The latest and greatest technology in winter / snow tires is found in options such as the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 and Michelin X-Ice Xi3. However, they can be priced higher than other winter tires with different technology. Even the most inexpensive winter tires will offer a noticeable improvement in snow and ice traction compared to all-season tires.
During our testing at a local ice rink, we wanted to see how much of a difference winter tires make in winter conditions. As illustrated in the photo above, you can see winter / snow tires allow you to stop sooner when braking on ice. It could be the difference between rear ending another car at an intersection or stopping safely with room to spare. You'll also feel much more confident and in control of your vehicle when driving on snow- and ice-covered roads. To see the difference winter tires made at the ice rink compared to summer and all-season tires, read "Testing on Ice: Winter / Snow vs. All-Season vs. Summer Tires."
When looking for a value-priced winter / snow tire, consider the following three options:
Continental
ExtremeWinterContact
Dunlop Graspic
DS-3
General AltiMAX
Arctic
The Dunlop Graspic DS-3 is a Studless Ice & Snow tire that delivers maximum winter traction without using metal studs. It uses Dunlop's Digital Rolling Simulation II technology (computer-enhanced design) and premium tread compounding to deliver wintertime traction in snow and on ice.
Continental's ExtremeWinterContact tire is developed for the drivers of coupes, sedans, minivans and crossovers, as well as, passenger-oriented light-duty trucks and SUVs looking for traction on winter's slushy, snow-covered and icy roads. This tire delivers serious performance in winter weather conditions.
AltiMAX Arctic tires from General are a Studdable Winter / Snow option that receives high marks from our customers in the light snow traction, deep snow traction and ice traction categories. Molded to accommodate the use of optional metal studs, AltiMAX Arctic tires meet the industry's severe snow service requirements and are branded with the mountain/snowflake symbol.
Don't wait too long to order. Many value-priced winter / snow tires sell out quickly.