Which winter tires are best for you? The best winter tires of domestic production Comparative test of winter tires

"Michelin" is a French company, one of the world leaders in the production of automobile tires. It has about 70 enterprises around the world, as well as 5 research technology centers (in France, the USA and Japan) and 5 test sites (in France, the USA and Spain).
In addition to the main brand of the same name, the Michelin group of companies owns other well-known brands such as Kleber, Goodrich, Wolber, Riken, Tyremaster, Uniroyal, Taurus and others.
Site: www.michelin.ru

Michelin also has a tire manufacturing plant in Russia. It is located in the village of Davydovo, Orekhovo-Zuevsky District, Moscow Region. The production capacity there is not the largest - about 2 million tires a year, but it is there that the only tire studding workshop in the company is located, in which all the tires produced by Michelin in Europe are studded.
In Russia, Michelin tires are sold either of our own production, or produced at the European factories of the company in Italy and Hungary.

"Michelin X-Ice North 3" Is a new winter studded tire that incorporates a wide variety of innovative technologies developed by Michelin. Most of them are combined into one complex called “smart stud” (Smart Stud System) and includes:

• Thermoactive rubber compound, which is used as the inner layer of the tread and which is capable of changing its elasticity depending on the ambient temperature: at high temperatures it becomes soft and the studs seem to be pressed into the tread, significantly improving grip on asphalt; at low temperatures, it becomes stiff, making the very fixation of the studs more rigid and thereby increasing traction on an icy surface.
• Ice Powder Remover technology designed to remove ice crumbs and is a system of 6 wells that absorb this ice crumbs around each spike.
• The design of the spike itself, which looks like a cylinder with a tapered tip, which is installed on a wide base, which ensures reliable fixation of the spike.

The tread pattern of the Michelin X-Ice North 3 has received an increased number of grip edges for improved grip on snowy roads. The angle of the drainage channels was also changed, which increased resistance to aquaplaning and slashplenning. These tires use the new Flex-Ice 3 rubber compound, which contains a proportionate natural and synthetic rubber compound to achieve improved wet grip. In addition, it contains silicon additives that contribute to wear resistance.
To strengthen the tire carcass, the IronFlex technology was used, which consists in the use of an additional layer of steel filaments and provides additional impact resistance.

High-quality winter tires - without exaggeration, can be called a guarantee with the arrival of cold weather. This issue requires a serious approach to the process of their purchase, in which the manufacturer's brand, driving style, vehicle brand and climatic conditions of the region of operation play a role. A significant responsibility is assigned to winter tires, because in cold weather it becomes more difficult to drive a car, especially when snow falls, icy conditions, freezing, etc.

Where to start choosing tires for winter weather

Any rating of winter tires should include products from different price segments, since not every motorist can afford to buy expensive tires, which will still have to be changed annually. At the same time, you should not save on the safety of yourself and your passengers, because mistakes on a snow-covered road are very expensive. When choosing these products, you need to pay attention to what exist for winter:

• studded. The structure owes its name, since such tires are equipped with metal spikes that play an anti-slip role. On such rubber, neither ice nor snow drifts are terrible, but they are of little use for dry asphalt. In addition, they significantly increase the noise level while driving;
• frictional (they are "Velcro"). They are characterized by a special lamellar surface. Densely cut sipes and a special tread ensure a secure connection to the roadway. On excessively snowy areas, these winter tires may not be effective enough, but on dry roads they behave confidently and do not make noise.

Frictional are subdivided into 2 types: European and Scandinavian. The first type is intended for wet regions with a predominance of slush and wet snow. They do not have a raised tread, but they are equipped with drainage grooves. Scandinavian softer in themselves, equipped with slots and lamellas. They are characterized by high cross-country ability on ice or snow.

The most affordable and high quality winter tires

1. SnowPROX S941. It is a budget manufacturer with a good reputation. The products are aimed at middle class cars. Such rubber behaves well both on a snow-covered surface and on wet porridge. It does not make noise and is quite soft due to its inclusion in the silicone composition.

   

2. MA STL from the Chinese company Maxxxis. The main advantage of this product is its low price in comparison with competitors in the 2019 season. However, these products behave normally on snowy road surfaces. The rubber of this model is characterized by standard characteristics of acceleration and deceleration and an average noise figure while driving.

   

3. KrisAlp HP. The developer is considered to be the well-known company in the automotive world, Kleber, which is a subsidiary of the French Michelin. Decent quality of products is explained by technologies and materials that are used to create more expensive types of products. The model is positioned as focused on powerful cars that require increased cross-country ability.

   

4. Hakkapeliitta 8. The well-known Finnish manufacturer "noted" even in the budget price segment. To the attention of our drivers, he presented studded tires with special sipes and a tread pattern. For the 2019 winter season, they are good because they allow you to literally cling to the ice and overcome various road bumps with a decent level of grip.

   

5. Nordman N4. Another example of Finnish products. For relatively little money, the manufacturer has provided spikes equipped with a special support pad. Thanks to these properties, proper softness and elasticity are provided.

   

6. Blizzak Spike, represented in this category by Bridgestone. It got into the rating of the best winter tires due to its good quality production and low price. These tires are equipped with cruciform studs, which not only hold themselves well, but also provide the necessary grip on icy roads. Experts consider this to be a good solution for the domestic climate.

   

7. Nordmaster ST. Tires that combine decent quality at an affordable price. The products are interesting in that they are produced by a domestic manufacturer. It boasts a reinforced side edge and an original tread pattern, which will provide the required grip on winter roads in some of our latitudes.

   

The middle class of winter tire manufacturers - the best representatives

The best winter tires can be found in the middle price class. All such products are characterized by high quality at a reasonable cost. 3-4 thousand rubles per wheel is a price tag that most Russian car owners are quite capable of pulling. For this price, they can become the owners of a quality one.

1. The Winter Contact TS 860 tire opens the top winter tires from the mid-price category. The manufacturer is the well-known Continental company. Many experts consider this particular model to be the best in the middle range. First of all, this happened due to excellent sound insulation and driving performance.

   

2. Cinturato Winter is another example of winter tires that approach the premium in terms of properties. They have established themselves as an excellent helper when driving on dry or snowy surfaces in winter. Perfectly suited for climatic zones with mild winters.

   

3. Alpin 5. A sample of good tires, in the development of which the legendary Michelin took part. The optimal solution for driving on snow-covered road sections. However, it does not behave so well on wet and dry asphalt, and the noise level is far from ideal values.

   

4. Blizzak ML-01. An inexpensive representative of winter tires, which may well be the answer to the question of which one is better. For an extremely low price, the consumer receives products with average performance. It can be considered a profitable purchase in a limited budget.

   

5. I Cept RS 2. These products are manufactured by Hankook. You cannot consider her one of the leaders of her segment, since she makes a lot of noise. But on a dry surface, it feels great, well overcomes snow drifts and ice on the asphalt.

   

Many of the winter tires in this segment could be converted to, given their positive characteristics. However, for the majority of domestic car owners, the decisive factor will still be acceptable quality at an affordable price.

Top winter tires 2019 premium

Leading manufacturers are happy to offer the best tires for snowy roads, icy and severe frost with the highest performance possible. Each car owner determines the key criteria for himself, especially since they may differ slightly for R15 or R16 tires. Regardless of the type of rubber you end up with, premium tires combine a high level of performance with excellent quality.

For the sake of objectivity, we offer several of the most popular varieties:

1. Ice Contact2 from the world famous manufacturer Continental. The main advantages are the spike coverage for more efficient and easy work. They are great for both ice and snowy surfaces. Drivers will definitely be pleased with the low noise level from them when driving on a winter road. The main disadvantage is the high cost among analogues.

   

2. Hakkapeliitta 9. Finnish products that are familiar with the realities of harsh, if not even extreme, winter weather. This is an ideal solution for those drivers who have to live in the northern regions for a long time. Such tires will perform well both in urban conditions and in off-road operation. Another interesting fact: they retain their qualities for a long time under various temperature conditions.

   

3. Blizzak DMV2. Products of this brand, developed by Bridgestone, are not equipped with studs, that is, they are of the "velcro" type. A good sample of tires, in which the developers tried to take into account all the mistakes of the past analogues. They were able to demonstrate a high degree of controllability, low noise levels and other performance characteristics.

   

4. Nord Frost 100. German manufacturer's tires based on a rubber and silicone compound with technical hydrocarbon additives, as well as special innovative polymer components. As a result, the products are characterized by impeccable adhesion to the road surface. She is not afraid of ice and snow, just like dry asphalt pavement.

   

5. Ice Zero. Products of the world-famous Pirelli atelier. The company is constantly introducing new developments, seeking to improve performance. The rubber composition of the new tires has been significantly improved, the tread pattern has been changed, and the production as a whole undergoes a more stringent technological selection. Thanks to all these factors, it meets the needs of domestic motorists 100%.

   

6. X Ice XI2. Another representative of the French manufacturer Michelin, which has won tens of millions of fans around the world. In the new tires for winter 2019, the manufacturer was able to implement such innovations, thanks to which water is effectively removed in order to successfully overcome icy and snow-covered road sections. On dry surfaces, they do not behave so perfectly.

   

7. Icept RW08. Few of us know this Korean-made rubber, but in vain, given the totality of its properties. To ensure good grip and maintain the elasticity of the rubber itself, the manufacturer adds ingredients such as silicone and silicon to the composition. Winter requires brand new tires, so a computer simulation method was used to create them. But they have acquired the characteristics of a truly premium product.
8. Ultra Grip Ice 2. This friction-type winter tire is specially designed for regions with high humidity, frequent low temperatures and snow drifts. Its composition is so stable that it allows you to maintain performance throughout the entire resource allocated by the manufacturer.

   

9. Hakkapelliitta R2. Designed by the legendary Finnish Nokian plant. This winter tire is characterized by a low noise level and high cross-country ability on difficult road sections. There may be some difficulties on icy sections of the road, but they are within normal limits.

   

This rating of the best winter tires for 2019 is of a recommendatory nature. Each car owner makes his choice based on individual preferences and characteristics of his vehicle. All other things being equal, experts advise not to skimp on buying rubber for the winter, since this significantly increases handling and safety.

The winter season is starting very soon. Experienced car owners begin to prepare for it in advance, first of all, looking at various models of winter tires to ensure safe driving in the conditions of the upcoming icy and snowy roads. Usually, the choice falls on foreign brands that occupy leading positions in world markets. However, one should not forget about domestic models, because in many characteristics they are not inferior to foreign-made tires, and are much cheaper.

In addition, the advantage of domestic manufacturers lies in the fact that they develop car tires directly for the harsh and capricious conditions of the Russian winter. This ensures that the tires are highly adaptable to our winter roads. In this review, we will focus on the most popular models of domestic winter tires that can satisfy the requirements of most consumers.

CordiantPolar

Studded tires Cordian tPolar have been among the most demanded winter tires in Russia for a long time. All thanks to a good ratio of affordable cost and quality. These tires have an optimized tread compound for lower rolling resistance and, as a result, better fuel economy. Cordiant Polar tires are distinguished by directional tread pattern with a central groove in the form of a kind of "snake".

For greater directional stability and quick removal of snow from the contact patch, zigzag sipes and expanding transverse grooves are provided. A distinctive feature of CordiantPolar winter tires is the ability to install 128 studs in four rows, which allows you to achieve better grip on slippery tracks and in icy conditions. According to the manufacturer, the noise level of these tires has been significantly reduced due to the different block widths in the center and shoulder areas of the tread.

A further development of the CordiantPolar winter tire is the Polar 2, which is more designed for modern SUVs and mid-range vehicles. This studded rubber was created by Cordiant engineers specifically for the harsh climatic conditions and Russian off-road conditions. It uses a rubber compound that can work in extreme temperature conditions - up to a dominus of 45 degrees. This is the first winter tire in the Cordiant range to feature an asymmetric tread pattern.

Polar 2 tires feature new stud technology. The fixation of the studs, which have the original "snowflake" shape, in the tire tread is carried out in two layers at once - the outer layer, where a soft rubber compound is used, and the inner layer, in which a denser rubber is used. This technology provides better tire performance and good braking dynamics on an icy track. The car owner can get information about the break-in period of the studs by means of special indicators on the tire.

CordiantPolar SL

Cordiant also manufactures studless tires for the winter season for urban use. These are, in particular, Polar SL tires with a two-component rubber compound "Smart-Mix", designed to improve the grip of the car when driving on snowy and icy roads, as well as the efficiency of acceleration and braking in unpredictable winter conditions.

A distinctive feature of these tires is also a V-shaped tread design for an even distribution of weight over the entire contact area of ​​the tire and a large number of zigzag sipes. For quick removal of snow, mud and water from the contact patch, side drainage channels are provided, which expand from the center of the tread to its edges. Thanks to four longitudinal ribs, high directional stability is achieved.

Cordiant Sno-Max

Sno-Max is another winter studded tire from Cordiant designed for use in the harsh Russian winter. Distinctive features of this tire are zigzag sipes for better grip of the tire on snowy and icy roads, smoother and wider tread for improved performance on dry roads. The studs are spaced further from each other, which improves acoustic comfort and shortens braking distances. The service life of Sno-Max winter tires was increased by adding a layer of nylon to the frame.

Sno-Max tires feature sixteen rows of studs that reduce acceleration and deceleration times, even on ice. The tires are distinguished by a directional tread pattern, which allows the tires to more effectively overcome various snowdrifts and deep puddles that often occur on Russian roads in the winter season.

CordiantWinterDrive

Finally, one of the latest developments of a leading Russian company is WinterDrive non-studded winter tires for urban conditions. The asymmetric tread pattern of these tires was created using computer-aided 3D modeling, as a result of which the engineers were able to achieve the optimal balance between the performance and consumer qualities of the tire. The blocks of the central part and the shoulder area of ​​the tread of the WinterDrive tire are connected by special half-bridges into a single whole to increase the clarity and responsiveness of control.

It features DoubleTread technology and a rubber compound containing carbon black and silica components. The drainage system of the tire consists of a large number of longitudinal and transverse grooves, which provides high resistance to aquaplaning. Tread blocks of various shapes and sizes are unevenly spaced to reduce noise when driving.

Amtel Nordmaster

A fairly wide range of winter tires is produced under the Russian-Dutch brand Amtel. The AmtelNordmaster and Nordmaster 2 tires enjoy well-deserved popularity among Russian motorists. AmtelNordmaster winter tires have a large number of Z-shaped sipes to ensure the best grip. The high resource of this rubber is achieved by the use of a two-layer tread with a combination of synthetic and natural rubber, which adds to its durability and strength.

In addition, highly dispersed carbon black and silicic acids were included in the rubber compound, which should contribute to more effective braking on snowy and icy roads. The lamellas work in conjunction with the spikes on the tire tread, which are located in ten planes at once.

AmtelNordmaster 2

AmtelNordmaster 2 is a winter studded tire with high cross-country ability. They demonstrate their best qualities, first of all, when driving on snow-covered trails. The engineers also paid close attention to the safety of driving on icy tracks, equipping the Nordmaster 2 tires with powerful blocks along the tread edges and wide elements of the shoulder zones for a higher level of grip on ice.

Excellent handling and cross-country ability of the tire on loose snow, in turn, is ensured by inclined grooves, widening towards the edges of the tread, and zigzag sipes. Nordmaster 2 tires have ten rows of studs around the circumference of the tire in a mathematically calculated pattern.

AmtelNordmaster ST-310

Winter tires AmtelNordmasterST-310 with directional tread pattern are not a bad choice when driving in urban conditions and on light off-road conditions. Their main difference lies in the zigzag longitudinal and transverse grooves with acute-angled edges, which contribute to better handling and greater stability of the car on the road. This studded rubber has special lug ribs for higher cross-country ability of the car when driving on loose snow. In addition to a large number of zigzag grooves, the Nordmaster ST-310 tires are also characterized by the presence of zigzag sipes, the efficient operation of which in contact with the road provides a shorter braking distance and anti-slip.

AmtelNordMaster CL

The Amtel line of winter tires also includes non-studded tires designed specifically for comfortable and safe driving on city roads. It is a soft and quiet NordMaster CL tire, the tread of which immediately attracts attention with its central groove with sawtooth edges and two stepped longitudinal grooves to quickly drain water from the contact patch and ensure reliable grip on the road in winter conditions. Thanks to the curved lugs with transverse sipes, a safe and fast movement of the car on loose snow is achieved. For greater stability, especially in corners, the NordMaster CL tire is equipped with elongated blocks with sipes, which are characterized by variable depths and different directionality of the edges.

Kama Euro 519

Also noteworthy are the products of the Nizhnekamsk tire plant, in the assortment of which you can find a lot of relatively cheap but high-quality tires for the winter season. First of all, this is a winter tire with spikes Kama Euro 519. Its tread consists of two separate layers: the lower layer has a dense structure, and the upper one is characterized by good elasticity to maintain high performance properties of the tire in low temperatures.

The fan-shaped arrangement of sipes in the tread of the Kama Euro 519 tire, according to the assurances of its creators, guarantees excellent grip on snowy and icy road sections. The tread of these studded tires is characterized by the presence of V-shaped grooves, which help the rubber self-cleaning from dirt and snow. Kama Euro 519 tires are adapted to the harsh Russian winter operating conditions and are an excellent choice for installation on domestic cars.

Kama 515

Kama 515 is a winter tire designed mainly for use in vehicles with extremely off-road vehicles, that is, on SUVs and crossovers. It is noteworthy that these tires can have two versions - with and without studs. They feature a directional V-shaped tread pattern with no pronounced longitudinal ribs. The tread is divided into two equal parts by a longitudinal drainage groove.

In each of these parts there are three rows of free-standing polygonal blocks - with sharp corners, located in different directions, and curved edges, which provides effective acceleration and braking on all types of road surface. Due to the small radius of the profile of the shoulder zones, the engineers managed to achieve a significant increase in the contact patch. Another feature of this tire is a large number of S-shaped sipes, which form multiple engagement edges for more reliable grip on slippery road surfaces.

This is just a small list of domestically produced tires that can boast of good performance. The range of produced winter tires from Russian manufacturing companies is quite wide, so you can always choose the right option based on your financial capabilities, requirements for safety and driving comfort.

Based on the test results of winter tires, we have selected for you 5 studded tires and 2 Velcro, made in Russia.

The best studded tires made in Russia 2016

Champion of champions, most frequent winner of tire tests. It's nice that car tires are produced in Vsevolozhsk. Nokian are the best on ice, snow and snowy roads.

About the Autoreview experts write: "on the ice tires with curly spikes are stepping on the heels of the test leaders." Pirelli tires are produced in Russia at factories in Kirov and Voronezh. Strengths of Pirelli: cross-country ability, grip on snow and ice.

“For any winter roads, they will like it on long journeys,” say the Za Rulem testers about the tires produced in Davydovo, Moscow region. From the pros: they make little noise, they are soft, they behave well on packed snow.

Average peasants in tire tests, but the most affordable of this rating, and they are "brewed" in the "Kordiant" holding, which includes factories in Omsk and Yaroslavl. Quite quiet, good grip on snow, good acceleration dynamics.

The best non-studded tires made in Russia 2016

To meet the growing demand in the market, friction tires are also produced in Russia.

Balanced tires, also for the price.

Based on 2017 205/55 R16 friction tire tests

In mid-range winter tests, they are especially good on ice, with excellent directional stability on asphalt.

Made in Russia, they brake well on snow, another plus is directional stability.

Residents of regions where winter is especially harsh, always stock up on sets of winter tires for their cars, because without this they will not be able to drive. Such rubber is capable of overcoming the most difficult paths, including ice and deep snow. It has a number of advantages that only real motorists can appreciate.

In the article, you will learn what to look for when choosing rubber, who is the best manufacturer and what exactly is the best winter tires in demand among motorists.

How to choose tires for the winter?

When buying rubber for a car for the winter, problems often arise, since there are many options, and each of them is good in its own way. To choose the best product for yourself, you should heed the advice:

The well-known Finnish concern manufactures tires for many vehicles. He has been supplying rubber for over 80 years, and during that time, customers have never once complained about poor quality or non-compliance with safety requirements.

2. Goodyears

A leading American firm creates tires that drivers love for their high quality. Products are manufactured in as many as 50 factories located in various parts of the world.

3. Bridgestone

The Japanese manufacturer sells innovative products for cars and other vehicles. His products serve their owners for a long time.

4. Dunlop

A modern company based in Northern Ireland that develops products through computer simulations. People always pay attention to the products of this brand, because in addition to quality, they also have a pleasant design.

5. Michelin

A well-known French company is engaged in the production of tires, which are distinguished by their durability, fairly high manufacturability and fuel efficiency.

Read also: Which tire brand is better. TOP 10 best tire manufacturers

So which winter tires to choose?

TOP 6 best studded tires

Motorists who prefer studded tire options should consider models that already have many positive reviews and high popularity in Russia and many other countries. This rating will certainly leave no doubt about which tire to choose. Among them:

1. Pirelli Ice Zero

Rating 4.62 / 5

The Italian model amazes all motorists with one unique advantage. It consists of a double tungsten carbide stud. Thanks to this, the tires pass the ice perfectly.

2. Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta 9

Rating 4.69 / 5

The model of the new generation of the already renowned line has been developed for 4 years, but experts have nevertheless created an ideal product in almost everything.

The main highlight of rubber is the presence of two types of studs. This improves traction on icy and snowy roads.

Rating 4.74 / 5

4. Continental IceContact 2

Rating 4.74 / 5

This model performs best on the off-road. She feels great at rather low temperatures, not only on snow, but also on ice.

5. Bridgestone Ice Cruiser 7000

Rating 4.55 / 5

Excellent city rubber copes well with not too deep snow. It perfectly overcomes asphalt and dense snow, does not emit unnecessary noise and is most suitable for areas where the temperature does not often fall below -15 degrees.

6.

Excellent road holding on ice and snow. Works great on dry asphalt. Spikes hold well (do not fly off). Quiet enough. Plus, good cross-country ability.

TOP 6 best non-studded tires for winter (velcro).

Tires without spikes, also called velcro in the common people and friction in professional slang, are ideal for roads where there is not too much snow.

They find excellent traction, so they are ideal for mild winter climates.

These include:

1. NOKIAN HAKKAPELIITTA R2 SUV

The main advantage of the model is its precise controllability. Such rubber holds the road perfectly in any conditions.

It is not scary to fall into a rut with her, since a way out of it will be instantly found.

Crystals are provided inside that prevent the wheel from freezing, which explains the cost of the rubber.

2. MICHELIN X-ICE XI3

The variant, which does not have any drawbacks, adheres perfectly to the road, in which it is helped by the tread pattern, quick removal of liquid and snow from under the wheel.

The movement of this model is soft and almost silent. Its high quality surprises all drivers, as it is able to serve its owners for more than 3 seasons, compared to its competitors.

3. GOODYEAR ULTRA GRIP ICE 2

It costs up to 11,500 rubles. This type of rubber is one of the best examples of value for money. It has amazing braking properties, stability on snow slurry. Buyers call the only drawback uncertain acceleration during icy conditions, but few people pay attention to this nuance.

4. BRIDGESTONE BLIZZAK VRX

The price is 13 thousand rubles. The model was created using unique technologies that made it possible to make the ride more comfortable and soft. Tires perform well in rural and urban areas. They easily pass through a high layer of snow, slow down well and remove the snow gruel. Because of such opportunities, the rubber wears out rather quickly, so it is not designed for more than 3 seasons.

5. YOKOHAMA ICE GUARD IG50

The price is about 10 thousand rubles. The last option in this category shows itself perfectly during icy conditions. The rubber ensures safe cornering and is ideal for all types of terrain. But with all the advantages, it should be borne in mind that during freezing temperatures, you do not need to use tires, since they are intended exclusively for cold weather.

Compliant and manageable rubber, has a low noise level. Quiet in operation, confidently accelerates and decelerates.

Of the shortcomings, motorists single out one drawback - the price

New items 2018/2019

In addition to the two previous categories, a few more tires of 2019 cannot be ignored. They are also distinguished by high quality, reliability and a number of other advantages. This list includes:

1. Dunlop SP Winter ICE 02