As the weather gets colder and the roads get icy and snowy, having the right winter tires is crucial for safe winter driving. The right winter tires can make a huge difference in traction, handling, and accident avoidance on slick winter roads. In this article, we talk about the Top 10 Winter Tire Picks for Cold Weather Safety In 2024. We’ll go over important factors to consider when shopping for winter tires as well as provide detailed reviews of our top 10 recommended winter tires for passenger vehicles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Winter Tires When selecting the best winter tires for your vehicle, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Severe Snow Rating – Look for tires rated for severe snow conditions with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol. These provide the best snow and ice traction.
- Tread Depth – Winter tires should have tread depths of at least 5-7 mm for sufficient traction. The deeper the tread, the better the bite into snow and slush.
- Compound – Winter compounds stay soft in cold temperatures for superior grip. They also feature more sipes (tiny slits) for additional edges to grab snow.
- Wheel Size – Make sure to get winter tires to match your vehicle’s wheel diameter. Getting the right size is key for proper tire rotation.
Keeping these factors in mind, below are our picks for the top 10 best winter tires for safety this winter season.
Top 10 Winter Tire Picks
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
The Michelin X-Ice Xi3 is an ultra high-performance winter tire designed for the best snow and ice traction without compromising dry pavement handling. It features Michelin’s best winter tread compound and tread design optimized for cold weather performance.
Continental VikingContact 7
The Continental VikingContact 7 provides a dynamic blend of snow and ice grip along with sporty, dry handling. It’s an excellent choice for drivers wanting a more performance-oriented winter tire without sacrificing any winter weather safety.
Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT
Goodyear’s UltraGrip Ice WRT winter tire utilizes a state-of-the-art tread compound and tread design to deliver exceptional traction and grip on snow and ice. It’s a great value tire with dependable winter driving performance.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is engineered with bite particles in the tread compound that activate on ice for added winter traction and control. This is a top-tier winter tire capable of severe snow service.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3
Utilizing unique winter rubber technologies like cryo crystal 3D micro-sipes, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 provides excellent winter grip and handling on snow, slush and ice. It’s one of the best winter tires for snow available.
Hankook Ipike RW11
The Hankook Ipike RW11 combines state-of-the-art siping technology with multiple tread zones for enhanced snow and ice traction. It offers a quiet, comfortable ride as well.
Cooper Discoverer True North
Cooper’s winter-specific tread compound in the Discoverer True North tire delivers flexible, biting edges for extra traction. It also features chunky tread blocks to eject slush and snow.
General AltiMAX Arctic 12
The General AltiMAX Arctic 12 is a studless ice and snow winter tire that utilizes ActiveGrip technology and 3D sipes for extra winter traction on slippery roads. It provides reliable, safe winter handling.
Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8
The Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 sport utility and light truck tire is specially designed for pickup trucks, SUVs and CUVs. It features deep, angular tread blocks to take on the toughest winter conditions.
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 high-performance winter tire utilizes Pirelli’s exclusive winter compound technology and asymmetric tread pattern for dynamic handling, control, and braking on snowy roads.
Conclusion
Having a good set of winter tires for passenger vehicles is one of the best ways to improve wintertime safety on the road. The top 10 winter tires we covered provide excellent snow and ice traction, handling, and braking to give you confidence and control behind the wheel. Consider getting high quality winter tires installed before the winter season hits to keep you and your family safe this winter. I sincerely hope you find this “Top 10 Winter Tire Picks for Cold Weather Safety In 2024” article helpful.
Ranjit is the lead writer for tirescompanies.com, bringing over 10 years of expertise in the tire industry. With a degree in Automotive Engineering and a deep understanding of tire technology, Ranjit specializes in providing detailed and insightful tire reviews. His extensive knowledge ensures that each review is both informative and practical for consumers. For the latest updates and expert advice on tires, follow Ranjit on Instagram.
