Winter Tires or Snow Tires Which Do I Need?

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 by Chad Hocker
If you are looking for snow tires or winter tires for the first time or maybe just looking for some new tires to be used in the winter.  It can be some what overwhelming as their are many choices available, but once we get into things the selection is very clear and easy.  First, let me describe the different categories we group the winter/snow tires into.

Performance Winter Tires
For drivers who want to retain the precision of their ultra high performance sports car,sedan or coupe during winter conditions.  Seeing lighter snow conditions or well plowed roads.  Possibly in urban environments or a wet winter climate.
 
Studless Ice and Snow Tires
For the drivers of coupes, sedans, minivans and crossover vehicles looking for traction on winter's slushy, snow-covered and icy roads.  These tires are for moderate to severe snow environments.  The Studless Ice and Snow tires are for the drivers that need to arrive at their destination regardless of winter conditions.
Studdable Tires
For drivers of sport cars, coupes, sedans, vans and crossover vehicles that desire to use traditional methods of enhancing wintertime traction.  These tires may be studded to enhance winter driving traction.
 
Now lets take a look a few top winter tires in each category and make a few comments on each tire's specific strengths.  Click on the tire to read each winter tire review specifically.

Performance Winter tires
Studless Ice and Snow Tires
Studdable Tires
          General Altimax ArticGeneral Altimax Artic
Check here to see if any of theses tires have any rebates.

Comments on Winter Tires or Snow Tires Which Do I Need?

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by mark santo:
drive pa and ohio turnpike in winter have a 2006 honda accord - looking at buying General's Altimax Artic - what do you think
Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Chad:
Yes, the General Altimax Arctic will be a good winter tire for turnpike driving. They are economily priced and have rated well in the studdable winter tire survey category.
Monday, November 16, 2009 by Clark:
Have a 92 volvo, RWD without ABS. Winter conditions mostly wet with some wet snow and ice. Recommendation? Without ABS, are 4 snows necessary?
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Chad:
Yes, 4 Snows are necessary. Just like matching shoes when we go out. I would suggest a tire from the Studless Ice and Snow Category. Chad 888-428-8355 ext 742
Friday, December 4, 2009 by kate:
trying to decide between Michelin Lattitude X-Ice and Blizzaks LM60 or WS 60. Drive in Colorado, sometimes up to the mountains. Have a Honda Element need 215-60/16. What tire would you recommend?
Monday, December 7, 2009 by Chad:
I will offer two options for you. Depending how much snow you see. If you see lots of snow or need a tire that came get you where you need to be even in bad weather. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS60 would be best option. Or if you do not see as much snow I would suggested The Blizzak LM60.
Monday, February 15, 2010 by Jason:
Have a 2007 BMW 335i coupe. Looking for winter tires for southeastern PA. Mostly dry roads through winter, but occassional significant snowdriving... long snowy driveway in winter. Considering Blizzak LM60 with 18" rim package, any other suggestions? Should I consider 17"?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by Chad:
Yes, I believe the LM60 would be the best tire for the conditions discribed. A 17 inch package would be preferred as it's typically less expensive, however the 18 package that is available will work well. As the 225/40R18 and 225/45R17 are the same width the 225/45R17 would not offer a significant advantage. Sorry the 17 inch LM60 is sold out for the season.

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