If you have not already had a chance to read my blog called "Snow tires - do you know the right type?" you should preface this blog with the previous one.  If you have read that blog on whether or not snow tires are right for you, you likely know that there are many different brands of winter tires... but which is the best?  Just like I noted in the first blog, there are different variables that should be considered before buying a snow tire:  are you planning on using studs, what is your budget, do you need SUV tires or car tires, and so forth are all pertinent questions to ask yourself and know the answer to if you want the most bang for you're your buck and/or the best tires period.

There are gray areas too.  Perhaps you are just looking for the best tire out there regardless of the price.  Maybe you live in a region where you get more cold weather with rain and dry roads with little snow and ice.  You may be looking for a moderate snow tire.  And keep in mind that in some places, such as the entire country of Canada, it is illegal to have anything but a snow tire during winter.

Upon researching specific brand snow tires, I ran into a consumer research website, where they reached out to Scandinavia where the best, most comprehensive snow and ice tire testing takes place.  Like I mentioned about Canada, snow tires are required during the winter months in this region.  The consumer study group looks at a plethora of factors including purchase sources and other outlets that would likely rate tires.

To start, let's discuss the best affordable snow tire.  The General Altimax Arctic wins this category, as it's a great tire for those of us on a budget, not to mention a great choice for the winter months of St. Albans, Vermont and the surrounding, Burlington area.  The Altimax Artic line of snow tires rates almost as high as the product research group's best winter tire!  It grips almost as well on ice as snow, and better on wet pavement.  The only downside to this tire is that it is a bit noisier than and not as smooth as the higher ranking rubber, but keep in mind that the General Altimax Artic is more affordable as well.

The next category is for those that live in more extreme regions.  In Vermont, there are still many dirt roads, upon which there tends to be more ice buildup versus a paved roads.  If this sounds like you (and I'm looking at you Bakersfield dwellers!) you may want something with a bit more grip.  This is where the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5 steps in.  Swedish tire experts use the Hakkapeliitta 7 as the gold standard in the world of tire judgement, and what a benchmark they serve as.  Although they are even noisier and less comfortable than the General Altimax, if you truly need stud tires and an assurance that the VT elements won't take your car into the ditch (or worse), the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5 is the way to go!

Most Chevrolet SUV and Chevy Silverado owners in VT will use all-season tires all year long, however certain owners may need a tire that grips better in the deep snow or icy climates.  Even if the latter sounds like you, you MAY want to reconsider, because the Blizzak DM-V1 has converted many studded tire-fans into Blizzak tires-users.  The Blizzak DM-V1 actually earns even better reviews than many studded tires, so if you are an SUV or truck driver and want maximum grip in the winter months, the Blizzak DM-V1 is the way to go!  It even performs well in on dry and wet roads.

Are looking for a performance tire for cold conditions?  If so, check out the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3.  These tires will keep your car surefooted in the cold Vermont weather, but combines the need for a high performance tire's look for a completely safe sports car aesthetic even in these cold months.

Finally, number one rated winter tire according to, for the third straight year I might add, is the Michelin X-Ice Xi2.  Holding the illustrious title of being the best winter and snow tire in America, they are known to cling to snow and ice with confidence, while remaining superbly quiet and retaining a lower rolling resistance than other winter tires.

For more on winter tires in VT, check out our tire menu or send the service team an email today.  If you are ready to order you can schedule an appointment using our online appointment form or simply call the service team at 888-295-5380 today.

Jason Rodriguez
Handy Chevrolet
St. Albans, VT  05478