TIRE TIPS
WHAT BRAND MAKES THE BEST WINTER TIRES?
Not everyone needs winter tires, but the opposite is often true in harsh Canadian winter driving conditions. So, when drivers need the best winter tires for optimum slush and snow traction in poor road conditions, the question is, which tires will provide the safest overall driving experience? Here are the best tire brands recommended by the experts.
Bridgestone Blizzak
An excellent all-around choice for the best winter tires depends on the type of vehicle, and this brand works for cars, crossovers, and SUVs; the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is a popular choice. This studless tread design is renowned for its impressive snow traction and high performance on icy roads and snow in sub-zero temperatures, making it one of the best winter tires out there.
Alternatively, the LM32 is a high-performance car tire with a wider tread for winter roads. While the DM-V2 is made for bigger SUVs and light trucks and is excellent for grip in harsh winter weather conditions, the LM001 and LM005 variants are proven for durability and reliability in deep snow.
Michelin X-Ice Snow
Michelin X-Ice Snow tires are designed for harsh Canadian winters. These tires feature a 2.7-meter shorter braking performance than their closest competitor. They also boast a 7% increase in performance regarding slush and hydroplaning compared to the previous model. Efficient use of the contact patch also equates to an ultra grip in icy conditions.
Finally, the company maintains that this winter tire has a low rolling resistance and improved fuel efficiency. Combined with superior high-performance technology, a full silica-based compound, and an aggressive tread pattern, the road noise is pleasantly low. These tires will probably last up to two seasons, longer than competitor snow tires.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
Winter conditions in Canada range from incredibly harsh to challenging, but the Nokian Hakkapeliitta’s exclusive rubber compound tire technology and sipes make these tires a good match for ice and light snow. Although studless, the tire mesh behaves like studs, generating a firm grip as the tread wears. Additionally, the reinforced sidewalls deliver extra safety on the road. With its 3PMSF symbol, this best winter tire promises 18% more ice traction than similar products.
Pirelli P Zero Winter
Pirelli is known as the best tires for sports cars, and the P Zero Winter tire range is ideal for winter driving. This tire features a dense sipe pattern on the tread’s inner shoulder, giving drivers excellent snow traction. In contrast, the outer shoulder has a stiff tread, allowing for precision cornering when the roads are dry. Additional tire technology reduces aquaplaning due to rapid water dispersal. Overall, this Pirelli tire is great for sports cars when winter driving and higher clearance is a must.
Best Winter Tires That Matter
For all tire brands that matter in winter, from those above to Hankook, the Continental VikingContact 7, and everything in between, we can help. Contact your knowledgeable TreadNation branch in Saskatoon for tires at cost, tire storage, and free tire rotation.