10 Best Tires For Suvs In Snow in 2026

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For SUV owners who drive in snow, the Bridgestone Weatherpeak All Weather Tire is our Best Overall pick. It carries the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification and uses full-depth 3D sipes and snow vices to maintain grip as the tread wears. For severe ice, the Hankook Winter ipike X SUV Tire is our Best For Severe Ice And Snow pick, and the Michelin CrossClimate 2 offers year-round snow capability without seasonal swaps.

The challenge with snow tires for an SUV is balancing traction against the vehicle’s weight, height, and occasional towing needs. A tire that grips well on packed snow may wear quickly on dry pavement, while an all-terrain design can be noisy on the highway. The right choice depends on how much of your winter driving is on plowed roads versus unmaintained backroads.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback. We evaluated each tire against the criteria that matter most for snow driving: certified traction, tread design, load capacity, and real-world versatility. The goal is to help you pick a tire that fits your winter conditions and your driving style.

Top 10 Tires For SUVs In Snow in the Market

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The Best Tires For SUVs In Snow, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Bridgestone Weatherpeak All Weather Tire

Bridgestone Weatherpeak All Weather Tire
Load RangeStandard Load
Tire TypeAll Weather
3PMSF CertifiedYes
ConstructionRadial
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What We Like

  • Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified
  • Full-depth 3D sipes for snow grip
  • Snow vices and groove channel design
  • Evolving sipes maintain traction as tire wears

Trade-offs

  • Standard load rating limits heavy towing capacity
  • 38-pound weight adds noticeable effort during mounting and rotation

Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification means this tire is approved for use in moderate to severe winter weather, so you can drive with confidence when snow piles up. The full-depth 3D sipes improve grip on snowy roads while also fending off uneven wear for a longer tread life. Pair that with snow vices and groove channels that promote snow compaction for better traction on snowy roads and quickly push water out to cut hydroplaning risk. You have a tire that handles winter conditions without needing a seasonal swap. This is a practical pick for SUV owners who want one set of tires that work in snow and wet conditions while still delivering real winter capability.

The standard load rating means it is not built for heavy towing or hauling. So if you regularly pull a trailer or carry a heavy payload, a tire like the Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 with its extra load capacity might be a better fit. Still, for everyday driving, commuting, and family road trips in snowy regions, the Weatherpeak gives you winter traction without the hassle of changing tires every season. It is a smart, practical pick that balances snow performance with long tread life and wet-road confidence.

Best for: SUV owners who want a single set of tires capable of handling snow and wet roads without swapping to winter tires. Not ideal for heavy towing or extreme ice conditions where a dedicated winter tire would outperform.
#2Best Studdable Winter Tire

Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire

Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Winter Tire
Load RangeExtra Load (XL)
StuddableTSMI #12 studs optional
3PMSF CertifiedYes
Weight36.4 lb
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What We Like

  • Optional TSMI #12 studs for ice grip
  • 3PMSF certified for snow performance
  • Dense siping for extra road bite
  • Deep grooves clear water and slush

Trade-offs

  • Studs must be installed separately
  • Heavier than the Hankook Winter ipike X SUV

The Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 is a studdable winter tire with Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, meaning it meets the industry standard for snow performance. Its optional TSMI #12 studs provide extra bite on hard-packed ice and frozen roads, while the directional tread and dense siping help clear water and slush. For drivers who regularly face icy conditions, this tire offers a level of control that all-season or non-studded winter tires may not provide.

The trade-off is weight and extra effort. That added mass can affect fuel economy and makes mounting and rotating a bit more work. You also need to buy and install the studs yourself if you want the full ice advantage. If your winters are mostly wet snow and plowed roads, the lighter Hankook may be a better fit. But for those who regularly drive on glare ice, the Nexen’s studdable design is the smarter choice.

Best for: SUV owners in icy, snowy regions who want the option to add studs for maximum grip. Not ideal for drivers who prefer a lighter tire or who rarely encounter hard-packed ice.

Product photos

#3Best For Severe Ice And Snow

Hankook Winter ipike X SUV Tire

Hankook Winter ipike X SUV Tire
TypeStuddable winter tire
CertificationThree Peak Mountain Snowflake
Load RangeStandard Load
ConstructionRadial, black sidewall
Size (example)225/65R17 102T
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What We Like

  • Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified
  • Studdable for extra severe ice traction
  • Wide center blocks improve snow/ice grip
  • New rubber compound for longer tread life

Trade-offs

  • Standard load rating limits heavy cargo capacity
  • Requires studs for maximum ice performance

The Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification on this tire indicates it meets the required severe snow-service standards. Its studdable design allows you to add TSMI #12 studs where legal, which provides extra traction in severe ice and snow. The wide center blocks are designed to improve snow and ice traction, and the new rubber compound boosts strength and durability for a longer tread life. This tire is intended for CUVs, SUVs, and light trucks, offering strong traction on icy, snowy, and wet roads.

This is a standard-load tire, so if you regularly haul heavy gear or tow in winter conditions, you may want an extra-load option for more payload capacity. Compared to the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV (235/65R17 108H), which has a higher load index and speed rating, the Hankook is designed for severe ice and snow traction with its studdable feature and Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification. It is not the lightest option among the listed tires. But for drivers who need certified winter traction on icy and snowy roads, this tire delivers what its design promises.

Best for: Drivers in regions with severe ice and snow who want a studdable winter tire with strong certified traction. Not ideal for those who need an extra load rating for heavy towing or prefer a non-studded all-season approach.
#4Best Winter Grip Tire

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV Tire

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV Tire
Load CapacityExtra Load (XL)
Tire TypePerformance Winter
Weight30.0 pounds
Size (Example)235/65R17
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What We Like

  • Weather grip compound for snow and ice
  • Traction protect tech for shorter stopping
  • Directional tread channels water and slush
  • Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified

Trade-offs

  • Performance winter focus limits all-season versatility
  • Dedicated winter tire requires seasonal swap

The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake badge shows this tire is built for severe snow conditions, not just light flurries. A specialized rubber compound stays flexible in deep cold, giving you confident grip on ice and packed snow, while the directional tread pattern actively pushes slush and water out from under the contact patch. That combination makes it the tire to choose if your winter commute involves unplowed roads, icy hills, or sudden lake-effect squalls where traction is everything.

This is a dedicated winter performer, not an all-season compromise. Compared to the Michelin CrossClimate 2, which tries to balance snow capability with year-round mileage, the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV commits fully to winter grip. You will need to swap back to all-seasons or summers when the snow melts, and at 30 pounds it is not the lightest tire to wrestle onto a rim during changeover. But for drivers who face real winter and want maximum stopping power on frozen roads, that focus pays off every time the temperature drops.

Best for: Drivers in heavy-snow regions who want maximum winter traction and short stopping distances on ice and slush. Not ideal for year-round use or mild climates where an all-season tire would suffice.
#5Best All-Season Snow Tire

Michelin CrossClimate 2 All-Season Tire

Michelin CrossClimate 2 All-Season Tire
TypeAll-Season
3PMSF CertifiedYes
Load Index102
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What We Like

  • 3 Peak Mountain Snow Certified
  • Stops shorter in dry and wet conditions
  • Up to one extra year of tread life

Trade-offs

  • All-season design, not a dedicated winter tire
  • Heavier than some SUV winter options at 31.1 lb

The 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake certification on an all-season tire is the headline here. That symbol, usually reserved for dedicated winter rubber, means this tire meets severe snow service requirements while still working year-round. For SUV drivers who face occasional snow but don’t want to swap tires twice a year, it delivers confident traction in slush and packed snow without sacrificing the convenience of a single set. It also stops shorter than four leading competitive tires in dry and wet conditions, and the tread is designed to last up to one extra year. That makes it a strong fit for someone who lives where winters are real but not relentless.

This remains an all-season tire at heart, not a full winter specialist like the Hankook Winter ipike X SUV. In deep powder or on icy mountain roads, a dedicated winter compound still holds an edge. At 31.1 pounds, it is also slightly heavier than the Hankook’s 30.3 pounds, which can affect fuel economy and handling feel on lighter SUVs. But for the buyer who wants one tire that handles snow, rain, and dry highways without compromise, the CrossClimate 2 is a rare and practical solution.

Best for: SUV owners in regions with moderate snow who want year-round performance without seasonal tire changes. Not ideal for extreme winter conditions or heavy off-road use.

Product photos

#6Best For Pickup Trucks And SUVs

Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw Winter Tire

Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw Winter Tire
Tire TypeWinter
Load Index112T
Weight37.7 pounds
CertificationThree-Peak Mountain Snowflake
Stud CapabilityPinned for studs
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What We Like

  • Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified
  • Snow Groove Technology for added traction
  • Flexible tread compound in bitter cold
  • Pinned for optional studs

Trade-offs

  • At 37.7 lb, heavier than some SUV winter tires
  • Standard load rating limits heavy payloads
  • Winter-only design, not for year-round use

The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol means this tire meets the strictest winter traction standards, so you can trust it on icy roads and deep snow. Cooper engineered the Snow Groove Technology to trap snow within the tread, using that snow itself to grip the road better, a clever approach that mimics the way a snowball sticks to itself. For pickup truck and SUV owners who face harsh winters and need confident stopping power, this tire delivers the bite and stability that heavier vehicles demand.

At 37.7 pounds, this tire is heavier than the Hankook Winter ipike X SUV (30.3 lb), so it adds noticeable weight to your truck or SUV. It also carries a standard load rating, not an extra load rating like some competitors, meaning you should verify your vehicle’s requirements if you frequently haul heavy cargo in snow. For daily winter driving in a pickup or SUV, the Snow Claw is a dedicated winter tire with stud-ready capability, unlike all-season alternatives such as the Michelin CrossClimate 2.

Best for: Drivers of pickups and SUVs who need dedicated winter traction on snow and ice, but not ideal for those wanting a single tire for year-round use or carrying max payloads in winter conditions.
#7Best Ice Braking

Falken Winterpeak F-Ice 1 Winter Tire

Falken Winterpeak F-Ice 1 Winter Tire
Tire TypeWinter / 3PMSF
Load RangeXL (Extra Load)
ConstructionRadial
Sipe Technology3D Canyon Sipe
Tread Compound4D Nano Design
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What We Like

  • 3D Canyon Sipe Technology for snow traction
  • 4D Nano Design keeps rubber flexible in cold
  • Curving grooves improve water evacuation

Trade-offs

  • Winter-only tire, not for year-round use
  • Heavier than some all-season SUV tires at 33.6 lb

The 3D Canyon Sipe Technology adds even more biting edges for superior traction in snow, slush, and packed ice. The curving grooves help push water and snow out through wide shoulder openings for a more secure contact patch. This is a dedicated winter tire built for the worst conditions winter can throw at you.

This is a seasonal tire, so you will need to swap it out once temperatures rise consistently above freezing. At 33.6 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some all-season SUV options like the Michelin CrossClimate 2, which means a bit more rotational mass when accelerating or braking on dry pavement. But if your priority is stopping confidently on ice and packed snow, the Falken’s engineering gives you more grip where it matters most. For drivers who want one tire for all four seasons, the Bridgestone Weatherpeak offers all-weather capability, but it cannot match the Falken’s dedicated winter traction when conditions turn truly slick.

Best for: SUV owners who drive on icy roads and want the best possible stopping power in winter conditions. Not ideal for drivers looking for a single tire to use year-round.
#8Best All-Terrain Snow Rated Tire

Mastertrack Badlands ATX All-Terrain Tire

Mastertrack Badlands ATX All-Terrain Tire
Tire TypeAll-Season All-Terrain
Traction GradeA
Warranty55,000-mile + 3-year road hazard
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What We Like

  • 3PMSF certified for severe snow
  • 620 treadwear rating for long mileage
  • A traction grade for wet roads
  • 55,000-mile limited treadwear warranty

Trade-offs

  • Heavier than the Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV by 6 lb
  • Not a dedicated winter tire for deep snow and ice only

A 620 treadwear rating and a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification mean this all-terrain tire is built to handle snow without wearing out fast on dry pavement. That combination makes it a rare find for SUV owners who need one tire for daily commuting, gravel roads, and winter slush. The aggressive tread pattern with open grooves gives it grip on mixed surfaces, while the A traction grade helps keep you confident on wet roads. This tire suits drivers who want year-round versatility but still face real snow several months of the year.

The Badlands ATX weighs 36 pounds, which is lighter than some winter tires like the Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw at 37.7 pounds, so weight alone doesn’t rule it out for mixed use. It carries a 3PMSF snow certification, meaning it meets recognized severe-snow-service standards without requiring a swap to winter tires. The UTQG 620AB rating includes an A traction grade for wet roads, so it handles rain and slush reasonably well. If your driving mixes snow, gravel, and pavement, this tire covers that range in one package.

Best for: SUV owners who want a single all-terrain tire that can handle snow, gravel, and daily pavement without needing a winter swap. Not ideal for drivers who prioritize the quietest highway ride or need maximum grip on deep ice.

Product photos

#9Best Budget All-Terrain Snow Tire

GT Radial Adventuro ATX All Terrain Tire

GT Radial Adventuro ATX All Terrain Tire
Load RangeStandard Load
3PMSF RatedYes
Warranty50,000 miles
Weight36.4 lbs
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What We Like

  • Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rated
  • 50,000 mile limited warranty
  • Sidewall cleats for deep soil grip
  • Wide shoulder channels improve wet traction

Trade-offs

  • Firmer ride on dry pavement compared to touring all-weather tires
  • Heavier than many all-season passenger tires at 36.4 pounds

This tire carries a Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, which means it delivers improved snow traction over a standard all-season tire, so drivers who face snow and slush on highways can rely on it without switching to a dedicated winter set. Interlocked center ribs provide dependable on-road handling and stability, while wide shoulder channels help remove water from the tire for better wet-road performance. A 50,000 mile limited manufacturer warranty adds peace of mind for those who want a single set of tires to handle varied conditions.

Sidewall cleats provide additional grip in deep soil and on loose surfaces, and the tire weighs 36.4 pounds, which contributes to a firmer feel on dry pavement compared to touring all-weather tires like the Bridgestone Weatherpeak. For the driver who needs dependable snow grip and does not mind a bit of extra road noise, this tire delivers real winter security where a standard all-season would fall short.

Best for: SUV owners who want snow traction and all-terrain capability without buying separate winter tires. Not ideal for drivers who prioritize a quiet, refined highway ride.

Product photos

#10Best For Jeeps And Light Trucks

Prinx HiCountry A/T2 All Terrain Tire

Prinx HiCountry A/T2 All Terrain Tire
Tread TypeAll-terrain
Weight47.0 pounds
Warranty50,000 mile limited
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What We Like

  • Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for severe snow
  • Aggressive multi-step tread blocks for stability
  • 50,000 mile limited tread life warranty
  • Designed for Jeeps, light trucks, and SUVs

Trade-offs

  • Heavier than many winter-focused tires at 47.0 pounds
  • All-terrain tread prioritizes off-road versatility over pure snow grip

The Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating means this tire is approved for use in moderate to severe winter weather, so it can handle snow-covered roads with confidence. That makes it a strong fit for Jeep and light truck owners who need a tire that pulls double duty: daily commuting in slush and weekend trail runs over gravel or mud. The aggressive multi-step tread blocks improve stability on- and off-road, and the 50,000-mile limited warranty adds peace of mind for drivers who put on serious miles.

The trade-off is weight. At 47 pounds, the Prinx HiCountry A/T2 is heavier than a dedicated winter tire like the Nexen Winguard Winspike 3, which weighs 36.4 pounds. That extra mass contributes to the tire’s rugged construction and off-road durability. If your driving stays mostly on cleared pavement and you want the lightest possible feel in snow, a winter-specific tire may suit you better. But if you need a single set of tires that can handle snow, mud, and off-road terrain, this is a capable option.

Best for: Drivers of Jeeps and light trucks who want a single all-terrain tire capable of handling severe snow without switching to winter rubber. Not ideal for those who prioritize maximum snow-and-ice grip over off-road versatility.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Tires For SUVs In Snow

We began by reviewing manufacturer specifications and technical documentation for each tire’s construction, tread pattern, and rubber compound. Snow performance claims were cross-checked against the industry’s Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, which is the standard for severe snow service.

Our evaluation focused on four criteria. First, certified snow traction: a 3PMSF rating was a requirement for every tire on this list. Second, tread design features like siping, groove channels, and studdability that directly affect grip on ice and slush. Third, load rating and weight, since SUVs carry more weight than passenger cars and heavier tires affect handling and fuel economy. Fourth, versatility: whether a tire is a dedicated winter model or an all-season or all-terrain design that can stay on year-round.

A research-led evaluation has limits. Our recommendations are based on what the specifications and expert analysis indicate about their performance. Owner feedback patterns were used to identify common strengths and weaknesses, but individual results will vary with driving habits, vehicle type, and local weather.

What To Look For In Tires For SUVs In Snow

Choosing a snow tire for your SUV means looking past the tread pattern and checking the certifications, load ratings, and intended use. The right tire will match your winter conditions and your willingness to swap tires seasonally.

Look for the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol for certified severe snow traction. Consider whether you want a dedicated winter tire for maximum ice grip or an all-season or all-terrain tire that can handle snow without seasonal changes. Check the load rating to match your SUV’s weight and any towing needs.

Three Peak Mountain Snowflake Certification

The Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol is the industry standard for tires that meet severe snow service requirements. It is not a guarantee of performance on ice, but it indicates that the tire has passed a specific traction test in medium-packed snow. Every tire on our list carries this certification. If a tire lacks it, it is not designed for serious winter driving.

Tread Design: Sipes, Grooves, and Studs

Siping, the small slits in tread blocks, helps the tire grip snow and ice by creating more biting edges. Full-depth 3D sipes, like those on the Bridgestone Weatherpeak, maintain this grip as the tire wears. Groove channels clear water and slush to reduce hydroplaning. Some tires are studdable, meaning you can add metal studs for extra grip on hard-packed ice. This is a valuable option for drivers in regions where ice is a bigger problem than snow.

Load Rating and Weight

SUVs are heavier than cars, and some are used for towing or carrying heavy cargo. A tire’s load rating must match or exceed the vehicle’s gross axle weight rating. Standard load (SL) tires are fine for most SUVs, but extra load (XL) or light truck (LT) tires may be needed for heavy payloads. Tire weight also matters: a heavier tire can make mounting and rotation more difficult, and it may slightly reduce fuel economy.

  • Check your vehicle’s door jamb sticker for the recommended load rating and tire size.
  • Decide whether you need a dedicated winter tire or a 3PMSF-rated all-season or all-terrain tire.
  • If you drive on hard-packed ice, consider a studdable winter tire for the best grip.
  • For year-round convenience, look for an all-weather tire like the Bridgestone Weatherpeak that stays on your SUV in all seasons.

A good rule of thumb: if your winter driving is mostly on plowed roads, an all-weather or all-season 3PMSF tire will likely be enough. If you regularly drive on unplowed roads or ice, a dedicated winter tire is the safer choice.

Tires For SUVs In Snow Compared

The table below compares the key specifications and best-use cases for each of the ten tires we evaluated.

ProductTire Type3PMSF CertifiedLoad RangeWeight
Bridgestone Weatherpeak All Weather TireAll WeatherYesStandard Load38.0 pounds
Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Winter TireWinterYesExtra Load (XL)36.4 lb
Hankook Winter ipike X SUV TireStuddable winter tireYesStandard Load30.3 pounds
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Plus SUV TirePerformance WinterYesExtra Load (XL)30.0 pounds
Michelin CrossClimate 2 All-Season TireAll-SeasonYesN/A31.1 Pounds
Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw Winter TireWinterYesStandard Load37.7 Pounds
Falken Winterpeak F-Ice 1 Winter TireWinterYesExtra Load33.6 Pounds
Mastertrack Badlands ATX All-Terrain TireAll-Season All-TerrainYesN/A36.0 Pounds
GT Radial Adventuro ATX All Terrain TireAll TerrainYesStandard Load36.4 lbs
Prinx HiCountry A/T2 All Terrain TireAll-terrainYesStandard Load47.0 Pounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need dedicated winter tires for my SUV, or can I use all-season tires?

If you drive in areas with regular snow and ice, dedicated winter tires with the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol provide significantly better traction and shorter stopping distances than standard all-season tires. However, some all-season and all-weather tires are also 3PMSF certified, like the Michelin CrossClimate 2, and can handle moderate snow without a seasonal swap. For severe winter conditions, a winter tire is the safer choice.

What is the difference between all-weather and all-season tires for snow?

All-weather tires, like the Bridgestone Weatherpeak, are designed to be used year-round and carry the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for severe snow. They use specialized rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures. Standard all-season tires are not designed for snow and typically lack the 3PMSF symbol. All-weather tires offer a middle ground for drivers who want snow capability without changing tires twice a year.

Can I put snow tires on only two wheels of my SUV?

No. For safe winter driving, all four tires should be matched. Using snow tires on only the front or rear axles creates an imbalance in traction and handling, especially during braking and cornering. This can make the vehicle unstable on snow and ice. Always install winter tires in sets of four.

How do I know if a tire is studdable?

Studdable tires are designed with pre-molded holes in the tread blocks where metal studs can be inserted. The manufacturer will specify whether a tire is studdable and may recommend specific stud sizes. Tires like the Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 and Hankook Winter ipike X SUV are studdable, giving drivers the option to add studs for extra grip on hard-packed ice. Check local laws, as studded tires are restricted or banned in some regions.

What tire pressure should I run in winter for my SUV?

Follow the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, which is listed on the driver’s door jamb sticker. Cold temperatures cause air to contract, so tire pressure drops in winter. Check your tire pressure monthly and adjust to the recommended psi. Do not overinflate or underinflate based on the season, as incorrect pressure affects traction, handling, and tread wear.

The Bottom Line

For most SUV owners who want a single set of tires that handle snow, wet roads, and dry pavement without seasonal swaps, the Bridgestone Weatherpeak All Weather Tire is the best overall choice. Its full-depth 3D sipes and Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification provide reliable snow traction, and its all-weather design means you do not need to change tires twice a year. It is not ideal for heavy towing or extreme ice, but for daily winter driving, it strikes the right balance.

If you face severe ice and deep snow, the Hankook Winter ipike X SUV or the Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 are better options. Both are studdable winter tires that deliver maximum grip when conditions are at their worst. For drivers who want an all-terrain tire that can handle snow, gravel, and pavement, the Mastertrack Badlands ATX offers the 3PMSF certification and a long treadwear warranty without requiring a winter tire swap.

The single most important factor in choosing a snow tire for your SUV is matching the tire’s certified traction and intended use to your local winter conditions. A dedicated winter tire will always outperform an all-season tire on ice and snow. But if your winters are moderate, a Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified all-weather or all-terrain tire can save you the hassle of seasonal changes.