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 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 General Altimax Arctic 12 is a studable winter tire designed for drivers who need reliable performance in snowy and icy conditions. Its size (235/55R17) fits many passenger vehicles, and the XL ply rating means it can support slightly heavier loads, adding durability. The directional tread pattern and deep tread depth (10/32nds) help with traction on snow and ice, while the tire’s rubber compound is engineered to stay flexible in low temperatures for better grip. Although it does not come with studs pre-installed, it can be studded if you want extra ice traction, which is a useful option for very icy regions.

Customers praise this tire for its stable handling and precise steering on dry roads, which means it doesn’t feel sloppy when the roads are clear. It also performs well with braking and control on wet and snowy surfaces, contributing to safer winter driving. The tire is built tough with a robust construction that offers long-lasting tread life, supported by a 72-month treadwear warranty and a 45-day trial period, which adds confidence for buyers.

On the downside, the tire may generate more road noise compared to non-winter tires, which is common in studable and winter tires but something to consider if you do a lot of city or highway driving. Also, since studs are not included, you’d need to have them installed separately for maximum icy grip, adding to the cost. The speed rating (T) indicates it’s safe up to moderate speeds, typical for winter tires but not suited for high-speed driving. This makes the Altimax Arctic 12 a solid choice for drivers in cold climates seeking a versatile winter tire with good grip on snow and ice, the option to add studs, and durable tread life, though it is less ideal if a very quiet ride or high-speed capability is a priority.