The right choice of car tyres plays an important role in winter road safety. Taking into account the wide choice on the market and the diverse needs of drivers, a ranking of the best winter tyres 2023 has been compiled based on tests, motorist reviews and expert opinions.
Winter tyre rating
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
One of the leading models in the Michelin winter tyre range. The X-Ice Xi3 is designed with advanced technologies that provide outstanding grip on ice and snow. Efficient pressure distribution and a unique tread pattern help reduce wear and extend tyre life. Attention to detail, such as improved tread blocks, ensure reliable braking and stability when manoeuvring on snowy and icy roads.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS80
The Blizzak WS80 tyre from Bridgestone is the result of years of research into winter tyres. This model offers optimum performance on winter roads thanks to its multi-dimensional tread pattern and special rubber compound. The tyre has excellent grip on wet, snowy and icy surfaces, making it indispensable for the winter season. The clever design of the tread blocks significantly reduces the risk of aquaplaning and provides outstanding braking on slippery road surfaces.
Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2
This tyre has been designed specifically for extreme winter conditions. Its improved tread design and innovative compound technology allow it to provide excellent grip on ice and snow. The unique groove design allows the tyre to efficiently drain water and snow, preventing the risk of aquaplaning.
Continental WinterContact SI
This model from Continental is designed to offer maximum safety and comfort in winter conditions. The high-tech rubber compound and optimised tread pattern provide excellent grip on snowy and icy roads. The tyre also has built-in wear indicators to help the driver determine when it is time to change the tyres.
Nokian Hakkapapeliitta R3
The Finnish company Nokian is known for its high-quality winter tyres. The Hakkapeliitta R3 is the pinnacle of innovation in winter tyres. This non-slick tyre has exceptional grip on ice, thanks to its unique rubber compound and special sipes on the tread. It is also worth noting that this model is particularly quiet and fuel-efficient compared to other winter tyres.
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
Winter tyres from the Italian manufacturer Pirelli, designed for high-speed vehicles. The special feature of this model is a unique rubber compound that provides excellent grip even at very low temperatures. The tread has special sipes and grooves for quick drainage of water and melting snow, which minimises the risk of aquaplaning. Effective blocks on the tread also improve braking and handling on snow.
Dunlop Winter Maxx 2
This is a winter tyre model that combines the latest Dunlop technological innovations. A distinctive feature is the Maxx Sharp Edge technology, which improves grip on slippery roads thanks to microscopically small edges on the tread. In addition, the optimised tread pattern ensures even pressure distribution, which contributes to the tyre’s long life.
Yokohama iceGuard iG53
Known for its commitment to innovation, the iceGuard iG53 is clear proof of this. The improved rubber compound and special tread shape provide excellent grip on ice and snow. The tyre’s grooves effectively drain water, preventing aquaplaning. And thanks to the use of special additives in the rubber compound, the tyre retains its properties at all winter temperatures.
Hankook Winter i*Pike RS
This is a reliable winter tyre designed to meet the requirements of modern motorists. The main advantages are improved traction on ice and snow, short braking distances and a high level of safety thanks to the unique rubber compound and tread sipes.
Toyo Observe G3-ICE
A winter tyre developed using the latest Toyo technology. The tyre has micro-slats that provide excellent traction on slippery surfaces. The rubber compound enriched with silicon-based components provides resistance to wear and a long service life.
Table of parameters of selected winter tyre models.
| Brand | Season | Tyre diameter | Size | Width (mm) | Profile (%) | Type of vehicle | Load index | Speed index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin X-Ice Xi3 | Winter | 16″ | 205/55R16 | 205 | 55 | Lightweight | 91 | T |
| Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 | Winter | 17″ | 225/45R17 | 225 | 45 | Passenger car | 94 | H |
| Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2 | Winter | 18″ | 235/40R18 | 235 | 40 | Passenger car | 95 | V |
| Continental WinterContact SI | Winter | 15″ | 195/65R15 | 195 | 65 | Lightweight | 91 | T |
| Pirelli Ice Zero FR | Winter | 16″ | 205/55R16 | 205 | 55 | Passenger car | 91 | T |
| Yokohama iceGuard iG60 | Winter | 17″ | 225/50R17 | 225 | 50 | Passenger car | 94 | H |
| Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 | Winter | 16″ | 205/60R16 | 205 | 60 | Lightweight | 92 | T |
| Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 | Winter | 15″ | 195/60R15 | 195 | 60 | Passenger car | 88 | T |
| Kumho WinterCraft WP71 | Winter | 17″ | 225/45R17 | 225 | 45 | Passenger car | 94 | H |
| Nokian Hakkapapeliitta 9 | Winter | 18″ | 235/40R18 | 235 | 40 | Lightweight | 95 | V |
When choosing winter tyres, their characteristics should be carefully studied, as traffic safety and driver comfort largely depend on the correctly selected rubber. The above models demonstrate various parameters, which allows car owners to choose the most suitable option in accordance with individual needs and operating conditions.
Make your next winter tyre purchase more favourable with reBITme. You’ll love saving money!
