Best winter tires in 2020 - Articles like this are often found in automotive magazines, but unfortunately, the texts are mostly paid for. Both online and in print media, PR is constantly encountered, because of which it becomes difficult to find really worthy tires. However, the following TOP-10 of the best tires for driving in cold weather was compiled solely based on real customer reviews.
After reading the article, you can find out the real advantages and disadvantages of the models, compare them with each other and choose the optimal ones. Tires are divided into two categories: studded and non-studded. The choice of a specific type should be based on the characteristics of the region and the frequency of ice formation on the roads.
Content
TOP 5 studded products
Studded rubber is more expensive, but it can be used even in the most northern regions. It allows you to confidently cruise on ice, as well as packed snow covered with a layer of hard crystals. Studded tires are indispensable in icy conditions, and also help to maintain high maneuverability during thaws when the roads become slippery due to melting water. TOP 5 studded models were selected based on customer reviews who have already tested new items in the field. Positions are listed not by popularity, but by increasing price.
Gislaved NordFrost 100
Price: 6500 rub.
Tires are popular both in winter and late autumn. They brake well on wet asphalt and are characterized by high cross-country ability even when driving on snow or particularly slippery ice. The V-pattern provides high traction. Strong studs stay on the rubber all season. The high rating of the model is justified: it replaced the leader among winter tires of the past, 2018. Regular consumers bought a new modification and were satisfied.
Pros:
- durable spikes;
- low noise indicators;
- small price;
- excellent grip;
- the ability to drive on a wet road.
Minuses:
- a small number of thorns.
MICHELIN X-Ice North
Price: 7100 rub.
It is not surprising that the tires from this eminent company were in the TOP-5. The soft rubber with directional tread provides excellent traction, even when cornering on open ice. Numerous studs provide comfort and safety. Despite the high friction values, the product allows you to enjoy a soft ride and good shock absorption. The disadvantages include high noise, but this disadvantage is insignificant.
Pros:
- proven manufacturer;
- long-term operation;
- many thorns;
- soft ride.
Minuses:
- noise.
Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic
Price: 7800 rub.
This model is specially designed for harsh winter conditions. It shows excellent results in emergency braking. High grip is provided by the sharp edges of the tire pattern and the multiple arrangement of the studs themselves. According to the manufacturer, the tires can even be used on open ice.
There are practically no problems during operation. Buyers note the quietness and strong attachment of the spikes. The disadvantage is the appearance of hernias.
Pros:
- high quality rubber;
- suitable for driving on ice;
- withstand severe frosts;
- excellent brakes.
Minuses:
- cracks appear periodically on the surface.
Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000
Price: 8100 rub.
One of the most worthy products, and at the same time not overpriced. This product is perfect for both winter and demi-season, as the rubber does not soften when warm. You can use tires until the air warms up to +10. The surface provides excellent traction, the studs do not break out of the ground, even when driving on roads with many potholes and potholes. Long service life and low noise levels make this model especially popular. Recommended for anyone who appreciates good maneuverability and a sense of safety even on icy roads.
Pros:
- self-cleaning option;
- do not harden in severe frosts;
- can be used up to +10;
- high-quality performance.
Minuses:
- absent.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV
Cost: 12,300 rubles.
It performs well on dry and wet surfaces, when driving on snow and on ice. The firmly attached studs provide perfect grip, even when cornering. Consumers note that the movement of tires is practically inaudible. The reinforced sidewall of the tires allows them to be subjected to even high wear and tear and ensures a long service life. The manufacturer offers 15-21 inch models, which allows you to choose tires for different categories of cars.
Pros:
- removes moisture well;
- silent driving;
- excellent braking on any road;
- wide range of sizes.
Minuses:
- the price is 30% higher than the market average.
TOP 5 tires without studs
Rubber without studs can serve the consumer as well as studded rubber. Of course, it will not be suitable for driving on open ice, but it will cope with snowy roads or wet asphalt surfaces. It is recommended to purchase such tires for those who live in more southern regions. If frost occurs only a few times during the winter, and the average temperature from December to February is from 0 to +5, it is best to pay attention to the models below.
Nokian nordman rs
Price: 3300 r.
The tires are made of durable rubber and, despite their low cost, they practically do not wear out. Due to the absence of studs, all efforts were thrown into the development of an effective tire pattern, as a result of which the model feels confident even on packed snow. The grip is excellent if the car owner does not go out onto the ice. The friction index is not too high, and therefore the speed loss during use is minimal. Unfortunately, the product can cause skidding when cornering and poor heading (typical lateral deviation over time). For this reason, it is better not to purchase the goods if they promise winter with constant ice.
Pros:
- low price;
- strength;
- good grip on asphalt;
- low noise level.
Minuses:
- deviation when driving sideways.
Nizhnekamskshina Kama-Flame 205/70 R16 91Q
Cost: 4000 r.
Low-cost coverage from a domestic manufacturer. Perfectly adapted for Russian winters. It easily passes even through not yet packed snow, does not slip due to its special pattern. On the other hand, the raised bumps on the tires create an additional problem: the pattern quickly clogs up and the tires have to be cleaned themselves. You can use tires at temperatures up to + 6-7 degrees Celsius, so they are also suitable for thaw periods with periodic frosts. Users are advised to use caution when braking in parking lots or at traffic lights, because when stopping, the vehicle's course may be slightly strayed.
Pros:
- anti-slip protection;
- low price;
- the possibility of operation in a warm season.
Minuses:
- deviation from the course;
- problems with cleansing.
Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice 2
Price: 6600 rub.
The grip of these tires is one of the highest among all analogues presented in the TOP. Thanks to this, the tires hold the car well, not allowing it to deviate from the set course, and provide almost instant braking.Despite the good grip, which often leads to some deceleration of the car, the product does not impede rapid acceleration.
pros:
- keeps the course;
- almost does not skid during sharp turns;
- good grip on snow;
- fast braking.
Minuses:
- the thin side part can quickly break.
Bridgestone Blizzak VRX
Cost: 8800 r.
High braking performance on dry surfaces made this model popular in the southern regions of the country. The tires are soft, provide comfort while driving, while wicking snow and can self-cleaning. The brand is Japanese, so there is no doubt about the quality and absence of factory defects.
pros:
- durable side of the tire;
- soft rubber;
- simple cleansing;
- smooth ride in the snow.
Minuses:
MICHELIN Latitude X-Ice
Cost: 9700 RUB
The model tops the list of the best winter tires. Quiet tires with low wear. Suitable for all coatings except ice. Cope with wet asphalt, snow, and frozen ground. They keep their course steadily, help when braking, but do not slow down the car. Excellent removal of excess moisture and dirt. Passengers will appreciate the smooth ride thanks to the softness of the rubber, which does not tan in sub-zero temperatures.
pros:
- almost do not skid;
- do not make noise;
- high maneuverability;
- excellent braking.
Minuses:
- will not cope with icy roads.
Additional recommendations for selection
When choosing tires, you need to pay attention to several factors at once:
- wheel diameter;
- the degree of tire wear during operation (if high, cheap models will not work);
- frequency of vehicle use;
- features of the climate in the region of residence;
- driving skills of a motorist (the worse, the more important it is to purchase "rubber" with spikes).
The cost of tires also plays an important role in deciding which winter tires to choose. You should not buy too expensive ones unnecessarily, they can quickly fail due to the peculiarities of Russian roads, and repair or replacement will cost a lot.
Best tires 2019
Consumers who purchased the latest innovations in the automotive industry identified 4 best tire models at once. Each won in its category:
- the best budget tires without studs - Nokian Nordman RS;
- the optimal model without studs in the high price category - MICHELIN Latitude X-Ice;
- the best winter studded tires at a low price - Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000;
- mid-range winner - Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV.
When choosing, it is recommended to additionally study the features of your specific roads, evaluate the approximate tire wear and your own budget capabilities. Then you definitely won't be able to make a mistake with the model.
