9 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 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.

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV studded snow tires are designed specifically for SUVs and CUVs to handle winter weather conditions effectively. One of their standout features is the Double Stud Technology and Eco Stud 10 concept which significantly enhances traction, grip, acceleration, and braking on icy, slushy, and snowy roads. This makes them particularly reliable for severe winter conditions.

The tire also boasts a next-generation winter rubber compound that remains flexible even in freezing temperatures, ensuring consistent performance in harsh climates. Additionally, the low rolling resistance design can help improve fuel efficiency, which is a bonus for those concerned about fuel costs and emissions. However, one major drawback is the noise level, which is often higher with studded tires. This might not be ideal for those who prioritize a quiet ride.

The tire size is 275/55R20 with a load capacity of 2 pounds and a tread depth of 12 32nds, making it suitable for large vehicles. It has a relatively high maximum pressure of 51 psi which allows for better handling and stability. Despite some minor drawbacks, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV tires are a solid choice for those who require dependable winter performance and are willing to trade off some noise and weight for enhanced safety and efficiency in winter driving conditions.