Even though we haven’t pulled our winter boots out yet, the days are getting shorter and the air is getting chillier. Winter will be here soon, bringing harsh driving conditions. It’s time to start thinking about checking your winter tires and getting new ones if needed since wet, icy and snowy roads are not something you want to take a gamble on.
We’ve made a list of the top 5 winter tires for cars to help you with your research. Each tire on the list is designed for our harsh winters (snow, ice, water). And remember: the best way to stay safe is to drive safely and carefully!
*The following tires are compatible with subcompact cars, compact cars, sedans, minivans, and certain crossovers and compact SUVs.
MICHELIN X-ICE SNOW
The Michelin X-ICE SNOW tire is highly efficient on the road. Comfort and safety are two fantastic reasons to get this tire. It provides excellent snow and ice traction, making for a shorter braking delay. Its design provides enhanced snow and water evacuation, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. It’s the perfect tire if you’re looking for a high-end, long-lasting touring tire.
Highlights:
Excellent snow and ice traction
Comfortable ride
Long-lasting
Price Starting at $139.99
PIRELLI WINTER SOTTOZERO 3
Three words: control, stability and fun. The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 tire has a directional double arrow pattern design that provides enhanced traction in harsh winter driving conditions. It also has wider 3D technology grooves to provide excellent handling on wet or dry roads and fantastic braking performance.
Highlights:
Good braking performance
Fun to drive
Excellent snow traction
Price Starting at $177.99
TOYO OBSERVE GSI-6 / OBSERVE GSI-6 HP
Two styles of tire for two different uses: the Toyo Observe GSI-6 is a touring tire, while the GSI-6-HP is a performance tire. They are both versatile tires that can adapt to all driving and vehicle styles. The four wide grooves provide enhanced safety by moving snow and water in an optimal manner. It provides great stability when braking, cornering and accelerating, thanks to its Microbit technology. Looking for high-performance tires? These are the ones you should get.
Highlights:
Versatile
Stable
Sporty driving style
Price Starting at $119.99 (Observe GSI-6) and $176.99 (Observe GSI-6 HP)
GOODYEAR WINTERCOMMAND / WINTERCOMMAND ULTRA
The Goodyear Wintercommand and Wintercommand Ultra tires are designed to contend with all kinds of different driving conditions. Snow has nothing on them! These tires provide enhanced flexibility in cold weather during our harsh winters. Their zigzag sipes provide exceptional handling, making for safer turning. Their V-Tred Technology also provides excellent water and snow evacuation. And the best part? You get the option to add studs for even better traction (Wintercommand model only).
Highlights:
Excellent traction in winter conditions
Good handling
Studdable (Wintercommand only)
Price Starting at $134.99 (Wintercommand) and $150.99 (Wintercommand Ultra)
YOKOHAMA ICEGUARD IG53
The Yokohama Iceguard IG53 tire is engineered specifically for compact cars (sedans). It’s wear-resistant and fuel efficient and it provides great quality for the price. The 3D triple sipes provide a maximized contact area, making for great traction in snow and ice conditions. You can feel confident facing winter with this tire!
Highlights:
Excellent quality for the price
Fuel efficient
60-day satisfaction guarantee
Price Starting at $109.99
Psst... It’s still early, but start thinking about booking your tire change appointment. Garages get incredibly busy at this time of year and your SUV or light truck has to have its winter tires on by December 1. Mark your schedules!
