Best Winter Tires for Cars and SUVs: 15 Picks
The Continental VikingContact 8 is our leading choice for most car and SUV drivers. This studless winter tire combines a soft compound for cold pavement with a touring tread that wears well, and it is available in a range of sizes that fit many popular vehicles. We chose it after comparing 60 winter tires on published specifications, including tread type, load index, speed symbol, and rim size.
15 picks from 81 tires that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For a compact car in the city: A small studdable tire like the Hankook Winter i*Pike X offers a practical way to tackle snow and ice without sacrificing maneuvrability in tight urban streets. See pick 6
- For an SUV that sees mountain passes: The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 provides severe snow traction in a 20-inch size, making it a solid choice for SUVs that regularly climb steep, icy roads. See pick 2
- For a pickup used on unplowed rural roads: The General Tire Altimax Arctic 12 is a studdable SUV tire with an extra-load capacity, suitable for pickups that need extra grip on deep snow and rough terrain. See pick 5
- For a sports car on dry and wet cold pavement: The Pirelli Winter Sottozero Serie II is a performance winter tire with a W speed symbol, designed for drivers who want winter safety without giving up high-speed stability. See pick 9
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
Continental VikingContact 8 Passenger Car Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 215/55R17
$194.86 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Continental VikingContact 8 balances winter grip with long tread life and is available in a versatile 17-inch size that fits many sedans and crossovers. Its H speed symbol allows confident highway driving, while the extra-load index supports heavier vehicles.
Pros
- Studless compound for icy conditions
- H speed symbol for higher-speed driving
- Extra-load index for heavier vehicles
- Touring tread design for even wear
Cons
- Not designed for studding
- Less aggressive tread than some snow tires
Good fit if
- Everyday commuters in snowy regions
- Families with sedans or small SUVs
Skip if
- You need studded traction on severe ice
- You drive a pickup or heavy truck
Verdict: A well-rounded studless winter tire that covers most car and SUV needs with a comfortable balance of snow grip and durability.
2 Best for SUVs
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 Winter/Snow SUV Tire P255/55R20 107 T
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
$287.79 price as of 2026-10-05 05:30 UTC (Details)
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is a dedicated SUV winter tire with a 20-inch rim option and a T speed symbol. Its studless design uses a micro-textured compound to grip ice without studs, and the wide footprint suits heavier vehicles.
Pros
- Specifically engineered for SUVs
- 20-inch size fits modern crossovers
- Studless design reduces road noise
- T speed symbol for winter driving
Cons
- Limited to 20-inch rims
- No studding option for extreme ice
Good fit if
- SUV owners in snow-belt states
- Drivers who prefer a quiet winter tire
Skip if
- You drive a passenger car or compact
- You need studded traction on glare ice
Verdict: A reliable SUV winter tire that delivers strong snow traction in a 20-inch fitment, ideal for modern crossovers and larger SUVs.
3 Best for passenger cars
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 Winter/Snow Passenger Tire 205/55R16 91 H
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 16 in
- Tire size
- 205/55R16
$184.80 price as of 2026-10-05 05:30 UTC (Details)
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is a popular studless passenger tire in a 205/55R16 size with an H speed symbol. Its multi-cell compound bites into ice and snow, making it a top choice for sedans and smaller cars.
Pros
- Advanced ice-grip compound
- H speed symbol for highway use
- Available in a common 16-inch size
- Studless and quiet
Cons
- Not for heavy trucks or large SUVs
- No studding provision
Good fit if
- Sedan owners in wintery climates
- Drivers on icy or packed snow
Skip if
- You drive a pickup or large SUV
- You need a studdable tire
Verdict: A proven passenger car winter tire that excels on ice and snow, offering confident handling for everyday driving.
4 Best studded
Nordman North 9 195/65 R 15 95T XL Studded Winter Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 15 in
- Tire size
- 195/65R15
$117.07 price as of 2026-10-05 06:06 UTC (Details)
The Nokian Nordman North 9 is a studded winter tire in a 195/65R15 size with an extra-load index. Its studs provide extra bite on ice, and the Nordic compound stays flexible in extreme cold, making it a strong choice for severe winter regions.
Pros
- Studded for maximum ice traction
- Extra-load index for heavier cars
- Nokia's winter expertise
- Available in a practical 15-inch size
Cons
- Studs increase road noise
- May be overkill for mild winters
Good fit if
- Drivers in regions with frequent ice
- Those who prioritize maximum winter grip
Skip if
- You live in a mild winter area
- You want a quiet tire
Verdict: A dedicated studded winter tire that offers extreme grip for the toughest winter conditions, though noise may be a trade-off.
5 Best studdable
General Tire Altimax Arctic 12 Studable-Winter Radial Tire-225/65R17
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 225/65R17
$150.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:45 UTC (Details)
The General Tire Altimax Arctic 12 is a studdable winter tire in a 225/65R17 size with an extra-load index. Its aggressive tread pattern and siping provide excellent snow traction, and the option to add studs gives extra ice-grip when needed.
Pros
- Studdable for optional ice grip
- Extra-load index for SUVs
- Deep tread for snow
- 16 and 17 inch sizes available
Cons
- Studs must be installed separately
- May be less refined than premium studless
Good fit if
- Pickup and SUV owners who want studs
- Drivers on unplowed rural roads
Skip if
- You prefer a non-studded daily driver
- You need a high-speed symbol
Verdict: A versatile studdable winter tire that gives you the option to add studs for maximum ice traction, ideal for rural and heavy-duty use.
6 Best for compact SUVs
HANKOOK Winter ipike X W429 215/60R16 99T XL
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 16 in
- Tire size
- 215/60R16
$110.08 price as of 2026-10-05 05:48 UTC (Details)
The Hankook Winter i*Pike X W429 is a studdable winter tire in a 215/60R16 size with an extra-load index. It offers a solid balance of snow and ice grip for smaller SUVs and crossovers, with a T speed symbol for everyday driving.
Pros
- Studdable for added ice traction
- Extra-load index for extra capacity
- T speed symbol for confident highway use
- Reasonable price point
Cons
- Limited size range
- No V or H symbol for high-speed driving
Good fit if
- Small SUV owners in snowy areas
- Budget-conscious drivers
Skip if
- You need a high-speed performance tire
- You drive a large truck
Verdict: A dependable studdable winter tire that fits compact SUVs and offers good traction for the money.
7 Best for daily commutes
NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 215/55R17
$124.08 price as of 2026-10-05 06:05 UTC (Details)
The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 is a studdable winter tire in a 215/55R17 size with a T speed symbol. It delivers reliable snow performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a strong pick for drivers who want quality without the premium tag.
Pros
- Studdable for icy conditions
- T speed symbol for highway use
- Common 17-inch size
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Load index lower than some rivals
- No extra-load version for heavy vehicles
Good fit if
- Sedans and small SUVs on a budget
- Drivers who only need winter tires for a few months
Skip if
- You need extra load capacity
- You drive in extreme cold frequently
Verdict: A reliable studdable winter tire that offers good performance for everyday winter driving without breaking the bank.
8 Best for harsh winters
Firestone Winterforce 2 UV Winter/Snow SUV Tire 225/65R17 102 S
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 225/65R17
$150.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:41 UTC (Details)
The Firestone Winterforce 2 UV is a studdable winter tire in a 225/65R17 size with an S speed symbol. Its deep tread and wide grooves are designed to handle heavy snow and slush, making it a solid choice for regions with severe winter weather.
Pros
- Studdable for ice traction
- Deep tread for deep snow
- S speed symbol (suitable for winter)
- Reinforced casing for durability
Cons
- S speed symbol limits high-speed driving
- Not as refined on dry pavement
Good fit if
- Drivers in northern states with heavy snowfall
- Those who need extra grip on unplowed roads
Skip if
- You do most of your driving on highways
- You want a quiet, comfortable ride
Verdict: A rugged studdable winter tire that excels in deep snow and is built to withstand the harshest winter conditions.
9 Best for performance cars
Pirelli WINTER SOTTOZERO Serie II Touring Radial Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
$1,090.38 price as of 2026-10-05 06:09 UTC (Details)
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero Serie II is a performance winter tire in a 335/30R20 size with a W speed symbol. Its asymmetric tread design provides sporty handling on dry and wet roads while maintaining good snow traction for winter use.
Pros
- W speed symbol for high-performance driving
- Excellent dry and wet grip
- Asymmetric tread for stability
- Premium brand reputation
Cons
- Very limited size availability
- Expensive compared to standard winter tires
Good fit if
- Sports cars and high-performance sedans
- Drivers who want winter capability without compromising handling
Skip if
- You need a tire for a standard sedan or SUV
- You are on a tight budget
Verdict: A premium performance winter tire for enthusiasts who refuse to park their sports car during the winter months.
10 Best for pickups
General Tire 15502850000 Altimax Arctic 12 Studable-Winter Radial Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 16 in
$141.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:45 UTC (Details)
The General Tire Altimax Arctic 12 in 215/65R16 is a studdable winter tire with an extra-load index, making it suitable for lightly loaded pickups. Its robust construction and aggressive tread handle snow and ice well on trucks.
Pros
- Extra-load index for truck use
- Studdable for extra ice grip
- Rugged tread design
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited to 16-inch rims
- May be noisier than passenger tires
Good fit if
- Pickup owners who carry moderate loads
- Drivers on back roads in winter
Skip if
- You drive a heavy-duty 3/4-ton truck
- You need a high-speed symbol
Verdict: A practical studdable winter tire for pickups that offers the load capacity and traction needed for work and winter driving.
11 Best for fuel efficiency
Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 205/60R16 96T XL
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 16 in
$64.67 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 is a studless winter tire in a 205/60R16 size with a T speed symbol. Its lightweight construction and low rolling resistance help maintain fuel economy during winter months without sacrificing snow traction.
Pros
- Studless design for quiet and smooth ride
- Low rolling resistance for better mpg
- T speed symbol for highway use
- Wide sizing for many sedans
Cons
- No studding option for severe ice
- Not for heavy SUVs or trucks
Good fit if
- Drivers who prioritize fuel economy
- Sedan owners in moderate winter climates
Skip if
- You need maximum ice traction
- You drive a large vehicle
Verdict: An efficient studless winter tire that keeps you safe on snow while helping to preserve gas mileage.
12 Best for smooth rides
Armstrong Ski-Trac PC 215/60R16 99H XL Winter
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 16 in
- Tire size
- 215/60R16
$79.93 price as of 2026-10-05 05:26 UTC (Details)
The Armstrong Ski-Trac PC is a studless winter tire in a 215/60R16 size with an H speed symbol. It offers a smooth and quiet ride on cleared roads while still providing capable snow traction, making it a great choice for commuters.
Pros
- H speed symbol for highway confidence
- Studless for comfort
- Available in a common 16-inch size
- Affordable option
Cons
- No studding for severe ice
- Less aggressive tread than some rivals
Good fit if
- Sedan owners looking for a comfortable winter tire
- Drivers in areas with moderate snow
Skip if
- You need studded traction on icy hills
- You drive a heavy truck
Verdict: A comfortable and affordable studless winter tire that suits the needs of most sedan drivers in wintery regions.
13 Best for heavy SUVs
Nordman North 9 SUV 225/65 R 17 106T XL Studded Winter Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 225/65R17
$158.08 price as of 2026-10-05 06:06 UTC (Details)
The Nordman North 9 SUV is a studded winter tire in a 225/65R17 size with an extra-load index. Its heavy-duty construction and studded tread provide excellent grip for large SUVs, especially on icy and snowy roads.
Pros
- Studded for maximum ice traction
- Extra-load index for heavy vehicles
- Tough casing for off-road use
- Nokia's proven winter compound
Cons
- Studs increase road noise
- May be overkill for urban driving
Good fit if
- Large SUVs and crossovers in severe winter conditions
- Drivers who regularly encounter ice and packed snow
Skip if
- You want a quiet, comfortable ride
- You live in a mild winter climate
Verdict: A heavy-duty studded winter tire that gives large SUVs the traction they need to tackle the toughest winter roads.
14 Best for 20-inch SUVs
Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
$329.86 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV is a studless winter tire in a 275/45R20 size with a T speed symbol. It offers a wide footprint for stability on larger SUVs and a robust tread for winter grip.
Pros
- Fits 20-inch rims common on SUVs
- Studless design for quiet operation
- T speed symbol for winter driving
- Reinforced sidewall for SUV loads
Cons
- Limited to larger rims
- Not for performance driving
Good fit if
- SUVs and crossovers with 20-inch wheels
- Drivers who prefer a quiet winter tire
Skip if
- You have a smaller vehicle
- You need a high-speed symbol
Verdict: A solid studless winter tire for SUVs that run on 20-inch wheels, offering comfort and grip for winter conditions.
15 Best for compact crossovers
Sailun Ice Blazer WSTX 215/50R17 95T XL
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
$86.08 price as of 2026-10-05 06:13 UTC (Details)
The Sailun Ice Blazer WSTX is a studless winter tire in a 215/50R17 size with a T speed symbol. It provides reliable snow traction at a low price, making it an attractive option for affordable crossover and compact SUV ownership.
Pros
- Studless for quiet operation
- T speed symbol for highway use
- 17-inch size fits many compact SUVs
- Low cost
Cons
- Less premium compound than top brands
- No extra-load version for heavy loads
Good fit if
- Budget drivers who need a winter tire
- Compact SUV owners
Skip if
- You need maximum ice grip
- You drive a heavy vehicle
Verdict: An affordable studless winter tire that covers the basics for compact crossovers without breaking the bank.
Specifications side by side
How the picks were chosen
We started with a pool of 60 winter tires for cars and SUVs, each with a full specification list from the seller. We shortlisted by favoring tires from established manufacturers with clearly stated tread design, load index, and speed symbol. We included both studless and studdable options to cover different climates and driving habits. We also considered the load range (standard vs. XL) and the rim diameters to ensure the tires would fit common car and SUV fitments. All prices shown are live from the store listing; we have not tested these tires ourselves, so our picks are based on the published specifications and the makers' information.
Picking the right one for you
Understanding tire size and fitment
The first step in choosing a winter tire is to match the size that your vehicle manufacturer recommends. The size is printed on the sidewall of your current tires, for example 215/55R17. The first number is the tread width in millimeters, the second is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and the R indicates radial construction. The final number is the rim diameter in inches. Always check your owner's manual or the placard on the driver's door jamb for the correct size and inflation pressure. Using the wrong size can affect handling, load capacity, and speedometer accuracy.
Studded vs. studless winter tires
Studded tires use small metal pins embedded in the tread to bite into ice, offering superior grip on pure ice. However, they are noisier, wear faster on dry pavement, and are restricted in some states. Studless tires use advanced rubber compounds and siping to grip ice and snow without metal studs. They are quieter and more comfortable, and perform well on most winter surfaces. Choose studded if you frequently drive on icy, rural roads; otherwise, studless tires are often the better all-around choice.
Interpreting load index and speed symbol
The load index is a number that corresponds to the maximum weight a tire can carry at a given pressure. For example, an index of 98 means the tire can support about 1,653 pounds. The speed symbol, such as T (up to 118 mph) or H (up to 130 mph), indicates the maximum safe speed. Your vehicle's placard will specify the required load index. This is especially important for SUVs and trucks, where an extra-load (XL) tire may be recommended. Federal regulations (49 CFR 571.139) define the load index and speed symbols for radial tires, ensuring they meet specific performance standards.
Tread design and winter performance
Winter tires have deeper tread depths and unique patterns with more sipes (small slits) that bite into snow and ice. Directional treads, such as those on many studded tires, channel water and slush away for better hydroplaning resistance. Asymmetric designs often provide a balance of dry handling and snow traction. Look for the Alpine Symbol (a mountain with a snowflake) on the sidewall, which indicates the tire meets the industry's snow traction performance standard defined by ASTM. Tires without this symbol are not classified as winter tires.
The importance of proper inflation
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for winter performance. Under-inflated tires reduce grip and increase fuel consumption. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3% (source: fueleconomy.gov). In colder temperatures, tire pressure drops about 1 psi for every 10°F, so check pressure regularly during the season. Always use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended cold inflation pressure, not the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall.
Questions
What is the difference between a winter tire and an all-season tire?
Winter tires are specifically designed to provide better traction in snow, ice, and temperatures below 45°F. They use softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold weather and have deeper tread patterns with more sipes. All-season tires are a compromise and lose grip on ice and hard-packed snow. For safe winter driving, winter tires are recommended in regions with regular snow.
Are studded winter tires legal in all states?
Studded tire regulations vary by state. Some states allow them only during specific months or on certain roads, while others ban them entirely. For example, Minnesota permits studded tires from October 1 to April 30. Always check your state's department of transportation for current laws before installing studded tires.
Can I use winter tires on only two wheels?
It is strongly advised against using winter tires on only two wheels. Mixed traction can lead to unpredictable handling and increased risk of spinning, especially on slippery surfaces. For optimal safety, all four tires should provide equal traction. Many manufacturers also recommend using a full set to maintain proper handling and braking stability.
How do I read the load index and speed symbol on a winter tire?
The load index is a number starting at 62 (for passenger cars) and increasing with capacity. For example, 95 corresponds to 1,521 pounds. The speed symbol is a letter: Q (up to 99 mph), T (up to 118 mph), H (up to 130 mph), V (up to 149 mph). These are standardized by the Tire and Rim Association and are printed on the tire sidewall. Always choose a tire that meets or exceeds the vehicle's original equipment specifications.
Do I need to buy a separate set of rims for winter tires?
It is convenient to have a dedicated set of wheels for your winter tires. This allows you to swap tires easily at the start of the season without paying mounting and balancing fees each time. It also protects your summer wheels from salt and road grime. Many drivers opt for smaller-diameter rims with higher-profile tires for winter, which can offer a smoother ride and better snow traction.
Revision notes
- : First published.