10 Best Studded Snow Tires 2025 in the United States

The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire, sized 195/65R15, is specifically designed for use in winter conditions. One of its standout features is the ability to be equipped with TSMI #12 studs, which can enhance traction significantly in severe ice, slush, and snow. This makes it a solid option for drivers in areas with harsh winter weather.

The directional tread pattern is another strength, helping to improve grip and channel water, slush, and melting snow away from the tire to reduce the risk of hydroplaning. This feature enhances safety on wet and slushy roads. The tire's rubber compound is formulated for winter temperatures, although it should not be used when temperatures are consistently below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a bit counterintuitive for a winter tire. This limitation could be a drawback for those living in extremely cold climates.

In terms of load capacity, the tire can support moderate loads with a load index of 95 and a maximum pressure of 50 PSI, making it suitable for most passenger cars. The noise level of the tire should be considered as well, as winter tires with studs can be noisier on dry roads. The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 is a reliable winter tire with excellent features for traction and safety in winter conditions, but it may not be the best choice for extremely cold environments or for those who prioritize a quieter ride.

The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is a solid choice for winter driving, offering a tire size of 225/65R17 which fits many vehicles and provides ample surface area for traction. Its standout feature is its impressive control on ice, aided by bit particles within the rubber compound that enhance traction. Additionally, the asymmetrical tread pattern is designed to improve handling and stopping power on both snow and ice, making it a reliable option for harsh winter conditions.

The tire also boasts a significant load capacity of 1874 pounds, indicating it can support heavy loads without compromising performance. However, this model does not have studs, which might be a disadvantage for those who drive in extremely icy conditions. It's a dependable tire for winter driving with a specific focus on ice and snow performance, but it may not suit those who need studded traction for severe ice roads.

The Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw Winter 275/60R20 115T Tire is a robust choice for pickup trucks and SUVs needing dependable winter tires. With a tire size of 275/60R20 and a load index of 115, it supports a load capacity of up to 2679 pounds, making it suitable for heavy vehicles. The tire is pinned for studs, allowing for enhanced traction on icy roads. Featuring Cooper's patented Snow Groove Technology, the tire's tread pattern is designed to trap snow for better grip, improving traction, handling, and stopping power in snowy conditions. The non-directional tread depth of 12.5 32nds and the flexible rubber compound maintain performance even in extremely cold weather.

The tire is severe weather rated and Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake Certified, ensuring it meets rigorous winter performance standards. The maximum pressure of 44 PSI might require frequent checks during fluctuating temperatures to prevent underinflation. The tire weighs 40.4 pounds, which is on the heavier side, potentially impacting fuel efficiency. The standard limited warranty provides additional consumer protection. For those who prioritize winter safety and drive heavy vehicles, this tire offers a reliable solution, though the potential for higher noise levels and the need for regular pressure checks are considerations to keep in mind.