2022-2023 Winter Tires: Suggestions?
The cold season will soon be here, and if you haven’t bought your winter tires yet, you should hurry if you want to benefit from a wider selection, and avoid peak time at the shop where you’ll have them installed.
Of course, “real” winter tires are far better than those called “all-weather,” even if they feature the mountain and snowflake pictogram. We must also mention that there aren't a lot of new releases for 2022-2023, since their development is still hindered by restrictions related to the pandemic and supply issues.
Do you need tire suggestions for your car or compact SUV? We’ve reviewed a few 2022-2023 tires for you, and here are a few worth mentioning.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10
An evolution of the Hakkapeliitta 9, the Hakkapeliitta 10 is by far one of the best winter tires on the market. It’s not exactly cheap, but its safety is hard to beat, and its durability is already proving to be above average. It’s also available with studs, for those who need to drive on icy roads. By the way, the Finnish manufacturer just launched the R5, which is even better than the excellent R3, and is suitable for electric vehicles. If you want something cheaper, consider the Nordman 7, a discount version of the former-generation Hakkapeliitta.
Michelin X-Ice Snow
Showing outstanding braking and cornering abilities on both snow and ice, the X-Ice Snow is a tire with formidable traction, and undoubtedly the best overall winter performances on wet and dry surfaces. Its other advantages are a smooth and silent ride, as well as very good longevity compared to the competition.
Continental VikingContact 7
This high-end winter tire allows for exceptional road handling thanks to its optimal grip on ice and snow. The VikingContact 7 is also reputed for its very short braking distances and reduced risk of hydroplaning. Its grooves allow a direct evacuation of water and melted snow under the contact surface, which increases safety behind the wheel.
Pirelli Ice Zero FR
Specially developed for the extreme winter conditions of Nordic countries like Canada, the Ice Zero FR is ideal for driving in deep snow thanks to its aggressive tread with 3D Butterfly technology and high sipe density. This tire inspires confidence even in thick snow, or when a layer of ice is hiding underneath. You get the performance of a studded tire, without the studs.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Stable accelerations, efficient braking and safe road handling are what the Blizzak WS90 has to offer. Compared to its predecessor, the Blizzak WS80, it’s designed with enhanced tread responsiveness and durability, which will allow you to use it for at least one more season. Its larger contact surface and new tread compound improve the tire’s performance on ice.
