Best Winter Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is our best overall pick because it has a studless compound and an H speed index (130 mph). It fits a common 205/55R16 size. We selected 15 tires from a pool of 88 winter tires based on size, load index, speed index, and vehicle type, and we did not test any unit.
15 picks from 87 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 maximum ice traction: If you drive on icy roads regularly, a studded tire like the Nordman North 9 includes metal studs for increased ice traction. See pick 4
- For compact car owners: A 16-inch rim tire like the Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 fits many compact sedans and offers a balance of snow and ice traction without studs. See pick 10
- For SUV and truck drivers: The Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV is designed for larger vehicles with a 235/55R18 size and a 104H load index, suitable for crossovers and pickups. See pick 15
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
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 Blizzak WS90 has a studless compound, an H speed index (130 mph), and a 91 load index. Its 205/55R16 size fits many compact sedans and small crossovers.
Pros
- H speed index (130 mph)
- Studless design
- 205/55R16 size
- Load index 91
Cons
- Not for heavy trucks or large SUVs
- No studdable option
- 16-inch rim size
Good fit if
- Compact sedans
- Vehicles with 16-inch rims
Skip if
- You need a tire for a heavy-duty pickup
- You require a studdable tire for icy hills
Verdict: A studless winter tire with H speed index for passenger cars.
2 Best for large 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 Blizzak DM-V2 has a 255/55R20 size, a 107 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph). It is designed for larger SUVs and crossovers.
Pros
- 20-inch rim size
- Load index 107
- T speed index (118 mph)
- Studless design
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Large size may not fit compact cars
- No studdable version in this size
Good fit if
- Full-size SUVs
- Vehicles with 20-inch rims
Skip if
- Compact sedans
- Light trucks with LT sizing
Verdict: A winter tire for large SUVs with a 107 load index and T speed index.
3 Best high-speed winter
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 has a W speed index (168 mph), the highest among the picks. Its 335/30R20 size is low-profile, and it has a 104 load index.
Pros
- W speed index (168 mph)
- Load index 104
- Studless construction
- 335/30R20 size
Cons
- 30-series sidewall
- 20-inch rim size
- No studdable option
Good fit if
- Sports cars
- Performance sedans
Skip if
- Standard sedans
- SUVs
Verdict: A winter tire with W speed index for high-performance vehicles.
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 Nordman North 9 is a studded tire. It has a 195/65R15 size, a 95 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph).
Pros
- Studded design
- 15-inch rim size
- Load index 95
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Limited to 15-inch rims
- Studs may be restricted by local law
Good fit if
- Compact cars
- Drivers in icy regions
Skip if
- You need a tire for a large SUV
- Studs are prohibited in your area
Verdict: A studded winter tire with T speed index for ice traction.
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 studdable. It has a 225/65R17 size, a 106 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph).
Pros
- Studdable design
- 225/65R17 size
- Load index 106
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- 17-inch rim size
- Studdable design may require additional installation
Good fit if
- SUVs and crossovers
- Drivers who may want studs later
Skip if
- You want a simple studless tire
- You have a small sedan with 15-inch rims
Verdict: A studdable winter tire with a 106 load index and T speed index.
6 Best for cold climates
Continental VikingContact 8 Passenger Car Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 225/45R17
$229.86 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Continental VikingContact 8 has a 225/45R17 size, a 94 load index, and an H speed index (130 mph). Its studless compound is suited for cold-weather driving.
Pros
- H speed index (130 mph)
- 17-inch rim size
- Load index 94
- Studless design
Cons
- 45-series sidewall
- No studdable option
- Not for heavy trucks
Good fit if
- Mid-size sedans
- Drivers in cold climates
Skip if
- You need a tire for a large SUV
- You prefer a taller sidewall for comfort
Verdict: A studless winter tire with H speed index for cold-weather sedans.
7 Best for heavy snow
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 has a 225/65R17 size, a 102 load index, and an S speed index (112 mph). Its tread pattern is designed for deep snow.
Pros
- S speed index (112 mph)
- 225/65R17 size
- Load index 102
- Studless design
Cons
- S speed index is lower than T, H, or V
- Not studdable in this variant
- 17-inch rim size
Good fit if
- SUVs and crossovers
- Areas with heavy snowfall
Skip if
- You need a higher speed index
- You drive mostly on dry highways
Verdict: A studless winter tire with S speed index for heavy snow.
8 Best for ice and snow
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 ipike X W429 is studdable. It has a 215/60R16 size, a 99 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph).
Pros
- Studdable design
- 16-inch rim size
- Load index 99
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- 60-series sidewall
- No studless option
Good fit if
- Sedans and small crossovers
- Drivers in icy and snowy regions
Skip if
- You want a studless tire
- You drive a performance car requiring a higher speed index
Verdict: A studdable winter tire with T speed index for ice and snow.
9 Best for compact sedans
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 studdable. It has a 215/55R17 size, a 98 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph).
Pros
- Studdable design
- 17-inch rim size
- Load index 98
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Studdable design may be heavier than studless
- Not for large SUVs or trucks
Good fit if
- Compact and mid-size sedans
- Drivers seeking a studdable option
Skip if
- You have a large SUV or pickup
- You prefer a studless tire
Verdict: A studdable winter tire with T speed index for compact sedans.
10 Best for winter touring
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 has a 205/60R16 size, a 96 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph). Its 60-series sidewall is designed for ride comfort.
Pros
- 60-series sidewall
- 16-inch rim size
- Load index 96
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Not studdable
- 60-series sidewall may be less responsive than lower profiles
Good fit if
- Compact and mid-size sedans
- Drivers prioritizing ride comfort
Skip if
- You need studs for severe ice
- You drive a performance vehicle requiring a higher speed index
Verdict: A studless winter tire with T speed index for comfortable touring.
11 Best for everyday winter use
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 has a 215/50R17 size, a 95 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph). Its 50-series sidewall is typical for daily commuters.
Pros
- 50-series sidewall
- 17-inch rim size
- Load index 95
- T speed index (118 mph)
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Not studdable
- Lower profile may be less comfortable on rough roads
Good fit if
- Commuters in snowy regions
- Sedans with 17-inch rims
Skip if
- You face extreme ice conditions
- You have a large SUV
Verdict: A studless winter tire with T speed index for everyday use.
12 Best studless option
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 has a 215/60R16 size, a 99 load index, and an H speed index (130 mph). Its studless design is common for passenger cars.
Pros
- H speed index (130 mph)
- Studless design
- 16-inch rim size
- Load index 99
Cons
- 60-series sidewall
- No studdable option
- Not for heavy trucks
Good fit if
- Sedans and small crossovers
- Drivers who prefer studless tires
Skip if
- You need studs for severe ice
- You drive a high-performance vehicle with higher speed index requirements
Verdict: A studless winter tire with H speed index and 99 load index.
13 Best for crossovers
Milestar Winterguard Winter 235/60R17 102T Passenger Tire
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
$206.00 price as of 2026-10-05 06:01 UTC (Details)
The Milestar Winterguard has a 235/60R17 size, a 102 load index, and a T speed index (118 mph). It is designed for crossovers and small SUVs.
Pros
- 235/60R17 size
- Load index 102
- T speed index (118 mph)
- Studless design
Cons
- T speed index is lower than H or V
- Not studdable
- 17-inch rim size
Good fit if
- Crossovers and small SUVs
- Drivers in snowy regions
Skip if
- You drive a sedan with 16-inch rims
- You need studs for ice
Verdict: A studless winter tire with T speed index for crossovers.
14 Best set of four
Set of 4 (FOUR) Haida Winter HD697 Truck/SUV Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
- Tire size
- 245/45R20
- Sold as
- Set of 4
$508.93 price as of 2026-10-05 06:15 UTC (Details)
The Haida Winter HD697 is sold as a set of four. It has a 245/45R20 size, a 103 load index, and a V speed index (149 mph).
Pros
- Set of four included
- V speed index (149 mph)
- Load index 103
- 20-inch rim size
Cons
- 45-series sidewall
- 20-inch rim size
- Not for compact cars
Good fit if
- Performance sedans and coupes
- Drivers wanting a complete set
Skip if
- You have a standard sedan with 16-inch rims
- You prefer a taller profile for comfort
Verdict: A set of four winter tires with V speed index for performance vehicles.
15 Best for light trucks
Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV Winter Touring Radial
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 18 in
- Tire size
- 235/55R18
$208.86 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Continental VikingContact 8 Truck/SUV has a 235/55R18 size, a 104 load index, and an H speed index (130 mph). It is designed for light trucks and larger crossovers.
Pros
- H speed index (130 mph)
- 18-inch rim size
- Load index 104
- Studless design
Cons
- 55-series sidewall
- Not studdable
- May not fit smaller cars
Good fit if
- Light trucks and large SUVs
- Drivers needing a 104 load index
Skip if
- You own a compact car
- You require studs for severe ice
Verdict: A studless winter tire with H speed index for light trucks.
Specifications side by side
How the picks were chosen
We collected a pool of 88 winter tires from a retail catalog, then selected 15 that represent distinct sizes, speed indexes, and stud options (studded, studdable, studless). We compared each tire's stated specifications, including load index, speed index, rim diameter, and vehicle class, and consulted federal standards for tire selection and marking. Prices shown are live from the store listing; we did not purchase or test these tires.
Picking the right one for you
Studded, studdable, or studless
Winter tires fall into three categories. Studded tires have metal studs embedded for enhanced ice traction but may be noisy on dry pavement and could be restricted by local laws. Studdable tires allow you to install studs later if needed, offering flexibility. Studless tires use advanced rubber compounds to grip ice without studs, providing quieter performance and better dry-road behavior. Your choice depends on how much ice you encounter and whether studs are legal in your area.
Tire size and load index
The tire size (e.g., 215/55R17) includes the width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. The load index (e.g., 91) indicates the maximum weight each tire can support. Always match the load index to your vehicle's requirements as shown in the owner's manual or door placard. Using a tire with a lower load index can be unsafe. Also, ensure the rim diameter matches your wheels.
Speed index
The speed index letter (e.g., T, H, V) indicates the maximum speed the tire is designed for. A speed index of V (149 mph) is common on performance vehicles, while T (118 mph) and H (130 mph) are typical for passenger cars. For winter driving, a lower speed index may be acceptable, but you should still meet the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation.
Tire pressure monitoring systems
Federal regulations require tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) to warn when pressure drops 25% below the recommended cold inflation. Properly inflated winter tires improve safety and fuel economy. According to fueleconomy.gov, keeping tires inflated to the proper pressure can improve gas mileage by up to 3%. Check pressure regularly, especially in cold weather when pressure drops.
Winter tire regulations and standards
In the U.S., tires are regulated under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Standard No. 139 defines a snow tire as one that meets a traction index and displays the Alpine symbol. This ensures a minimum level of winter performance. When selecting winter tires, look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, which indicates the tire meets these standards.
When to switch to winter tires
Winter tires are designed for temperatures below 45°F (7°C). Their rubber compound remains flexible in cold weather, providing better grip on snow and ice. If you live in a region with consistent winter weather, installing winter tires before the first snowfall and removing them in spring is recommended. For occasional winter driving, all-season tires may suffice, but dedicated winter tires offer significantly better traction.
Questions
Do I need winter tires if I have all-season tires?
All-season tires are a compromise and their rubber hardens in cold temperatures, reducing grip. Winter tires use a softer compound that stays flexible, and their tread pattern is designed to channel snow and slush. For safety in icy and snowy conditions, dedicated winter tires provide noticeably better stopping and cornering performance. If you drive in winter weather regularly, investing in a set of winter tires is recommended.
What do the numbers on a tire size mean?
A tire size like 215/55R17 breaks down as follows: 215 is the width in millimeters, 55 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. The 'R' indicates radial construction. The load index and speed index are also marked on the sidewall. Always match these specifications to your vehicle's recommended size.
Can I use winter tires year-round?
Winter tires are made of a softer rubber compound that wears quickly in warm temperatures. Using them year-round will shorten their lifespan and may reduce handling and fuel economy. It is best to switch to all-season or summer tires in warmer months to preserve the winter tires for the next season and maintain optimal performance.
How long do winter tires last?
Winter tires typically last for several seasons, but the exact lifespan depends on driving habits, tread depth, and storage. Many manufacturers recommend replacing winter tires when tread depth falls below 5/32 of an inch for continued snow traction. Rotating your tires and storing them properly off-season can extend their life.
Are studded tires legal?
Studded tire legality varies by state and country. Some states allow them only during winter months, while others restrict their use to specific road conditions. Check your local regulations before using studded tires. Studs can damage roads, so many areas impose time limits. Studless winter tires offer a legal and effective alternative for most drivers.
Revision notes
- : First published.