Even if we live in a province where we are not obligated to have winter tires, all Canadian drivers should have a set on their cars between November and March.
That includes you, driver who lives in Kelowna where it’s hardly ever snowing, or you, downtown Toronto driver who thinks that here, snow is cleared quickly. By the way, it snowed a lot in Kelowna last winter…
In short, do not run any risks and buy one of the winter tire sets on this list. You will notice the difference as soon as that first snowstorm hits.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta is by far the best winter tire you can install on your vehicle. Its only fault is that it is expensive, but in return you will get your money’s worth.
Bridgestone Blizzak
The Blizzak is not necessarily affordable either, and its longevity is not extraordinary, but it offers exceptional stability on ice while the current-generation Blizzak also improves its performance on snow.
Michelin X-Ice Xi3
The Michelin X-Ice Xi3 is more affordable than the Blizzak and Hakkapeliitta while offering balanced performance on snow or ice. It is also more durable thanks to a technology that also distributes the braking and accelerating forces on the tire surface.
Continental WinterContact Si
The Continental WinterContact Si is very affordable considering its winter driving abilities. It compares with the three previous tires on this list on ice and it is only its braking on snow that leaves something to be desired.
Pirelli Ice Zero FR
The strength of the Pirelli Ice Zero FR is in its grip and corner handling. It is also easy to find while being affordable.
Gislavled Nord*Frost 200
Perhaps the least known tire on this list, the Nord*Frost 200 is built by Gislaved, a Swedish manufacturer that belongs to Continental. The Nord*Frost 200 also includes several features of the former Continental ExtremeWinterContact which was an excellent winter tire. If you can find it, this is a very good choice.
Toyo Observe GSi5
The Toyota Observe GSi5 is available in a variety of sizes and is known for its durability. It offers balanced performance while being durable. However, it is noisier and less efficient when the road is wet.
Dunlop Winter Maxx 2
The Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 behaves very well when the road is dry while also being quiet and very competent when it comes to handling. On a snowy road, its braking leaves nothing to desire.
Hercules Avalanche R-G2
The Avalanche is on this list because it is very affordable while being suitable in all kinds of winter situations. He does not have the snow and ice abilities of the other models in this list, but its price is unbeatable.
Yokohama IceGuard
One of the most affordable tires on this list, the IceGuard offers a lot for your money. It does not perform as well as many other tires on this list, but if we live in urban areas and drive on generally clear roads in winter, that’s a good choice.
