Very soon, motorists will have to "change shoes" in winter tires. Some have already purchased it, while others have yet to complete this procedure.

Budget segment rating

It's no secret that not every car owner can afford to spend an impressive amount of money to purchase a kit. winter tires. Therefore, the current leaders of the budget price category deserve special attention.

Winter tires Vredestein Snowtrac 5

The Vredestein company presented a new studless rubber, the main "highlight" of which was the use of the military development "Stealth Design". Initially, it was created for military vehicles in order to reduce the level of noise generated by the wheels. But now it has found wide application in the tire industry for civilian passenger vehicles.

The tread pattern is made in the form of a V, which helps to reduce noise and vibration. Clear lines, competent geometry help to make the steering more sensitive and more stable in corners.
Prices start from 1.8 thousand rubles per tire.

Winter tires MP 54 Sibir Snow

Non-studded tires from the Slovak company Matador are designed for medium and compact cars. The directional pattern, the abundance of gripping edges, zigzag grooves provide impressive grip with the roadway.

Tires are available in 24 sizes.

The price starts from 1.6 rubles, and the most expensive tire will cost 3 thousand rubles per unit (not a set).

Tires Winguard Snow'G WH2

Shinnik Nexen represents Korean production. Its non-studded tires have 35 variants. The cost starts from 1.9 thousand rubles, and the most expensive type - 6 thousand rubles.

According to the company, their tires can withstand any frost, a special tread pattern guarantees excellent traction. The zigzag shape of the channels helps to move confidently both on ice and on snow.

Starfire W200

The new non-studded tires from Cooper, according to the manufacturer, are fully prepared for even the harshest winter of the coming year. Their factory is located in Sebria, where mass production of the new kit has been established.

The pricing policy is quite acceptable - from 2 to 6.3 thousand rubles.

Tests showed excellent results on snowy tracks and icy roads. In addition, the car felt excellent in muddy and wet conditions.

The manufacturer managed to achieve this result by increasing the number of sipes in the tread, as well as using advanced technologies.

A large amount of silica was added to the composition of the rubber compound. Due to this, the rubber retains elasticity at any low temperature, and at the same time guarantees reliable control on snowy and simply wet sections of the road.

Rating of top manufacturers

It is no secret that today there are simple and top manufacturers of tires for cars. The latter are represented not only in the field of civil transport, but also actively develop tires for racing series, special vehicles, motorcycles and so on.

But the big name does not mean that the price of such tires is exorbitant, and a rare car owner of a car of the middle price range can afford it.

The overestimated cost of products compared to other manufacturers is due to the highest level of quality, the use of advanced technologies, the use of the highest grades of rubber and unique impurities.

According to the research conducted this year, a rating of tires from top manufacturers was compiled - Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear.

Michelin Alpin 5

This is a Michelin development designed for city roads in winter conditions. It is only worth noting that you need to move on such rubber within the city, the streets of which are regularly cleared of falling snow.

So Alpin 5 can be called a good choice only for a limited number of countries and cities in the CIS and Europe.

The novelty is offered in 27 standard sizes. The price starts from 3.5 thousand, a the most expensive tire will cost you 12.5 thousand rubles.

Alpin 5 is a successful attempt to realize advanced technologies. First of all, the tread pattern has directional blocks, which increases the grip on any surface. The tread has a 12 percent increase in the number of segments, as well as 16 percent more sipes. According to Michelin management, their tires block themselves.

The second feature is the composition of the rubber. The Helio Compound technology has undergone a minor upgrade, with the result that Alpin 5 now contains plain sunflower oil. Experts note the effective operation of this component at low temperatures. Also, polymers of increased elasticity served as an additive.

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2

The well-known Japanese tire manufacturer presented his development at the international motor show in Moscow. The choice in favor of the Russian capital was not accidental, since the manufacturer positions the new tires as the most suitable for Russian climatic conditions.

The spikes are completely absent, and the kits themselves are designed for medium and large crossovers. Starting price 3.6 thousand for a tire, and the most expensive option will cost the buyer 10.6 thousand rubles.

Tires do an excellent job with drifts, effectively overcome icy, snowy and slushy roads. Special technology provided the mixture with a microporous structure. Moisture from the contact field is absorbed faster, the grip becomes better. The added microgrooves help to avoid hydroplaning.

One set is able to effectively serve for several seasons.

Continental ContiVikingContact 6

The sixth generation of winter tires from the leading tire manufacturer has become better in every way when compared with its predecessor. Although it is no secret that the previous model regularly topped the ratings of the most reliable and efficient winter tires.

Either way, the asymmetric tread, soft compound, and three-piece road contact ensure excellent performance on snowy and icy roads. In this case, the spikes are completely absent.

Special lamellas with internal bridges do not allow them to stick together, thus snow does not accumulate on the wheels.

The pricing policy of tires with 80 sizes is as follows - from 2.5 to 12 thousand per unit.

Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2

A well-known tire manufacturer has been creating this model of winter tires for three whole years. During this period, the product has passed over 200 tests, tried many design solutions. Today, the rubber is ready for sale and entered the market.

With 29 sizes in stock, prices start at 2.8 thousand and end at 10.5 thousand rubles for the most expensive versions.

During the development, a cryo-adaptive rubber compound was used, which allows you to maintain elasticity at low temperatures, guarantees effective grip on snow, on ice and on dry winter tracks.

The tread technology provides protection against aquaplaning, high handling comfort and reduced braking distances on icy roads.

Best winter tires 2015-2016

Winter is very close, which means you need to know in which tires your car will feel as comfortable as possible, and you will feel safe.

10th place. Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-01

The advanced technologies used in the development make it easy to overcome snow-covered and ice-covered sections of the road in such tires. The projector has the appearance of cross grooves, which guarantees high-quality adhesion to the surface. Special lamellas quickly clear the grooves from snow and pieces of ice. Shoulder grooves provide additional efficiency when driving through large snowdrifts.

Price - no more than 2.8 thousand rubles for 1 wheel.

9th place. Continental Viking Contact 6

German rubber, which is designed for cars. The asymmetric tread pattern allows you to improve the quality of handling, maneuverability, enhance grip on the surface, and make cornering safer. The special pattern, small ribs and grooves create the effect of a metal chain on non-studded tires. When braking, the rubber is stable, which is explained by the design of the sipes.

Price - from about 2.7 thousand rubles per unit .

8th place. Vredestein Snow Trac 3

Produced in Holland, the design does not provide for the use of spikes and are designed for cars. Longitudinal projector grooves effectively evacuate water and slush, the pattern provides easy control on ice. Made of high-strength rubber, which provides a long service life - at least 2 seasons.

Price - from 1.6 thousand rubles.

7th place. Gislaved Nord Frost 100

Swedish winter tires with studs arranged in such a way as to improve the grip of the tires on the road surface. Performance from the best side on icy roads.

The special tread pattern allows you to reduce the braking distance, and the grooves effectively grab and remove moisture and stuck snow. This increases traction and reduces fuel consumption.

Price - about 2.9 thousand rubles per unit.

6th place. Yokohama iceGUARD Stud iG55

Japanese studded tires with a special tread pattern. The grooves are semi-radial, narrow, which guarantees rapid removal of water and snow. The design contributes to high-quality grip and safe driving on snowy and icy road sections. The car feels confident and stable in turns. The elasticity and hardness of the mixture was given by the addition of silica and orange oil.

Price - from 2.1 thousand rubles per unit.

5th place. Nokian Nordman 5

The fifth line was deservedly taken by the Russian manufacturer. His studded tires showed their best qualities on snowy tracks. The compound is high quality, the rubber is durable and the studs add stability and traction. The tread pattern allows you to drive on slippery roads without any problems.

Price - 2.5 thousand per tire.

4th place. Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice+

Polish-made tires have proven to be one of the best for difficult weather conditions - ice, drifts, snow, strong wind. The use of the latest development technology has made it possible to increase the effectiveness of adhesion with difficult sections of the road. The tread pattern does an excellent job of evacuating water and moving on the ice crust. Recognized as one of best tires for operation in the Russian climate.

Price - from 3 thousand rubles per unit.

3rd place. Continental - ContiIceContact

A German tire product designed for passenger cars and SUVs. Innovative technologies guarantee high traction performance in winter, the machine easily drives on ice, snow and slush. For rubber, special mixtures were used, the recipe of which the company does not disclose.

Price - about 3.8 thousand rubles per tire.

2nd place. Michelin X-Ice Xi3

Spanish tires, which are based on a high-quality and flexible rubber compound. Due to additional tread blocks, grip indicators increase, traction increases, fuel is saved. Tires are radial, tubeless.

Price - from 2.7 thousand rubles per unit.

1 place. Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8

These tires took first place in international rankings by a wide margin. In almost all tests, they showed maximum results. Experts highly appreciated the indicators of environmental friendliness, acoustic comfort, fuel economy, and directional stability. Cars in this rubber handled superbly on snow, on icy sections of the road, on difficult stretches with impressive snowdrifts. A special technology for installing spikes contributed to such high performance. This tire model was called the best for driving in extreme winter conditions.

Price - from 6.4 thousand rubles per tire.

Very soon, motorists will have to "change shoes" in winter tires. Some have already purchased it, while others have yet to complete this procedure.

Budget segment rating

It's no secret that not every car owner can afford to spend an impressive amount of money to purchase a set of winter tires. Therefore, the current leaders of the budget price category deserve special attention.

Vredestein Snowtrac 5

The Vredestein company presented a new studless rubber, the main "highlight" of which was the use of the military development "Stealth Design". Initially, it was created for military vehicles in order to reduce the level of noise generated by the wheels. But now it has found wide application in the tire industry for civilian passenger vehicles.

The tread pattern is made in the form of a V, which helps to reduce noise and vibration. Clear lines, competent geometry help to make the steering more sensitive and more stable in corners. Prices start at 1.8 thousand rubles for one tire.

MP 54 Sibir Snow

Non-studded tires from the Slovak company Matador are designed for medium and compact cars. The directional pattern, the abundance of gripping edges, zigzag grooves provide impressive grip with the roadway.

Tires are available in 24 sizes. The price starts from 1.6 rubles, and the most expensive tire will cost 3 thousand rubles per unit (not a set).

Winguard Snow'G WH2

Shinnik Nexen represents Korean production. Its non-studded tires have 35 variants. The cost starts from 1.9 thousand rubles, and the most expensive type is 6 thousand rubles.

According to the company, their tires can withstand any frost, a special tread pattern guarantees excellent traction. The zigzag shape of the channels helps to move confidently both on ice and on snow.

The new non-studded tires from Cooper, according to the manufacturer, are fully prepared for even the harshest winter of the coming year. Their factory is located in Sebria, where mass production of the new kit has been established.

The pricing policy is quite acceptable - from 2 to 6.3 thousand rubles.

Tests showed excellent results on snowy tracks and icy roads. In addition, the car felt excellent in muddy and wet conditions.

The manufacturer managed to achieve this result by increasing the number of sipes in the tread, as well as using advanced technologies.

A large amount of silica was added to the composition of the rubber compound. Due to this, the rubber retains elasticity at any low temperature, and at the same time guarantees reliable control on snowy and simply wet sections of the road.

Rating of top manufacturers

It is no secret that today there are simple and top manufacturers of tires for cars. The latter are represented not only in the field of civil transport, but also actively develop tires for racing series, special vehicles, motorcycles and so on.

But the big name does not mean that the price of such tires is exorbitant, and a rare car owner of a car of the middle price range can afford it.

The overestimated cost of products compared to other manufacturers is due to the highest level of quality, the use of advanced technologies, the use of the highest grades of rubber and unique impurities.

According to the research conducted this year, a rating of tires from top manufacturers was compiled - Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear.

Michelin Alpin 5

This is a Michelin development designed for city roads in winter conditions. It is only worth noting that you need to move on such rubber within the city, the streets of which are regularly cleared of falling snow.

So Alpin 5 can be called a good choice only for a limited number of countries and cities in the CIS and Europe.

The novelty is offered in 27 standard sizes. The price starts from 3.5 thousand, and the most expensive tire will cost you 12.5 thousand rubles.

Alpin 5 is a successful attempt to realize advanced technologies. First of all, the tread pattern has directional blocks, which increases the grip on any surface. The tread has a 12 percent increase in the number of segments, as well as 16 percent more sipes. According to Michelin management, their tires block themselves.

The second feature is the composition of the rubber. The Helio Compound technology has undergone a minor upgrade, with the result that Alpin 5 now contains plain sunflower oil. Experts note the effective operation of this component at low temperatures. Also, polymers of increased elasticity served as an additive.

The well-known Japanese tire manufacturer presented his development at the international motor show in Moscow. The choice in favor of the Russian capital was not accidental, since the manufacturer positions the new tires as the most suitable for Russian climatic conditions.

The spikes are completely absent, and the kits themselves are designed for medium and large crossovers. The starting price is 3.6 thousand per tire, and the most expensive option will cost the buyer 10.6 thousand rubles.

Tires do an excellent job with drifts, effectively overcome icy, snowy and slushy roads. Special technology provided the mixture with a microporous structure. Moisture from the contact field is absorbed faster, the grip becomes better. The added microgrooves help to avoid hydroplaning.

One set is able to effectively serve for several seasons.

The sixth generation of winter tires from the leading tire manufacturer has become better in every way when compared with its predecessor. Although it is no secret that the previous model regularly topped the ratings of the most reliable and efficient winter tires.

Either way, the asymmetric tread, soft compound, and three-piece road contact ensure excellent performance on snowy and icy roads. In this case, the spikes are completely absent.

Special lamellas with internal bridges do not allow them to stick together, thus snow does not accumulate on the wheels.

The pricing policy of tires with 80 sizes is as follows - from 2.5 to 12 thousand per unit.

A well-known tire manufacturer has been creating this model of winter tires for three whole years. During this period, the product has passed over 200 tests, tried many design solutions. Today, the rubber is ready for sale and entered the market.

Having 29 standard sizes in the arsenal, prices start at 2.8 thousand and end at 10.5 thousand rubles for the most expensive versions.

During the development, a cryo-adaptive rubber compound was used, which allows you to maintain elasticity at low temperatures, guarantees effective grip on snow, on ice and on dry winter tracks.

The tread technology provides protection against aquaplaning, high handling comfort and reduced braking distances on icy roads.

Best winter tires 2015-2016

Winter is very close, which means you need to know in which tires your car will feel as comfortable as possible, and you will feel safe.

10th place.

The advanced technologies used in the development make it easy to overcome snow-covered and ice-covered sections of the road in such tires. The projector has the appearance of cross grooves, which guarantees high-quality adhesion to the surface. Special lamellas quickly clear the grooves from snow and pieces of ice. Shoulder grooves provide additional efficiency when driving through large snowdrifts.

Price - no more than 2.8 thousand rubles for 1 wheel.

9th place. Continental Viking Contact 6

German rubber, which is designed for passenger cars. The asymmetric tread pattern allows you to improve the quality of handling, maneuverability, enhance grip on the surface, and make cornering safer. The special pattern, small ribs and grooves create the effect of a metal chain on non-studded tires. When braking, the rubber is stable, which is explained by the design of the sipes.

Price - from about 2.7 thousand rubles per unit.

8th place.

Produced in Holland, the design does not provide for the use of spikes and are designed for cars. Longitudinal projector grooves effectively evacuate water and slush, the pattern provides easy control on ice. Made of high-strength rubber, which provides a long service life - at least 2 seasons.

Price - from 1.6 thousand rubles.

7th place.

Swedish winter tires with studs arranged in such a way as to improve the grip of the tires on the road surface. Performance from the best side on icy roads.

The special tread pattern allows you to reduce the braking distance, and the grooves effectively grab and remove moisture and stuck snow. This increases traction and reduces fuel consumption.

The price is about 2.9 thousand rubles per unit.

6th place.

Japanese studded tires with a special tread pattern. The grooves are semi-radial, narrow, which guarantees rapid removal of water and snow. The design contributes to high-quality grip and safe driving on snowy and icy road sections. The car feels confident and stable in turns. The elasticity and hardness of the mixture was given by the addition of silica and orange oil.

Price - from 2.1 thousand rubles per unit.

5th place.

The fifth line was deservedly taken by the Russian manufacturer. His studded tires showed their best qualities on snowy tracks. The compound is high quality, the rubber is durable and the studs add stability and traction. The tread pattern allows you to drive on slippery roads without any problems.

The price is 2.5 thousand for one tire.

4th place.

Polish-made tires have proven to be one of the best for difficult weather conditions - ice, drifts, snow, strong wind. The use of the latest development technology has made it possible to increase the effectiveness of adhesion with difficult sections of the road. The tread pattern does an excellent job of evacuating water and moving on the ice crust. Recognized as one of the best tires for operation in the Russian climate.

Price - from 3 thousand rubles per unit.

3rd place.

A German tire product designed for passenger cars and SUVs. Innovative technologies guarantee high traction performance in winter, the machine easily drives on ice, snow and slush. For rubber, special mixtures were used, the recipe of which the company does not disclose.

The price is about 3.8 thousand rubles per tire.

2nd place.

Spanish tires, which are based on a high-quality and flexible rubber compound. Due to additional tread blocks, grip indicators increase, traction increases, fuel is saved. Tires are radial, tubeless.

Price - from 2.7 thousand rubles per unit.

1 place.

These tires took first place in international rankings by a wide margin. In almost all tests, they showed maximum results. Experts highly appreciated the indicators of environmental friendliness, acoustic comfort, fuel economy, and directional stability. Cars in this rubber handled superbly on snow, on icy sections of the road, on difficult stretches with impressive snowdrifts. A special technology for installing spikes contributed to such high performance. This tire model was called the best for driving in extreme winter conditions.

Price - from 6.4 thousand rubles per tire.

When compiling the rating, APA collaborated with several tire retailers, and Michel Poirier-Defoy, Senior Editor of Magazine L "Automobile, Michel Poirier-Defoy and journalist Jean-Francois Guay, also expressed their opinion. Tires for front and 4x4 passenger cars, compact crossovers and minivans Rear-wheel drive and 4x4 high-performance luxury cars and SUVs are encouraged to look at performance tires.

GREAT

Bridgestone Blizzak WS80

Bridgestone introduced the Blizzak line in the 1990s, and at that time these tires were considered the first to be made with a special compound that significantly increased grip on ice. The WS80 is the sixth generation of those tires. The model has a directional tread pattern optimized for driving on snow and ice, and in comparison with the previous model - - the design has become less aggressive, and the grooves are less deep. That being said, the WS80s still provide more grip in the slush than the Michelin X-Ice. The tires have excellent ride quality, good comfort and predictability. Great choice for harsh winter. In addition, last year Bridgestone cut prices in Canada, and now their tires are slightly cheaper than Michelin.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2

These tires have replaced the old ones and are non-studded tires with increased grip on ice, similar to the Blizzak WS80. They take the best places in European tests for braking performance on ice. On pavement, handling is better than that of the Hakkapeliita 8, which is also hinted at by a higher speed index - R. A good choice for owners of sports rear-wheel drive cars who need a balance between traction on snow and ice and driving performance on asphalt. Available in run-flat design. High price.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8

These tires account for a large share of Nokian's sales in eastern Canada. Great for deep snow and winter storms, and they also have good grip on ice. The noise is quieter than the ones that were really noisy. Expensive, 25% more expensive than Toyo or Bridgestone. They are spiked either at the factory or at the retailer. Some sizes may run out quickly.

VERY GOOD

Continental WinterContact SI

WinterContact SI replace and have excellent grip during braking and cornering. Slightly quieter than the previous model. The pattern has become directional, which limits the possibilities in terms of wheel rotation in case of uneven wear. Traction on snow and ice has been enhanced, while the resource may have decreased, since the tread depth has been reduced to 7.9 mm. Available in 33 sizes and suitable for most cars and SUVs. Good accessibility.

Gislaved Nord*Frost 100

They are replacing the old ones. Excellent grip on snow, good on ice. The drawing looks like General Altimax Arctic, but on dry pavement they react a little faster and more accurately. Can become noisy when worn. A good choice for those who need tires with factory fitted diamond studs used in Europe.

Michelin X-ice Xi3

Ranked among the best in Consumer Reports for excellent wet and dry performance and a smooth ride. Optimized for snow and ice and one of the dealers' favorites. Some users of the previous generation tires complained about relatively poor traction in slush and that the shallow tread with a non-aggressive pattern was not effective enough in deep snow. The new tires are best in class on tarmac. Quiet. Durable.

Pirelli Ice Zero FR

New for this winter, the Pirelli Ice Zero FR provide excellent traction on snow. The symmetrical pattern increases traction on ice and is actually the best mass produced tire from Pirelli in years. Produced in Russia. Attractive price. Good accessibility. Pirelli, by the way, was bought by a Chinese conglomerate.

Toyo Observe GSi-5

Optimized for deep snow and ice. One of the best options, although they are inferior to competitors on dry and wet roads, and their noise can be louder than average. Retailers say shoppers are generally satisfied. Very durable thanks to the deep tread and special rubber compound. Good for heavy vehicles. An excellent result in Consumer Reports tests on snow and ice - while taking a low place due to poor performance on dry and wet surfaces.

GOOD

Dunlop Winter Maxx WM01

Tires with asymmetric pattern from the Japanese giant Sumitomo. The compound is the same as the old ones and not porous like most premium winter tires. Good performance on snow and ice. Low wear. Wide size range. Good accessibility. Good price for tires that are still made in Japan.

General Altimax Arctic

Originally American, General Tire is now owned by Continental. Very good performance in deep snow and overall good balance of performance at a low price. Low wear, but noise can become louder over time. It is important to rotate the wheels so that the wear is more even. Suitable for studding. Low price.

Hercules Avalanche R G2

Hercules is an independent tire brand, tires are manufactured in factories in China, the US and Europe, and the main target group is those who want to save money. Avalanche R-G2s are produced in Russia under license from one of the leading European manufacturers, and these tires turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The directional pattern provides high traction on snow, and the excellently - especially for a private brand - formulated rubber compound increases traction on ice. Predictable behavior on cleared roads. The predicted resource is higher than the average for budget tires. Very good value for money.

Nokian Nordman 5

Tires from the budget brand Nokian. Excellent performance on unpaved roads in the best traditions of the Finnish company. Acceptable qualities on ice. Predictable braking and cornering behavior, although grip is lower than top tyres. Low wear. Suitable for studding. Limited availability.

Pirelli Winter Carving EDGE

The main model of Pirelli winter tires, which is already several years old. All-round tire with not very outstanding performance in difficult conditions. Suitable for studding. Relatively expensive.

Vredestein Snowtrac 5

Developed in collaboration with Giugiaro, an Italian design studio best known for its cars. Vredestein is a European style winter tire optimized for fast driving on clear roads. Good maneuverability and braking on ice. The Dutch Vredestein is now owned by the Indian Apollo, but the Snowtrac 5 is still made in the Netherlands. Very limited availability. Target group - owners of luxury European cars.

Yokohama ice GUARD iG52c

Yokohama now offers two iG52c winter tires for passenger cars and SUVs. The tires were introduced three years ago and their directional pattern provides very good traction on ice and slush. Smooth move. On pavement, handling is better than the Bridgestone WS80, thanks in part to the longitudinal grooves. Average durability.

ACCEPTABLE

BFGoodrich Winter Slalom KSI

BFGoodrich is a former American company that has become a second-order brand in the Michelin line. Slalom KSI is a huge step up from the old . Predictable behavior and good handling in everyday life, although braking performance and lateral grip could be better. Satisfactory grip on ice. Good strength. Some sizes are more expensive than the Michelin Xi3.

Firestone Winterforce

Another former American company bought by foreigners, this time by the Japanese Bridgestone. Good traction in deep snow. Grip on ice and dry handling is worse than similar General Altimax Arctic. As they wear out, they become noisy. Price is no longer an advantage. Suitable for studding.

Goodyear UltraGrip Winter

The main advantage is the very low price, only slightly higher than private brand Chinese tires. Good traction on snow due to aggressive pattern. Weak performance on ice. Noisy. Suitable for studding.

Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419

Released a long time ago. Good traction on snow, average on other surfaces. The price is comparable to tires of a higher level.

Toyo Observe G3-ICE

New tires from Toyo with an even lower price. Acceleration and braking performance is mediocre, but cornering behavior is predictable. Available with studs. Good accessibility.

BUDGET TIRES

These tires were amazing. Traction on snow is good, braking is acceptable. The main question is whether they will retain their quality in the future, since Chinese manufacturers often change the design and composition of the rubber compound of their tires without warning. Limited availability.

GT Radial Champiro Ice Pro

The brand is owned by Giti, one of the world's largest tire manufacturers, which recently began building a plant in the US. The China made IcePros are similar in design to the General Altimax Arctic. Good predictability and controllability on snow and ice. Not very good handling on cleared roads, high noise level. Rigid rubber compound increases resource. Attractive price, especially in sizes with a large diameter. Very wide size range. Suitable for studding. Together with Eskay they have the best value for money.

Cooper WeatherMaster S/T2

Manufactured using old style molds. Good traction in deep snow but average on all other surfaces. Relatively low wear. The price is too high for such old technology and low quality. Suitable for studding.

Goodyear Nordic Winter

Low end tires available exclusively at Canadian Tire locations. The hard compound increases durability, but cornering grip is very unreliable, and the tires behave unpredictably when they start to slip. Suitable for studding.

Maxtrek Trek M7

Weak grip and high noise level. Wide size range. Manufactured in China by Zhaoqing Junhong Tire.

Sailun Ice Blazer WST1

Tires with modern design, but far from the best performance. Suitable for studding. In terms of pattern, they are almost identical to the tires. Winter Claw Sport SXI.

The importer of these tires managed to change its private brand, so in the event of a large-scale recall, there may be problems obtaining compensation. Made in China. Low price.

Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice&Snow II

The lowest tier brand in the Micheln portfolio. Used to be the cheapest tires from a French company, but this year the prices have gone up. Average braking performance and lateral stability on snow and ice. In Canada, these tires are available from General Motors dealers and are usually sold at fairly low prices. Updated version of the old Tiger Paw tires. The tread pattern has become directional. Wear unevenness can be a problem. Made in China.

BELOW THE AVERAGE

Hercules Winter HSI-S

Budget tires for price conscious consumers. Weak performance in all respects. Limited availability.

Nexen WinGuard 231

Disappointing performance, partly because the hard compound impairs acceleration and braking performance. Tires behave unpredictably and have poor information after losing grip. Nexen is a Korean company, but the WinGuard 231 are made in China.

WestLake SW606

Acceptable performance on cleared roads. Weak grip on ice. Noisy. Very fast wear. Suitable for studding. Made in China by ZC Rubber.

Jinyu YW51

The tires are manufactured in China's Shandong province and are available in just 10 popular sizes for passenger cars and compact SUVs. Weak grip in all conditions and road situations. Very low price.

Tires from one of SuTong China Tire's private brands sold at Walmart supermarkets. The design looks promising, but experts said the tires were "terrible in every way". In addition to Weathermate, Walmart also offers Weathermaxx tires, as well as tires from more well-known brands.

ALL WEATHER TIRES

This section refers to tires that carry the snowflake marking, which means they have passed the same tests as dedicated winter tyres. The pattern of this type of tire is more aggressive than standard all-season tires, as the emphasis on traction on unpaved roads has been increased. At the same time, the rubber compound is more rigid and heat-resistant than winter tires, which should allow the tire to be used throughout the year.

Nokian WR G3

The replacement was rated "Very Good" by the experts as it is "one of the best all-weather tyres". The APA members liked the Nokian's winter and summer performance and relatively low wear. Good handling on cleared roads - the same as the best winter tires. Good choice for four-wheel drive vehicles. Too little data to estimate durability in summer conditions. High price. Popular on the West Coast of Canada as year round tires.

Hankook Optimo 4S H730

We have collected 13 sets of the most popular spikes on our market in the most popular size for foreign cars, at prices ranging from 3,300 to 8,500 rubles. There are two new products: Continental ContiIceContact 2 and Yokohama iceGUARD iG55. Separately, we mention one of the most inexpensive tires on the market - a domestic development in the Chinese version of Avatyre Freeze (3300 rubles), as well as an updated Hankook i'Pike RS Plus with an increased number of studs. Tires were tested at the AvtoVAZ test site. "White" tests (on snow and on ice) were carried out in January - February at a temperature of -25 ... -5 ºС. The "dirty" work was done on May (winter tires are designed for operation up to +5 ... +7 ºС) asphalt, when the roads were completely dry and calm came - this is very important for determining fuel consumption. He helped us test the tires. By the way, almost all tire companies use this model during their internal tests.

WHERE DO WE START?

From a thorough inspection of tires, weighing them, measuring the depth of the grooves and the hardness of the rubber. And of course, with counting the number of spikes and measuring their performance. After mounting the tires on the disks, we proceed to the run-in - each set ran 500 km before the tests.

After running in, we check how much the hardness of the rubber and the protrusion of the spikes have changed. On the sidewall of each tire, be sure to put a mark on which wheel it was on, and keep this installation pattern during all tests.

WHITE MOVE

We start by evaluating the longitudinal grip of tires on snow and ice. To do this, we measure the acceleration time and the magnitude of the braking distance. The exercises are quite simple: repeat the measurements several times with the traction control on (ABS always works). On some tires, stable results are obtained in five or six repetitions, on others, if the indicators jump, you have to spend up to ten or more races. Measurement accuracy is guaranteed by the professional VBOX measuring complex, which fixes speed, time and distance and is guided by GPS satellites.

The next step is to evaluate the lateral grip on ice. To do this, all tire manufacturers traditionally use the passage in a circle. The shorter the time of its passage, the better the "hold". On compacted snow, we evaluate the transverse grip properties together with the behavior of the car on a rearrangement - a sharp change of lane (lane width 3.5 m) in a strictly fixed corridor. For we use the shortest, 12-meter offset, which gives the maximum side load on the tires. For reference: the behavior of cars is usually evaluated on 16 and 20 meters, and road trains are tested on the longest (24 m).

The ice has to be carefully swept every two or three races. Otherwise, on the small crumbs formed under the spikes, the tires slip and the results “float away”. On snow, you have to make sure that a shoulder does not form, which can serve as a side stop. And in any exercise, after a series of tests (two or three sets), we run a race on the base (control) tires - according to the obtained reference data, we recalculate the final result. Moreover, snow and ice significantly change properties during the test day.

HUMAN FACTOR

Let's move on to peer review. Two testers, replacing each other, determine how easy it is to drive a car on certain tires. Sometimes, for the correctness of the results, we involve a third expert.

The most important exercises are the assessment of the vehicle's directional stability and controllability on snow and ice surfaces, as well as in mixed races. We focus on two aspects.

The first is the behavior of the car. The ideal at maximum speed is considered to be a soft sliding of the car outward with all four wheels, without twisting the trajectory. The most undesirable car and tire experts unanimously consider a skid with a loss of direction. The sharper and deeper it is, the lower the score. The attitude towards the demolition of the front axle is more loyal. True, the “scale of the tragedy” is also important here. After all, a strong drift forces the driver to twist the steering wheel, which again can lead to.

The second aspect is the convenience of driving. We evaluate the speed of reactions to the actions of the steering wheel, the steering angles (the more you need to turn the steering wheel, the worse), as well as the information content of the steering gear.

In addition, we fix how abruptly the slip starts, whether it is easy to drive the car in the slip, and how quickly the grip is restored after the slip.

We check directional stability at high (90-110 km / h) speed, turning the steering wheel at small angles sufficient for soft rebuilding - and when assessing controllability, the opposite is true: the speed is lower, we work more actively with the steering wheel.

An equally important test for our conditions is patency on freshly fallen snow. On virgin lands, we evaluate the ability to overcome snowdrifts on the move (we turn off the traction control system), maneuver, move off, get out in reverse. Do not forget to evaluate the simplicity and ease of operation: an experienced driver can drive almost everywhere, so we focus on the average driver who does not own special techniques. Therefore, tires that can only be driven under tightness, without slipping, do not receive a high score from us. In this nomination, Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic tires were unrivaled - they turn a front-wheel drive car into a full-fledged all-terrain vehicle.

We evaluate the noise in the cabin and the smoothness of the ride at different speeds and surfaces, up to the comb - the trace of the tractor tread. Experts are interested not only in the level, but also in the tone of the noise. The Ride Rating score measures how well the tires absorb shocks and vibrations from road bumps.

RELEASE THORNS

After the "white" tests, we examine the tires again - we check how the protrusion of the spikes has changed. The leaders are Avatyre, Continental, Cordiant and Nordman, who have this parameter unchanged. The studs on Gislaved, Michelin, Nokian, Pirelli, Toyo and Yokohama tires have grown by no more than one tenth of a millimeter - quite acceptable. Bridgestone released "claws" by 0.1-0.2 mm, which can be considered a satisfactory indicator. But with a caveat: several spikes crawled out of the tread by more than 2.5 mm. But for Goodyear and Hankook tires, the changes are more significant - their “nails” stretched up to 0.3 mm during the tests. So they don't hold as well in the rubber as the others. Let me remind you that from next year Technical regulation The Customs Union, which unites Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, introduces a limit for the protrusion of spikes on a new tire: 1.2 ± 0.3 mm.

IN BLACK

We begin our asphalt tests with free run-out measurements, which we recalculate into fuel consumption, based on the database we have collected over the years. We carry out measurements in both directions in order to level the influence of even a light breeze or a road slope. Although, by and large, this is reinsurance - the “laboratory” section of the high-speed road of the landfill is flat, and we take readings only in calm weather, which usually happens at night in this region. Before measuring tires and transmission. At the same time, on this ten-kilometer section, we evaluate directional stability - now also on asphalt.

The final tests are the determination of the braking distance on dry and wet pavement. After each measurement, for correctness, we cool the pads and discs. To do this, on the way back, the testers brake only with the engine, switching to lower gears. For watering the road, we use a device of our own design: water with a layer of up to 2 mm is supplied to the road by a motor pump through garden sprayers from a 500-liter barrel, which is carried in our trailer.

The results were surprising: on asphalt, the new ContiIceContact 2 tires are the fastest to stop the car. Although, theoretically, a tire with 190 spikes should lose to models with fewer “nails”.

The final stage: we inspect the protectors after braking and count the popped spikes. This time, the "Japanese" were embarrassed: Bridgestone lost 18 spikes, Toyo - seven, and one more had a hard insert broken out. We believe that in Bridgestone such massive losses are associated with excessive protrusion of the “nails” over the tread (1.7–2.6 mm after “white” tests). During emergency braking on asphalt, the protruding spikes tilt strongly, as evidenced by rubber breaks near many of the “claws” and their sharpened tops. For Toyo tires, the protrusion does not exceed the critical 2.0 mm, because the reason is either in the wrong studding or in deviations in the external dimensions of the “studs”.

In the final standings, the second generation ContiIceContact (927 points) and the test winner - Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 (932 points) took the leading positions with a noticeable margin from the rest. The difference between their overall results in our ranking is only half a percent.

For the most meticulous

The tires collected in our test can be divided into three groups according to the number of studs.

The first, “classic”, is 127-130 pieces per tire (Avatyre with 120 spikes also belongs to it). This group includes rather old models that cannot now be sold in Scandinavia: there, since July 2013, more stringent standards have been introduced that limit the number of “nails” on the wheel (no more than 50 spikes per linear meter of circumference).

Therefore, a second, “law-abiding” group appeared - 96–97 spikes per tire. This includes three models - Michelin X-Ice North 3, Gislaved Nord Frost 100 and Toyo Observe G3‑Ice. However, as can be seen from the test results, the number of “claws” does not give clear advantages to either the “classics” or the “law-abiding” ones.

There is also a third group - "cunning", having up to 190 spikes, but not subject to the ban. These are models that exploited a loophole in the Scandinavian rules. The fact is that the limit on the number of spikes does not apply to tires that destroy the roadway no more actively than “law-abiding” ones. This wear test, which can only be carried out by certified laboratories, has been passed by Nokian, Continental, Hankook, Pirelli, Goodyear and Yokohama.

We express our gratitude to the tire manufacturing companies that provided their products for testing, as well as to the employees of the AVTOVAZ test site and the Togliatti companies Volgashintorg and Premiera for technical support.

From year to year, from season to season, disputes flare up on the Internet about the choice and purchase of tires for cars. Foaming at the mouth, there are active debates in which the interlocutors prove to each other the viability or worthlessness of specific models, not understanding that it is sheer stupidity to draw conclusions about car tires based on subjective assessments only.

Tire testing is a science-intensive activity that requires an academic approach and serious resources! As you know, friendship is tested in trouble. So the driving properties of automobile rubber are estimated at the limit. But that's not the point. It is beyond the power of the average driver to create the ideal test environment to separate the role of the tire from the influence of a host of other factors. Professional tire tests are always a control kit, one car, the same wheel disks, verified pressure, technologically advanced test site and, of course, equipment. In tire research, details often elusive to the human senses play an important role.

In Russia, tire tests to assess their consumer characteristics are carried out by the Za Rulem magazine and the Avtorevyu newspaper. The first one tests tires at domestic test sites. The second, most recently, has been conducting tests at a foreign test base.

The tire industry is analyzed on a much larger scale by European experts. The German expert club ADAC, the Finnish research center Test World, AutoBild magazine - all these names are well known. Strict safety rules, meticulous consumers, developed infrastructure - all this has made professional tire tests the norm for the European market. In Asia and America, tires are also tested, but the results of their measurements rarely reach Russia. Fortunately, the loss is not great: tires, for example, from the USA rarely end up on another continent.

What are winter tires?

While seemingly similar tires can be very different. In our climate band, every kid in the sandbox knows that tires come in summer or winter. But in a deep context, not all adults understand the situation. Usually, the top of knowledge is that winter tires are divided into studded and not.

Non-studded tires are popularly referred to as "Velcro". Public opinion often considers them urban. In the language of professionals, such rubber is called friction rubber and is divided into models of the Scandinavian and Central European types. Tires from the first group are designed for low-temperature winters with an abundance of snow and ice on the roads. Rubber of the second type is designed exclusively for mild winters, with an average temperature just below zero and rare patches of slippery surfaces. In Russia, Central European winter tires will be helpless everywhere except the Black Sea coast, but good non-studded models of the Scandinavian type will cope with ice and snow.

What does the AvtoDel tire review offer?

A publication specializing in the analysis of car accessories and accessories, collects the results of expert tests of car tires, and then compares the performance of the same tire model in different expert hands. That is why the review considers only those models that have been tested in at least two tests.

Previously, the reader is invited to familiarize himself with the official promises of manufacturers and sellers of each of the considered tires.

List of tires included in the review

Expert staff

This season, the first publicly available materials in our latitudes on Scandinavian-type studded winter tires, that is, models most suitable for use in most regions of Russia, were released by Finnish experts from the Test World research center (http://www.testworld.fi/) and Russian journalists "Behind the wheel" (http://www.zr.ru/). Somewhat later, material from the Swedish magazine Vi Bilagare (http://www.vibilagare.se/), the Russian newspaper Autoreview (http://autoreview.ru/) and the Swedish branch of the German authoritative publication Auto Motor & Sport (http: //www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/).

How did the experts test studded winter tires?

test world

Test World specialists evaluated the braking performance on snow, ice, wet and dry pavement. However, as always. The tests were carried out at various temperatures, after which the average result was calculated based on the results of 15-20 races on each set. Ice braking was evaluated by driving the vehicle from 50 km/h to zero, and snow and wet deceleration by braking from 80 km/h to a complete stop.

Tests on a snowy and icy road were carried out on the street and inside a covered range, which allows simulating any conditions necessary for measurements. Traction on snow and ice was measured by accelerating as fast as possible from 5 to 35 and from 5 to 20 km/h, respectively.

Handling points depended on the time it took the "third" Ford Focus to complete a circle in test tires. In addition, the subjective opinion of experts regarding acceleration, braking and cornering on various surfaces also had some influence on the estimates. However, the objective readings of the measuring equipment still had a decisive influence on the final results. It is noteworthy that during the races, the pilots did not know the models of the tested tires, the organizers replaced them with numbers in order to exclude the influence of the brand on perception.

In the same way, directional stability was evaluated, that is, the stability of movement in a straight line. In the noise level test, the pilots also made subjective assessments by making several runs on uneven surfaces. And rolling resistance was measured by free rolling the car, on a flat surface without the influence of wind. The tests were carried out at two different temperatures, after which the percentage increase in consumption was calculated compared to the most economical tires.

Quite curious - a study by Test World experts on the resource of winter tires. To understand this issue, Finnish specialists took out six sets of winter tires from the warehouse, which participated in tire tests last season. They were four studded models and two friction models. On each set, the testers ran over 15,000 km.

The route mainly ran along motorways. At the same time, 100 braking and accelerating at low speeds were carried out on each tire to simulate urban traffic conditions.

The durability tests used three vehicles that followed the same route under the same conditions. Two tires of each model were taken, which were rearranged from the front axle to the rear. Thus, at the end of the test, all tires covered the same distance on the front and rear axles, and in addition, the drivers also changed cars to avoid affecting their driving style.

Every 5,000 km, experts carried out control measurements of the car's behavior in test tires in all disciplines: braking / accelerating on ice, snow and asphalt ...

It is noteworthy that both types of tires lost grip about the same, and after 15,000 km, its level decreased by about 20%. In addition, grip deterioration was the same for tires of different brands, and the alignment of forces did not change during the entire test. This suggests that the results of tests of new tires allow us to judge how certain tires will behave in a worn condition.

Test World notes that on paper the differences between the tested tires may look minor, but in reality they can be more obvious, and this applies not only to braking performance, but also to grip in corners and steering responses. According to experts, the worst tires in the test practically do not allow you to control the car on slippery surfaces, so when choosing winter tires, you should not focus only on price and buy cheap tires. Tests by various organizations year after year show that budget Asian tires do not provide the optimum level of safety.

All tires for the Test World test were bought in regular stores and pre-run.

Behind the wheel

Experts from the Russian magazine "Behind the wheel" also ran each set. Without sharp accelerations and braking on studded models, they clocked up five hundred kilometers. And the test itself was carried out in Togliatti, at the test site of AvtoVAZ OJSC. The carrier vehicle in this test was the VAZ Kalina with ABS.

After the break-in, Russian experts measured the hardness of the rubber and the amount of protrusion of the studs, comparing the results with those obtained on virgin tires. After running in, the Shore hardness of rubber, as a rule, changes by several units in one direction or another. The spikes can also come out a little or go deep as they fall into place.

Following the run-in, the Za Rulem experts withstood the sequence of tests developed by them. It was as follows: acceleration and braking on snow and ice, measurements of longitudinal grip on the ice circle and a rearrangement test. Further - tests for handling, directional stability, cross-country ability and comfort. The sequence is not random: in the process of testing, the spikes are subjected to increased loads, under the influence of which they can be squeezed out, and if the sequence of measurements is violated, the spikes will protrude more.

Therefore, after winter disciplines on ice and snow, repeated control of the protrusion of the studs. If during testing it has not changed, it means that the “fangs” are firmly held in rubber.

Asphalt exercises magazine "Za Rulem" decided to start with the assessment and measurement of rolling resistance, and only in the final we do braking on asphalt. Quite logical! For example, representatives of the Continental concern believe that emergency braking on asphalt is stressful for winter tires, even with ABS, so after a dozen or one and a half such braking tires become unusable.

For running in non-studded tires, popularly referred to as "Velcro", 300 km is enough. And the driving style should be more aggressive than in the case of studded tires, since in this case the primary task of running in is different - to completely remove from the tread lamellae the remnants of the lubricant that was applied to the mold (lubrication is needed in order to prevent damage to the tread from 3D cuts when removing a freshly welded tire from a mold). In addition, on these tires, you need to remove a thin surface layer of rubber, which, after baking, is slightly harder than the core. You don’t have to worry about the wear of the sharp edges of the lamellas: on modern models, they are designed in such a way that they self-sharpen with mutual friction. This ensures the stability of the characteristics of non-studded tires throughout their service life.

Vi Bilagare

The test of studded winter tires was carried out by the Swedish magazine Vi Bilagare in Finland in the first week of March 2015. Experts noted that the conditions this time changed unusually strongly, and on some days it was warm and the temperature was approaching zero, while on others it was cold to -10 degrees. In all tests, several Volvo models (V40, S60, V60 and V70) were used as a carrier vehicle, which is quite unusual for tire tests. The ABS and ASR systems have been switched on, the latter in Sport mode, to increase slippage at the start and skid in corners.

Dry and wet pavement were carried out at training grounds near Tampere (Finland) in April, where slush grip and fuel consumption were also evaluated. Two Volvo V40 CCs were used. The tires were tested on the same stretch of asphalt at speeds up to 100 km/h. On dry pavement, the behavior during emergency detours of obstacles was also evaluated. However, the general approach to the test was similar, both with colleagues from Test World and with specialists from the Russian edition.

Arguably the country's most scrupulous automotive publication, it has covered the tire industry for many years. But if earlier in Autoreview this work was outsourced to European experts (mainly Test World), now, for several years now, the Russian media has been conducting tire research on its own, usually going to European test sites.

This year, Oleg Rastegaev, who is behind the scenes in charge of the tire theme, went to Sweden with his colleagues. First, in early February, and then again at the end of April, to test winter tires on wet and dry pavement.

The car was a new Peugeot 308 with 205/55R16 wheels. For better objectivity, the Autoreview experts turned off the stabilization system, and they were forced to do it in a barbaric way, by physically removing one of the system's sensors, since the 308th ESP is not completely turned off, and the activated system would have a bad effect on the objectivity of the study.

Eighteen sets of winter tires turned out to be in the hands of Russian experts. All are exclusively of the Scandinavian type, of which eleven are studded and seven are friction (non-studded). Of course, all sets of tires have passed the driving tests in the main disciplines (handling, acceleration, braking, comfort, rolling resistance). The snow that fell during the course also helped to test the patency by measuring the acceleration time through a snowdrift fifteen centimeters high.

Auto Motor & Sport

The Swedish division of the German automotive media leader Auto Motor & Sport magazine. The Swedes conducted the test together with the Norwegians in Finland.

Braking efficiency tests were carried out at temperatures from -30 to +10 degrees on various surfaces. Ice tests were carried out in a covered facility with temperature and humidity control. In the snow, the tires were tested outdoors on several tracks. The experts tried to conduct tests in a short period of time so that all tires were evaluated under the same conditions. Acceleration efficiency was determined in the same way, and tests on ice required a special surface.

To evaluate the lateral grip of the tires, the pilot made several runs on circular tracks covered with snow or ice. In the handling test, the driver monitored control, understeer, and tire behavior at the traction limit. A running drum was used to determine rolling resistance and all tires were tested at 80 km/h.

Scandinavian type studded tires, winter tire test 2015-2016

Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-01 – winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

The main indicator of studded tires is the effectiveness of their grip on ice. The Bridgestone BLIZZAK Spike-01 tires feature a new shaped stud called the "Cross-Edge Pin" for the cross cut at the center of the stud. These cruciform notches allow for better ice contact and longer traction. As a result, these tires have more effective traction and more aggressive braking on ice, regardless of the direction of travel. The performance improvement is shown in the graph.

Using the latest modeling technology, the design of the Bridgestone BLIZZAK Spike-01 tread pattern has undergone significant changes. The new tyre's cross grooves have wider crossovers to grip the snow more effectively. The tread received self-cleaning sipes that allow snow and ice dust to be removed from the stud, thereby improving traction. At the same time, shoulder lugs that increase traction in deep snow.

Bridgestone has improved not only the studs, but also the stud hole. Through computer simulation, a special hole shape was developed to optimize the holding force of the stud.

Although tires in Russia and the CIS countries are subjected to particularly harsh and difficult operating conditions, BLIZZAK Spike-01 is able to maintain high performance for 3-4 seasons.

TEST RESULTS

Studded winter tires of the Scandinavian type Bridgestone BLIZZAK Spike-01 were tested by Finnish experts from Test World, Russian specialists from Za Rulem magazine, Swedish testers from Vi Bilagare, as well as the Swedish division of Auto Motor & Sport magazine. In the Finnish instance, these tires took the ninth place, sharing it with Sava Eskimo Stud. Only Nokian Nordman 5 and LingLong Green-Max Winter Grip turned out to be worse than Bridgestone in the Test World test. All the rest are better. And the test edition of Vi Bilagare "Bridgestone" was completely closed.

In the magazine "Behind the wheel" Japanese tires achieved the sixth line out of eleven. Driving and Test World agreed that the Bridgestone BLIZZAK Spike-01 performs well on icy surfaces. Although the journalists of "Behind the wheel" in this sense made a reservation: "only due to the strong protrusion of the spikes, which will surely fly out in the near future." In Vi Bilagare, only good resistance to ascent on snow-water porridge was singled out as a plus. In the final list of Auto Motor & Sport, by the way, is also the last place.

In all other disciplines, BLIZZAK Spike-01 proved to be rather weak. In the snow, Bridgestones don't inspire confidence. Braking on dry and wet pavement is confident, but in corners the car still breaks off the trajectory. In addition, studded Bridgestones have increased rolling resistance.

Continental IceContact 2 - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

New IceContact 2 tire with superior performance on ice Continental's premium studded passenger car and SUV tire features the latest technology with a focus on providing best performance performance on ice and tarmac Available sizes are 14" to 20" (2015)

TEST RESULTS

Studded winter tires Continental IceContact 2 are the novelty of the season. They replaced the old tire Continental IceContact, which consistently won prizes in each of last year's tests (where it participated, of course). The new generation of tires has seriously changed. There are significantly more spikes, but the spikes themselves are now smaller. Such a metamorphosis is caused by existing European regulations that do not limit the number of studs in tires if they (tires) have been tested by an independent organization that has confirmed the safety of studs for the roadway. Thus, if these tests are successfully passed, the manufacturer has the discretion to choose the type of studs and their number.

It is not surprising that the novelty showed itself equally well in Test World tests, and in the test of the magazine "Behind the wheel", and in the hands of Vi Bilagare, and in the results of the newspaper "Autoreview". All expert publications noted the ideal behavior of this tire on ice. Although Test World nevertheless noted that the main competitor, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8, accelerated and braked a little more confidently on ice.

In turn, the magazine "Behind the wheel" named Continental IceContact 2 the best tires in the field of lateral grip on ice, as well as overall behavior on snow. A significant plus of Continental against the background of Nokian is its behavior on asphalt, especially wet. It is noteworthy that the same alignment was in the case of previous generations of tires: Nokian is better suited for snowy and even more “ice” conditions. Continental, on the other hand, with a slightly weaker behavior on bare ice, feels more confident on asphalt. This was especially noted by the experts of Autoreview.

Dunlop Ice Touch - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

Dunlop Ice Touch are winter studded tires for harsh European winters that provide excellent handling on difficult winter roads: on ice, slush and packed snow.

The DunlopIce Touch tire uses the same technology as the Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice Arctic.

The Dunlop Ice Touch features a directional tread pattern with wide sipes that taper from the center to the middle. Many sipes at different angles, sharp engagement edges and somewhat chaotic studs provide excellent grip and safe braking in the winter season.

wide central rib Dunlop Ice Touch tread increases contact patch area for effective acceleration and braking. The special compound compound enhances traction and grip thanks to polymers that give the tire elasticity at low temperatures.

The weight of Dunlop Ice Touch winter tires is optimized to reduce rolling resistance, which reduces fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Optimal tread stiffness for maximum handling on dry roads.

TEST RESULTS

Winter Dunlop tires Ice Touch this season was noted only in two tests - Test World and "Auto Review" - not a lot. The sixth line in the Finnish instance and the seventh - in the Russian. The main advantage noticed by Test World testers was the behavior on dry and wet pavement. On this road, Dunlop tires are extremely confident, even outperforming some non-studded models. In "Autoreview" they were in solidarity with their Finnish colleagues, calling these tires the choice of residents of megacities.

Gislaved Nord*Frost 100 - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

Gislaved Nord Frost 100 winter studded tires feature an improved stud design that more effectively increases both longitudinal and lateral grip on icy surfaces. Thanks to this, the braking distance on ice is also reduced. Numerous gripping edges and wide grooves that grip the snow also provide increased traction in winter conditions.”

Thanks to the special design of the stud used in the Gislaved Nord Frost 100, improved ice traction is achieved, as well as increased wear resistance and reduced the likelihood of its loss. The spike is made of aluminum, its length is 11 mm, its diameter is 8 mm, it is produced exclusively for Continental at the Tikka plant in Finland.

At the same time, during the development of the Gislaved Nord Frost 100, the arrangement of the studs was optimized, due to which excellent grip on an icy road is achieved both in the longitudinal and transverse directions. This guarantees high stability, excellent traction properties of the tire on ice, and also helps to reduce the braking distance.

The grip on icy roads in the Gislaved Nord Frost 100 has been enhanced with a mid-center tread peripheral block with straight sipes and a large number of sharp engagement edges, resulting in a large contact patch with the road surface. The tread also manages to achieve excellent traction and braking on loose snow thanks to a two-pitch structure with a large number of sipes in the shoulder area and straight sipes.

The large cross-sectional area on snow is achieved thanks to the optimized angulation of the engagement lips in all directions, which improves lateral traction when cornering.

The Gislaved Nord Frost 100 provides a high level of handling on dry roads thanks to its unique tread pattern and internal sipes located in the contact shoulder area.

The use of computer simulation in the design allowed us to optimize the sequence of stud installation, due to which a wide frequency range of sound vibrations was achieved, and the noise level was reduced. It was also possible to achieve increased wear resistance and low rolling resistance due to an optimized contour. This achieves a balanced distribution of pressure in the area of ​​​​the contact patch of the tire with the road surface.

TEST RESULTS

The Gislaved Nord Frost 100 scored the best acceleration and braking on snow in the Vi Bilagare test. The same dignity was noted both in the Autoreview and in Test World. At the same time, Gislaved tires performed frankly depressingly on ice this season. But on wet and dry pavement, decent performance. Yes, a very controversial set of characteristics, and it is especially strange that last year the results of measurements were different.

Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic - winter studded tires test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

According to the manufacturer, Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic studded winter tires provide excellent grip and handling on ice. Which the user gets thanks to Goodyear's MultiControl Ice technology. This revolutionary stud technology increases the contact patch of the stud with the road surface for superior traction and handling on ice. Due to this, the shape of the spike makes it even more stable, which maximizes the braking power on ice and reduces the braking distance.

Specially designed Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic studded winter tires with unique V-shaped treads and serrated grooves improve grip on snowy roads. Due to this, handling on snow is improved, and when moving in deep snow, specially designed shoulder blocks cling to the snow on the side of the tire.

Winter tires GoodyearUltraGrip Ice Arctic demonstrate high performance on wet and covered with melting snow or ice roads. Hydrodynamic grooves on the tread quickly remove water from the tire surface, reducing the risk of aquaplaning. Special silicon polymer improves grip and braking on wet roads.

TEST RESULTS

Goodyear has been brilliant this time around, outperforming all other studded tires in terms of performance balance on various surfaces. They fell just short of the best tires on snow and ice, where they have short braking distances and good handling. The only weakness is the relatively low grip on wet pavement, but the pilots noted that the tires behave consistently and safely.

Hankook Winter i*Pike RS – winter studded tires test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS W419 studded tire is one of the new products prepared for domestic motorists by a well-known Korean tire manufacturer. This tire is a logical continuation of another W409 model popular in our country.

The new tire has a V-shaped directional symmetrical tread pattern. In the center of the tread, there is now a more massive longitudinal rib, the high rigidity of which provides excellent directional stability and high control efficiency when driving on winter surfaces. The two adjacent ribs are massive free-standing blocks, which are located at a sharper angle relative to the direction of movement. The tread blocks have become significantly larger, and the distance between them has increased significantly.

Another notable innovation was a new rubber compound with greater elasticity, which was compensated for by increasing the number of sipes. In addition, the number of studs has increased significantly - now there are more than 120 of them, depending on the dimension, and their location has been optimized for better grip on ice.

TEST RESULTS

The studded novelty from Hankook in Russia is currently available for purchase only in two sizes - 205/55R16 and 215/65R16. It's a pity, because the new Korean tire with an increased number of studs showed good results in each of the tests in which it participated. And these are the materials of the newspaper "Autoreview" and the Finnish research center Test World.

When braking on ice - the second result! Only Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tires are better. Grip properties on snow are also good. It remains only to tighten the handling: both on ice and on snow, the reactions lack clarity, especially when entering a turn.

On asphalt, Hankook tires do not shine: there are complaints about both noise and smoothness, but the main puncture is weak deceleration during emergency braking on dry surfaces.

For snow and ice - what you need, but for city driving - not the best option.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 – winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

The manufacturer claims that the winter tire company's unique stud technology provides never-before-seen traction on ice and snow. The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 performs well in extreme situations, is acoustically comfortable, easy to turn, saves fuel and reduces impact on the road surface.

The directional and symmetrical tread pattern of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 with more tread blocks allows the studs to be widely spaced, which in turn provides excellent grip, wear resistance and low level noise.

Thanks to the increased number of grooves in the tread, the edges of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 sipes better cling to snow and ice when touching the road surface. The small size of the tread blocks reduces the heating of the tire, and this affects the increase in mileage and increase the wear resistance of the tire.

The blocks in the central part of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tread are firmly connected to each other, which improves the rigidity of the tire and increases the stability of behavior. The deep grooved tread and open shoulder areas provide excellent self-clearance from snow and slush.

The new Nokian Eco Stud 8 stud concept improves the safety and handling of winter tires in extreme situations. The Nokian Eco Stud 8 concept includes a new generation anchor stud, a flange shape that reduces stud deflection, and an Eco Stud softening pad under the stud, made from a special soft rubber compound. This layer improves stud performance and softens contact with the road. This innovation has already been used in other Nokian Hakkapeliitta winter tyres, but in the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 the thickness of the "cushion" is increased.

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 studded tire offers unparalleled lateral and longitudinal grip on ice. The location of each spike is optimized using computer simulations. The spikes are evenly distributed over the entire tread surface.

The technology used in the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 improves grip when braking. A particularly strong rubber compound inside the tread securely blocks the stud in the block, stabilizes the tire's movement on dry roads and ensures uniform tire wear.

Hakkapeliitta Cryo-silane Gen 2 tread compound based on second generation cryosilane.

Excellent grip in winter at any temperature, wear resistance and lower fuel consumption. At low temperatures, colza (a type of rapeseed) oil enhances the interaction of silica and natural rubber. The rubber compound of the tread retains elasticity under any conditions. The sipes of the tread blocks are active and maintain a good level of grip when the temperature changes. Rapeseed oil improves the tensile strength properties of the rubber compound and improves grip on icy and snowy surfaces.

New Nokian tires Hakkapeliitta 8 improved braking grip. Snow braking traction has been improved with brake boosters at the rear of the tread blocks. The serrated pattern of the brake boosters increases the grip area and improves traction, especially on snowy road surfaces.

Diagonal 3D support slats

In the central part of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 tread, 3D sipes reinforce it. The tire responds quickly and responsively to steering wheel maneuvers, improving driving confidence and responsiveness. Self-locking 3D sipes for more precise handling. 3D sipes located in the outer part of the shoulder zones, when touching the road, fix the checkered blocks, connecting them into one whole, which improves the properties of movement and controllability when driving in an arc and maneuvers on the track. road bumps. A more comfortable driving experience is facilitated by impact-absorbing sidewall components and a choice of materials that effectively reduce the noise level felt in the cabin.

Tread wear indicator and winter wear indicator

The tread wear indicator (DSI - Driving Safety Indicator) is located in the central part of the tread and shows the remaining depth of the tread groove in millimeters. As the tire is used, the numbers are erased in descending order. The winter wear indicator in the form of a snowflake remains as long as the tread groove has a depth of at least 4 mm. Once the snowflakes are gone, tires are considered unsafe for winter use and should be replaced. In addition, the info spot is located on the sidewall of the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8. During the seasonal tire change, you can make notes about the recommended tire pressure and location, as well as enter the tightening torque of the wheel bolts.

TEST RESULTS

It is significant that Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 became the leader in absolutely all tests. All experts agreed that in ice disciplines there is no equal to the Nokian top tire, at least in the segment of mass, non-sport tires. The best braking distance and handling on frozen water are in her piggy bank. On snow, the tires were also among the best. They showed some weaknesses only in tests for braking efficiency and handling on wet pavement. However, experts noted that this is a normal situation if maximum grip on ice is the main priority when creating tires. And the magazine "Behind the Rulem" additionally awarded the Nokian studs with the title of the most economical in their test.

Nokian Nordman 5 - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

About Nokian Nordman 5 it is written: "The new Nokian Nordman 5 studded tire is an accurate and balanced tire for difficult winter conditions." Although in reality it is not entirely new, because this is the already well-known Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5. The tread pattern and design solutions are similar to those used in it.

The round and light stud works well in combination with the new stiffer rubber compound, the stud is firmly fixed inside the tread. This has a positive effect on grip and reliability. The bear claw technology, which has proven itself in Nokian Hakkapeliitta tires, improves grip. The shoulder areas of the Nokian Nordman 5 have special grooves for lateral grip. Consolidated tread blocks in the center zone make steering transfer more precise. The tread pattern makes contact with the road smoother and allows the tire to spin more easily.

TEST RESULTS

Nokian Nordman 5 is a logical continuation of Nokian Nordman 4. The novelty of the year. And with regard to this model, the opinions of experts did not become unanimous. If in the Test World Nordman 5 rating it turned out to be an outsider, then the tire expert "Behind the wheel" - Sergey Mishin awarded these tires "bronze". Thus, in the report of the Russian auto magazine, Nordman 5 occupies the next position, behind Continental tires, despite the fact that Formula Ice tires, Sava Eskimo Stud, Japanese Bridgestone, Yokohama and Toyo, as well as Cordiant Snow Cross, Avatyre Freeze and Aeolus Ice Challenger AW05. Why?

The assessment of Russian experts is influenced not only by the driving parameters of the tire, but also by their ratio to the price, while in Test World they start only from the behavior of the car in test tires. One way or another, both expert communities stated good behavior on snow, average on ice and weak on asphalt.

In the report of the newspaper "Autoreview" the new Norman 5 in some disciplines outstripped even the "eighth Hakapeliitta". Oleg Rastegaev wrote that it is easier to drive on a winding ice track with Nordman tires. And in deep snow they work better. But on the grip on ice and snow. At the same time, Autoreview noted that this is a very good choice for their money.

Sava Eskimo Stud – winter studded tires test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

Sava Eskimo Stud is an affordable tire for extreme winter conditions. Hexagonal studs, special lugs and a silicon-based polymer allow these tires to handle icy, snowy and wet roads with ease.

Here are the advantages of their rubber claims the manufacturer.

With the Sava Eskimo Stud winter tire, the driver will feel confident on unpredictable winter roads. Hexagonal studs provide good handling and traction on icy surfaces. Special slots improve handling on snow. Besides, Sava tires The Eskimo Stud excels on wet roads thanks to the use of a special silica-based polymer in the directional tread compound.

Eskimo studded tires guarantee effective braking on slippery roads covered with ice or snow. The optimum shape of the tire allows you to increase the contact area with the road for better braking. The studs will help improve contact with the road when braking.

When using Sava Eskimo Stud, the driver will learn the pleasure of a quiet and comfortable ride. Blocks and studs are positioned to reduce tire noise and provide a smooth ride.

The economic feature of the Sava Eskimo Stud is the use of a wear-reducing polymer to extend the life of the tire.

TEST RESULTS

Each of the expert publications, in which the tire was tested, noted the confident behavior of the Sava Eskimo Stud on asphalt. In all other respects opinions were no longer unanimous. In Test World, the Sava tires were praised for their handling on ice, but to complete the picture, the experts lacked confident braking. But the team of the magazine "Behind the Rulem" rated the ice character of Sava Eskimo Stud higher, but with the same caveat as in the case of the Bridgestone BLIZZAK Spike-01, that is, confident driving on ice was achieved only due to the strong protrusion of the spikes. The point of view of Vi Bilagare experts is that behavior on the ice is not good enough, otherwise it is acceptable.

Michelin X-Ice North 3 - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

In 2013, Michelin presents the new MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tires designed for the markets of Russia and the CIS, as well as the Scandinavian countries, where roads are covered with snow and ice almost all winter.

Weather conditions in these regions vary throughout the winter, resulting in poor tire grip. In this regard, there is a need to develop tires that provide maximum grip on all types of winter roads - snowy, covered with ice or frozen snow, packed or melted snow.

Winters in Russia and the Scandinavian countries are severe, so the MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tires are built on a research and development platform specially created by the Michelin Group to guarantee motorists an unprecedented level of safety in the northernmost regions of the world. The MICHELIN Total Performance strategy is fully reflected in the new MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tires, which provide even more performance for their owners. It translates into maximum safety on icy and snowy roads, in sub-zero temperatures or in other extreme winter driving conditions. At the same time, the tire provides maximum mileage, which is achieved through a more reliable stud attachment compared to the previous generation.

As a result, the new MICHELIN X-ICE North3 is more than just safety for real winters. 10% shorter braking distance on ice, 25% better stud retention, and a stronger sidewall provide a high level of safety for a longer period.

Michelin engineers have combined a whole range of innovative technologies to ensure that the third generation of MICHELIN X-ICE North tires demonstrate efficiency in several areas at once: in the field of safety (even in the most extreme winter conditions), as well as in terms of wear resistance, thanks to the increased reliability of the studs. These innovations form the basis of the Smart Spike System, first introduced in the MICHELIN X-ICE North 3. This system includes a new thermoset rubber compound for the bottom tread, special IPRem ice evacuation technology, and new conical studs. .

To maximize the performance of the new MICHELINX-ICE North 3 tires, Michelin engineers have rethought every aspect of the tire that is responsible for driving safety on icy and other dangerous road surfaces, with particular attention to tread and studding. Emphasis was placed on the shape of the studs, their placement, tread pattern, as well as on the composition of the thermoset rubber compound. The process of creating these tires was considered as a whole and was aimed at achieving the highest possible grip on ice and snow, combined with a longer service life.

The latest generations of MICHELINX-ICE North tires featured a two-ply tread pattern, where the top rubber layer was responsible for traction and the bottom, inner layer, for fixing the studs. With the introduction of the new MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 studded tire, Michelin is pleased to showcase a technical and chemical masterpiece, a thermoset rubber compound. It is designed exclusively for use in studded tires as a basic, internal tread base.

It is she who is responsible for the reliable fixation of the base of the studs, as well as the puncture force of the studs in the MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tire. The mixture can change its properties depending on temperature. So, in warm weather, the tire remains relatively soft, which allows the studs to be pressed into the tread when used on asphalt. At the same time, grip on dry and wet roads is improved by reducing the sliding effect “like on skates”. As the temperature drops, the stiffness of the thermoset rubber compound increases, the studs get a very hard base, which increases the stud penetration force and allows you to effectively “bite” into the ice, providing the necessary grip when accelerating or braking. All this makes it possible to demonstrate high grip characteristics on ice, regardless of its condition and temperature.

Particular attention in the development of the MICHELIN X-ICE North3 was given to the tread space around the stud. When driving on ice, ice crumbs form around the studs, which interfere with the operation of not only the studs, but also the rubber compound. This effect significantly impairs grip on ice, lengthening the braking distance and increasing the acceleration time.

To combat this problem, special wells were created to collect the ice chips formed during the operation of the spikes, which significantly improves grip on ice.

The new stud has a classic round section of both stud flanges and carbide insert. However, the shape of the spike has features that distinguish it from its predecessor. On a wider base of the spike (now it has become 9 mm in diameter instead of 8 mm), a cone-leg is installed, and then an upper flange with a carbide insert. A similar shape of the stud with elements expanding towards the bottom significantly improves the fixation of the stud in the tire tread, preventing premature loss. The new MICHELIN conical stud lasts 25% longer than the previous generation.

Compared to the previous generation, new protector The MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tire has three unique features:

The number of tread sectors has been increased by more than 15%! And now the MICHELIN X-ICE North 3 tire in size 205/55 R16 has 70 massive edges located across the entire tread width (instead of 59 for its predecessor). Such a significant increase in the elements responsible for traction on snow made it possible to improve not only acceleration, but also cross-country ability.

The tread uses a special "Step In-Step Out" shape of the shoulder area. Paying attention to the structural features of the mud tire tread, the developers adopted the gear structure of the shoulder zone (when its blocks have a different protrusion). This structure allows you to significantly improve the tire's patency in deep snow and slush.

The tire's drainage channel system has been modified to improve slush handling. The grooves are now positioned towards the outer edge, making it easier to evacuate snow and reduce the risk of aquaplaning.

Not only does the MICHELIN X-ICE North3 tire offer improved winter safety and durability, but also a strong sidewall that reduces the chance of tire damage or blowouts. Durability is achieved through the use of MICHELIN IronFlex™ technology (a first in MICHELIN winter tires), which increases the sidewall's hardness and its ability to deform for optimal obstacle clearance. MICHELIN IronFlex technology features heavy-duty carcass yarns with exceptional flexibility, and a special sidewall design that quickly dissipates peak loads.

TEST RESULTS

From a bus with such a big name, you expect a place on the podium, or at least a position close to it. And Michelin X-Ice North 3 from year to year take place in the middle of the list, and even below. Three European tests and only one "silver". In the rest, the location is close to the closure. However, if you understand, the tire of the famous French brand has many advantages. They drive perfectly on wet and dry asphalt, they make little noise, and most importantly, they offer a decent resource. The only pity is that on ice and snow there is not enough stability. A justified choice for purely urban residents, where snow and ice are heated with reagents.

Pirelli Ice Zero - winter studded tires, test

OFFICIAL INFORMATION

The new Pirelli Winter Ice Zero is the first studded tire in the P Zero collection. A completely new generation of winter studded tires developed by Pirelli engineers using 40 years of rally experience.

Pirelli Winter Ice Zero provides the highest performance in the most severe winter conditions of the Nordic countries: dense snow cover and extremely low temperatures.

Pirelli Winter Ice Zero uses the new PIRELLI DUAL STUD tire studding technology.

Tested in the harshest winter conditions. Pirelli tests its products where atmospheric conditions are extreme, because its goal is to always show the best results.

Developed based on 40 years of rally racing experience. A radical testing ground for tires designed for rough, uneven surfaces, ice and snow. A story that combines Pirelli and rally racing with over 200 victories.

TEST RESULTS

Usually, Pirelli winter tires perform well in tests, but never excite the experts. This season, for the Italian tires, the stars were more successful, although they did not reach the ideal. In any case, in none of the tests the model did not fall below the fifth position.

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