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Best Winter Tires for Long Road Trips- Top Picks for Snow and Ice
We can all agree that road trips and long drives with family and friends are beloved pastimes. Exploring new places, experiencing new things, having fun, and creating cherished memories along the way are all part of the adventure. But when winter comes, and snow covers the roads, does this mean road trips are over?
Of course not! With a set of reliable winter tires, you can start planning your next cold-weather adventure. Whether it’s a ski trip or visiting relatives for the holidays, the winter offers plenty of opportunities for memorable road trips and enjoying the holidays. But which winter tires are best for these journeys? We’re glad you asked—here are the top 7 winter tire options for long road trips this season.
How To Choose Winter Tire For Long Road Trips
Before we list all the relevant tires, let’s put some guidelines for choosing the best winter tire for you. This applies to all tires; you should always choose according to your needs and demands.
- Tread Depth: Look for tires with deeper tread depths, as they provide better snow and ice traction.
- Rubber Compound: For better grip, Winter tires use unique compounds that remain flexible in freezing temperatures.
- Tread Pattern: Directional or V-shaped tread patterns help with snow and water evacuation, reducing hydroplaning risk.
- Size: Ensure the tire size matches your vehicle’s specifications. Tires are available in various sizes to fit sedans, SUVs, and trucks.
- Studded vs. Studless: Studded tires may offer better traction if you frequently drive on icy roads. However, they are often noisier and can damage paved roads, so they are restricted in some areas. Studless tires offer a quieter ride and good ice and snow performance.
- Price: Higher-priced, premium tires typically last longer and provide superior performance in extreme conditions. Cheaper options can still offer reliable results but may wear out faster or have slightly less grip.
Best Winter Tires For Long Road Trips
Michelin X-Ice Snow
The Michelin X-Ice Snow is a premium winter tire known for its exceptional performance in snow, slush, and icy conditions. It’s designed to provide maximum traction and stability, making it ideal for long-distance winter road trips.
Key Features:
- The V-shaped tread design enhances water and snow evacuation.
- EverGrip technology offers consistent grip as the tire wears.
- Superior braking performance on ice.
- Low rolling resistance for fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 10/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 15 to 20 inches
- Load Index: 91 to 110
- Speed Rating: T (118 mph)
Price Range: $110 to $515 per tire.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is another top-tier winter tire designed for severe winter conditions. Its multicell compound and advanced tread technology make it one of the best choices for handling icy roads on long road trips.
Key Features:
- NanoPro-Tech (Nanostructure-Oriented Properties Control Technology) multicell compound absorbs water from the ice to enhance grip.
- Zigzag sipes improve traction on snow and ice.
- Excellent cornering stability and braking distance in snowy conditions.
- Extended wear life for long-distance durability.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 12/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 14 to 19 inches
- Load Index: 82 to 105
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Price Range: $117 to $279 per tire.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 is a tire specifically engineered for snowy and icy roads, making it a go-to option for winter road trips. Its low rolling resistance makes it more fuel-efficient while delivering supreme winter traction.
Key Features:
- The Arctic Sense Grip concept ensures a balanced grip in icy conditions.
- Multi-faceted Snow Claws for grip on snow and ice.
- Environmentally friendly with low rolling resistance to reduced fuel consumption.
- Quiet ride, perfect for long-distance trips.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 11/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 14 to 20 inches
- Load Index: 88 to 110
- Speed Rating: R (106 mph)
Price Range: $56 to $680 per tire.
Continental VikingContact 7
The Continental VikingContact 7 is known for its well-rounded winter performance. It provides great traction on snowy and icy roads while maintaining a comfortable and quiet ride.
Key Features:
- PolarPlus™ technology for enhanced grip in freezing temperatures.
- Silica-enriched compound for improved wet and dry performance.
- Tread pattern designed for maximum snow evacuation and reduced braking distances.
- Durable for long trips through varied winter conditions.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 10/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 15 to 20 inches
- Load Index: 91 to 109
- Speed Rating: T (118 mph)
Price Range: $117 to $340 per tire.
Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra
The Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra is built to handle the harshest winter conditions. It offers drivers confidence on icy and snow-packed roads, making it ideal for long winter road trips.
Key Features:
- ActiveGrip Technology delivers superior traction on snow and ice.
- UltraGrip tread compound enhances performance in extreme cold.
- Snow Notches and biting edges provide extra grip in deep snow.
- Excellent braking performance on icy roads.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 11/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 15 to 19 inches
- Load Index: 87 to 105
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Price Range: $123 to $306 per tire.
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
Pirelli’s Winter Sottozero 3 is designed for high-performance vehicles that need reliable winter traction. It is perfect for long road trips on snow-covered highways and icy backroads, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and safety.
Key Features:
- 3D sipe technology improves braking and handling on ice.
- Directional tread pattern designed for efficient snow and water evacuation.
- Low noise levels for a more comfortable drive.
- High grip levels on both snow and wet roads.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Performance winter tire
- Tread Depth: 10/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 16 to 21 inches
- Load Index: 91 to 109
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Price Range: $153 to $709 per tire.
Toyo Observe GSi-6
The Toyo Observe GSi-6 is designed for extreme winter conditions and long road trips through snow-covered landscapes. Its advanced rubber compound and tread design ensure safety even in the worst winter conditions.
Key Features:
- Microbit technology with walnut shell particles for increased traction on ice.
- Tapered grooves for better snow removal and enhanced stability.
- Superior grip on snow, ice, and slush.
- Durable and long-lasting, it is perfect for extended winter road trips.
Specifications:
- Tire Type: Studless winter tire
- Tread Depth: 12/32 inches
- Available Sizes: 15 to 20 inches
- Load Index: 91 to 110
- Speed Rating: T (118 mph).
Price Range: $67 to $299 per tire.
Conclusion
Choosing the best winter tire is an investment in safety and performance. The right tires will give you peace of mind and ensure you and your passengers are safe during your winter adventures. Each tire on our list —from the Michelin X-Ice Snow’s superior ice braking to the Toyo Observe GSi-6’s advanced ice traction— is designed to meet specific driving demands for various vehicles. Your road trip deserves the foundation of superior grip and control. You have some great options on this list based on your winter driving needs. Drive smart, travel safe, and enjoy the road ahead this holiday season.
