs are suitable for urban routes in climates with a slight sub-zero temperature. Some manufacturers include hard elements in the plastic to improve handling.

Non-studded tires are divided into 2 subspecies:

• Scandinavian;
• European.

Tires of the Scandinavian type are multifunctional, because. used for driving on snowy, ice-covered roads, dry or wet surfaces. Tires are recommended for areas with changeable weather conditions. Tires are made from a soft rubber compound. The protectors are equipped with thin outlet channels, flexible lamellae. The tread height is limited to 0.8 cm.

The European type of non-studded tires is used in areas with slight sub-zero temperatures. When choosing winter tires, it must be borne in mind that the type is optimal for dry or wet roads, without snow drifts. Tires improve the maneuverability of the machine, low noise.

Tires European type different protector:

• hard rubber;
• with channels for the withdrawal of water and snow particles;
• with a small number of thin lamellas;
• with elements of small height (up to 0.6 cm).

The best manufacturers of winter tires

Profile tire manufacturers include tires for the cold season in their product line and have positive reviews car owners (Nokian, Dunlop, Michelin, etc.).

The leader of the rating is the Nokian concern (Finland) has been manufacturing tires since 1898. Winter varieties The company has been developing since the 1st half of the 20th century. The products are of high quality, reliable and safe. Winter tires are adapted to the climatic conditions of Russia with temperature changes, precipitation in the form of snow. Varieties of tires are designed taking into account the types of vehicles.

Goodyears (USA) manufactures winter tires for different climatic zones, types of vehicles. Products are durable and support high level grip of the car with the roadway, maneuverability. Products are qualitative, provide passability at snow drifts.

Manufacturer Bridgestone (Japan) produces innovative products for cars and other vehicles. Products are of high quality, wear-resistant, durable. The concern has been producing winter tires since 1930. Russian market non-studded and studded tires are presented.

Dunlop (Ireland) develops products using computer simulation. The brand's products are distinguished by their aesthetic design. Dunlop tires represented by a large number of models for the winter period. Strength indicators allow the use of tires for 2-3 seasons. The series differ in the structure of the tread, surface design, and composition.

Michelin (France) is one of the leaders in tire fitting products. Tires are distinguished by durability, manufacturability, fuel efficiency. Winter models are presented in several lines for climates with sub-zero temperatures.

Concern Continental AG (Germany) produces car tires and components for cars. Products differ in a strong framework, endurance, quality.

Top 9 non-studded winter tires

Scandinavian tires Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 are optimal for low temperatures; are presented in several variations, durable. Products are suitable for off-road vehicles, because. are distinguished by good cross-country ability in snowdrifts and off-road. The design allows you to maintain controllability during drifts, provides fast acceleration vehicle and braking on ice. The reinforced sidewall of the tire provides a way out of the rut. Cost: 3770 - 11200 rubles. (depending on wheel diameter)

Winter tires Goodyear Ultragrip Ice 2 provides a confident ride in icy conditions, different transverse stability. The model is designed for cross-drifts of snow, fast deceleration on icy surfaces. Tires are made from a cryo-adaptive compound that provides movement at high sub-zero temperatures and preventing freezing. Cost: from 2900 r.

Studless Continental tires ContiVikingContact 6 (from 7200r.) is designed for frosty weather and snowfalls. Tires are made from silicates and durable rubber. The tire is supplied with a tread with asymmetric images and diamond-shaped blocks. Tires allow you to accelerate on packed snow, show fast braking on icy surfaces, dry and wet tracks.

Good non-studded tires are the Pirelli Ice Zero Fr. The model is made of durable rubber, has a dense arrangement of lamellae. Tires are suitable for icy, snow-covered trails, driving in rainy weather. The model allows you to quickly accelerate and brake, not recommended for dry asphalt surfaces. Price: 5000-9000 r.

The Michelin x ice 3 models are built with a progressive stiffness method that allows the rubber to deform and keep the car stable on the track. The tires are equipped with sipes in the shape of a “Z” symbol, complemented by sharp edges. The design solution allows the car to drive out of the mixture of water and snow.

Option Bridgestone tires Blizzak DM is for machines passenger category and crossovers. Rubber wear-resistant, durable. Tires are optimal for driving on icy surfaces, equipped with 2 layers (external and internal). When abrading the outer level of the tire, the porous coating allows you to maintain the grip of the wheel with the track. Tires are designed taking into account the climatic conditions of Russia.

The Hankook Winter icept iZ2 rubber features a wedge-shaped tread pattern to help maintain machine control on snow-covered tracks and maneuverability on icy surfaces. The advantages of the model include the ability to save fuel, the optimal ratio of cost and quality (215/55 R17 - from 6600 rubles).

The Japanese model Bridgestone Blizzak VRX is made from a compound adapted for sub-zero temperatures. The tire pattern provides a confident ride on roads with snowdrifts; withstand tires and temperature changes.

Tires Yokohama Ice Guard IG50 are equipped with a special tread pattern that allows you to remove a mixture of snow and water. Tires provide high performance road grip, maneuverability. Models are suitable for driving on frozen tracks, do not crack at sub-zero temperatures.

Studded tire rating for winter 2019

Nokian Hakkapeliitta

Best winter Nokian tires Hakkapeliitta for the 2018-2019 season. designed for areas with harsh winters and heavy rainfall; available in modifications adapted to different tasks. Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 tires are manufactured using a vacuum bonding technique. Modification Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 allows you to save fuel.

Studded Nokian Nordman 7 tires have a radial constructive solution are not equipped with cameras. Models are designed to move on crust, ice, wet surfaces. The ruler is represented by diameters of 13-17 cm. Approximate prices:

• 175/70 R13 - 2600 rubles.
• 185/65 R15 - 3300 rubles.

Michelin x ice north 3 tires are equipped with the Smart Spike system. In the cold, the material next to the stud hardens, which ensures maneuverability on difficult tracks and durability. Braking in drifts is confident and fast.

When comparing winter studded tires, the Continental Icecontact 2 stands out, designed with asymmetric tread lines. Models are developed taking into account fuel economy, maneuverability on ice surfaces; have a smooth ride. The studs are often arranged, providing a secure grip on the canvas.

Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic tires are designed for northern, off-road use. The tread design ensures fast acceleration and shortens the braking distance on different surfaces (dry, icy, with snow). Tires provide maneuverability, a stable ride on high speeds. The rubber pattern allows you to quickly remove water, snow mass. The cost for R15 is from 3500 rubles.

Models with Pirelli Ice Zero studs are developed using innovative techniques. Tires are equipped with double-core studs, which increase the reliability of grip with the roadway. The graphic tread pattern allows moisture and snow to be released from the tires. Tires provide fast braking in sub-zero temperatures.

The Gislaved Nordfrost 100 studded tires are designed for snow and ice covered trails. The products are of high quality, durable, do not produce noise when driving, have a reliable grip on the roadway, quickly slow down on snow-covered tracks.

Hankook Winter I Pike RSW419 tires are designed with a wide surface area for traction. The protectors are equipped with lateral grooves, which provide maneuverability when driving in frost, snowfalls, cold showers, and on slippery surfaces. Tires are studded in 22 rows and equipped with 170 elements.

Price:

• 205/55 R16 - from 3700 rubles.
• 235/45 R17 - from 5900 rubles.
• 245/40 R18 - from 6900 rubles.

The Continental Contiicecontact is designed to operate in sub-zero temperatures in harsh climates. Models are strong, wear-resistant, durable, they are distinguished by deep and dense placement of cylinders. Tires provide maneuverability and stability on difficult tracks.

Market novelties 2018-2019

For the new season, manufacturers are releasing improved tire models. Developments include innovative techniques, updated design solutions.

Yokohama has released a technologically advanced iceGUARD iG60 non-studded tire for passenger cars. The manufacturer has presented more than 90 size categories from 135/80 R13 70Q. The tire design uses Premium Water Absorbing Rubber technology, which prevents slipping on icy roads. The treads use a new rubber compound.

The Maxxis Premitra Ice Nord NS5 studded model is designed for the northern territories, is included in the winter tire review for crossovers and off-road vehicles season 2018-2019 The tread is equipped with directional lines that improve handling on snowy slopes, ice surfaces. The grooves on the tread are located in different directions, which allows you to move on surfaces covered with snow and ice. Special inserts absorb water. Spikes are placed in 14 rows.

With the onset of the cold season, motorists face the question of which tires to buy. Replacement car tires is a very serious procedure summer tires cannot guarantee quality grip with snow-covered or ice-crusted road surface.

If you ignore this question, and how to use before summer tires, the probability of getting into an accident will increase many times over, since the braking distance on such wheels will increase many times over, and during sharp maneuvers and turns, uncontrolled skids and car slippage may occur.

Friction tires, they are also Velcro, have a number of advantages that radically distinguish them from studded tires. In order to understand how these tires will behave in a number of specific conditions, you need to carefully study their advantages, disadvantages, as well as some of the features.

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The difference between Velcro and studded rubber

The main difference between Velcro and studded tires is the complete absence of studs on the surface of the wheel. Instead, sipes are located on the surface, grooves on the tread that stick to the road surface, thereby providing good traction.

The sipes tend to expand when the tire comes into contact with the roadway, thereby forming a vacuum space, through which the tire confidently comes into contact with asphalt and other surfaces. These tires are best suited for driving on dry and wet road surfaces, as well as for driving in large cities and places where roads are being cleaned.

Velcro has a number of advantages due to which these wheels significantly outperform studded tires:

• The structure of the sipes ensures that the entire surface of the tire is in close contact with the road surface, evenly distributing water over the existing grooves. She, in the truest sense of the word, sticks to a flat road surface. From here we have the excellent qualities of tires when driving in urban areas on cleared roads.
• It is absolutely impossible to damage the road surface with friction tires, so their use is not harmful if we consider their use from the operational side.
• Many models of friction tires are made from more than soft material, as opposed to studded. Due to this, at lower temperatures, the tire will not freeze, retaining, as before, the properties relating to elasticity.

Despite many advantages, the Velcro cover is still quite peculiar, and sometimes not suitable for use when various conditions. These shortcomings are:

• Some kits guarantee weaker traction than the studded counterpart. The reason for everything is excessive, according to experts, the softness of the Velcro itself. When trying to accelerate, as well as in the event of sudden braking or sharp maneuvers, the lamellas move completely freely in different directions, thereby making the car feel insecure, even on a dry road.
• These tires have unreliable grip on snowy surfaces. Also, their behavior on loose snow causes many reproaches. Tires do not cope with heavy snow coverage, and as a result, they begin to slip very much. Also, these tires are not recommended for use when driving out of town in winter, when the ground is covered with snow and frosty crust.

To select tires with the best properties, it is recommended to choose those sets that have good performance and an excellent reputation in the market or shop. This rating contains ten of the best models of friction tires that will definitely not disappoint the car owner.

The best Velcro winter tires

Let's start from the end

#10. Kumho Marshal I'Zen RV Stud KC16

In tenth place, among the leaders in sales, are Kumho Marshal I'Zen RV Stud KC16 tires. The company's production is aimed at Western markets, and has a branch in the UK. Even though this brand takes only tenth place, it is the most common among many motorists, and leaves many tires far behind.

#9. Continental Conti 4×4 Winter Contact

Custom tread pattern allows tires Continental Conti 4×4 Winter Contact it is very effective to be cleaned from sticking of snow and dirt, thanks to the transverse grooves. Due to the relief pattern of the tire, good stability is ensured. Among the main advantages, it is worth noting the possibility of moving on country roads covered with a thick layer of snow or a dense ice crust.

#8. Hankook DynaPro i*cept RW08

In eighth place, quite thoroughly, there is another representative, released in Korea, which is rapidly conquering markets around the world, these are tires of the brand Hankook DynaPro i*cept RW08. The tires have good traction on icy surfaces and do well on snow-covered trails. Also, they have good acoustic properties and quite reasonable price.

#7. Yokohama Geolandar I/T-S G073

The seventh line is occupied by tires Japanese made Yokohama Geolandar I/T-S G073. Tests have shown that with these tires you can easily climb a small hill, even when it is covered with a small layer of ice. When making sharp turns or braking, like most Velcro, it tends to slip and make involuntary skids. Poor braking performance on ice.

#6. Nokian Nordman RS2

Tire tread Nokian Nordman RS2 has clear lines, which allows the removal of dirt and snow from the bottom of the car. The rib located in the center of the tire guarantees increased wear resistance. The lamellas are developed using a special technology, thanks to which the grooves are located one inside the other. This design allows you to significantly improve traction, reduce slip to a minimum, and in most cases, eliminate tire deformation during driving.

#5. Pirelli Ice Zero FR

The first representative from Europe, located in fifth place, is an Italian company that produces tires Pirelli Ice Zero FR. Rubber, to a greater extent, is designed for use in countries with a harsher climate, such as Russia, Canada and some Scandinavian countries. According to the manufacturer's company, the tread called "butterfly" does not need to be run in at all.

This is not entirely true, but the time to fit the tires has been significantly reduced. Quite acceptable, as for Velcro tires, stability on various surfaces, makes it possible to produce hard braking and enter the turn without any drifts. The main disadvantage is the very poor fluid output by the wheel, this is caused by the special structure of the tread.

#4. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2

This product, respected in many parts of the world, brand Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2, intended, to a greater extent, for SUVs, jeeps and other cars of this type. Tires are also suitable for city cars, but this emphasis tells us that these tires have very good grip and excellent stability in the conditions that the above types of cars are subject to.

#3. Goodyear UltraGrip Ice WRT

Third place in a bitter struggle goes to American-made tires Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT. The tires were recognized as the best, according to their properties, such as: good traction on snow, stability during sharp maneuvers, short braking distance, fast acceleration. The main disadvantage is the noise background, which exceeds the average level.

#2. Michelin Latitude X Ice 2

A little short of reaching the very top and stopping a step away from victory, in second place in the tire rating Michelin Latitude X Ice 2. Many times they were recognized as winners in various polls and competitions. Many different articles are written about these tires. car magazines and internet sites.

Surprisingly, the studded tires of this manufacturer do not enjoy such fame and are much lower in the ratings. If we consider the functionality of Michelin tires, we will see that such qualities as driving on ice or on snow, as well as dry or wet road surfaces, deserve only praise.

#1. Nokian Hakkapeliita R2 SUV

Tires became the leader of the rating, rightfully taking first place. Nokian Hakkapeliita R2 SUV, the manufacturer is a Finnish company. The tread feature, which is unique to this manufacturer, allows you to confidently brake, as well as accelerate on an icy surface, so these tires can compete even with studded counterparts.

But, it should also be said that the special surface of the tire does not make it possible to smoothly and accurately enter turns, there is a slight slip.