Top Picks For Snow Tires: Enhancing Your Wrx's Winter Performance

best snow tires wrx

When it comes to equipping your WRX for winter driving, selecting the right snow tires is crucial for maintaining traction and safety on snowy and icy roads. The best snow tires for a WRX are designed to provide excellent grip, handling, and braking performance in cold weather conditions. These tires typically feature specialized tread patterns and compounds that are optimized for winter driving, ensuring that your vehicle remains stable and responsive even in challenging conditions. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top snow tire options available for WRX owners, considering factors such as tire size, brand reputation, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.

riosc

NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire - 215/55R17 98T

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire is a high-performance winter tire designed to provide superior traction, grip, handling, and control in snow, ice, wet, and slushy conditions. It features a directional tread pattern with deep grooves for efficient water and slush evacuation, ensuring reliable performance in winter weather. The tire is laced with an advanced winter rubber compound that remains flexible even in sub-freezing temperatures, enhancing its grip on icy surfaces.

This tire is Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certified, which means it has been tested and approved for severe snow service. It is available in various rim sizes, from 13 to 22 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of vehicles. The Winguard Winspike 3 is backed by NEXEN's Total Coverage Warranty, which includes 36 months of roadside assistance, providing added peace of mind for drivers.

In addition to its impressive performance features, the NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire is also designed with safety in mind. It has a maximum pressure rating of 50 PSI and a load capacity of 16 ounces, ensuring it can handle the demands of winter driving. The tire's quiet and comfortable ride quality makes it a popular choice among drivers who need reliable winter traction without sacrificing driving comfort.

Specifications Value
Tags
Brand Name NEXEN
Size 215/55R17
Rim Size 17 Inches
Section Width 215 Millimeters
Tire Aspect Ratio 55
Load Index 98
Speed Rating T
Load Capacity 16 ounces
Tread Depth 11 32nds
Tread Type Directional
Maximum Pressure 50 Pound per Square Inch
Product Price $113.68

Reasons to Buy:

  • Good quality winter tire
  • Works well in snow
  • Reasonable price
  • Quiet operation
  • Good traction

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Not suitable for summer use
  • Some users experienced mysterious flats
  • Not studded (despite pictures showing studs)
Compare to other products

The Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire stands out in the crowded winter tire market with its impressive performance and value. Compared to other winter tires, the Winspike 3 offers a unique combination of features that make it a top choice for drivers in snowy and icy conditions.

One of the key advantages of the Winspike 3 is its studdable design, which allows for the addition of metal studs for enhanced traction on ice. This feature sets it apart from many other winter tires that are not studdable. Additionally, the Winspike 3's directional tread pattern with deep grooves provides excellent water and slush evacuation, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving overall handling.

In terms of performance, the Winspike 3 has received high praise from customers and reviewers alike. Its aggressive tread design and soft compound provide excellent grip and control in snowy and icy conditions, while still maintaining a comfortable ride. The tire's quiet operation and good wet performance also make it a standout choice for drivers who need a versatile winter tire.

When compared to other top winter tire brands, the Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and value. Its studdable design, directional tread pattern, and impressive customer reviews make it a top choice for drivers looking for a reliable and effective winter tire.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire - 215/55R17 98T' to anyone living in regions that experience harsh winter conditions, such as heavy snowfall and icy roads. This tire is specifically designed for winter use, offering superior traction and control in such challenging environments. Its directional tread pattern and dense siping provide excellent grip on snow and ice, while the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification ensures it meets rigorous performance standards for severe winter weather.

Additionally, this tire is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable winter tire option. With a price of $113.68, it offers a good balance between cost and performance. The fact that it is an Amazon Choice product also indicates that it has been vetted and recommended by Amazon based on customer reviews and ratings. Furthermore, the tire comes with a Total Coverage Warranty that includes 36 months of roadside assistance, providing added peace of mind for the buyer.

In summary, the 'NEXEN Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire - 215/55R17 98T' is a highly recommended option for anyone in need of a dependable and cost-effective winter tire. Its impressive performance in snowy and icy conditions, combined with its affordability and warranty coverage, make it a standout choice for winter tire buyers.

riosc

Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T Tire is a high-performance winter tire designed to provide excellent traction and handling in snowy and icy conditions. With its advanced tread pattern and specialized rubber compound, this tire is perfect for drivers who need reliable performance during the winter months.

Featuring a directional tread pattern, the Cooper Evolution Winter tire offers superior acceleration and braking performance, as well as improved cornering stability. The tire's wide contact patch and sawtooth circumferential center rib enhance stability and traction on both dry and wet roads, while the Snow Groove Technology helps to trap snow in the tread, providing better grip in snowy conditions.

In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the Cooper Evolution Winter tire is also designed with durability in mind. The tire's robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of winter driving, providing reliable performance for many miles to come. Whether you're driving on city streets or rural roads, the Cooper Evolution Winter tire is a great choice for drivers who need a reliable and high-performing winter tire.

Specifications Value
Tags
Brand Name Cooper
Size 245/50R20 102T
Rim Size 20 Inches
Section Width 245 Millimeters
Tire Aspect Ratio 50
Load Index 102
Speed Rating T
Load Capacity 1874 Pounds
Tread Depth 14 32nds
Tread Type Directional
Maximum Pressure 44 Pound per Square Inch
Product Price 213.99 USD

Reasons to Buy:

  • Excellent Performance: These tires offer excellent performance in various winter conditions, providing superior traction on snow and ice.
  • Durability: Cooper tires are known for their durability, ensuring that these winter tires will last through multiple seasons.
  • Quiet Ride: Despite their aggressive tread pattern, these tires provide a relatively quiet ride, making them suitable for everyday use.
  • Affordable Price: Compared to other high-performance winter tires, these Cooper Evolution Winter tires are reasonably priced, offering great value for money.

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Limited Availability: As of my knowledge cutoff date in June 2024, the availability of these tires might be limited, making it difficult to purchase them.
  • Not Suitable for All Vehicles: These tires are designed specifically for light trucks and SUVs, so they may not be suitable for other types of vehicles.
  • Tread Pattern: While the tread pattern is effective for winter conditions, it may not provide the best performance on dry roads compared to all-season tires.
  • Studding Required: For optimal performance on ice, these tires may require studding, which can be an additional cost and may not be legal in all areas.
Compare to other products

The Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T Tire stands out among its competitors for several reasons. Firstly, its directional tread pattern provides superior acceleration and braking performance, which is crucial for maintaining control on slippery winter roads. Additionally, the tire is studdable, allowing for enhanced ice traction when needed. This feature sets it apart from many other winter tires that do not offer the option to add studs.

Compared to other products, the Cooper Evolution Winter tire offers a combination of excellent performance in variable winter conditions and outstanding deep snow traction. Its wide contact patch and sawtooth circumferential center rib enhance stability and grip, making it a reliable choice for drivers who frequently encounter challenging winter weather. The tire's construction and design elements, such as the multi-angled corrugated sipes, provide numerous biting edges for improved traction on both straightaways and during turns.

In terms of customer satisfaction, the Cooper Evolution Winter tire has received high praise from users. Many reviewers have noted its effectiveness in deep snow and its ability to provide a smooth, quiet ride. The tire's durability and long-lasting performance have also been highlighted, making it a cost-effective option for those seeking reliable winter tires. Overall, the Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T Tire is a top choice for drivers looking for a high-performance, studdable winter tire that can handle a variety of challenging conditions.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T' to anyone who lives in an area with harsh winter conditions, such as heavy snowfall and icy roads. These tires are specifically designed for winter use, with a directional tread pattern that provides excellent traction on snow and ice. They are also studdable, which means they can be fitted with metal studs for even better grip on ice.

In addition to their winter performance, these tires are also suitable for use in dry and wet conditions. They have a wide contact patch that enhances stability and handling, and the Snow Groove Technology helps to channel water away from the tire to reduce the risk of hydroplaning. The Multi-Angled Corrugated Siping provides additional biting edges for improved traction on slippery surfaces.

Overall, the 'Cooper Evolution Winter 245/50R20 102T' is a versatile and reliable tire that can provide excellent performance in a variety of winter conditions. Whether you're driving on snow, ice, or wet roads, these tires can help you stay safe and in control.

riosc

Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T: High-performance winter tire with excellent traction and handling

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T is a high-performance winter tire designed to provide excellent traction and handling in cold weather conditions. Engineered with a specially formulated tread compound, this tire offers superior grip on snow and ice, ensuring a safer driving experience during the winter months. The wide and serrated tread channels enhance snow grip and efficiently evacuate slush and ice, while the optimized 3D serrated sipping pattern maximizes tread bite on winter road surfaces.

The Ice Edge tire features triangular center tread blocks that expand the tread contact footprint with the road, providing enhanced stability and handling. Additionally, the optimized stud pin distribution ensures maximum performance when the tire is studded for winter use. With a load index of 91 and a speed rating of T, this tire is suitable for a variety of passenger vehicles.

Customers have praised the Sumitomo Ice Edge for its excellent performance, with many noting its ability to handle freezing slush and glare ice with ease. The tire's durability and lack of road noise have also been highlighted as key benefits. Overall, the Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T is a reliable and cost-effective option for drivers seeking a high-quality winter tire.

Specifications Value
Tags
Brand SUMITOMO
Size 195/65R15
Rim Size 15 Inches
Section Width 195 Millimeters
Tire Aspect Ratio 65.0
Load Index 91.0
Speed Rating T
Tread Depth 12 32nds
Tread Type Directional
Ply 4-Ply
Seasons Winter
Currency USD
Country US
Product Price 93.44
Delivery Price FREE
Product Star Rating 4.6
Product Num Ratings 180
Product Availability In Stock
Is Amazon Choice True

Reasons to buy:

  • Excellent snow tire for the money
  • Great value for money
  • Performs very well in freezing slush
  • Efficiently sheds water and slush out of the tire
  • Breaks well and took a balance easily
  • Noticeably no greater road noise than with other snow tires
  • Ride is very acceptable
  • Super budget friendly
  • Grip the ice so well
  • Very stable 80mph on interstate
  • Excellent winter tire
  • Do excellent on snow/ice/ even nasty mud
  • Kept me safe all winter
  • Smooth Snow tires that grip with not much road noise
  • Tires ride so smooth and grip well in ice and snow so far
  • Thankfully they are not wearing out quickly
  • Best traction tires for winter
  • Price is right and the wear is decent too
  • Definitely a good tire

Reasons to avoid:

  • Not recommended to drive on glare ice at high speeds (e.g. 80mph) as sudden movements may cause uncontrollable slide condition
  • Durability is still up in the air after only one season
  • Any tire with this kind of soft rubber composition must be changed out after temps get to the point they stay over 40 degrees consistently or they will wear extremely quickly
Compare to other products

The Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T tire stands out as an economical yet high-performing option in the winter tire market. Compared to other products, it offers a compelling balance of price and performance. Many reviewers praise its ability to handle snowy and icy conditions effectively, with some even noting that it performs on par with more expensive brands like Blizzaks. The tire's tread pattern is designed to efficiently shed water and slush, providing good traction in freezing conditions. While it may not be the quietest tire on the market, its performance in adverse weather conditions makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable winter tires.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T: High-performance winter tire with excellent traction and handling' to anyone who lives in an area with harsh winter conditions and requires a reliable and safe tire for their vehicle. This tire is specifically designed for winter driving, with features such as a specially formulated tread compound and Sumitomo's unique 3D sipe technology that provide excellent traction on snow and ice.

Additionally, the wide and serrated tread channels help to speed up the evacuation of slush and ice, while the triangular center tread blocks expand the tire's contact footprint with the road surface for superior stability and handling. These features make the 'Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T' an ideal choice for drivers who need a tire that can handle the challenges of winter driving, such as slippery roads and poor visibility.

Furthermore, the 'Sumitomo Ice Edge 195/65R15 91T' is a high-quality tire that is backed by a reputable brand, making it a reliable and safe choice for winter driving. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking a road trip, this tire will provide you with the confidence and peace of mind that you need to navigate the winter roads safely.

riosc

Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ UHP All-Season 295/40ZR21 111Y XL Tire

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season tire is a high-performance, all-season tire designed for coupes, sedans, crossovers, and SUVs. It offers excellent year-round traction and performance, backed by up to 50,000 miles of limited manufacturer tread life coverage. The tire utilizes Continental's SportPlus Technology, which enhances handling and wet performance while extending tread life.

Key features of the ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS include its ability to provide short braking distances in both wet and dry conditions, strong snow and ice performance, and a unique, stylish design that doesn't compromise on functionality. The tire's tread pattern is engineered to maintain optimal performance in various weather conditions, with specialized grooves and sipes that improve grip and handling.

Available in a range of sizes, including the popular 295/40ZR21 111Y XL, this tire is suitable for a variety of vehicles. It has received high praise from customers, with many noting its superior performance, quiet ride, and long-lasting tread. The ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS is also an Amazon's Choice product, indicating its strong customer satisfaction and competitive pricing.

Specifications Value
Tags
Brand Name Continental
Size 295/40 ZR 21
Load Index 111
Speed Rating Y
Load Capacity 2403 Pounds
Tread Depth 10 32nds
Tread Type Asymmetrical
Maximum Pressure 51 Pound per Square Inch
Seasons NON_WINTER
Rim Width 11.9 Inches
Tire Diameter 30.3 Inches
Item Weight 33.9 Pounds
Warranty Description 50000

Reasons to Buy:

  • Excellent Wet Traction: Reviewers praise the tire's performance in wet conditions, highlighting its ability to maintain grip and stability.
  • Quiet Ride: Many users appreciate the low noise level, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
  • Improved Handling: The tire's design offers better road feel and handling, especially in comparison to OEM tires.
  • Longevity: With a 50,000-mile tread life warranty, these tires are built to last, offering good value for money.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Users find the design of the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus visually appealing, enhancing the overall look of their vehicles.

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Price: Some users may find the initial cost of these tires to be on the higher side compared to other options.
  • Wear Rate: A few reviewers mentioned that the tires wear out relatively quickly, which could be a concern for those prioritizing long-term durability.
  • Snow Performance: While the tire performs well in wet conditions, some users noted that it may not be the best choice for heavy snow or icy conditions.
Compare to other products

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season tire stands out in the market due to its exceptional performance and features. Compared to other high-performance tires, it offers a superior balance of handling, grip, and comfort. Its SportPlus Technology ensures responsive handling and excellent performance in wet conditions, while also extending tread life. This tire is designed to provide a smooth and quiet ride, even at high speeds, making it an excellent choice for drivers who value both performance and comfort.

In terms of durability, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season tire is backed by a limited manufacturer tread life warranty of up to 50,000 miles, which is competitive with other premium tires in its class. Its construction using high-quality materials and advanced engineering ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily driving, including exposure to various weather conditions and road surfaces.

When compared to other all-season tires, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season tire excels in providing a high level of traction and stability, even in challenging driving conditions. Its unique tread pattern and compound formulation allow it to maintain excellent grip on both dry and wet roads, while also offering good performance in light snow and ice. This makes it a versatile tire that can be used year-round, providing drivers with confidence and peace of mind in various weather conditions.

Overall, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 PLUS UHP All Season tire is a top-tier choice for drivers who demand superior performance, durability, and versatility from their tires. Its combination of advanced technology, high-quality materials, and excellent performance characteristics make it a standout product in the competitive tire market.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ UHP All-Season 295/40ZR21 111Y XL Tire' to anyone seeking a high-performance all-season tire that excels in various driving conditions. This tire is particularly well-suited for drivers who experience a range of weather conditions, from dry and wet roads to light snow. Its SportPlus Technology ensures responsive handling and excellent grip, making it ideal for those who prioritize safety and performance.

Additionally, this tire would be a great choice for individuals who enjoy a quieter ride. The reviews highlight its ability to reduce road noise, which can make long drives more comfortable and enjoyable. With a tread life of up to 50,000 miles and a robust warranty, it also offers good value for money, appealing to those who want a durable and reliable tire that won't need frequent replacements.

Overall, the 'Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ UHP All-Season 295/40ZR21 111Y XL Tire' is a versatile and high-quality option for drivers looking for a tire that can handle diverse driving conditions while providing a comfortable and safe ride.

riosc

HANKOOK Winter iPike X W429 215/60R16 99T XL

Source: m.media-amazon.com

The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 (W429) is a studdable winter tire designed for coupes, sedans, CUVs, and SUVs. It features a unique tread pattern optimized for winter driving performance, providing excellent traction on snow and ice. The tire is Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified, indicating its superior performance in severe winter conditions.

This tire is available in various sizes, including 215/60R16, 225/50R17, and 245/45R18, to fit a wide range of vehicles. It is constructed with a new rubber compound that enhances strength and durability, ensuring a longer tread life. The wide block in the center of the tread improves snow and ice traction, while the stud holes allow for additional grip in extreme conditions.

The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 (W429) is a reliable choice for winter driving, offering a combination of performance, durability, and value. It is backed by a reputation for quality and is designed to keep you safe on the road during the harshest winter months.

Specifications Value
Tags
Brand HANKOOK
Size 215/60R16
Rim Size 16 Inches
Section Width 215 Millimeters
Tire Aspect Ratio 60
Load Index 99
Speed Rating T
Load Capacity 1709 Pounds
Tread Depth 11 32nds
Tread Type Directional
Maximum Pressure 50 Pound per Square Inch
UPC 715459506637
Item Weight 25 Pounds

Reasons to Buy:

  • Excellent Traction: Many users have reported that these tires provide excellent traction, particularly in snowy and icy conditions. This is a crucial feature for winter tires, ensuring safety and performance on slippery roads.
  • Quiet Ride: Several reviews mention that these tires offer a quiet ride, which is an important aspect for comfort during long drives.
  • Good Value: Users have noted that these tires are priced well, offering a good balance between cost and quality.
  • Smooth Handling: The tires are praised for their smooth handling, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.

Reasons to Avoid:

  • Poor Quality: Some users have expressed concerns about the quality of these tires, with one reviewer mentioning that the tread wore down quickly.
  • Weak Traction: Contrary to the positive reviews about traction, one user found the traction to be weak. This inconsistency might be a concern for potential buyers.
  • Brand Perception: While not explicitly stated, the mixed reviews might suggest that the brand's reputation is not universally positive, which could be a factor for some buyers.

Overall, the decision to purchase these tires would depend on the individual's specific needs and preferences, weighing the positive attributes against the potential drawbacks.

Compare to other products

The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 (W429) stands out as a premium winter tire designed for passenger cars, offering a blend of performance and reliability. Compared to other winter tires, it boasts a Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, indicating its superior traction in severe snow conditions. This certification is a testament to its ability to handle challenging winter environments, making it a top choice for drivers in regions with heavy snowfall.

One of the key features that sets the Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 apart is its studdability. It can be pinned with TSMI #12 studs, providing extra grip on ice and hard-packed snow. This studdability, combined with a wide block design in the center of the tread, enhances its snow and ice traction capabilities. The wide block helps in maintaining stability and control, even on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the tire is constructed with a new rubber compound that improves strength and durability, ensuring a longer tread life and better overall performance.

In terms of customer satisfaction, the Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 has received positive reviews from users. Many customers have praised its quiet ride and excellent traction in both wet and snowy conditions. The tire's performance in Michigan winters, known for their harshness, has been particularly noted, with users expressing high satisfaction with its handling and grip. This real-world feedback underscores the tire's effectiveness and reliability, making it a trusted choice for winter driving.

Overall, the Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 (W429) is a well-rounded winter tire that offers a combination of advanced features, superior performance, and positive customer reviews. Its studdability, wide block tread design, and durable rubber compound make it a formidable option for drivers seeking reliable winter traction. The tire's ability to perform well in various winter conditions, as evidenced by its certifications and user feedback, positions it as a top contender in the winter tire market.

For whom it is recommended

I would recommend the 'HANKOOK Winter iPike X W429 215/60R16 99T XL' to anyone living in regions that experience harsh winter conditions, such as heavy snowfall and icy roads. These tires are specifically designed for winter use, offering excellent traction and stability on slippery surfaces. They are a great choice for drivers who prioritize safety and performance during the winter months.

Additionally, these tires would be beneficial for those who frequently travel through mountainous or rural areas where winter weather can be particularly challenging. The 'HANKOOK Winter iPike X W429' is built to handle the demands of winter driving, providing peace of mind and reliable performance when it matters most.

Frequently asked questions

Choosing the best snow tires for your WRX involves considering several factors, including tire size, tread pattern, and overall performance in snowy and icy conditions. Some top options include the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80, Michelin X-Ice Xi3, and Goodyear Ultra Grip Winter. These tires are known for their excellent traction, handling, and durability in winter weather. It's essential to select tires that match your vehicle's specifications and driving needs to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Snow tires are specifically designed for use in snowy and icy conditions, featuring unique tread patterns and compounds that provide better traction and handling on slippery surfaces. They typically have deeper grooves and more biting edges to grip snow and ice effectively. In contrast, all-season tires are designed to provide adequate performance in various weather conditions, including dry, wet, and light snow. While they may offer some level of winter performance, they are not as specialized or effective as dedicated snow tires in severe winter conditions.

While a WRX is capable of handling winter conditions with its all-wheel-drive system, snow tires can significantly enhance its performance and safety. Snow tires provide better traction, handling, and stopping power on snowy and icy roads, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall driving confidence. If you frequently drive in areas with heavy snowfall and icy conditions, investing in a set of snow tires for your WRX is highly recommended.

Snow tires should be replaced when the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch (approximately 1.6 millimeters), as this is the minimum depth required for safe winter driving. Additionally, it's a good idea to inspect your snow tires regularly for signs of wear, damage, or uneven wear patterns. If you notice any issues, it may be necessary to replace the tires sooner to ensure optimal performance and safety.

While snow tires can be used year-round, it's generally not recommended. Snow tires are designed for winter conditions and may wear out more quickly on dry or hot roads. Additionally, they may not provide the same level of handling and performance as all-season or summer tires in non-winter conditions. It's best to use snow tires during the winter months and switch to appropriate tires for other seasons to maximize their lifespan and performance.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment