Residents of regions where winter is especially harsh, always stock up on sets of winter tires for their cars, because without this they will not be able to drive. Such rubber is capable of overcoming the most difficult paths, including ice and deep snow. It has a number of advantages that only real motorists can appreciate.

In the article, you will learn what to look for when choosing rubber, who is the best manufacturer and what exactly is the best winter tires in demand among motorists.

How to choose tires for the winter?

When buying rubber for a car for the winter, problems often arise, since there are many options, and each of them is good in its own way. To choose the best product for yourself, you should heed the advice:

The well-known Finnish concern manufactures tires for many vehicles. He has been supplying rubber for over 80 years, and during that time, customers have never once complained about poor quality or non-compliance with safety requirements.

2. Goodyears

A leading American firm creates tires that drivers love for their high quality. Products are manufactured in as many as 50 factories located in various parts of the world.

3. Bridgestone

The Japanese manufacturer sells innovative products for cars and other vehicles. His products serve their owners for a long time.

4. Dunlop

A modern company based in Northern Ireland that develops products through computer simulations. People always pay attention to the products of this brand, because in addition to quality, they also have a pleasant design.

5. Michelin

A well-known French company is engaged in the production of tires, which are distinguished by their durability, fairly high manufacturability and fuel efficiency.

Read also: Which tire brand is better. TOP 10 best tire manufacturers

So which winter tires to choose?

TOP 6 best studded tires

Motorists who prefer studded tire options should consider models that already have many positive reviews and high popularity in Russia and many other countries. This rating will certainly leave no doubt about which tire to choose. Among them:

1. Pirelli Ice Zero

Rating 4.62 / 5

The Italian model amazes all motorists with one unique advantage. It consists of a double tungsten carbide stud. Thanks to this, the tires pass the ice perfectly.

2. Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta 9

Rating 4.69 / 5

The model of the new generation of the already renowned line has been developed for 4 years, but experts have nevertheless created an ideal product in almost everything.

The main highlight of rubber is the presence of two types of studs. This improves traction on icy and snowy roads.

Rating 4.74 / 5

4. Continental IceContact 2

Rating 4.74 / 5

This model performs best on the off-road. She feels great at rather low temperatures, not only on snow, but also on ice.

5. Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000

Rating 4.55 / 5

Excellent city rubber copes well with not too deep snow. It perfectly overcomes asphalt and dense snow, does not emit unnecessary noise and is most suitable for areas where the temperature does not often fall below -15 degrees.

6.

Excellent road holding on ice and snow. Works great on dry asphalt. Spikes hold well (do not fly off). Quiet enough. Plus, good cross-country ability.

TOP 6 best non-studded tires for winter (velcro).

Tires without spikes, also called velcro in the common people and friction in professional slang, are ideal for roads where there is not too much snow.

They find excellent traction, so they are ideal for mild winter climates.

These include:

1. NOKIAN HAKKAPELIITTA R2 SUV

The main advantage of the model is its precise controllability. Such rubber holds the road perfectly in any conditions.

It is not scary to fall into a rut with her, since a way out of it will be instantly found.

Crystals are provided inside that prevent the wheel from freezing, which explains the cost of the rubber.

2. MICHELIN X-ICE XI3

The variant, which does not have any drawbacks, adheres perfectly to the road, in which it is helped by the tread pattern, quick removal of liquid and snow from under the wheel.

The movement of this model is soft and almost silent. Its high quality surprises all drivers, as it is able to serve its owners for more than 3 seasons, compared to its competitors.

3. GOODYEAR ULTRA GRIP ICE 2

It costs up to 11,500 rubles. This type of rubber is one of the best examples of value for money. It has amazing braking properties, stability on snow slurry. Buyers call the only drawback uncertain acceleration during icy conditions, but few people pay attention to this nuance.

4. BRIDGESTONE BLIZZAK VRX

The price is 13 thousand rubles. The model was created using unique technologies that made it possible to make the ride more comfortable and soft. Tires perform well in rural and urban areas. They easily pass through a high layer of snow, slow down well and remove the snow gruel. Because of such opportunities, the rubber wears out rather quickly, so it is not designed for more than 3 seasons.

5. YOKOHAMA ICE GUARD IG50

The price is about 10 thousand rubles. The last option in this category shows itself perfectly during icy conditions. The rubber ensures safe cornering and is ideal for all types of terrain. But with all the advantages, it should be borne in mind that during freezing temperatures, you do not need to use tires, since they are intended exclusively for cold weather.

Compliant and manageable rubber, has a low noise level. Quiet in operation, confidently accelerates and decelerates.

Of the shortcomings, motorists single out one drawback - the price

New items 2018/2019

In addition to the two previous categories, a few more tires of 2019 cannot be ignored. They are also distinguished by high quality, reliability and a number of other advantages. This list includes:

1. Dunlop SP Winter ICE 02

“Prepare summer tires in winter and winter tires in summer” - this simple rule regularly helps motorists save time, money and nerve cells. So it's time to take a look at our 2017 winter tire test and choose the very tires that are perfect for both weather and temperature conditions, as well as lifestyle and driving style.

Winter tire tests 2017-2018 (Behind the Wheel, Auto Review, ADAC, Auto Bild)

Tests of winter and summer tires, which are carried out every year by a number of qualified organizations, will help you not to get lost in the abundance of names, brands and brands. This includes:

ADAC Club

ADAC is a serious organization and has been representing the interests of German car enthusiasts for over a century. The largest auto club in Europe checks car brands for quality and safety, and also regularly tests tires. It is difficult to achieve high marks for tire manufacturers with ADAC - their rigorous tests, carried out with true German thoroughness, can leave neither the bottom nor the tires from the tire. The usual results are "fair", and rarely does any tire get a "good" verdict.

The oldest Russian magazine dedicated to motorists and their iron horses. Regularly tests tires popular and not very popular in the post-Soviet market in hot and cold weather, and also conducts interesting research such as "How temperature affects the length of the braking distance of a car."

Car enthusiasts from over 35 countries around the world read licensed editions of the German Auto Bild magazine. The magazine presents not only automotive sports and industry news, but also comparative tests, test drives and, of course, tire testing in various interesting places - for example, in a small Finnish village in the Arctic Circle.

The popular Russian (and formerly Soviet) edition "Autoreview" regularly conducts comparative tests of cars at the proving ground, crash tests using Euromethods with its own independent rating, and also tests car goods, from fuel to child car seats. Of course, tires are also on the list.

Rating of winter studded tires 2017-2018

Since the latest rubber tests are carried out during the peak season, the rating was based on the tests of tires R14, R15, R16, R17, carried out last winter... When distributing places in the list, the following were also taken into account: the popularity of the model in Russia, ratings, reviews and the cost of tires on the Yandex Market service.

Despite the differences in conditions, the testing of the best winter studded tires 2017-2018. are carried out according to a similar method:

• acceleration and braking dynamics are tested on ice, snow, wet and dry asphalt;
• the time taken to cover a certain distance on different types of coverage is taken into account;
• an assessment of the level of vehicle handling, its smoothness and how noisy the tires are.

10. Gislaved Nord Frost 200

Average cost - 5 570 rubles.

The rating of winter studded tires for 2017-2018 is opened by a new model from the Swedish company Gislaved. The main highlight of the two-hundredth model is an asymmetric tread pattern and a new ultra-light (less than 1 gram) stud in the shape of a three-pointed star. In general, the tires are quiet, soft, with good directional stability, adhere well to any surface - however, on fresh snow and ice it may require adjusting the driving style. On a slightly icy track, you should not accelerate more than 100 km on such tires, otherwise the car will be driven.

Price, on average - 5 982 rubles.

The name of the tire itself says that its developers (the Russian company Cordiant) paid special attention to the behavior of the tire on the snow. The tread pattern is directional, the center of which is a closed rib, which in theory should significantly reduce the likelihood of aquaplaning in the snow. (Interesting, by the way, that this very pattern almost exactly copies the tread of the third place in the rating.) The result is good rubber at a budget price that really rides on snow. True, asphalt is not given to her as well as snow.

Average price - 8 600 rubles.

A clear improvement over the ICE 01, both in terms of directional stability and noise reduction on asphalt. It is difficult to expect the speed of response of more expensive rubber from rubber of the middle price segment, but Dunlop SP Winter ICE 02 fulfills its value 100%. Advantages: high cross-country ability, very strong sidewall, excellent spikes, rowing in a snowy mess. True, it does not feel very well on the asphalt, and it makes a noticeable noise, and at speeds above 90 km / h it causes increased fuel consumption.

Cost, on average - 6 670 rubles.

Good city tires with the ability to feel comfortable in not too deep snow. It rides well both on asphalt and on dense snow, the noise is within normal limits. It should be noted that this rubber is best used in central Russia, where temperatures rarely exceed -15 degrees. But Siberians with deep snows and prolonged frosts are better off thinking about a more hardy version.

The average cost is 2,410 rubles.

Nokian's Nordman series is a more budget-friendly version of the acclaimed Hakkapeliitta. Soft, comfortable, low-noise tires at a reasonable price, which feels good both on dry asphalt and on snow. Based on the reviews, it is better not to accelerate over 100 km on wet asphalt. A good option for city dwellers in the "home - work - dacha" mode. Due to the softness of the rubber, it is difficult to get out of the rut, and you should be careful with curbs, branches and other sharp objects. But in general, an excellent option in terms of price / quality.

You can buy, on average, 4,860 rubles.

While the previous Top 10 was primarily intended for urban driving, the IceContact 2 from Continental is best suited for off-road use. Feels great at low temperatures both on snow and on crust or ice, it is able to take its owner anywhere. A big advantage is the many spikes (there are 196 of them). The hum from these tires is not audible.

But on wet, frozen or snowy asphalt, extra care must be taken. Also, not the best reviews deserved the "behavior" of rubber on the snow porridge, where it begins to prowl.

It is offered, on average, for 10 260 rubles.

Although the G8 is a newer model in the Hakkapeliitta tire line, it is slightly less popular than its predecessor. One of the main reasons is the very soft sidewall, as a result of which you will have to carefully select the discs and, despite the excellent cross-country ability, carefully choose the places for the rides. Otherwise, hernias and cuts. But this rubber is very predictable, has a large number of studs (190 pieces) and goes well on ice and packed snow.

It is sold, on average, for 7,100 rubles.

It differs from the eighth model in a smaller number of spikes (by 30%), but its hexagonal anchor spikes are longer and heavier. They use a technology called "bear claw", which prevents the stud from tilting, thereby improving grip. Quiet, reliable, albeit expensive rubber, which, despite the generation, enjoys a high reputation among motorists. Feels good both on snow and on ice and asphalt, while being hardy and strong. However, like the eighth version, the Hakkapeliitta 7 has a very soft sidewall and this is felt when the steering wheel is turned sharply.

Average price - 9,080 rubles.

And here is the next generation of the acclaimed line. The fruit of four years of development efforts by the Finnish company is said to exceed the characteristics of the G8 by 5-10%. The biggest highlight of the new model is the two types of studs (although in general there are slightly fewer than its predecessor), which should improve lateral grip on snowy or icy roads. And changes in the rubber compound will help the tire feel better in cold temperatures. So far, according to preliminary tests, the tires promise to be excellent, but the chickens are counted in the fall - when the mass sales of the Nine will begin.

1. Pirelli Ice Zero

On average, it costs 15 550 rubles.

Paradoxically, it turned out that the Italians know better about the production of winter studded rubber than the inhabitants of snowy Scandinavia. One of the highlights of the model is the original double carbide stud insert, which provides the tire with excellent ice performance.

Other advantages: high cross-country ability, good acceleration and braking performance on snow and ice, high directional stability. And endurance - there is a chance to bring the tires to retirement with a full set of studs. Excellent, almost universal rubber for winter conditions, feels good both on asphalt and outside the city. True, the noise level is quite high. And the price "bites".

What winter tires are better to choose in the end

So which winter tires are best for you? The 2017 ranking includes both "urban" types of rubber and tires designed for more severe weather conditions. For frequent off-road driving, Pirelli Ice Zero, Continental IceContact 2 or Dunlop SP Winter ICE 02 are perfect. For quiet city driving, it is better to choose the Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000, Nokian Nordman 5 or Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8. Otherwise, when choosing tires, you should first consider temperature conditions, and the surface you will have to ride on.

Car owners know that winter tires are a guarantee safe movement in the winter season. Her choice should be treated very responsibly. Useful tips presented in the article, as well as our rating winter tires 2020 g. with prices and characteristics of all models.

New for 2020

Every year more and more new products appear among car accessories. So, among the latest new models of winter tires are presented:

• Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 Studded Tires

The date of entry into the Russian market and outside North America is not yet known.

According to the manufacturer, Bridgestone tires have absorbed best innovations for winter tires: the ability to brake on ice has been improved, the tires have good elasticity compared to the previous model, and, by the way, it does not change even at very low temperatures. The tires maintain a constant level of grip, easily adapting to any road surface.

Another advantage of the novelty is innovative Tread design: grooved circumferential bumps directed along the pattern. Thanks to this, the tires do an excellent job of water drainage. Improved rain and winter performance characteristics, improved handling on wet or snow-covered roads.

• Bridgestone Blizzak LM005

This is another novelty from Bridgestone for bulky vehicles (SUVs).

The manufacturer assures that the tires are the guarantor of safe driving, even in the most unpredictable conditions.

This is achieved due to the special directionality of the pattern on the tread, as well as thanks to a unique rubber compound created using nanotechnology.

These tires are predicted to replace the Blizzak LM001 Evo as well as the LM001, LM80 and LM80 Evo.

Model sold in 116 standard sizes with a rim from 14 to 22 inches, but also expect that 2020 year the assortment will be expanded by another 40 standard sizes.

Price - from 11100 rub. for R19.

• Ice Contact 3

The new Ice Contact 3 tires are designed for bulky and passenger cars. Will be sold in sizes with unique rubberized studs ContiFlex, and also in size 14-16 inches - with standard spikes. Tire radii with R14 - R20.

Advantages and advantages: excellent grip on ice, important for winter driving; improved control system in snowy areas and in slush conditions; the revolutionary ContiFlexStud ™ technology is applied.

Price R15 - from 5100-5500 rubles.

• Dunlop SP Winter Ice 03

This spike tire is a Japanese novelty developed in the design center. Sumitomo Rubber Industries... Most likely it will replace the model of the previous ratings - Dunlop SP Winter Ice 02 due to a number of its improvements.

The biggest difference is in ice braking versus snow handling.

The developer has also optimized the tread pattern to reduce ambient noise, which is a definite plus. Price R15 - from 8000 rubles. Available radii from R14 - R20.

• WinterCraft ice Wi31

The tires are represented by two hundred spikes instead of one hundred and fifty. Spikes are used in the tires of the Wi31 model Scason Turbine (Finland) High Quality. The special design of the area around the studs accelerates the evacuation of snow and mud. The core is wider by more than 8%. The comfort level in city driving is more than high, and the noise level is lower.

R15 cost - from 4100 rub. Sold in radii R13, R14, R15, R16, R17, R18, R19.

In 2020, other well-known novelties will also be available for purchase, such as Goodyear UltraGrip Cargo, Nexen Winguard Snow'G 3, Nokian WR Snowproof, Pirelli Ice Zero 2 other.

Well, we will also consider in more detail Most Popular tires of the past and the coming year.

How to choose winter tires

Winter tires, unlike summer versions, are specially adapted to low temperatures, high loads and driving on snowy and icy roads. They are classified into studded equipped with special metal inserts (spikes) and studless (tires - Velcro).

Studded tires

In our country the most popular are studded tires. They are distinguished by medium hardness of rubber and the presence of special inserts (spikes) made of durable alloys.

Studded rubber is great for icy, snow-covered and snow-rolled road. It can be used both for city driving and for country driving.

Design features of tires the following:

• tire material - medium hardness;
• the presence of metal spikes - the protrusion, as a rule, is 1.2 - 2.3 mm;
• the presence of zigzag sipes, providing strong grip and stability.
• sinuous, undulating tread pattern.

Studded patterns can be noted the following benefits:

1. excellent grip on snowy and icy road sections;
2. good braking performance.

The disadvantages are:

1. the noise of rubber while driving;
2. negative impact on the road surface;
3. slight increase in fuel consumption.

Non-studded tires

Non-studded samples in our country are used much less often, due to the impossibility of their use in the conditions of harsh Russian winters.

Velcro is mainly used for the city, providing excellent maneuverability and speed of movement, which is clearly an advantage over studded counterparts.

These tires are equipped with lamellas attached to the outside of the tire to improve traction. The thicker the lamella, the better the grip - it's simple.

Tires are divided into two kinds:

• Scandinavian- are used for driving on snow-covered and ice-covered tracks. They are made of soft rubber and equipped with drainage channels and flexible lamellas. Tread height - no more than 8 mm, it is executed in the form of rectangles and rhombuses. They are mainly used in changeable weather conditions. Suitable for the southern and some central regions of the country.
• European- are used exclusively within the city at low freezing temperatures. They are distinguished by a network of drainage channels on the tread and powerful lugs. Provides reliable traction on wet or sleet-covered trails, but not suitable for snowy and icy areas. They have a good effect on the maneuverability of the car, they are quiet.

Advantages of rubber - Velcro:

1. great for driving on dry and wet asphalt.
2. do not reduce vehicle handling;
3. tire material does not lose its properties at high temperatures.
4. practically do not make noise;
5. do not spoil the road surface.

The disadvantages of this type include:

1. inability to use on heavily icy roads
2. long braking distance on ice;
3. cross-country ability on snow is lower than that of studded samples.

Selection rules

To choose the right winter tires, you need to rely on:

• vehicle operating conditions- road and climatic;
• your driving style;
• tire manufacturer- it is better to opt for proven brands;
• rubber expiration date- the tire cannot be stored for more than 5 years;
• Availability from the seller relevant certificates for products.

Service life of brand winter tires is 5-6 seasons maximum and her Chinese counterparts - 2-3... Tests carried out show that even after one season of operation, braking properties tires are shrinking at least 10%.

That's why in any case, it is better to buy new tires, albeit inexpensive than buying used ones.

Winter tire rating 2020

When choosing winter tires, do not rely on price alone and choose the cheapest option. Good tires cannot be very cheap. Although not always you have to pay dearly for quality. There are often reliable budget options to be found. Our list of the best winter tires for 2020 features only the best, proven models in various price categories.

Studded tire rating

T op-10 best winter studded tires:

1. Top Best Winter Studded Tires Reveals Nokian Hakkapeliitta 7- it is not enough to say that rubber can withstand almost any low temperatures without becoming hard, in addition, the spikes have an unusual shape - a rhombus with beveled-pointed corners. This structure has improved lateral grip on the track and improved ride stability on it. In addition, the tires are practically silent due to the use of proprietary technology Air Claw Technology- in particular due to the air shock absorbers of the tread. Car owners' reviews on Nokian are only the best. The cost of the model starts from the mark in RUB 3300 for 13 radius, R14 will cost 4,300 rubles, and R17 is already almost 8,700.
2. Nokian nordman 7- tires are distinguished by a radial design. They are spiked and tubeless, making them ideal for riding on snow and ice both outside the city and within the city. The line consists of models in size 13 to 17 inches, the price for R17 starts from 7500 rub.
3. Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-02 SUV- are distinguished by the most frequent arrangement of spikes, which ensures reliable. The tread features a new directional cleat with a firm grip. The tire sidewalls are reinforced to resist wear. The cost for R17 starts from the mark in 10,000 rubles., available in various sizes: from R15 to R20.
4. Continental IceContact 2- stand out with asymmetrical lines on the tread, which helps to save fuel, improve the car's maneuverability on ice, and also allows the car to move smoothly from the start. Studded elements are located very tightly to each other, which provides good grip on the track. R17 prices start at 12500 RUB
5. Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic- designed specifically for use in northern territories and off-road driving. The tread structure allows the car to achieve excellent adhesion to the road, while minimally affecting acceleration and minimizing the braking distance. Produced in radii R15, R16, R17, R18. Price varies from 4500 to 11000 rubles.
6. Yokohama Ice Guard IG65- the model can hardly be called a novelty, but one of the best in the class is definitely possible. In the model, deep grooves and grooves are intertwined in a symmetrically directed pattern against the movement of the car, which allows self-cleaning of snow. The tire is quite thick, withstands the load from 650 to 1250 kg and provides a quiet ride. Available in sizes R16, R17, R18. Cost starts from 6000 RUB
7. Pirelli ice zero- the manufacturer positions them as solutions for cars premium class, where they are among the most effective and cheapest. Feature of tires is that they are able to provide fast acceleration and good resistance on ice, as well as minimize skidding when cornering when driving fast. Of the design features, it is worth highlighting that the lamellas are located on increased frequency which improves traction. Model cost - 3500 RUB for R15.
8. Dunlop Grandtrek Ice02 XL- specially designed for driving on wet asphalt and snowy roads. This model may well lead the rating of winter tires for crossovers and compact SUVs. The tread pattern of this rubber is symmetrically directed, the drainage grooves are placed against the movement. This rubber is produced in radii R15, R16, R17, R18, R19, R20... The cost starts from the mark in 7650 rubles beyond the radius R17.
9. Michelin X-Ice North 4- this model is a continuation of the previous generation. V renewed version, the tire began to slow down the car much faster (by 10%). Improvements are also visible in the re-shaped grooves, which improved maneuverability on ice. Tire cost varies from 4100 rub. depending on the diameter of the wheels. Available for radius R14, R15, R16 and R17.
10. The winter studded tire rating concludes Kama Euro 519. The tires are designed according to Finnish technology Irbis... Equipped with spikes in size 2.45 mm. They feature a two-layer tread. The bottom layer of the tire is hard, the top layer is softer, able to adapt to the type of road surface. Customer reviews speak of not the best handling of the car, but they note its excellent braking properties. Model cost starts from 2400 p. for 14 radius.

Non-studded tire rating

1. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 - ready for any weather conditions due to a special rubber formula that does not harden even in the most extreme temperatures below zero. The structure of the tires includes unique three-dimensional zizgaz-like sipes, which themselves remove dirt, snow and water, due to which the model behaves perfectly on loose snow. Cost starts from 3500 rubles for R14, from 6000 rubles. for R16 and from 8000-9000 p. for 17 radius.
2. Goodyear ultragrip ice 2- allow you to ride both on clean ice and on large snow drifts. Ultragrip Ice 2 is produced from a cryo-adaptive compound, which allows the tire not to lose its qualities when the temperature drops down to - 50 degrees Celsius... Available in sizes from 13 to 19 inches. For example, R17 will cost from 7600 to 8500 r.
3. Continental ContiVikingContact 6 - allow you to quickly start and brake, demonstrate excellent handling on packed snow. They are distinguished by an asymmetric tread pattern in the form of rhombuses. Available in sizes from 14 "to 19". R14 can be purchased from and 4700 rubles, and R17 - for 8000.
4. Pirelli Ice Zero Fr - allow you to quickly start on a snowy road, without losing maneuverability. Great for snowy and icy roads. It is not recommended to use the model on dry asphalt - the tests of the model, like the reviews of the drivers, indicate rapid abrasion on a dry surface. The peculiarity of this model lies in the special formula and the large thickness of the rubber. Ice Zero price in the area from 3000 to 9000 rub.
5. Michelin X ice 3- they have an interesting feature - they deform both from the load and from the temperature, but they deform within the specified limits, which allows the tire to adapt to different tracks and better stabilize the ride on ice and snow. The lamellas on the treads are shaped like a Z with sharp edges, which helps to get out of the water slurry with snow. The cost starts from the mark in 3100 RUB for R14, R15 will cost 5300, R16 - at 7000, R17 - at 9,500 rubles.
6. Bridgestone Blizzak DM - differ in the presence of two layers, which makes the model very strong. This is one of the few tires specially designed for Russian weather conditions. They are included in many ratings of winter tires for SUVs and crossovers. Available in diameters from 15 to 20 inches, the price of R17 is 10,000 rubles. Their reviews are the best, judging by the data from popular Internet portals.
7. Hankook Winter icept iZ2- have a wedge-shaped tread pattern, which allows you not to lose control of the car even on snowy roads. Suitable for both conventional passenger cars and large SUVs. The cost is relatively low - R17 can be purchased for 6300 p.
8. Barum Polaris 5- are distinguished by a low price covering minor functional flaws. The model was designed by Continental engineers. A feature of the treads is the specific arrangement of the annular channels, which evenly diverge in small grooves to the central part of the tire, which makes it possible to quickly self-clean from snow, debris and provide good grip. Among budget options in 2020, these tires will be among the best. Prices start at 2300 rubles for R13, from 3500 for R16 and 4000-4500 for R17.
9. Bridgestone Blizzak VRX- they feel confident even on rather snow-covered tracks. Prices for R16 approx 6300, and for R17 - 8800.
10. Yokohama Ice Guard IG50- if the version of tires with spikes is fixed in the middle of the rating, then the model of velcro tires is somewhat inferior. The tires are equipped with grooves to drain snow and water, not to be afraid of low temperatures and provide excellent maneuverability. Available in sizes from 12 to 20 inches, the price of R17 in stores is 6200 rubles.

A winter tire test review is presented below.

author

For 15 years I have been repairing all kinds of cars, including brands such as Vaz, Uaz, Chevrolet, Mazda, Kia and many others. Everything related to the gearbox, engine or chassis. You can write me your question below in the comments and I will try to answer it in detail.

Let's list the advantages of the model, which allowed it to take a worthy third place in our rating of winter studded tires.

Let's start with the tread pattern. Compared to the NH 7, it received deeper drainage and open shoulder areas, which increased the tire's resistance to aqua and splash planning. The blocks located in the central area of ​​the tire are firmly connected to each other - this is done to increase the rigidity of the rubber and the ability to confidently overcome dry sections of winter roads.

A large number of self-locking three-dimensional sipes, located on the shoulder areas of the tread, help to improve handling when cornering and increase the off-road performance of the tire.

The toothed shape of the rear of the tread blocks provides excellent traction with the road surface during active braking, reducing the braking distance. In addition, this shape of the brake boosters contributes to a more efficient removal of snow and slush from under the wheels of the car.

We also note the use of the proprietary Eco Stud 8 technology, concerning the Hakkapeliitta 8 studding, as well as the Cryo-Silane technology used in the preparation of the rubber compound (an increase in the proportion of rapeseed oil and silicon dioxide). Tires have been produced since 2013, but are still considered one of the best in their category, competing on an equal footing with younger competitors.

In the ranking of the best studded winter tires of 2019, there is another long-awaited novelty that replaced the first generation of Ice Zero winter tires. Compared to its predecessor, the second generation tire is characterized by:

1. improved handling characteristics, accuracy of reactions to driver actions;
2. more efficient winter braking;
3. a decrease in noise (by 20%), despite the presence of a large number of spikes.

The unique tread pattern has V-shaped drainage grooves that become wider closer to the edges - this design provides the fastest drainage of water and snow slurry from the contact patch of the tire. To reduce the braking distance and increase the traction characteristics of the tire, Italian engineers placed additional sipes perpendicular to the main sipes.

The central tread area received a number of double blocks to improve the vehicle's directional stability. To ensure safety when driving on dry roads, the tire edge effect has been enhanced through the use of zigzag block edges. Finally, the 3D sipes that have appeared in the shoulder areas of the tire provide the necessary rubber stiffness, making it easier to take high-speed corners.

It is worth noting the improved cross-country ability of the tires in relation to deep snow - this is facilitated by the snow hooks located in the shoulder area of ​​the blocks, special containers are responsible for the rapid removal of ice chips and snow mass.

Pirelli Ice Zero 2 tires use double stud technology, which consists in placing them in pairs on multidirectional blocks. This helps to reduce driving noise on all types of roads. The spike core is made of tungsten carbide alloy, which increases its resource, and the high impact resistance of the spikes is ensured by the increased dimensions of its surface.

The grip properties of the tire are also improved due to the addition of components such as some types of resins to the rubber mixture, and in the place of fastening of the studs the rubber is made of a harder compound. Increasing the number of studding rows up to 24 helps to avoid spikes getting into the same furrows.

If you are the owner of an off-road vehicle, you probably have to solve the problem at regular intervals, which winter studded tire for crossovers / SUVs is the best. In 2019, we advise such car owners to pay attention to the second generation Grandtrek Ice02 tires from Dunlop.

The unique design of the tread pattern guarantees excellent consumer properties of this rubber. Miura Ori's proprietary technology, which consists in the use of three-dimensional zigzag sipes of long length with rigid edges, prevents the tread blocks from bending, increasing the area of ​​adhesion of the tire to the roadway.

Thanks to this pattern, rubber wear occurs as evenly as possible, and tire control at all stages of its operation remains stable, guaranteeing high sensitivity of tires to steering wheel turns.

But the main feature of the Grandtrek Ice02 is the improved stud design. They are made of steel and have a corrugated rectangular tungsten carbide core. This provides increased penetration for icy surfaces and trampled snow. The core is 2.8 mm long. with a width of 2.0 mm., at the base, the thorn thickens up to 8 millimeters. An innovative technology for the formation of seats has been applied, which reduces the likelihood of losing studs. In total, the model has 16 rows of spikes with a density of 60 pieces per r.m., which corresponds to the technical regulation CU-TR 018, adopted in 2011.

The rubber itself has a two-layer structure: the upper layer consists of a soft mixture that provides the most tight contact with the winter road, the inner one is more rigid, contributing to a better retention of the studs and extending their lifespan. The rounded, symmetrical profile of the tires reduces the deformability of the rubber between the sidewall and shoulder area, improving handling and reducing fuel consumption.

Another representative of Finnish tire manufacturers in the top 10 best winter studded tires, the Nordman 7 model, has been produced since 2017. This rubber can be ranked among the best representatives of universal tires of the middle price category, designed for use on passenger vehicles in the winter season.

By and large, the "Nordic" model is a slightly improved copy of the famous "seven" Hakkapeliitta, providing an optimal balance of wear resistance and excellent grip on slippery surfaces.

A feature of the model can be called the Air Claw technology, which consists in the use of anchored studs and the presence of teardrop-shaped grooves on the tread blocks. This is what gives the rubber the softness necessary for confident movement on winter roads. These grooves act akin to the heel cushions found in modern running shoes: they reduce vibration and soften the anti-skid effect of studs. Naturally, this also reduces the wear of the asphalt, as well as the noise effect characteristic of metal contact with hard road surfaces. Thanks to the wide flange, such "claws" are reliably held in the tread like an anchor - hence the name of the mount.

It is also worth mentioning the proprietary technology of studding called Eco Stud System - it is actively used in all the latest models of Nokian winter tires.

Its essence lies in an innovative technology for making holes for laying thorns: they are made at the stage of rubber vulcanization and are equipped with shock-absorbing pads that do not affect the reliability of their holding. For these purposes, another technology is used, Bear Claw, which means "bear claw", which helps to keep the studs in a plane perpendicular to the tread, even during sharp acceleration / deceleration.

From the name of the model, you can already understand that it is designed to operate in the harshest conditions. In the 2018/2019 ranking of the best studded winter tires with tire radius from R16 to R21, this model is the only one with triangular studs.

The use of MultiControl Ice technology has significantly increased the contact area of ​​the tire with the roadway. Although the tungsten carbide spike itself has a semicircular contour, it is enclosed in a triangular shell. This design in section resembles the famous cocked hat. The principle of operation of such a technological solution is as follows: the outer insert, also made of tungsten carbide material, has sharp edges, which greatly improve the acceleration and braking properties of the tire. In the presence of pronounced lateral accelerations, smooth transitions of the body itself begin to work, during braking - the rear surface of the stud, which has an increased width. When installing "thorns" in the factory, no glue is used - the fastening reliability is so high that it does not even allow the spike to rotate around its axis.

The second feature of UltraGrip Ice Arctic concerns the patented tread pattern (3D-BIS). The V-shaped design, traditional for the winter series, is complemented by a large number of wave-like sipes, on which there are wafer recesses, which accelerate the removal of snow slurry and excess water from the contact patch through wide drainage channels.

To provide the best grip on all types of winter road surfaces, an innovative silicon polymer filler is included in the compound. It should be noted the low weight of UltraGrip Ice Arctic tires, which is achieved by using the shoulder zones of a small radius, a special tread contour and a two-component rubber compound with a soft outer and harder inner layers.

A characteristic feature of the Nord * Frost 200 model with an asymmetric tread pattern is its excellent traction and adhesion properties and excellent lateral stability when driving on slippery surfaces - compacted snow and ice.

Although this model is considered a “veteran” in the 2019 ranking of the best winter studded tires (sales started in 2015), this does not detract from its merits. One of them is the use of a unique tread pattern, which has proven its effectiveness on winter roads according to the results of numerous tests carried out on the roads of Russia and Scandinavia.

The central area of ​​the tread includes three rows of blocks in the form of irregular polygons, which is done in order to increase the number of sharp cutting edges. They provide reliable grip on snowy / icy highways. The multidirectionality of these sharp edges contributes to improved lateral / longitudinal stability of the tires. The number of 3D corrugated sipes matches the number of blocks, ensuring reliable tire contact with the road during braking and abrupt starts, as well as when maneuvering at high speeds.

The width of the drainage grooves is sufficient for the prompt removal of any amount of excess water, snow mass and ice crumbs, so that you can forget about the manifestation of the effect of aquaplaning and splash planning here.

The special composition of the compound provides an optimal balance between the elasticity of the tire and its stiffness, regardless of the thermometer reading.

It differs from its predecessor with the RS W419 index in improved traction and braking performance on ice and snow surfaces, loose and compacted. When modeling the tread pattern, the means of computer optimization were used, so that the new one has practically nothing in common with the old pattern, except for the symmetry and directionality of the relief. Instead of a narrow mono-ribbed stiffener, enlarged blocks appeared, which made it possible to optimize the load on the tire surface in the area of ​​the contact patch, improve directional stability on a dry road and ensure comfortable handling on slippery road surfaces. But the blocks in the shoulder area of ​​the tires have become smaller, but their number has increased, improving the lateral stability of the rubber and making it easier to get out of the deep snow-covered track.

Most winter tires have a developed network of three-dimensional sipes. i * Pike RS2W429 on the become an exception, and some of them are located at a small angle relative to the direction of travel, so that when maneuvering on a snowy or icy track, the tires behave more predictably, following the steering wheel turns. The second purpose of such lamellas is to improve the grip properties of rubber in the longitudinal direction, as well as to redirect excess water into wider drainage channels.

Compared to the first generation Winter i * Pike, the number of rows of studs has increased from 10 to 12, and those responsible for anti-skid are more evenly dispersed over the tread surface, shifting towards the center of the tire.

The top 10 of the best winter studded tires is completed by the novelty of 2018, which replaced the IceCruiser 7000 model, produced since 2010. Interestingly, the tread pattern has practically not changed, but the use of innovative technologies in studding and compound has significantly improved the grip characteristics of the tire on slippery surfaces. Users note the traditionally high quality of the Japanese tire, its reliability and durability, as well as the ability to keep the studs from falling out throughout the entire service life.

A feature of the tread pattern is the unique organization of large blocks located in the central region, aimed at increasing the deformation stability of the product. Shoulder blocks are characterized by increased rigidity, which improved stability when maneuvering on ice, snow and wet roads. The presence of sharp toothed edges led to an improvement in the lateral stability of the rubber, making it easier to move on loose snow.

Note the high efficiency of the IceCruiser 7000S drainage system. It consists of two wide circular channels and a network of inclined grooves oriented towards the center - they provide high resistance to aquaplaning and reliable drainage of water and snow slime from the contact zone with the road.

Although the spikes themselves are made of traditional aluminum technology, their ability to gnaw tightly into ice is due to their improved design. Reliable retention in the tire is ensured by a center insert with an adapted level of hardness and the use of a two-component compound.

Short summary

Each of the presented tires deserves its high place in the rating. Some have certain disadvantages, which are difficult to call significant. Objectively, it's hard to say which spike tires are the best. Although experts and ordinary consumers made it clear that the main emphasis in winter in Russia is placed on the products of the Finnish company Nokian, this does not in any way diminish the dignity of the products of the rest of the manufacturers that are in the top 10.

The most affordable is the Cordiant Snow Cross. Completely domestic (both development and manufacture) tire, upgraded last year. Another model of the last season is a little more expensive -.

Four more tires that can be called inexpensive by today's standards are the Nitto Therma Spike (the second brand of the Japanese company Toyo), the South Korean Kumho WinterCraft Ice, the popular Formula Ice (developed by Pirelli, and manufactured in Russia) and the popular Japanese Malaysian " assemblies »Toyo Observe G3 ‑ Ice.

From the representatives of the second echelon - new models with German and Finnish ancestry, but produced in Russia: Gislaved Nord Frost 200 with a tread copied from the first generation ContiIceContact, and Nordman 7 with the "face" of the Hakkapeliitta 7 tire.

And finally, the leaders of our past: Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic and Continental IceContact 2. And also a hot new product from Nokian - the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 9.

Tires in the north

We have already conducted tests outside of Russia and we consider this very positive. This time we decided to go to the Pirelli winter training ground. It is located in the northern part of Sweden, in the province of Norrbotten, near the town of Elvsbün. Ice tracks are laid on the frozen lake Lilkorstresk (Small Krestovoye swamp), and snow runs along its shores.

At the beginning of February, the pre-run tires were delivered there, and at the end of the month we carried out all the snow and ice tests. The temperature during the tests ranged from -1 to -15 ºС, but at first the Swedish north made me very nervous. On the first day of our work, a warm atmospheric front came to the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia - and the air temperature rose to plus seven degrees! Snow and ice melted before our eyes. The locals said that they didn’t remember such warmth in February in their entire lives. Only on the third day, in the evening, did it freeze, the thawed lake ice got stronger again and a day later was already holding the car. Let's start testing on ice!

We saddle the brand new Kia Rio hatchback and refine our own "toolbox". This time, in all exercises, experts give an assessment not in whole points, but in half-point increments - for more correct results.

On thin ice

First, an assessment of the longitudinal adhesion properties. Using the VBOX device, we record the acceleration time from zero to 30 km / h and immediately after that we brake, determining the value from 30 to 5 km / h. The length of the "track" allows you to take four measurements in one direction. Then four more back - and calculate the average. We roll the base tire every three test ones; at the end of the measurements, we recalculate all the results taking into account how the results of the "stove" have changed.

The best acceleration, 6.5 seconds, was shown by Rio on Continental tires, second on Nokian tires: 6.8 seconds. No one doubted that the tires with 185-186 studs would be ahead. However, Cordiant, Goodyear and Nordman are stepping on their heels with 110 studs each in 6.9 seconds. The longest acceleration - Kumho: 9.7 seconds.

In braking, Nokian outperforms Continental just a little - 16.4 meters against sixteen and a half, and the third result, 16.7 meters, shows Goodyear. The last one was again Kumho: 23.7 meters.

Pit at zero

Controllability is estimated on a track of a closed configuration. This "path" is about a kilometer long with bends of different radii and a long straight line. And the main thing is that the ice here is very slippery, polished by the wind. We carry out the assessment together, on each set of tires we ride three laps each, then we change.

Heck! Incredibly slippery! To change places, I literally had to crawl from one side to the other, without taking my hands off the car.

Nokian tires earned the highest score in this exercise: clear reactions and good steering information are complemented by a soft, predictable start of the car's sliding and stable grip regardless of the degree of slippage.

Rio behaved a little worse, shod in and Nitto. In the first case, I liked the good balance of longitudinal and lateral grip, an understandable moment of transition to sliding. The score was lowered slightly due to small delays in reactions. On Nitto, the car conquered with good handling even in sliding and a tight, "understandable" steering wheel at large angles of rotation. However, there were some small complaints about the information content of the steering wheel at small angles - in the initial phase of the turn. Shinniks call this effect hole in zero.

The lowest scores were reported by Gislaved, Goodyear and Formula. On these tires, the driver is forced to increase the steering angles, there are delays in reactions. In addition, the Rio on Gislaved tires slips for a long time in the corner, and then the grip is sharply restored, which provokes the whip effect - a sharp skid in the opposite direction.

Goodyear did not like the imbalance of the longitudinal and lateral clutch: the car holds the curve much worse than accelerates and brakes. On Formula - low information content "on the steering wheel" in the corners, which provokes twisting and subsequent skidding.

The ice circle is the most unpleasant exercise for the driver. It is necessary to grope for the maximum speed on the verge of sliding, show the best time (it is recorded by VBOX) and confirm it. In this case, you have to go in one direction, counterclockwise. With good grip, a decent lateral force rolls over the body and head - you constantly strain all the muscles. All the time you have to look from the "road" to the devices and back. After fifty circles, my head begins to spin.

The Continental and Nokian were the fastest on the lap - 19.9 seconds per full revolution. Only one tenth (20.0 s) lagged behind them Cordiant. Slowest tires - Kumho: best achievement - 22.5 seconds.

How many laps did you have to do on each set to get the best results and repeat them? Ten to fifteen! The only tires that required more attention and skill were Goodyear: the car shod in them all the time strove to fall into a skid, I had to cut 19 laps. And in total, taking into account the repeated races on the basic tires, our Rio had to wind up more than two hundred revolutions!

Moving on to snow procedures

Snow fell exactly the next day after the completion of all ice tests. It is easier to prepare a track for assessing handling than a plateau for measuring longitudinal grip. Therefore, we start with more creative and interesting work.

In one bend, the track lies on a hillside, therefore it has short, but rather steep ascents and descents. This is a "feature" of local tracks for assessing handling - most tire manufacturers use mostly flat tracks. The climbs and descents load and unload the suspension by altering the vertical forces acting on the wheels. It is especially interesting when the wheel is unloaded in a corner: downforce decreases, the tire starts to slip.

Fresh snow fell on the cold ice - and shifted as the car slid in corners. The result is a mixed coverage: in some places snow, in some places ice - real!

Here, in terms of handling, I liked the Nokian tires more than others: very soft but confident cat habits, predictable car behavior. Rio on these tires does not require the driver - he just turns. The top speed is limited by a gentle skid that helps to prescribe a turn, requiring little or no adjustment.

The experts presented the greatest claims to the next three participants. annoying with an unexpectedly arising skid with a sharp, unpredictable stall, long sliding and the same sharp recovery of adhesion, which provokes a "shooting" skid in the opposite direction. On Gislaved tires, the steering wheel becomes unpleasantly empty and uninformative - you have to turn it at excessively large angles, which leads to an unexpected sharp break into a skid and deep slips. I didn’t like the Kumho tires because of the noticeable delays in reactions, significant steering angles, long slips and deep skid on the arc, requiring the driver to make immediate adjustments.

Exercise "rearrangement" due to excessively soft snow was performed only partially - they were able to assess only the behavior of the machine during extreme maneuvering, and they refused to determine the maximum speed of successful execution of the maneuver.

Here, as on the handling track, Nokian tires earned the most points thanks to the sharpest responses, soft and predictable behavior and easy self-healing skidding at top speed. Dunlop liked the least of all: on these tires, the Rio shows not only noticeable delays in reactions, but also an unstable, wide steering balance: from significant drift of the front axle at the first jerk of the steering wheel to skidding of the rear wheels when trying to stabilize the car in the change lane.

And here is a well-trodden snow straight - you can take measurements of the acceleration time and braking distance. As in similar ice exercises, we combine acceleration with deceleration, repeating the exercises eight to ten times. Moreover, the acceleration time from 0 to 40 km / h on snow was evaluated twice - with and without the TCS traction control system. Braking from 40 to 5 km / h - only with ABS.

So, acceleration is normal, when TCS prevents the tires from slipping. Best results with Continental, Goodyear and Nokian tires. On them, the Rio is gaining 40 km / h in exactly six seconds. Kumho has the worst performance. Like on the ice, they accelerate slowly, losing over 11% to the leaders.

Disconnect the electronic collar and repeat the measurements. It turns out faster! Goodyear holds the leading position: 40 km / h from a standstill are subdued in 5.2 seconds. Acceleration is only one-tenth longer on Continental and Nokian tires. Kumho tires show the most modest result in this mode.

Braking is won by the leading pair - Continental and Nokian, showing the same result: 14.8 meters. At the closing this time - relatives Nitto and Toyo.

Final exercises - assessment of directional stability on a snow-covered track and cross-country ability in deep snow. At high speed, the Rio is the best at following the set course and most clearly rebuilt, shod in Nokian. In addition, we note the high information content of the steering: the driver drives the car in a straight line intuitively, without concentrating.

The worst marks were given to four participants. On Cordiant and Gislaved tires, when changing lanes, the Rio has an unpleasant steering of the rear axle, which turns into a skid. Attempting to correct course on Dunlop and Kumho tires is fraught with skidding, requiring immediate action, even with soft lane changes.

More confident than others in rowing Goodyear tires - on them Rio is ready to conquer any snowdrift. But on Kumho and Toyo tires, you can only ride a good ride. Getting under way in the snow is daunting: the slightest slip - and the wheels slip, digging deeper and deeper.

What's with the thorns?

We were pleasantly surprised. On all tires, after running-in, the spikes protruded above the tread within reasonable limits. The maximum is 1.41 mm for the Cordiant, the minimum is less than 0.9 mm for the Formula, Gislaved and Nokian tires. Only the Nokian has 185 studs on each tire, while the Formula and Gislaved have only 110. And this number with such a small protrusion is clearly not enough to provide good grip on ice.

As a reminder, the regulated stud protrusion on new tires is no more than 1.2 mm. We know from experience that after running in, this value can increase to 1.3–1.4 mm.

It is gratifying that tire manufacturers have stopped abusing the increased stud protrusion. After all, strongly protruding spikes "saw" the asphalt, on which deep ruts appear. And for the first time during our tests, not a single tire lost a single spike, confirming the postulate that the reliability of the retention of the spikes in the rubber is inversely proportional to the amount of their protrusion. The less you stick out, the harder you sit!

On the asphalt

In Togliatti, at the AVTOVAZ test site, we again had to wait for the weather. Dry roads and calm weather are the conditions for reliable rolling resistance results. The asphalt part of the tests could be performed only in the first half of May. I had to work at night in order to keep within the admissible temperature for winter tires + 5… + 7 ºC.

The procedure for evaluating the economy is the same as in the case of p. We start by warming them up, making a full circle along the high-speed ring (10 km) at a speed of 110–120 km / h. Along the way, we estimate how much the car deviates from the set course under the influence of external forces (side wind, slope), and also smoothly maneuver, simulating a soft detour around an obstacle or changing lane for overtaking. At the same time, the tester carefully monitors the reactions and behavior of the car, and also evaluates how convenient and understandable (read: safe) it is to drive it. The wider the "zero" and the greater the steering wheel turning angles, to which the car does not react, and the lower the information content (the rate of increase in steering effort with increasing steering angle), the worse the assessment.

Experts gave Formula Ice tires the highest mark for directional stability: some summer tires can envy the clarity of course holding and the reactions of the car shod in them! The complete opposite is Dunlop tires. The main disadvantages in the behavior of the car on these tires: wide "zero", empty steering wheel, delays in reactions when adjusting the course.

After a circle around the ring on a two-kilometer straight line, we estimate the amount of run-out from the maximum permitted "urban" and "suburban" speeds. Measurements are carried out in opposite directions, we repeat from three to five times, depending on the results obtained. At the same time, the driver gains impressions of the noise and smoothness of the ride at different speeds. The greenest, that is, the most economical ones, were the Nokian tires.

Before changing tires, the Rio makes a lap on service roads with cracks and cracks to determine the comfort rating. We found the quietest tires Gislaved, Toyo and Nitto, and the softest - Continental and Nokian.

The next exercise is to measure the stopping distance on a dry surface and on a wet surface. The initial braking speeds for winter tires are reduced compared to summer ones by 20 km / h - up to 80 km / h on a dry road and up to 60 km / h on a wet one. Better than others when braking on wet asphalt tires looked Continental, on dry - Nokian. The weakest results were with Nitto, regardless of the condition of the pavement, and on dry asphalt, Cordiant was the Nitto company.

Summarizing

The new tires won the test with the highest score (936) Nokian Hakkapeliitta 9... The second place with a total of 914 points took Continental IceContact 2... We categorize both tires as excellent and recommend to drivers of all skill levels.

On the third step of our pedestal - Goodyear ultragrip ice arctic, who earned 898 total points, just two points short of the excellent tire title. Its element is unclean winter roads and even virgin snow.

The fourth position with 888 points is occupied by Nordman seventh generation. Very good tires for the Russian winter, will give confidence in any conditions.

All of the tires listed are ranked in our table according to the price ranking. Or they have a price that is adequate to the characteristics and properties, which, in fact, are one and the same. And starting from the fifth place, small distortions begin in one direction or another.

For example, Cordiant Snow Cross earned 871 points, which allowed him to gain a foothold in the "very good tires" category and take the fifth line in the final test result. They will not give up on any road, unless they require a long distance on dry asphalt due to modest adhesion properties, and also unhurried movement on a snowy road. You can buy them for 2500 rubles apiece.

Tires scoring 852 points (sixth place) open the category of good tires. Decent product with averages across nearly all disciplines. Not without weaknesses, among which are modest lateral grip on ice, poor directional stability on a snowy road and asphalt, and a low level of comfort. But it is sold for the same money as the Cordiant Snow Cross: the price is 2550 rubles.

Even more expensive tires are located on the seventh and eighth steps - Toyo Observe G3 ‑ Ice and Nitto Therma Spike, practically brothers both "by blood" and by properties. They scored 847 points each and settled in the good tires category. Liked the low noise level. The Toyo brand is well known in our market, and Nitto appeared quite recently, therefore it is a little cheaper.

The ninth and tenth places are shared by and, who earned 841 points. These tires still fall into the good category. Gislaved, smoother in terms of objective indicators, "failed" in handling and directional stability on the snow. The Formula has somewhat unbalanced characteristics: it is weak in longitudinal grip on ice, but it behaves more confidently on asphalt, is close to the best results in dry braking and provides a clear course hold. But the difference in prices is noticeable: Formula is three hundred rubles cheaper, so a set of four will save more than a thousand. However, there is one technical nuance that unites both tires: the protrusion of the studs is insufficient - less than a millimeter after the tests. We believe there was a failure during the installation of the spikes.

Seven or eight years ago, together with Continental, we investigated and obtained the following pattern: one tenth of their performance is equivalent to three percent of the stopping distance on ice. Increasing the protrusion of "studs" to 1.2 mm allowed by the law on new tires will allow Gislaved and Formula to improve longitudinal grip by about 10% - this is where hidden reserves are hidden!

On the eleventh line - tires Kumho wintercraft ice who scored 803 points. It is rather weak for modern spikes, but it is natural, since in most exercises these tires show modest results. Given their not the lowest price, they can hardly be called a bargain.

Count your money

In our diagram, the tires tested are ranked from left to right in ascending order of price, and the height of the bars corresponds to the number of points scored. Small columns at the bottom of the diagram show the ratio of quality and price and show how many points a tire is gaining for every thousand rubles given for it.

If you put the price at the forefront and scrupulously calculate each ruble, pay attention to another group of columns: the more points a tire earned for every thousand rubles of the price, the more profitable the purchase! The rating is topped by Cordiant Snow Cross tires, and the test leader Hakkapeliitta 9 is in last place - expensive tires! Kumho WinterCraft Ice tires are in the middle, which is why many people buy them.

By comparing all our test results and prices, you will be able to make the right choice. Have a good trip!

Test results

	11th place	9-10 place	9-10 place	7-8 place
brand, model
Country of manufacture	Korea	Russia	Russia	Malaysia
Load and speed index
	9,1–10,0	9,2–9,4	9,1–9,7	8,5–8,9
	61–62		55–56	60–61
Number of spikes, pcs.
	1,35	0,93	0,93	1,43
Tire weight, kg
	2800	3140	2850	2900
Quality / price *	0,29	0,27	0,30	0,29
The amount of points awarded	803	841	841	847
pros	Satisfactory grip on asphalt. Stable handling on the "Russian road"	Satisfactory handling during extreme maneuvering and cross-country ability. Least noisy	Better road holding and good braking on asphalt. Comprehensible handling for extreme snow maneuvers	Satisfactory handling and directional stability. Low internal noise
Minuses	Poor grip on ice. Weakest acceleration on snow. Difficult handling during extreme maneuvering on snow and directional stability. Notes on handling on ice. Limited cross-country ability. Low level of comfort	Low efficiency at high speed. Difficult handling on ice and directional stability. Notes on handling on the "Russian road"	Poor longitudinal grip and difficult handling on ice. Notes on road holding on snow. Noisy. Low level of ride comfort	Weakest braking performance on snow. High fuel consumption at a speed of 90 km / h. Mediocre cross-country ability. Hard

* Obtained by dividing the total points by the retail price. The higher the score, the more profitable the purchase.

	7-8 place	6th place	5th place	4th place
brand, model
Country of manufacture	Malaysia	Thailand	Russia	Russia
Load and speed index
Depth of the pattern in width, mm	8,9–9,1	9,1–9,4	9,8–10,1	9,2–9,4
Shore hardness of rubber, unit	61–62	59–61	56–57	52–53
Number of spikes, pcs.
Protrusion of spikes after tests, mm	1,21	1,32	1,51	1,17
Tire weight, kg
Average price in online stores at the time of preparation of the material, rubles.	2710	2550	2500	3200
Quality / price *	0,31	0,33	0,35	0,28
The amount of points awarded	847	852	871	888
pros	Clear handling. Good cross-country ability. Good directional stability in the snow. Least noisy	Clear handling on the "Russian road". Attractive price	Good grip on ice. Confident cross-country ability in deep snow	High braking properties on snow. Confident acceleration on ice. Low fuel consumption. Reliable handling. Stable directional stability on snow. Good cross-country ability
Minuses	Lowest braking performance on snow and asphalt. Low efficiency at high speed. Notes on directional stability on asphalt and ride smoothness	Low lateral grip on ice. High fuel consumption. Difficult directional stability on snow, problematic - on asphalt. Notes on handling during extreme maneuvering on snow. The toughest and noisiest	Poor braking on dry asphalt. Low efficiency. Complex exchange rate stability. Remarks about handling on the "Russian road". Very noisy. Harsh