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It’s that wonderful time of year with twinkly lights, more jolly and giving people, and all sorts of treats from your neighbors. But then, there's the not so wonderful part of the year. You know those wonderful snowflakes that transform your lawns into winter wonderlands and those mountains into more beautiful and glorious slopes to ski on?
Well, now you get to experience the roads covered in the same powder. And since you live in the state that’s famous for “The greatest snow on earth,” and with accidents significantly increasing in the winter, you'll want to be ready. That means you need to purchase the right snow tires.
Rather than tell you to "get an SUV," here’s a rundown of the best snow tires for sedans, whether to get you up that canyon for fresh pow-pow or to make the daily commute safely.
The tire: Bridgestone Blizzak WS80
Why you’ll love it: Even with its studless exterior, this tire is the king of all snow tires, ranked as the best according to Consumer Search. If you’re making that daily stop-and-go commute on I-15 this winter, this tire could significantly increase your quality of driving.
With its multicell compound and microscopic pores, the Blizzak has outstanding grip on ice, snow and wet pavement, even sans studs. So when you suddenly have to hit the brakes, you have a good chance of not sliding into his fender. Previous models of the Blizzak are also rated well by users.
The Tire: Hankook Ipike W419
Why you’ll love it: If it’s good enough for tire guys in Alaska, it’s probably going to be good enough for you. Julian Walker from Meyer Bros. Muffler City & Brake in Anchorage, Alaska, says this tire is superior because of directional self-cleaning, lots of lines for traction and steel studs. The Hankook Ipike W419 has six rows of studs, which will give you twice as much traction as the traditional three rows, while also minimizing the stud noise. That’s a win-win right there.
The tire: Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8
Why you’ll love it: Although it will probably take you a second to learn how to pronounce it, the Nokian Hakkapelitta ranked No. 1 for two consecutive years as the best snow tire, according to Jake Sharek, another Alaska native at Johnson’s Tire Service in Anchorage. Here’s the proof: Tested at 200 miles per hour on an ice ledge, the tire never lost traction. Its six-sided studs don’t mess around. Sharek says, “It’s as if you’re hitting the ice with a hatchet.” And as a bonus, the tough rubber compound below the surface stabilizes the studs, making it drivable in dry conditions as well.
The tire: General AltiMAX Arctic
Why you'll love it: Sharek ranks the General AltiMAX right up there with the Hakkapeliitta. The studs, anti-slip sipes (tiny slits on the tread) increase grip in dry and wet conditions, meaning it can handle the ups and downs of a Utah winter like a champ.
Tire Reviews and More says, “The tire's continuous center rib adds to stability and steering response, while unique acoustic modulation sound technology suppresses sound waves for lower road noise and better ride quality.” That means you’re getting a safer, more comfortable ride while still being able to hear Mariah Carey’s Christmas album from your car speakers. You'll also see smaller price-points with the AltiMAX.
The tire: Yokohama iceGUARD iG52c
Why you’ll love it: This tire is diverse enough for sedans, compact cars, small trucks and minivans. It has all the spiffy features that just make you feel secure, according to 1010Tires. Triple 3D sipes, triple-action compound, extra-wide center rib and large control blocks are just some of the components of what's going to help keep you safe, whether it’s cold and frigid out there or if the temperature suddenly rises on you, and you’re dealing with those nasty slippery slushy conditions. Overall, this is your dependable tire for various winter conditions.
Don't wait till the snow falls before you get your snow tires. Make sure you have a reliable car, reliable tires and be sure to drive safe!