Best Winter Tires for 2024-2025: The Car Guide's Top Picks
We have just celebrated Labour Day and summer is not even over yet, and here we are writing about winter tires. Are we crazy? Not really.
Depending on where you live in Canada, winter tires may or may not be mandatory for a certain part of the year. Regardless, they have proven to outperform all-season and all-weather tires when temperatures drop below 7 degrees Celsius. And if you need a new set, it’s best to shop and book a service appointment early.
- Also: Hyundai’s Breakthrough Could Revolutionize Winter Tires
- Also: Is Climate Change Making Winter Tires More Vital? Survey Says Yes
Remember that the price is only one factor to consider when shopping for winter tires. Grip, ride quality, noise and durability also must be part of your decision. It often pays off to spend more money on higher-quality winter tires and take good care of them than buying cheap tires from lesser brands and replacing them after a short time. Not to mention you’ll be driving a safer vehicle, too.
The Best Winter Tires for 2024-2025
Our team at The Car Guide has analyzed multiple tire reviews and rankings and turned to tire experts in order to come up with a selection of the best 2024-2025 winter tires for cars and small-to-midsize SUVs. We may have left out a few models, but those listed below should all appear near the top of your shopping list. Incidentally, we’ve only identified one model per tire brand in order to cover as much of the market as possible.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10
An evolution of the Hakkapeliitta 9, the Hakkapeliitta 10 is by far one of the best winter tires you can buy. Sure, it’s expensive, but safety is hard to match and durability looks quite promising. Nokian's Double Stud Technology offers maximum safety on ice and snow, as the centre studs improve acceleration and braking grip, while the studs on the shoulder areas maximize grip during turning and lane changes. A EV-specific variant is available, too. Nokian loves to brag that 95 percent of its customers are satisfied and recommend its products.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Stable acceleration, sharp braking and surefooted handling are what you get with the Blizzak WS90, one of the best-selling winter tires on the market. Compared with the old Blizzak WS80, it’s designed to improve feedback and tread life, meaning it can endure at least one more season. The larger contact patch and advanced compound contribute to better performance on ice.
Michelin X-Ice Snow
Boasting excellent braking and cornering performance both on snow and ice, the X-Ice Snow offers formidable grip and arguably the best overall handling on dry and wet pavement during winter. Other attributes include a comfortable and quiet ride, plus superior longevity. We know that some drivers are hesitant to choose Michelin, but the company has a 60-day satisfaction warranty.
Continental VikingContact 7
This other premium winter tire delivers exceptional handling thanks to maximum grip on snow and ice, as it remains flexible even at very low temperatures. The VikingContact 7 is also renowned for its short braking distances and outstanding ability to evacuate water and sleet, thus minimizing hydroplaning. Bottom line: it’s extremely safe.
Pirelli Ice Zero FR
Specially developed for extreme winter conditions like those in Canada, the Ice Zero FR is perfect for tackling deep snow with its aggressive tread design featuring 3D Butterfly technology. It’s a winter tire that inspires confidence even under heavy snow or when a layer of ice hides underneath. The Ice Zero FR performs like a studded tire but is infinitely quieter.
Toyo Observe GSi-6
A studless performance winter tire, the Observe GSi-6 featuring Toyo’s signature studless Microbit Technology is designed to handle the harshest Canadian winters. High levels of silica along with a new high grip polymer blended in the rubber compound keeps the tire pliable during colder temperatures while also improving wet weather traction. Expect improved performance not only in snow and slush, but on ice and cold wet roads, as well.
Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra
A great choice for slippery surfaces, this winter tire is specially designed to grip ice and deliver precise handling (the non-Ultra model is studdable). Performance is said to be consistent and reassuring at all times. Of course, the WinterCommand Ultra fares pretty well in the snow, too. Most reviewers also praise its good ride quality and high value.