Surely every modern motorist has a question: what winter tires are better? When you think about how to choose a good tire, you need to rely on such factors in order for it to be. You must feel confident on the road in all weather conditions and road conditions.
The rating of winter tires 2017 indicates those rubber models that are high-tech and have a regularly increased level of driving. That is why it is better to focus on new models of automotive rubber. It often happens that experts advise buying car parts from not very well-known brands of machinery, but when this issue concerns tires, everything is different.
It is best to choose tires from world leaders, while they must have a good price and be in the ranking of the most top models of our time. Only in this way can you determine which tires are better in the winter season.
How to choose winter tires for a car?
The rating of machine tires will help you decide on the model that is ideal for your car. To date, virtually every tire manufacturer has provided their innovative model designs, so you can view in detail and decide what you need. The cost of rubber directly depends on the diameter of the wheel, and may vary depending on.
The main characteristics that any good brand and model of rubber should include are:
- The composition must be unique and individual in its kind, the tread is made of expensive and durable rubber alloys;
- The tread shape is developed by world-class leaders in the automotive industry;
- Machine rubber provides decent grip on your favorite surfaces;
- It has the lowest possible rolling resistance, due to which the consumption of gasoline is dramatically reduced (you no longer have to overpay);
- The best preparation for a slippery road, which greatly complicates the car's patency.
Today we will talk about tires that are best suited for driving conditions in the city on wet asphalt, snowy areas and other external factors affecting the car. The features that the best car tires are equipped with create greater comfort and dramatically increase driving safety in the winter.
Most people think that studded tires don't perform well on paved, clean pavement, but they're great for roads that are covered in snow or ice.
Which winter tires are better: spikes or Velcro?
Many people choose winter tires based on reviews and ratings, but this is not always correct. Let's talk about the hard facts.
Let's start with the fact that there are different types of winter tires. Such as:
- Scandinavian;
- European;
- All season;
- Arctic.
All of these subsections apply to Velcro.
Despite the fact that the contact of Velcro and spikes is approximately the same, there is still a slight difference.
For winter roads, it will undoubtedly be better to purchase tires without studs. This is the best winter tire ever made. It will fit perfectly when you go through a winding track. Non-studded wheels show the best results of car run on winter roads.
Rating of winter non-studded tires 2016-2017
Seat #1 Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2
The first place is taken by Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2. This is the best winter tire of 2017.
The country in which the rubber was made is Poland.
With the help of excellent characteristics, which, in turn, are responsible for balancing the car, this rubber model showed excellent results in every sense.
It has a fairly high performance on ice and snow. There is also a wet asphalt option. Highly qualified specialists had to work hard to achieve such a result. In addition, this model has a low noise level.
Seat #2. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2
In second place are winter tires such as the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2.
The country where the rubber was made is Finland.
The manufacturers of this excellent model have made an emphasis on the brand's coatings and turned out to be not only one of the best, but also outperformed some models of studded tires.
Seat #3. Continental ContiVikingContact 6
In third place is studded equipment such as the Continental ContiVikingContact 6.
These innovative tires are made in Germany.
Seat #4 Michelin X-ice Xi3
In fourth position is the Michelin X-ice Xi3.
The country in which the spikes were made is Spain.
This modern model provides excellent driving without excesses. They have excellent sound insulation, and are very popular among avid motorists.
Seat #5. Maxxis SP02 ArcticTrekker
Country of manufacture: China.
Specifically, this tire model proved for the first time that Chinese tires are no worse in quality than other similar analog tire models. They showed decent results during the test. There were no side effects or surprises. They are considered better than many non-studded tires on wet and snowy roads. Noise isolation is average. In total, this rubber is considered to be profitable both in terms of quality and cost.
Seat #6. Bridgestone Blizzak WS70
In sixth place should be put the Japanese automobile tires Bridgestone Blizzak WS70.
Not so long ago, this model and brand occupied a leading position. They brake very effectively on slippery roads. They have a transverse grip, which in its quality meets all European standards.
Seat #7. Pirelli Winter IceControl
In seventh place is rubber such as Pirelli Winter IceControl.
Country in which this innovation was produced: .
On snow-covered surfaces, it surpassed many similar automotive devices. They have low rolling resistance and high noise levels.
Seat No. 8. Pirelli SCORPION WINTER
Country of manufacture: China.
On snowy surfaces, they turned out to be no worse than studded competitors. They accelerate quickly and effectively brake. The noise level is quite low.
Seat #9. Sailun Ice Blazer WSL2
Country where the rubber was made: China.
They have a more than democratic price, while they are considered a level higher than many similar analogues. They have low rolling resistance and high noise levels.
Seat #10 Dunlop SP Ice Sport
The tenth place was taken by such German winter tires as Dunlop SP Ice Sport. This tire model is considered the leader in sales. On the snow cover goes no worse than on wet pavement. It has excellent directional stability.
Winter studless friction tires (Velcro tires) became very popular a few years ago, when the majority of car owners really felt its advantages over traditional studded tires when used in big cities.
From this article you will learn:
The rating was compiled based on the results of tests of winter tire models from well-known automotive publications "Behind the wheel" and "Autoreview", taking into account reviews on the Yandex market and, most importantly, taking into account the cost of a particular tire.
In our overall rating of non-studded tires in 2017, we used data from the winter studded tire test “Behind the wheel” of September 2016 and the Autoreview winter tire test of September 2016 (there are no fresh winter tire tests in foreign publications for autumn 2017).
The best non-studded tires
- Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2
- Nokian Nordman RS2
- Pirelli Ice Zero FR
- Michelin X Ice 3
According to the results of the test of winter tires of the magazine “Behind the wheel”, the places between the Velcro models were distributed as follows:
- Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2
- Bridgestone Blizzak VRX
To correctly compare the cost of these tire models with each other, you must select the same dimension for all. One of the most common sizes is 205\60\R16. The cost of each model and its rating among buyers are compiled according to the YandexMarket service (September 2017):
The picture shows that the winners of the Driving and Autoreview tests, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 and Continental ContiVikingContact 6 models, do not have the highest rating among buyers, but they have a high cost. These two indicators carry a lot of weight when compiling our ranking.
Rating of the best winter non-studded tires
The first place is occupied by the GoodYear UltraGrip Ice 2 model. According to the results of both tests “Behind the wheel” and “Autoreview”, this model received the second place, has a very good rating among YandexMarket users, and also costs significantly less than the leaders Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 and Continental ContiViking Contact 6.
Second place goes to Nordman RS. The tire took 4th place in the "Behind the wheel" tests, has a very good rating from YandexMarket users, and at the same time, its cost is comparable to the cost of the most inexpensive tires that took part in the tests.
Third place goes to the Pirelli Ice Zero FR. According to the results of the Autoreview magazine test, this tire took 5th place, it has a very good rating from users (albeit with the proviso that there are not many reviews on it), and its cost is approximately in the middle between the most expensive and the cheapest tires that took part in the tests.
R16 tires are one of the most popular sizes on the Russian market, because many small and medium-sized crossovers and SUVs are designed for this size. The most popular 215/65R16 SUV tire models participated in the tests: studded and non-studded. Tests (acceleration and braking, deep snow patency, etc.) were carried out at the AvtoVAZ test site on the Renault-Duster crossover, in severe weather conditions.
Test of studded winter tires for crossovers
Winter tire rating 2019-2017 for crossovers
10. Matador MP 50 Sibir Ice SUV
The average price is 4,601 rubles. The main advantage of this SUV R16 tire is the price. At the same time, the tires are distinguished by good handling, the rubber is quite hardy, the spikes have a strong fixation, they are well suited for driving around the city and behave satisfactorily in difficult conditions. Cons: very soft rubber and thin sidewall.
9. Dunlop Grandtrek Ice02
The average price is 4,440 rubles. Good for both asphalt and snow and ice - confident braking, confident start. The spikes sit securely. A great option for snowy roads and icy trails. At the same time, the noise on the pavement does not go beyond the usual for a studded tire.
8. Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic
The average price is 5,280 rubles. This model received an honorable second place. She has excellent grip on ice and simply amazing flotation in deep snow. However, there are also disadvantages. The main and main one is a weak sidewall, which means that you will have to drive very carefully - after all, such a tire can be easily damaged on potholes. And the movement of the car on these tires is accompanied by a strong rumble.
7. Continental Conti4x4IceContact
The average price is 7,965 rubles. The strengths of this model are excellent performance on ice and snow and super reliable stud retention. However, a car on such tires does not like dry asphalt and deep snowdrifts.
6. Gislaved NordFrost 100
The average price is 7,740 rubles. One of the best winter tires for crossovers designed for city driving. They are distinguished by low noise level, excellent grip on dry and wet asphalt. For country trips, they are worse - the quality of driving on snow (both loose and compacted) and ice is not very high.
5. Gislaved NordFrost 100 SUV
The average price is 6,579 rubles. Designed for city driving (excellent braking on asphalt, both dry and wet), they are distinguished by good handling and a clear course in almost any conditions. However, the performance on ice and in snow is quite modest.
4. Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV
The average price is 6,933 rubles. According to the test results of winter tires, SUV is the best winter studded tire on the Russian market in 2019-2017. Excellent grip on ice and snow and high cross-country ability are indispensable when driving in winter. Alas, excellent qualities in difficult conditions turn into average in city driving; the Hakkapeliitta 8 has fairly average braking properties on dry pavement. The second disadvantage is the high price.
3. Continental ContiIceContact
The average price is 8,570 rubles. Third place in the ranking of winter tires for the crossover 2019-2017 goes to Continental ContiIceContact. She is the most expensive of the entire top 10. When choosing, keep in mind that there are three types of models - HD, BD and BD2. And they have different characteristics. BD2 is designed for sporty driving in difficult conditions (it has the most studs, the studs themselves are longer, and therefore it is the noisiest). BD has already been discontinued. The HD is more of an urban tire with occasional out-of-town trips when the weather conditions are good. It has fewer studs, is less noisy than previous varieties, and performs well on pavement and icy roads. But in the snow, especially loose, it is already worse.
2. Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV
The average price is 9,603 rubles. Finns know a lot about winter driving. Therefore, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7 SUV is the second in the 2019-2017 suv winter studded tire ranking. This is a great tire for difficult weather conditions. Superbly holds the road on almost any surface, from paved roads to snow and ice. The ride of the car is smooth, soft, the tires are tenacious and quiet enough.
1. Nokian Nordman 5 SUV
The average price is 6,510 rubles. And the first place in the ranking of winter tires for SUVs goes to Nordman 5 SUV from Nokian. Although the behavior on ice, snow and asphalt is quite average for these tires (with the exception of lateral grip, which is slightly better), the car on these tires has excellent directional stability on asphalt. An excellent choice for city driving and trips out of town.
Test of non-studded winter tires for crossovers
Non-studded tires are often chosen for their reduced noise levels as well as their softness on the road. But at the same time, they provide reliable stability on the road, even on icy or snowy roads. Consider the rating of the most popular non-studded models for crossovers.
10. Dunlop Grand Trek SJ6
The average price is 4,740 rubles. Tires have high wear resistance. Consists of silicon with a mixture of carbon to increase the level of adhesion to the road. Riding on such tires is easy and comfortable, it is almost silent.
9. Hankook Dynapro I*Cept RW08
The average price is 4,540 rubles. The composition of the mixture includes silicon, which increases traction, and silica, due to which the operating temperature range is increased. The tires are virtually silent due to the sipes arranged in waves.
8. Yokohama Geolandar I/T-S G073
The average price is 5,010 rubles. When using such tires, the car becomes very agile when driving both on a straight road and when making turns, U-turns or changing lanes. Grooves perfectly clean tires from dirt, dust and snow porridge. Three-chamber lamellas reduce the likelihood of getting into the aquaplaning zone, as well as significantly reduce the braking time of the car.
7. Toyo Observe Gsi 5
The average price is 4,810 rubles. The lamellas used allow for increased grip on snow and ice, resulting in a fairly short braking distance. High wear resistance ensures safety and comfort while riding.
6. Pirelli Scorpion Winter
The average price is 5,630 rubles. They have a symmetrical pattern, provide a high level of stability when cornering or changing lanes. Suitable for use on crossovers with anti-lock braking system. They allow you to brake even on descents, as well as when performing other maneuvers on a winter road.
With the onset of cold weather, the issue of choosing winter tires comes to the fore. In our review - the most interesting models and their features
NON-STUDD TIRES NITTO NT90W
These non-studded tires retain good grip when driving on ice or packed snow, making them indispensable on winter trails. Wide longitudinal and transverse grooves evacuate wet snow for improved performance on wet and snowy roads, while 3D Multi-Wave interlocking grooves create extra ice-cutting edges for increased traction without compromising tire life. The use of silicon dioxide (SiO2) prevents the tires from hardening at low temperatures, improving handling in winter conditions. Crushed walnut shells (Microbit technology) act as natural micro-thorns, while bamboo charcoal absorbs water from the pavement.
WINTER TIRES NITTO THERMA SPIKE
Winter tires with an asymmetric pattern are designed specifically for the conditions of the Russian winter. 3D Multi-Wave sipes on the outside of the tread provide confidence when maneuvering on icy surfaces. Interlocking 3D Interlocking-Wave sipes on the inside of the tread make acceleration and braking on ice more confident, and wear more even. The sawtooth edge of the blocks improves traction on snow, and the non-directional asymmetric pattern allows the tread to be better cleared of snow porridge. The original star-shaped edging, X-shaped configuration and double stud edge improve acceleration and braking dynamics by working in different directions.
NON-STUDD TIRES YOKOHAMA ICEGUARD
The brand's first non-studded SUV tire with exceptional braking performance on slippery winter roads. To combat micro-aquaplaning when moving on ice, they use a moisture-absorbing composition. The white gel particles and the cavity structure of the tires remove the water film from the ice surface due to tight contact with road bumps and provide improved grip due to their elastic properties.
STUD TIRES TOYO OBSERVE G3-ICE
New studded tires designed for optimal grip and braking on ice and snow. They feature improved stud distribution combined with Toyo's unique Microbit technology (natural micro studs - walnut shell particles in the tread rubber compound). In addition to reliable grip on snow, the Observe G3-Ice features a low noise level that contributes to acoustic comfort.
NON-STUDD TIRES TOYO OBSERVE GSI-5
The advantage of these non-studded tires is low noise level combined with confident grip. The composition of the rubber compound includes small particles of walnut shells and a moisture absorbent based on a powder obtained from bamboo charcoal. The first improve traction, and the second absorbs water formed when the tire rubs against snow and ice.
CONTINENTAL ICECONTACT 2 TIRES
Starting this season, winter tires with an IceContact 2 stud are available with ContiSeal puncture-free technology, which seals punctures up to 5 mm in diameter with a sealant inside the tire without subsequent repair, and ContSilent technology, which significantly reduces noise and vibration levels in the car thanks to a layer of special foam. In the new version of the tire, the transfer of braking and traction power on ice is noticeably improved. These results were achieved thanks to the new-generation CristalDubb glued stud, which has an increased number of edges and less weight, as well as an innovative rubber compound and an asymmetric tread pattern. The extended life and durability of the studs is achieved thanks to the double firing technology, which creates diffusion, as a result of which the tire and stud become almost one whole. Each spike can withstand loads up to 500 N (50 kg), which is several times higher than normal values.
FRICTION TIRES CONTIVIKINGCONTACT 6
Friction tires designed for the harsh conditions of the Scandinavian and Russian winters. The tire has an asymmetric tread functionally divided into three parts, which is made of an innovative rubber compound with an optimal degree of softness. Its outer part provides traction on dry pavement, the middle part on ice, and the inner part on snow. And the whole tire works as a whole in the changeable conditions of a winter city. The sipes of the ContiVikingContact 6 act like a windshield wiper to prevent hydroplaning on wet pavement. The tire is also equipped with special blocks with small jumpers, which act like snow chains on a snowy road.
STUDD TIRE GISLAVED NORDFROST 200
The new NordFrost 200 studded tire has a directional asymmetric pattern. His scheme was worked out on several generations of the "older" brand - Continental - and fully proved its effectiveness. Also, the new model received an ultra-light spike with a special triangular shape of the carbide tip. The tire uses an innovative rubber compound that maintains tenacity and elasticity even in severe frosts.
GISLAVED SOFTFROST 200 NON-STUDD FRICTION TIRES
New non-studded friction tires are designed for driving on winter city roads with a predominance of wet asphalt and slush. At the same time, they behave quite reliably on ice and in deep snow. The main difference between the novelty, produced at the Continental plant in Kaluga, is an asymmetric tread pattern, in which the outer part is responsible for handling, and the inner part is responsible for reliable grip on different types of winter roads, as well as for removing water from the contact patch. The new pattern, together with a soft rubber compound, has significantly improved traction and braking performance, as well as lateral grip and handling on ice.
MATADOR MP30 SIBIRICE 2
The name of the SibirIce 2 model speaks for itself. The symmetrical directional tread pattern with two central longitudinal ribs guarantees improved handling and directional stability. Large blocks with an increased number of gripping edges provide increased grip on snow, and their V-shaped arrangement allows you to quickly remove water and slush from the contact patch. Lightweight, double-flange ED eco-stud with a round tungsten carbide tip provides increased wear resistance over its entire service life.
PIRELLI SCORPION WINTER
Designed for the largest and most powerful off-road vehicles, Scorpion Winter tires guarantee complete control over the car in any situation. New to the Scorpion family, it offers shorter braking distances in all weather conditions, as well as increased traction on snowy and wet road surfaces in extreme cold conditions. The tires offer best-in-class performance on snow and exhibit reduced rolling resistance and low noise levels.
PIRELLI CINTURATO WINTER
The Cinturato Winter tread pattern allows you to effectively capture the snow and push it into the sipes, keeping it in the tread. This removes more snow from the contact patch, which improves traction on snowy roads. The special tread pattern also delivers crisp braking response thanks to the new sipe shape in the blocks. For the Cinturato Winter, Pirelli has created a special arrangement of channels in three sizes. Due to this, the noise breaks up into a large number of frequency bands, which reduces its perception. For example, if the reference tire generates noise at a level of 72 dBA, then the Cinturato Winter is only 66.
GOODYEAR ULTRAGRIP ICE SUV
The novelty of last winter was created for crossovers and SUVs. In addition to the Arctic IceGrip rubber compound, the tires feature an efficient sipe locking system to help maintain vehicle control and agility. In addition, thanks to their structure, they provide optimal distribution of pressure in the contact patch, increasing the efficiency of both acceleration and braking. The tire has a tread wear indicator that allows you to comfortably monitor its condition.
GOODYEAR WRANGLER DURATRAC ALL-PURPOSE TIRES
All-round tires are designed for off-road enthusiasts, and their main characteristics, in addition to confidence when driving on rough terrain, are comfort, reliability and durability. Designed for utilitarian use as a workhorse, the Wrangler Duratrac delivers high off-road capability, as well as acoustic comfort and on-road handling. TractiveGroove micro lugs provide improved traction and flotation in both deep mud and snow, while a special rubber compound not only improves tread block tear resistance, but also ensures year-round use (confirmed by the Mountain Snowflake Symbol).
HANKOOK WINTER I*CEPT EVO2 SUV
Extremely adaptable to changing weather conditions, the tires feature a Red Dot design award-winning tread pattern. The pattern is specially designed for prestigious cars of all classes. The tire is based on a new highly dispersed silica nanocompound that is resistant to hardening at low temperatures. It provides improved grip on icy or wet road surfaces by increasing the contact surface area.
HANKOOK WINTER I*PIKE LT studded winter tires
Studded winter tires with a directional tread pattern and increased cross-country ability are suitable for use in all road conditions. The tread pattern is built on four wide three-dimensional grooves designed to effectively drain water, snow and slush from the contact patch. The wide stiffening rib provides good directional stability, handling, traction and braking performance on both snowy and icy roads. Wave-like sipes form an edge effect, improving grip and braking in all directions, and wide transverse grooves maximize traction.
MICHELIN LATITUDE X-ICE NORTH 2+
Studded tires for various types of off-road vehicles, able to maintain high traction on dry and wet roads. In 2016, this model, in sizes 265/45 R20 and 295/40 R20, was recommended by Porsche for installation in the Porsche Macan. Compared to their predecessors, these tires have a shorter braking distance, improved acceleration dynamics and reliable stud retention.
MICHELIN X-ICE NORTH 3
Studded tires designed for small crossovers. According to Michelin internal tests, compared to its predecessors, the model has a shorter braking distance, a stronger sidewall and better stud retention. This result was achieved thanks to the use of a whole range of innovative technologies by the company's engineers, including a thermosetting rubber compound of the lower tread layer, a special technology for removing ice chips IPRem (Ice Powder Remover) and a conical spike.
NOKIAN HAKKAPELIITTA 8 SUV
Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV studded tires presented by the inventor of winter tires. When creating them, innovations were used to withstand the extreme conditions of the northern winter. State-of-the-art studding technology provides the best traction on ice and snow among competitors. The tire construction, reinforced with aramid fibers, allows us to talk about the unique wear resistance of the sidewall. The flagship model of Nokian Tires is distinguished by the stability of its characteristics during its entire service life.
NOKIAN HAKKAPELIITTA R2 SUV
A high-end product for universal use on SUVs, the tires combine crisp grip and pleasant handling in winter conditions, and low rolling resistance significantly saves fuel. Grip on ice, snow and wet roads is provided by Cryo Cristal technology - the rubber compound contains multi-faceted crystal-like particles that are strong as diamond, and aramid fibers in the sidewalls protect against side cuts.
Michelin- French company, one of the world leaders in the production of car tires. It has about 70 enterprises worldwide, as well as 5 research technology centers (in France, the USA and Japan) and 5 test sites (in France, the USA and Spain).
In addition to the main brand of the same name, the Michelin group of companies also owns other well-known brands, such as Kleber, Goodrich, Wolber, Riken, Tyremaster, Uniroyal, Taurus and others.
Website: www.michelin.ru
In Russia, Michelin also has its own tire manufacturing plant. It is located in the village of Davydovo, Orekhovo-Zuevsky district, Moscow region. The production capacity there is not the largest - about 2 million tires a year, but it is there that the only tire studding workshop in the company is located, in which all rubber produced by Michelin in Europe is studded.
In Russia, Michelin tires are sold either by our production, or by the company's European plants in Italy and Hungary.
“Michelin X-Ice North 3” is a new winter studded tire that incorporates a wide variety of innovative technologies developed by Michelin. Most of them are combined into one complex called “smart spike” (Smart Stud System) and includes:
- Thermoactive rubber compound, which is used as an inner tread layer and which is able to change its elasticity depending on the ambient temperature: at high temperatures it becomes soft and the studs seem to be pressed into the tread, significantly improving grip on asphalt; at low temperatures, it becomes stiff, making the very fixation of the spikes more rigid and thereby increasing grip on icy surfaces.
- The Ice Powder Remover technology is designed to remove ice chips and is a system of 6 wells that absorb this ice chips around each spike.
- The design of the stud itself, which has the form of a cylinder with a cone-shaped tip, which is installed on a wide base, which ensures reliable fixation of the stud.
The tread pattern of the “Michelin X-Ice North 3” tires received an increased number of gripping edges to improve grip on snowy roads. The angle of the drainage channels has also been changed, which increased the resistance to hydroplaning and slashplanning. These tires use the new Flex-Ice 3 tread compound, which contains proportionate natural and synthetic rubber for improved grip on wet roads. In addition, it contains silicon additives that contribute to wear resistance.
To reinforce the carcass of the tires, IronFlex technology was used, which consists in the use of an additional layer of steel threads and provides additional impact resistance.
