Editor’s note: We update this guide annually with the latest tire models. In compiling this list of the best, we do our best to choose tires based on our own tire experience, reviews, research, independent testing, and editorial opinion.
When the temps drop and the roads turn ugly, all-seasons just don’t cut it. A proper set of winter tires makes all the difference – better grip, shorter stops, more control. We’ve rounded up the best options out there, from affordable choices to high-end performers.
Best Winter Tires at a Glance
Cars & Crossovers
- Best budget-friendly: General AltiMAX Arctic 12 – stud-ready winter grip without premium pricing.
- Best performance: Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 – a high-performance winter tire backed by strong independent test results.
- Best midrange: Goodyear WinterCommand CUV/SUV – excellent snow traction with broad vehicle coverage.
- Best premium: Michelin X-Ice SNOW+ – an updated class leader with a new cold-weather compound.
SUVs & Light Trucks
- Best value: Nordman North 9 SUV – proven Nokian winter-tire technology at a more accessible price.
- Best performance: Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ – strong wet braking and cold-weather confidence for performance SUVs.
- Best midrange: Yokohama iceGUARD G075 – a proven performer with wide fitment coverage.
- Best premium: Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2 – premium winter performance and excellent sizing for luxury SUVs.
Best Winter Tires for Cars & Crossovers
Best Budget-Friendly Winter Tire (Cars & Crossovers)
❂ Our Top Pick: General AltiMAX Arctic 12
Takeaway: Stud-ready and wallet-friendly, the AltiMAX Arctic 12 delivers confident snow- and ice-traction and broad size coverage without premium pricing.
Why we like it:
- Stud-optional traction for ice country
- Broad size coverage for compact cars to crossovers
- Proven value pick in independent tests
The AltiMAX Arctic 12 is a studdable winter tire that brings serious snow and ice confidence without the premium price tag. Its directional tread and high-density siping dig in on packed snow, while the compound stays pliable in deep cold. It’s widely available in dozens of sizes, and independent testing keeps it near the top for budget shoppers.
Top Contenders:
◇ Cooper Evolution Winter
The Evolution Winter’s tread is optimized for deep snow, with Cooper’s patented saw-tooth design trapping snow in the tread to provide snow-on-snow traction. The tire can be studded for even greater grip and is available in dozens of sizes from 15- to 20-inch rim diameters, for cars and crossovers.
◇ Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 4
Uniroyal’s affordable option was upgraded to the Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 4 in 2024. Sold only in Canada, it offers better ice braking and 8% less rolling resistance than the long-running predecessor tire, the Ice & Snow 3. However, unlike the 3, the 4 is not studdable. The Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 4 is available in 57 sizes for 15- to 19-inch wheels and comes with an impressive six-year limited warranty.
Best Performance Winter Tire (Cars & Crossovers)
❂ Our Top Pick: Pirelli P Zero Winter 2
Takeaway: Excellent independent test results confirm this as Pirelli’s latest winter winner.
Why we like it:
- Homologation from prestige automakers including Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, BMW and Aston Martin
- Joint winner with Michelin in a Tyre Reviews performance tire test; also won a 2025 Teknikens Värld comparison test
- One of the best-looking winter tires around
All-new compared with its predecessor, the Winter 2 features a directional tread pattern, stretching from shoulder to shoulder, that is said to deliver more uniform stiffness and grip over the entire contact patch. A 3D structure keeps the sipes effective even as the tire wears, while the distinctive new design also enhances wet handling and braking performance – the latter confirmed by an “A” grade in European tire-label testing.
Two years into its life, the Winter 2 is now available in 69 sizes for rims from 18 to 24 inches. Some are available as runflats, while 13 sizes with Elect technology feature 50% bio-based or recycled materials, plus a noise-cancelling foam liner, for EVs or PHEVs.
Top Contenders:
◇ Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
The latest generation of Michelin’s acclaimed Pilot Alpin series is said to improve braking performance and hydroplaning resistance compared with the previous PA4, while a new functional polymer is incorporated to provide more grip in all conditions. The recipe has been enough to secure homologations from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, among others. In Germany, a highly regarded ADAC winter tire test – think AAA or CAA – placed the PA5 near the top of the tree in 2025.
◇ Bridgestone Blizzak 6
Blizzaks of any description are always a solid winter tire choice. Bridgestone’s latest winter product for performance vehicles, the Blizzak 6, replaced the long-serving LM series in 2025. The performance improvements are major: Bridgestone tests recorded 32% longer wear life than the Blizzak LM005 predecessor tire, while independent testing by TÜV SÜD in Europe reported excellent snow and wet-braking numbers against key rivals. That performance was backed up in the 2025 ADAC test mentioned above.
Best Midrange Winter Tire (Cars & Crossovers)
❂ Our Top Pick: Goodyear WinterCommand CUV/SUV
Takeaway: The dedicated truck version of the WinterCommand is well suited to snowy conditions.
Why we like it:
- Excellent snow traction
- Good size coverage
- Performance tailored to different vehicles
The studdable WinterCommand is also available for cars and minivans, but this CUV/SUV version is aimed at the performance demands of crossovers, SUVs and light trucks. As such, there are variations in the tread pattern, which boasts full-depth, zigzag sipes.
In Consumer Reports testing, the WinterCommand got maximum points for snow traction and solid scores for ride comfort and fuel-saving rolling resistance but was less impressive in wet conditions. Note that at a higher price point, Goodyear also makes a highly rated premium and high-performance winter tire, the UltraGrip Performance 3.
Top Contenders:
◇ Cooper Discoverer True North
Cooper says the widely available Discoverer True North is ideal for commuters who drive cars and minivans on plowed and treated roads, dealing with slush and black ice through the winter months. The coupled silica compound is designed to improve traction on ice and negate the need for studs.
◇ BFGoodrich Winter T/A KSI
We were impressed when we reviewed the Winter T/A KSI, which is available in Canada. We liked its blend of winter-conditions performance – enhanced by saw-toothed groove edges for better grip – and measures to reduce noise and handling compromises on clear pavement. The tire’s high-density silica compound is said to deliver traction in sub-freezing temperatures and extended durability on warmer winter days.
Best Premium Winter Tire (Cars & Crossovers)
❂ Our Top Pick: Michelin X-Ice SNOW+
Takeaway: Already the class of the field, now updated with a new compound.
Why we like it:
- Its predecessor scored very highly for owner satisfaction in Consumer Reports testing
- Treadwear warranties are unusual in winter tires, but Michelin offers one
- With 145 sizes available, it’s highly likely to fit your vehicle
Michelin has been making top-class winter tires for years – check out our review of the older but much-lauded X-Ice Xi3. The X-Ice SNOW was only introduced in the winter of 2020-21, but Michelin has already developed an upgrade, the X-Ice SNOW+, which is new for winter 2026-27 and carries the latest ISO Ice Grip Symbol. Like its predecessor, it was developed at Michelin’s Nordic test centres and is produced mostly at the company’s plant in Nova Scotia.
The V-shaped tread pattern is unchanged but is formed of a new rubber compound, dubbed Flex-Ice 3.0, to deliver performance improvements over the outgoing model – verified in independent testing – that include 14% more grip when braking on a wet surface, 7% more on dry pavement and 4% more on ice. Read our full Michelin X-Ice SNOW+ review.
Top Contenders:
◇ Continental VikingContact 8
Recently replacing the popular VikingContact 7, a set of which has been run by the author since 2020, the new 8 is equally at home on cars, SUVs or light trucks, and is available in more than 100 sizes. New, three-layer sipes improve grip on dry, wet or snowy roads, while a new compound and construction help save fuel and reduce road noise. Canadian buyers looking for a tire specifically for extreme cold conditions should also check out the Canada-only IceContact XTRM, which comes in both studded and non-studded versions. Read our IceContact XTRM review.
◇ Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak
Brand new for 2026 and Ice Grip certified, the IcePeak takes the place of two enduringly popular but aging Blizzak products: the WS90 for cars and crossovers and the DM-V2 for SUVs and light trucks. Bridgestone has taken an evolutionary approach with the tread pattern but made major strides to increase wear life and reduce rolling resistance compared with the predecessor tires. The latest version of the Multicell technology, whose pores wick moisture from an icy surface to improve grip, incorporates dimples on the surface of the tire so that it works optimally right from new. With 107 sizes on offer, there’s a good chance the IcePeak will fit your car, SUV or pickup truck.
Best Winter Tires for SUVs & Light Trucks
Best Value Winter Tire (SUVs & Light Trucks)
❂ Our Top Pick: Nordman North 9 SUV
Takeaway: A budget-friendly reworking of an excellent Nokian tire.
Why we like it:
- World-class Nokian winter-tire technology at an accessible price
- 23 sizes for larger and heavier SUVs and light trucks
- Studded or non-studded versions to best suit your use
Nokian launched Nordman as a standalone brand in 2023. Unlike the parent company’s premium positioning, Nordman offers tires at a cheaper price point. But there’s no skimping on quality – the North 9 SUV and its lighter, non-SUV counterpart are studded or studless reincarnations of the former Hakkapeliitta 9, with the same tread pattern but a different tread compound.
Nordman says that lightning-shaped Snow Grip Boosters in the center of the tread provide sharp edges to dig into snow, while the grippy compound still delivers good wear resistance and low energy use.
Top Contenders:
◇ General Grabber Arctic LT
With the exception of wet braking performance, the Grabber Arctic LT from General Tire, another of Continental’s brands, scored highly across the board in Consumer Reports testing. With durability in mind, it features a robust, cut-and-chip-resistant compound and high-strength belts. The tire is studdable and comes with a six-year limited warranty.
◇ GT Radial IcePro SUV 3
Available in a range of sizes to fit 16- to 20-inch rims, the IcePro SUV 3 can be used with or without studs on pickup trucks and SUVs. It outperformed more expensive tires in testing by Consumer Reports, during which it scored maximum points for snow traction, ice braking and rolling resistance. The IcePro SUV 3 comes with a five-year limited warranty.
Best Performance Winter Tire (SUVs & Light Trucks)
❂ Our Top Pick: Vredestein Wintrac Pro+
Takeaway: Giugiaro styling, confidence in cold conditions and reduced rolling resistance for high-performance crossovers and SUVs.
Why we like it:
- A large size palette covering 17- to 22-inch rims
- Independent tests highlight strong wet-braking performance
- More reasonably priced than some competitors
Vredestein is long-established in the field but has only sold tires in North America since the Apollo-owned brand arrived here in 2020. Available for both cars and SUVs, the Wintrac Pro+ builds on the strong reputation of the predecessor Wintrac Pro as a performance winter tire for cars and SUVs. Impressive consumer feedback includes an 81% owner-satisfaction score on Consumer Reports and a 4.5-star average at Tire Rack.
The latest upgrades to the tread compound reduce wear and rolling resistance while improving traction.
Top Contenders:
◇ Dunlop Winter Sport 5 SUV
The Winter Sport 5 SUV is aimed at drivers of high-performance crossovers, combining winter performance with fuel efficiency. It has racked up several strong performances in independent tests since its launch in 2015. Its sister tire for cars and smaller crossovers, the Winter Sport 5, also continues to hold its own in comparison tests, taking home second place in the 215/55 R17 size in a 2024 test by Germany’s ADAC, ahead of rival products from Continental and Pirelli.
◇ Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 X
The name is a bit of a mouthful, but the SUV version of Hankook’s performance winter tire scored highly in a test by respected channel Tire Reviews. Available in rim sizes from 17 to 20 inches, with plenty of XL load ratings for heavier vehicles, the evo3 X performed strongly across the board but especially well for wet- and snow-braking. The X-less equivalent tire for cars is also a favourite of the Consumer Reports testers.
Best Midrange Winter Tire (SUVs & Light Trucks)
❂ Our Top Pick: Yokohama iceGUARD G075
Takeaway: The iceGUARD G075 offers a great blend of value and performance in the midrange sector.
Why we like it:
- Consumer reviews highlight excellent real-world treadwear
- No longer the newest design, but a proven performer
- Wide fitment range from 16- to 22-inch rims
The older iceGUARD iG51v was a TractionLife favourite – read our full review – and this G075 for trucks, crossovers and SUVs is a similarly reliable winter performer.
The G075 has a directional tread pattern designed to increase the contact area and maximize the edge effect on icy or snowy surfaces. The tread pattern features zigzag-shaped main and intermediate grooves, a wide centre rib, micro diagonal grooves and 3D triple sipes. A low-heat-generating under-tread improves fuel efficiency, according to Yokohama.
Top Contenders:
◇ Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw
Launched in 2020, the Discoverer Snow Claw is Cooper’s studdable SUV and light-truck tire for extreme cold, snow and ice. It was tested in four countries on three continents and has a tread compound engineered to stay supple in bitterly cold conditions. The Snow Groove technology featured on other Cooper designs is also present to enhance traction, handling and braking.
◇ Nexen WinGuard WinSpike 3 SUV
A midrange offering from Nexen, which is ramping up its North American market presence with more local R&D and additional OEM fitments. The studdable WinSpike 3 SUV earned Recommended status from Consumer Reports thanks to excellent test results in snow traction and ice braking. Nexen’s warranty includes 36 months of roadside assistance, while more than 100 sizes are available.
Best Premium Winter Tire (SUVs & Light Trucks)
❂ Our Top Pick: Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2
Takeaway: The Scorpion Winter 2 has proven performance and excellent size coverage for luxury SUVs.
Why we like it:
- Available technologies to reduce noise and self-seal or run flat after a puncture
- Excellent size coverage, especially for larger rims
- Also offered in Elect versions for EVs and plug-in hybrids
The Scorpion Winter was a leader in its class for a decade from its launch in 2012, with several comparison-test wins to its name. We were also big fans: read our full Scorpion Winter test.
The latest Scorpion Winter 2 replaced the original model in 2022. It has 3D sipes designed to change shape according to the state of wear of the tread, which increases their surface area and effectiveness even when worn. Pirelli says the total area of grip on snow is up 20% compared with the previous Scorpion Winter. Meanwhile, the tread compound, which uses the latest liquid polymers, also improves performance in rain and snow compared with the predecessor tire.
Many luxury and high-performance automakers have homologated the Scorpion Winter 2 for their vehicles, including luxury electric and hybrid vehicles. Approvals include the Lamborghini Urus SE with 22-inch rims and the Porsche Cayenne in all sizes.
Top Contenders:
◇ Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV
Finnish brand Nokian is the oldest name in winter tires, having produced its first in 1934. One of the latest in a long line of high-performing winter products is the non-studdable Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV, launched in 2022 to improve upon the previous R3. The R5 SUV has outstanding size coverage for 14- to 20-inch rims, with most marked XL for the highest possible load capacity – including suitability for heavier electric vehicles. At the time of writing, this Ice Grip Symbol-certified tire was the highest-scoring winter truck tire in Consumer Reports testing. For a studded alternative, check out the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV.
◇ Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT
This long-standing Goodyear tire is available in different versions for light trucks, crossovers, and SUVs. The truck-friendly LT model has a 10-ply carcass and sits in load range E, so it can tow or haul very heavy loads. Design features of this studdable tire include two-dimensional blades in the centre zone that are said to offer enhanced braking and traction on snow and ice, 3D tread-lock blades in the shoulder that lock together for grip in turns, and a rim protector to guard against curb damage.
Winter Tire FAQs
There you have it: our picks for some of the best winter and snow tires for cars, crossovers, SUVs and light trucks. Here are answers to a few common questions about winter tires, including whether they’re worth the expense and what EV drivers need to know.
Can I Fit Winter Tires to an Electric Vehicle?
Yes. The high torque and increased weight of EVs and plug-in hybrids mean that they can be tricky to handle on slippery roads, so winter tires are essential for safe progress in winter conditions. Some tire makers have dedicated, specially marked EV winter tires featuring technologies to lower rolling resistance to boost range and sound-deadening measures to reduce road noise. Examples include the Pirelli Elect models, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 EV and Hankook iON i*cept.
Other tire makers, including Michelin and Bridgestone, prefer not to differentiate between vehicle types with additional markings that might confuse some consumers. The latest X-Ice SNOW+ and Blizzak IcePeak, for example, are already designed with EV use in mind. The main thing is to make sure the tire can handle your EV’s weight. Look for the XL load-capacity indicator and seek the advice of your local dealer or tire specialist.
Are Winter Tires Worth It?
All-season tires come as the default option on most cars, trucks and SUVs sold in North America. All-seasons are designed to keep you moving in most conditions and many will have an M+S, or mud and snow, designation on the sidewall, but they are not designed to perform at their best in temperatures below 7°C or 45°F. For anywhere that experiences these low temperatures for more than a few weeks a year, winter tires are well worth the expense – and in some territories, they’re mandatory.
Winter tires – the term snow tire is a misnomer – come into their own in cold conditions, as they feature a softer, more flexible tread compound designed to generate friction even when other tires go hard. Certified winter tires carry the 3-peak mountain snowflake, or 3PMSF, symbol; the very best also sport the new ISO Ice Grip Symbol.
Traction in snowy or icy conditions is important, of course, helped by the many small grooves or sipes that dig into the surface, but the main safety benefit lies in braking and handling performance. With or without studs, winter tires will stop considerably faster than typical all-seasons on snow or ice and enable you to hold a turn much better, reducing the risk of an accident. Studs will further enhance grip if you drive regularly on ice, but check that they are legal where you live and between which dates.
All the tires listed in this guide are solid performers that will help keep you mobile in winter, but not all winter tires are designed to do the same job. Some excel on cold, wet roads; others are great on snow; others again – especially studded designs – will give the best performance on ice. Think about your local driving conditions and choose accordingly. Products from premium brands tend to shine in more than one area of performance: with tires, you usually get what you pay for.
Note that 4WD or AWD will help with winter traction – getting you moving on a slippery surface – but won’t help you stop faster. Any vehicle’s braking performance is only as good as that all-important connection between the tire’s footprint and the road surface.
Do Winter Tires Provide Good Value?
Winter tires do represent an additional expense. However, aside from the important safety benefits, they can pay back some of that cost over time by prolonging the life of the all-season or summer tires that you remove from the vehicle during the winter months.
The softer rubber compound used means that winter tires do not usually enjoy the same treadwear performance as a typical all-season tire, while the importance for grip of the myriad sharp edges in the tread pattern means that performance can drop off noticeably as the tire wears. Treadwear warranties are correspondingly lower for winter tires, or not available at all, although regular warranties against a defective product are normal. Michelin’s is one of the best, guaranteeing treadwear for up to 60,000 km or 40,000 miles, depending on the product.
It’s been proven that the relative performance of premium winter tires, economy winter tires and all-season tires changes over time. Buy the best-performing product that you can afford, as better tires will likely retain their performance over a longer period.
