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Tetyana Yermolenko
Correspondent
Rating of the best tires of 2025 – TOP choice for cars
Choosing winter tires remains one of the most pressing issues for any motorist on the eve of the cold season. Not only driving comfort, but also safety on slippery roads, braking efficiency, and the feeling of control over the car in difficult weather conditions directly depend on the quality of tires.
So, global manufacturers have already started preparing drivers for the new season and have prepared updated winter tire lines. The winter tire review from Delo.ua is based on the results of authoritative testing by leading automotive publications and allows you to objectively assess the advantages and disadvantages of each model.
Michelin X-Ice North 4 – the leader among studded tires
The French company Michelin has been holding a leading position in the winter tire market for several years now thanks to its flagship model X-Ice North 4. The basis of its success has been the patented studding technology combined with a unique rubber compound composition.
The tire demonstrates exceptional grip characteristics on ice and packed snow. The special design of the studs ensures their reliable fixation in the tread, which prevents them from falling out during operation. The rubber compound retains elasticity even at critically low temperatures: exactly what is needed for unpredictable Ukrainian winters.
The test results show convincing performance on ice and snow, but on wet asphalt the braking distance is slightly longer compared to some competitors. The noise level remains within the normal range for studded tires, and the fuel efficiency figures can be assessed as satisfactory.
The only significant drawback is the high price, which, however, is fully justified by the high quality of workmanship and long service life for your car.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 – Finnish specialty
Who else but the Finns understands winter, and the Hakkapeliitta 10 model clearly demonstrates this expertise. The tire is designed for long-term operation in northern winters, where frost and ice are the driver's constant companions.
A special feature of the design is the double studs in the shoulder zones of the tread, which significantly increase handling on ice. Arctic Sense Grip technology allows the tire to adapt to different types of winter surfaces. The studs provide maximum grip on ice, and numerous sipes work effectively on snow.
Testing confirmed high results on ice and snow, although behavior on wet asphalt remains average. It is also important to note the manufacturer's environmental approach: renewable raw materials are actively used in the rubber compound.
Overall, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 is optimal for regions with long snowy winters and regular ice.
Continental IceContact 3 – German reliability
German manufacturer Continental presents the IceContact 3 model, which combines traditional European quality with modern engineering solutions. The tire is distinguished by a unique stud shape and an optimized tread design for effective drainage of snow and water.
During testing, the IceContact 3 performed well on ice, but its braking distance was slightly longer than the top-of-the-range tires. Rolling resistance also exceeded the best models, which affected fuel efficiency.
Continental IceContact 3 will be of interest to drivers who prefer European quality without having to overpay for the prestige of the brand.
Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 – a sporty alternative
The Italian company Pirelli presents the non-studded P Zero Winter 2 model, created with Formula 1 technologies. The aggressive tread pattern with a large number of sipes provides reliable grip on snow and slippery surfaces.
Testing confirmed high efficiency on snow and wet asphalt, although on dry surfaces the braking distance is longer compared to summer tires.
Pirelli P Zero Winter 2 is aimed at owners of powerful cars and crossovers who do not want to lose dynamic characteristics even in winter.
Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-02 – Japanese technology
The Japanese company Bridgestone offers the Blizzak Spike-02 model with a multi-cellulose rubber compound and micropores to improve grip on ice. The optimized stud system ensures even tread wear throughout the entire service life.
The tire demonstrates stable results on ice and snow with an average noise level. On wet asphalt, the braking distance is slightly inferior to the top models, but the overall balance of characteristics remains high.
Bridgestone Blizzak Spike-02 is ideal for drivers who value predictability of car behavior and stability of characteristics in various operating conditions.
Practical recommendations for choosing
When choosing winter tires, you should consider the climatic features of the region. Studded models are recommended for areas with frequent ice and harsh winters. In regions with a mild climate, high-quality non-studded rubber is sufficient.
Be sure to follow the car manufacturer's recommendations for tire size, load index, and speed. Saving on quality winter tires can lead to significantly higher costs in the future, but overpaying just for the brand is also impractical.
Proper operation includes regular pressure monitoring, timely replacement of worn tires and adaptation of driving style to winter conditions. And remember: even the most modern technologies will not replace the driver's attention and experience on the road.
