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9 Best Studded Snow Tires 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire - 195/65R15 95T

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Tread Pattern
Noise Level

Most important from
456 reviews

Tread Pattern
Tread pattern maintains good fuel mileage while providing excellent snow and ice grip.
Noise Level
Low road noise and comfortable ride quality.

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.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,182
Tread Pattern
Noise Level

Most important from
456 reviews

Tread Pattern
Tread pattern maintains good fuel mileage while providing excellent snow and ice grip.
Noise Level
Low road noise and comfortable ride quality.
#2

Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw Winter 275/60R20 115T Tire

Rating
9.6
Noise Level

Most important from
93 reviews

Noise Level
Performs well in dry conditions with no additional road noise compared to stock all-season tires.

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.

Rating
9.6
Noise Level

Most important from
93 reviews

Noise Level
Performs well in dry conditions with no additional road noise compared to stock all-season tires.
#3

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV 275/55R20 117T XL

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.

Buying Guide for the Best Studded Snow Tires

Choosing the right studded snow tires is crucial for ensuring safety and optimal performance in winter driving conditions. Studded snow tires are designed to provide better traction on icy and snowy roads by incorporating metal studs into the tread. When selecting the best studded snow tires for your vehicle, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure they meet your driving needs and conditions.
Tire SizeTire size is a critical specification that refers to the dimensions of the tire, including its width, aspect ratio, and diameter. This information is usually found on the sidewall of your current tires or in your vehicle's owner's manual. Choosing the correct tire size is important because it ensures proper fitment and performance. Tires that are too large or too small can affect your vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. To pick the right size, always refer to your vehicle's specifications and consider consulting with a tire professional if you're unsure.
Stud Count and PlacementThe number and placement of studs on a snow tire can significantly impact its performance on icy roads. More studs generally mean better traction, but they can also increase road noise and wear on dry pavement. Studs are typically arranged in a specific pattern to maximize grip. When choosing studded snow tires, consider the typical road conditions you encounter. If you frequently drive on icy roads, a higher stud count may be beneficial. For mixed conditions, a moderate stud count might be a better balance between traction and comfort.
Tread PatternThe tread pattern of a tire affects its ability to grip the road and channel away snow and slush. Studded snow tires often feature aggressive, deep tread patterns designed to bite into snow and ice. There are different types of tread patterns, such as directional, asymmetrical, and symmetrical. Directional patterns are designed for optimal performance in one direction, while asymmetrical patterns offer a balance of performance in various conditions. Symmetrical patterns provide consistent performance and are often quieter. Choose a tread pattern based on your driving habits and the typical winter conditions in your area.
Rubber CompoundThe rubber compound used in studded snow tires is formulated to remain flexible in cold temperatures, which is essential for maintaining traction. Softer compounds provide better grip on ice and snow but may wear out faster on dry roads. Harder compounds last longer but may not offer the same level of traction in extreme cold. When selecting a tire, consider the average winter temperatures in your region. If you experience extremely cold winters, a tire with a softer compound may be more suitable. For milder winters, a harder compound could be a better choice for longevity.
Load Index and Speed RatingThe load index indicates the maximum weight a tire can support, while the speed rating denotes the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate. These ratings are important for ensuring that the tires can handle the weight of your vehicle and your driving speed. The load index and speed rating are usually found on the tire sidewall. To choose the right tires, match these ratings with your vehicle's requirements as specified in the owner's manual. Selecting tires with appropriate ratings ensures safety and optimal performance.
Noise LevelStudded snow tires can be noisier than regular tires due to the metal studs. Noise level is an important consideration, especially if you do a lot of highway driving. Some studded tires are designed with noise-reducing features to minimize this issue. When choosing studded snow tires, consider your tolerance for road noise and the type of driving you do. If you prioritize a quieter ride, look for tires that are specifically designed to reduce noise while still providing good traction on ice and snow.

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