Top 10 non-studded winter tires. Big test of winter tires: the choice "Behind the wheel"! Goodyear UltraGripIce Arctic - Scandinavian-type studded winter tires, test

The winter tire season started at the end of July. Appeared on store shelves and online catalogs latest news winter tires 2014-2015.

New winter tires from Nokian

Significantly updated the winter line with tires for passenger cars, including SUVs and commercial vehicles. Nokian offers customers co-production models Nokian Nordman 5 and 5 SUV. Rubber is equipped with studs new modification with round (for cars) and square (for SUVs) shape. The famous Bear Claw stud retention technology is also implemented in new tire models.

The friction tire line has been expanded with the Hakkapeliitta CR3 model. Tires are designed for difficult climatic conditions. It uses a new steel breaker and a higher content of silica in the mixture. Nokian Hakkapeliitta C3 is designed for installation on minibuses. The rubber is equipped with square-shaped studs and an optimized steel breaker for durability.

The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV promises the user the strongest sidewall and reliable grip thanks to the use of a new multi-faceted stud. To increase comfort, a soft rubber pillow is placed under the spike.

New from Bridgestone

Updated the line of winter tires for cars off-road. Blizzak DMV-2 has received a new generation of rubber compound. The manufacturer promises unprecedented grip with the road due to the microporous structure of the tread and the removal of 100% of water from the contact patch. Even load distribution is provided by an updated pattern, and ECO-Products technology is designed to reduce rolling resistance.

The range of Bridgestone lightweight friction tires has also been expanded with the Blizzak VRX model. The manufacturer himself calls tires his best creation. A new rubber compound, optimal traction on ice and increased durability are the key characteristics of the rubber, whose name literally translates as "top".

New winter tires from Continental

Released to replace the previous flagship model range updated ContiVikingContact 6. Rubber designed for the harsh winters of Russia and the Nordic countries. The manufacturer has developed a friction rubber tread pattern that is completely different from previous Continental creations. Viking 6 received improved grip, reduced aquaplaning and impeccable braking due to the innovative sipe structure.

In addition to the recognized market leaders in the premium and mid-price segment, the new items showed:

with Ultra Grip Ice Arctic SUV studded tires and Ultra Grip Ice 2 friction passenger tire
with new studded model Ice GUARD Stud IG55

She developed the WinterCraft Ice Wi61 with a friction structure and frost-resistant rubber compound and the WinterCraft Ice Wi31 with studding and improved behavior on ice.

Released new studded and friction tire lines: Arctictrekker NP 3 and Arctictrekker NS 3, respectively. The updated models replaced the MA-SPW. Tires are built using unique technology Maxxi VIP. Rubber received improved grip, increased wear resistance and an optimized rubber compound.

Winter tires season 2014-2015 promise greater safety on the roads and comfortable driving. Each manufacturer competes with itself in creating the best winter tires. Let's see who made it.

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The next winter season has started, and with it the most suitable time has come to select high-quality tires for your car. Numerous manufacturers have filled the market with a wide range of studded and friction tires, significantly complicating the task of choosing an ordinary motorist. So that you make the right choice among such a wide variety, Finnish experts have tested an impressive amount of winter tires, but we summarize their work by offering a final rating.

But let's start with a review of several of the most popular new products that are already successfully implemented on the Russian market this season (winter 2014-2015).

This list will be opened by studded "tires", developed on the basis of the Hakkapeliitta 5 model using computer modeling of the tread pattern. The tread itself received a 4-layer structure (Quattrotread technology) with a separate rubber compound for each layer, additional grooves in the shoulder area to improve lateral grip in corners, as well as interconnected checkers in the central zone, providing reliable directional stability. The Nokian Nordman 5 tires have round, wide-base studs fitted with bear claw technology that keeps the studs in a vertical position even during heavy loads, which guarantees reliable grip on snowy and icy roads.

Another studded novelty on the Russian winter tire market is tires. The developers have done a lot of work by offering completely redesigned spikes that are radically different from last year's model. Firstly, the rubber received a reinforced side frame made using Ironflex technology using special threads that dissipate the load over the entire area. Secondly, the new rubber compound has improved the elasticity of tires even at very low temperatures, providing the lowest noise level among all the novelties of this season. Thirdly, the improved tread contains 15% more sectors than the previous model, and the drainage groove system has received a new structure that copes with its task more efficiently. And fourth, the new cleats with a wide, tapered base are supported by a layer of thermoset rubber that hardens at low temperatures, giving the cleat a secure base that resists buckling and keeps the cleat securely upright.

The list of new spikes is closed by rubber developed for the Italian brand by a group of Scandinavian specialists. New line rubber Pirelli Formula Ice was originally created for countries with cold climates, so its rubber compound includes special components that allow you to maintain softness and elasticity even in very coldy. The Pirelli Formula Ice projector features a high sipe density, wide sipe grooves, and a one-piece, reinforced central rib to maintain directional stability on any pavement. The aluminum spikes of the Pirelli Formula Ice rubber received a hexagonal core with pointed edges and a wide base, fixed with a layer of dense rubber. These studs are almost impossible to lose, they provide excellent grip in the longitudinal and transverse directions, and their lightweight body contributes to reducing the mass of rubber.

Let's move on to the new friction tires ("Velcro"). First, let's note the German rubber, which has shown itself well in the current tests. Her main feature is an asymmetric three-zone tread designed to provide safe driving on snow, ice and wet surfaces. The tread was designed using computer simulation, in its outer part there are paired blocks connected by supporting bridges, in the center there are a large number of lamellas and grooves with sharp edges, and the inner part is equipped with curved blocks with stepped sipes, which allows you to simulate the effect of snow chains when driving on snowy roads.

The second novelty of the 2014-2015 season, worthy of close attention, is Japanese-made tires. Thanks to the introduction of a new synthetic polymer into the composition of the rubber compound, these friction tires perform at their best at any ambient temperature. The polymer changes its properties depending on the temperature regime, maintaining the elasticity of the rubber at an optimal level, and the special microporous structure of the tread surface (MultiCellCompound technology) allows it to absorb water formed between the tread and the icy road surface, which guarantees grip and handling. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 has a directional tread pattern with a large number of sharp edges and 3D sipes that improve traction on snowy and wet roads.

We will complete the review of new products with Finnish "tires". This friction rubber has received an innovative composition of the rubber compound, which actively uses high-quality silica, natural rubber and cryosilane, which guarantees the preservation of the elasticity of tires in a wide temperature range. In addition, rapeseed oil has been introduced into the composition of the rubber, which increases the resistance of tires to tearing. The top layer of Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 tires is additionally equipped with microscopic multi-faceted crystals that play the role of micro-studs, thereby providing additional grip on icy road. As for the tread, it has a directional pattern with an abundance of sharp corners, ribbed sipes, as well as special “claws” in the shoulder area for more efficient work in snow.

Well, now let's move on to the most "delicious", i.e. rating of winter tires for the 2014-2015 season. The rating is based on large-scale tests conducted by a team of Finnish specialists from the Test World company, known throughout the world. We note right away that the Finns take a rather scrupulous and responsible approach to their business, and therefore they purchase all the test material on their own in a regular retail network, which means that manufacturers do not have the opportunity to send “charged” versions of their tires for testing. The tests themselves took place outside the Arctic Circle both in the open air and in a special room with the ability to adjust the level of humidity and temperature. During the tests, experts evaluated the behavior of rubber on snow, ice, dry and wet asphalt, giving marks, which were then multiplied by the weight coefficient. As part of the study, we measured braking distances vehicle, its acceleration characteristics, handling and directional stability, as well as the noise level in the cabin (front and rear). You can get acquainted with the final results of the rating by the corresponding links below.

Choosing performance and quality tires for winter operation car, we get excellent safety conditions and complete confidence in the trip. Among the important features of modern tires are manufacturability and a constant increase in the level of controllability. Therefore, it is better to give preference to new products offered by global concerns. If in many branches of automotive technology, experts recommend installing parts from little-known specialized brands, then in the case of tires, the advice will be different. It is better to choose expensive tires from world leaders in the production of automotive rubber. Only in this way will you be able to achieve the desired parameters of the trip in winter.

The rating of winter non-studded tires for the 2015-2016 season will help you understand which brands are best for buying tires. Today, almost all manufacturers presented their new products for the next winter season, so we can consider current proposals, as well as inventions from past seasons. Having studied the range of reputable manufacturers, we will be able to understand what kind of rubber is best to buy for your car. In the texts, we do not quote the prices of the offers, because the prices depend on the size of the wheel and are subject to change before the start of the winter season.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 - the leader in all characteristics

This rubber was not introduced this season, but remains the leading non-studded tire for 2015-2016. Rubber allows you to feel solid ground under your car even when you are driving on ice. Most important specifications of this invention, which the manufacturer is proud of, are the following:

the composition of winter tires is unique, the tread is made of expensive rubber alloys;
the best world leaders in this field worked on the shape of the tread;
adhesion with any coatings is provided in the best possible way;
rolling resistance is incredibly low, this reduces fuel consumption on a car;
excellent preparedness for wet roads and the presence of melted snow on the pavement.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 is a tire designed specifically for urban use. On ice, packed snow, wet cold asphalt and dry roads, this acquisition will show itself only from the best side. Such features increase the safety of the trip and give the driver more control over the transport in winter.

Yokohama IceGuard Studless IG50 - new for sports fans

Not so long ago, the manufacturer Yokohama practically fell out of sight of car owners. The company produced mostly sports tires, so ordinary buyers simply could not find the necessary offers in its assortment. IceGuard Studless IG50 is a novelty that lives up to the resounding and famous name of the manufacturer with such features:

asymmetric tread that keeps the car in control even on ice;
liquid removal from under the wheels, no snow sticking to the tread;
successful format of each tread, universal option for compact cars;
versatility of operation, the ability to travel on asphalt without excessive wear.

The corporation's sports experience has allowed it to create really high-quality tires that are in demand among drivers who understand the difference. Purchasing Yokohama IceGuard Studless IG50 will be a step towards better handling and lower fuel consumption in your car. To do this, it is enough to purchase original tires from a world famous brand.

Michelin X-ICE 3 is one of the leaders for the second year in a row

In the 2015-2016 season, Michelin Corporation, which has received a certain leadership in the elite rubber class in Russia, will not release new winter tires. Nevertheless, the X-ICE 3 rubber introduced last year has every chance of becoming the top seller for premium tires again. passenger cars And compact crossovers. Rubber has excellent advantages over competitors:

extended service life and increased wear resistance in various conditions;
the possibility of operation in severe winter conditions of the northern climate;
preparedness for trips on a variety of surfaces on a winter road;
a good choice in size - you can pick up almost any car;
improved acceleration on slippery surfaces and reduced fuel consumption in winter.

Many motorists who have decided to purchase a very expensive Michelin X-ICE 3 winter tire have received an incredible experience from operating a car with updated properties. The company provides excellent opportunities to its customers, unlimited management in winter and quite a long period of use of the purchase.

Kumho SOLUS Vier KH21 - confident winter tires

Kumho Corporation rarely releases new products, and this time it managed to surprise a potential buyer with its truly innovative approach to business. The corporation was given an ideal sales opportunity as the initial feedback on the SOLUS Vier KH21 was amazing. The main details that rubber buyers noticed are as follows:

real reduction in fuel consumption compared to cheaper options;
good rolling, movement without stops on ice and snow, on other cold surfaces;
all-weather properties, which allows you to operate Kumho tires on heated asphalt;
very low level of wear, many claim that it is the leader in stability;
excellent handling, especially on standard winter road surfaces.

The company is developing tires for supercars, because this option is installed on many cars in production. This experience has led to the creation of excellent universal winter tires Kumho SOLUS Vier KH21. A good decent model is definitely worth the money, but you really have to pay a lot for it, the brand has never been cheap.

Dunlop Winter MAXX WM01 - a good solution for any car

Dunlop quality tires will allow you to realize any style of travel, create safety and confidence in the operation of the car. The manufacturer abandoned innovations in the field of chemical composition of rubber, applying previous achievements, which enjoyed significant success. The powerful tread block resists breaking and lasts a very long time. Also, rubber has the following features:

high service life, which is confirmed by a variety of tests and reviews;
excellent efficient tread pattern with maximum performance;
amazing handling on slippery roads, rubber copes with any obstacles;
high resistance to side skids, thanks to the special shape of the tread;
reliability and safety of driving a car equipped with such tires.

Dunlop has always been considered one of the leaders in the automotive rubber industry. Nevertheless, Winter MAXX WM01 exceeded all expectations, providing a serious competitor to most of the world's manufacturers. Looking at the most expensive solutions in the industry, you can find more cons and cons than Dunlop's mid-priced offerings. We offer you to see how the manufacturer himself positions his novelty in a promotional video:

Summing up

Successful decisions in the field of winter tires were left without much surprise. You will have to pay a lot of money for tires, because all the new products and quality offers are presented by expensive brands with good quality production. These are not all worthy options, but other manufacturers offer less functional and safe tire options for winter operation. If you have a desire to try your luck, you can save on winter tires and write a review about a lesser-known manufacturer after the season. In fact, safety and confidence are clearly worth the money that reputable brands charge for their products.

To be convinced of the effectiveness of the winter tires presented, it is enough to read the reviews of those models that have been on the market for more than a year. Most owners of such tires do not consider buying a less efficient rubber with a lower cost. Therefore, in some cases it makes sense to overpay and get more benefits for your money. What winter tires are you going to put on your car in the 2015-2016 season?

The topic of seasonal tire change does not lose its relevance - we see a great interest in our publications on this topic, and it is the more acute, the closer the next season is. Recall that visitors to the site "Za rulem.RF" have the opportunity to ask their questions online and get answers from professionals. In touch with you Sergey Mishin - manager tire test group. Testers Evgeny Larin, Valery Pavlov, Andrey Obrazumov, Dmitry Testov, Anton Mishin, Yuri Kurochkin and Anton Ananiev are helping him.

We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the answers to the most typical and most unexpected questions from readers of Za Rulem.RF. Perhaps among them you will find information that interests you. If you haven't found it, ask your question in the comments below.

Ivan Ivanovich: So all the same spikes or Velcro?

Vyacheslav Subbotin, ex-curator bus group: Velcro, spikes! We conducted a special test on this topic. The temperature range when Velcro and spikes behave in the same way, say, show the same braking distance, is minus 13–15 0 С. At lower temperatures friction tires begin to win against the spikes. The spike may not always pierce through hard ice. And due to the developed sipes, friction tires have a large area of contact with ice, especially rough ones. With more high temperatures studded tires are better. But there are nuances. At minus 20 0 C, the difference between spikes and Velcro will be about 20%. And at minus 2–3 0 С, the Velcro braking distance will be almost twice as long. Therefore, choose the type of tires primarily on the average daily operating temperature. Details. It was great work!

Anonymous: Is it important to take on the "Duster"? By weight, it is at the level of passenger cars. Interested, for example, tires Pirelli Winter Carving Edge (listed as a passenger car / crossover) and Pirelli Ice Zero (listed as a crossover, i.e. SUV).

Vyacheslav Subbotin: It doesn't matter! difference SUV tires from tires with the same tread pattern, for example, for sedans, mainly in a reinforced sidewall. Blends, breaker design, etc. the same. But it often happens that for this or that crossover you simply cannot find ordinary tires without the SUV prefix - there is no such size.

Evgeny Korchagin: In all tests, there is not a word about the RESOURCE of tires. Here I choose an average-priced spike 215/65/16 for Qashqai. Tests praise "Nordman" and "Gislaved", but according to reviews, both after two, maximum three seasons, it is better to throw it out - there is a problem with the cord, and they lose the spikes. By comparison, the Ice Cruiser 7000 doesn't excel in tests, but broods freely for four seasons, many with no loss of studs at all. I myself bought “breeches” for the last car, I liked them on the whole, but there is nothing to compare with experience. So the dilemma turns out: to take tires for tests, but for two or three seasons, or still think about the resource?

Vyacheslav Subbotin: Evgeny! A couple of times in our long history of tire testing, we've done life tests. But pleasure is expensive. How much gasoline only needs to be burned. The last such test was five or six years ago. After a long run of tens of thousands of kilometers, we checked the driving characteristics of the tires. Won then Michelin. According to the data received, its qualities turned out to be closest to the original ones, but for others they fell sharply.

However, on some models, especially leader ones, we drive for a long time. They are on our editorial machines. And as experience shows, "Nordman" and "Gislaved" (and other models of well-known tire brands and their second-tier tires) even after four seasons, they practically do not lose studs. There is no need to even talk about a broken cord. To ruin it, you need to leave the season with a pressure of one atmosphere. In general, the "Continental" has the most durable sealing of spikes - they glue them. We tried to tear them out with pliers, such a dispute came up with the manufacturer. They puffed like steam locomotives while they were dragging. Pulled out ... with a piece of rubber. :-)

Mikhail Kiselev: Tell us about the behavior of Chinese tires (for example, the beloved Triangle), Korean ones (Nexen or Kumho) and compare them with Russian and, if possible, Japanese used ones (most likely 50% and more than a tread), because the “Behind the wheel” tests are of little interest in the Far East.

Vyacheslav Subbotin: Chinese tires still occupy a tiny share in the domestic market. Our motorist just looks at them. So we do not yet take these tires into regular tests, although we also study products from the Middle Kingdom. You know, according to the first sensations, they are of the same quality as Chinese cars. Driving properties are not very good. I wouldn't buy these for myself. But the low price can serve as a weighty argument. An experienced motorist who has driven all his life on summer tires in winter can afford it. It is likely that in the next tests we will taste Chinese novelties. But the result can be predicted in advance. Tires "Nexen" or "Kumo" from the second tier of Korean tire manufacturers do not shine with test results. Hankook looks much better against their background. They got serious about designing tires for Russia, Scandinavia and other winter countries. For example, they have a powerful research center along with a test site in Europe. Therefore, the results of our tests are high. We do not sell used tires. And we believe that it is risky to buy such and ride them. As a rule, they are heavily worn and may have hidden damage. In the 90s, I myself rummaged through a pile of tires that served in Europe. Then the whole capital was in such dumps. I found four, it seemed to me, excellent tires. I put it on the "Moskvich-2141", so he, the poor fellow, immediately began to lead to the side. And by the end of winter, a cord came out of two tires. Threw money away.

Tatyana Rzhannikova: Hakkapeliita is always ahead in tests. And the price is also a leader. But "Nordman" - is it "Hakka" of past models? Or, in all respects, is another tire made using simplified technologies?

Vyacheslav Subbotin: "Nordman" is really "Hakka" of previous generations, and it is prepared on the same molds. The technology is exactly the same as that of Hakka. But the materials are used a little easier. Let's say a simple cylindrical spike. It would be different, and the price would increase significantly. However, this does not mean that Nordman is bad. Look at the test results, the table of measurements and expert assessments. Sometimes he sets the heat for new models of advanced companies.

Anonymous: Good afternoon, please advise winter tires for Ford Mondeo 1.5 tons, front-wheel drive, 215/55/R17, and which ones are better for my region. I live in Saratov, winter temperature is from -15 to -25, studded or Velcro? I don’t go out of town in winter, roads in the city are rarely uncleaned, more often sleet.

Vyacheslav Subbotin: Colleague, I also drive! The studded Nord-Frost 5 have been standing for the fourth year already. For this machine and a variety of operating conditions - what you need. And I go skiing to the mountains on them, and I choke on slushy Moscow in traffic jams. Therefore, I recommend you studded tires, and from the top line. Like it or not, the Mondeo is a big, heavy and nimble car. He needs predictable reactions. After all, his connection with the road is not so hot - the steering wheel and brakes are not informative enough. Good tires will make up for this. "Nord-Frost" chose, first of all, from driving characteristics, but looked at the price / quality ratio. Now the wear is small, rare spikes have flown out. Looked closely before this to the "Michelin X-Ice North 2". The characteristics are similar, but the high price confused. Perhaps next season I will still put myself a studded Michelin.

Yuri Rogov: Tell me, please, what is the difference between KontiAysKontakt tires with BD and HD indices?

Sergey Mishin: These indices appeared on KontiIceContact tires in 2013. The BD index tells you that these are ordinary, “old” ones with so-called diamond spikes. Tires with the HD index - modernized, modified to comply with the new Scandinavian rules to limit road surface wear, which came into force on July 1, 2013. HD differ from conventional (BD) in lightweight spikes and a modified composition. The number of studs in HD and BD tires is the same. In 2013, HD was supplied to the Scandinavian market, BD - only to Russian market. Since 2014, Continental has promised to produce and supply only HD tires to all markets.

Sergey Amosov: If possible, show the difference in numbers between "European" and "Scandinavian" friction tires (Velcro).

Sergey Mishin: "Scandinavian" friction tires - the main tires for our market - for harsh winters, have softer tread rubber (50–55 Shore units), which ensures best performance on ice and snow. Cons - relatively "loose" behavior on asphalt and not the best brakes. "Central European" friction tires are primarily focused on crude, warm winter. “Sharpened” for handling and brakes on wet pavement and damp compacted snow, they are distinguished by higher resistance to hydroplaning and slashplanning. Cons - low grip on ice.

They are divided into soft (hardness 58–60 Shore units) and hard (60–65 units). It can be used in warm regions of Russia and megacities (Moscow, St. Petersburg), where there is practically no ice on the roads. The harder the rubber, the better the brakes and behavior on asphalt, but the worse the grip on ice.

Maxim Sysolyatin: Still, I would like to return to the resource of studded tires. Are there any criteria (other than the loss of spikes) that you can rely on and understand that it's time to change the tires? Another question: you said that your editorial cars have different tires with different service life, maybe just check them - compare them with the same new ones. That will be interesting!

Sergey Mishin: The main criterion for assessing the condition of winter tires is residual. In reality, a winter tire ceases to be when there are 4 or less millimeters left. At the same time, tire manufacturers allow the operation of such worn tires in the summer. It is incorrect to compare new tires with those worn out for several years, since almost all manufacturers EVERY YEARLY upgrade their models (in terms of mixture composition, materials and design). Even new tires of the same model, but with different years of manufacture, differ in performance.

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Maxim Sysolatin: Several questions at once. Why don't heavy trucks and city buses "change shoes"? At the interchanges of the Moscow Ring Road, they are the main cause of congestion! How can I find out the production date of tires and what is their shelf life? Finally, is it true thatIs it better to use smaller tires in the winter than in the summer?

Sergey Mishin: About heavy trucks and buses. In our country there are no laws (as in the Scandinavian countries) on the mandatory use of winter tires. “Changing shoes” for trucks and buses is very expensive, the issue of storage is difficult summer tires. But by and large, you are right, such a law is long overdue. Pro . On the sidewall of any tire, you can find a “pressed out” combination of four digits, for example 2014. The first pair means the week of manufacture, the second - the last two digits of the year of manufacture. About tire life. according to Russian law car tire must serve for at least 5 years. Further, the consumer is advised to evaluate the condition of the tire himself by the presence or absence of small cracks on the sidewall. Tire manufacturers do not recommend using tires longer than 7–8 years, the critical age is 10 years, even if the tread looks like new. During this period, rubber significantly loses its characteristics. Pro . Check out our 14" tire test. In the summer we test tires 185/60R14, in winter on the same machines 175/65R14. A wider tire in summer provides better traction on pavement. Narrow allows you to achieve a higher specific pressure in the contact patch, which means it will be better to cling to the ice. In addition, narrow tires “cut” snow porridge on the road more easily and do not float up in puddles so easily.

Evgeny Arefiev: Tell me, what kind of studded tires to choose for the Duster within 4000 rubles per wheel? I live in Volgograd, the roads are poorly cleaned in winter, so the defining qualities of a tire should be patency and handling on snow and ice. I'm more inclined towards Cordiant Snow Cross or Nokian Nordman 4. Which is better?

Sergey Mishin: For snow and Ice Nordman 4 is better. After all, the tread of this tire follows the pattern Nokian tires Hakkapeliitta 4 is a multiple test winner.

Andre M: My BMW X3 E83 has summer 17R 235/55, tell me what size to put on winter?

Sergey Mishin: BMW does not provide narrower tires for your car. So for the winter you will have to stay in the same size. I recommend choosing tires with a directional tread pattern, these more effectively clear the road from water and snow in the contact patch.

Alexander Taubinsky: On my Octavia, the summer 16R205/55 is standard, I decided to save money and buy 15R195/65 on rims, which, all other things being equal, is cheaper than buying only 16R205/55 tires, plus saving twice a year on changing shoes. What are the pros/cons of lowering the radius?

Sergey Mishin: Switching to the size 195/65R15 instead of 205/55R16 in winter conditions is a technically very competent decision. The rolling radius of tires of these sizes is almost the same, so there will be no distortion in the speedometer readings. Tires with a width of 195 mm float on water and slush at a higher speed compared to 205 mm, and therefore they are safer. On snow and ice, such tires will have slightly better grip, since their specific pressure per unit area is slightly higher. In addition, the increased profile makes the tire more comfortable, adding a smooth ride on bumps, and road bumps and gouges are more common on winter roads. The disadvantages of narrower and higher tires are slightly worse brakes on asphalt (other laws of physics work here, the width of the contact patch is reduced). And also - less clear reactions on the same asphalt, due to the fact that a high tire is more deformed under the action of lateral forces. But since the points described in the previous paragraph, 195 / 65R15 tires are also preferable. At the same time, as you noted, 15th tires are significantly cheaper than 16th ones.

TSHG: Why in the last two tests of winter tires published on the site, KontiIceContact tires showed different results - 2nd place in passenger sizes and 4-5th in SUV?

Sergey Mishin: Firstly, the lists of competitors in these tests are different - in 14th there were no such strong rivals as Goodyear UltraGrip Ice Arctic and Pirelli Ice Zero. Secondly, I believe that small and large pies, even made from the same dough, will taste different - because they are baked differently. One of the factors affecting tire grip and handling is the distribution of specific pressure in the contact patch. It is likely that these characteristics are different in Continental ContiIceContact tires in sizes 175/65R14 and 215/65R16. The weight of the vehicles also matters. Lada Priora And Renault Duster- they load tires differently. Compare the results of measurements, for example braking distance on asphalt. In size 175/65R14, the result of Conti on wet pavement (20 m) is better than the "Pirelli" Formula Ice (21.1 m) per meter, and on dry pavement (34.2 m versus 34.6 m) it is almost half a meter better. And in size 215/65R16, on the contrary, Formula Ice (20.0 m) on wet pavement outperforms Conti (21.1 m) by the same meter. On the dry, their results - 33.6 m and 33.7 m - are comparable.

Olegg: Are spikes really quiet??

Sergey Mishin: One of the main disadvantages of studded tires is increased noise. But this is not the main evil: the spikes also increase the braking distance on asphalt (iron slides on it better than rubber even on cars with ABS) by about 5 percent relative to friction.

Today, only Nokian has succeeded in implementing a tire (with HKPL 8 tread) in a working prototype, capable of extending and retracting studs when necessary - see photo. But at the same time, the company's specialists admitted that these prototypes are still far from the finished product that can be offered to the market. In my opinion, there are studded tires that make less noise than others, but only at city speeds - 50-60 km / h. These are tires whose number of studs has been reduced in accordance with the latest restrictions in Scandinavian countries. I advise you to pay attention to Gislaved Nord Frost 100 and Michelin X-Ice North 3.

Artem Plasteev: Why are there no Maxxis anywhere in tire tests? Normal tires for sane money, and even with a lifetime warranty, not China, but Taiwan after all. But yes, there are a lot of expensive ones in tests ...

Sergey Mishin: Not quite the right question. This can be set for any model missing in the test. In 2010, we tested winter tires for SUVs where this brand was found. Then the tested tire took the fifth place.

Nicholas K.: I have a problem: a bump has bulged on the sidewall of the tire. Is it possible to go further, and if not, what is the best thing to do? Buy a new one of the same model or a pair of more modern ones? Tires are in good condition - Bridgestone Velcro installed, I think maybe take a couple of HKPL R2s, and leave the second BR wheel as a spare?

Sergey Mishin: A bump is bad. It can burst at any moment, the wheel will release air very sharply, the car can be “lost” at this moment. The surest option is to buy exactly the same tire model. The other pair will differ in performance, so that the car will change behavior in the corner: oversteer (there will be a tendency to skid) or understeer (pronounced drift may occur).

Andrey Khakhulin: We need advice. When buying a car (used), there was winter tires, but in this set: Dunlop SP Winter Ice 01 - two pieces, Toyo Observe G3-Ice - two pieces. Tires are in the same condition. Actually, what would you advise to buy, Toyo or Dunlop? I don't like it when different tires are installed on the car ...

Sergey Mishin: The Toyo Observe G3-Ice model is much fresher than the old Dunlop SP Winter Ice 01, which has already replaced the Dunlop SP Winter Ice 02 today. I hope it's clear which tires are better to buy.

ALEX S: Recommend the R17 SUV studded tires, which are optimal in terms of price and quality. The more I read, the more I doubt what to choose ...

Sergey Mishin: Read the results of our 235/65R16 SUV tire test. Sizes R16 and R17 are close. I would choose Nordman 5 SUV for myself - quite good tires while being relatively inexpensive. In second place is the Gislaved Nord Frost 100 SUV.

Andress: I am holding two issues of the magazine in my hands: one for September 2015, the other for September 2014. In both tests 14-inch winter tires with a striking difference in results. For example, braking on ice of 30–5 km/h this year Nokian HKPL 8 brakes 13.6 m, and this year it was as much as 18 m! And so with all tires. What, you ask, to believe?

Sergey Mishin: The absolute results of measurements on ice are not at all the same as on asphalt, where results can vary by two or three meters from year to year. On ice, they are much greater than on asphalt, depending on the ambient temperature, humidity, and many other weather parameters. Even on the same ice on different days, the same tire will have different results. Not to mention the difference from year to year. You can believe the difference between the tires as a percentage.

Andrey Veledeev: How should tires be marked that can be driven in winter in accordance with the new law? Enough snowflakes, M+S, or just "snowflake in grief"?

Sergey Mishin: Technical regulation describes winter tires quite extensively. Literally: “marked with a sign in the form of a mountain peak with three peaks and a snowflake inside it, as well as marked with the signs “M + S”, “M&S” and “MS” ... But at the same time, the residual tread depth allowed during operation is clearly limited - at least 4 .0 mm.

Olga Maryasova: It's time to buy winter tires, the manufacturer recommends 165/70R14 or 185/60R14. I don’t understand what size to choose for the winter for a 2008 Skoda Fabia car. with a 1.4 liter engine. Since I don't consider myself an ace, I chose Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8, but there is no size 185/60R14. The consultant suggested 175/65. Is it possible to deviate from the recommendations of the automaker? R14 is due to the existing discs, which are old tires.

Sergei Mishin: Deviate or not from the recommendations of the car manufacturer, such a decision will have to be made only by you. Tires in size 175/65R14 will fit your vehicle if they match the load index. The rolling radius will be very close to 165/70R14 or 185/60R14 tires.

Aleksey Sergeevich: Some manufacturers offer all-season tires. Tell about them. How effective are they in winter in urban conditions?

Sergey Mishin: All-season tires are universal tires for year-round operation in mild, snowy winters and cool summers. Do not expect high grip from them in the summer on asphalt, and in the winter on ice. In urban conditions in the summer you can live on such tires if there is no heat and you do not drive aggressively. The real Russian winter is more difficult. You can feel confident only on asphalt, cleared of snow and ice. But in yards covered with snow, in icy ruts, such tires are helpless.

Victor A.: Good afternoon! I re-read all the possible tests of winter studded tires and chose the Gislaved Nord Frost 100 SUV. One problem - the size I need 225/60 R17 (at the request of the manufacturer) is not available from Gislaved. Close - 225/65 R17, but in this case, the wheel diameter increases by 22 mm (I'm afraid it will cling to the arches when the steering wheel is completely turned out). Please advise a worthy analogue for Subaru Forester IV. Operation - Moscow and neighboring suburbs. P.S. Watched Continental ContiIceContact, but a little expensive. Maybe look at Yokohama (regular all-season), for example IceGuard Stud IG55? What is your relationship with this brand? For some reason it is not in your tests.

Sergey Mishin: It seems to me that you have a strange attitude towards magazines and tires. First, the Yokohama IceGuard Stud IG55 tires featured twice in our tests this year, in the September issue in 175/65R14 and in the October issue in 205/66R16. Secondly, this is by no means an all-weather tire, but a real studded tire, which cannot be standard on any car, even on the Subaru Forester IV. Read the magazine carefully!

Ivan Nikolaev: I choose winter non-studded tires on the Nissan X-Trail. My eyes fell on the Michelin X-Ice, but I can’t decide whether to take the new Xi3 model or the old Xi2. What do you think, is there a big difference for trips around Moscow?

Sergey Mishin: Any new models are always better than the previous ones. The question is the magnitude of the difference between them. I haven't had a chance to compare these two tires, but I guess the difference will be almost indistinguishable in city trips. But there is one caveat. Michelin can discontinue production at any time old model and it will disappear from the shelves. If you damage the wheel, you will have to buy not one, but a whole set of new ones or from another manufacturer.

Shahin Tarverdiev: Help me choose winter tires. Friends advise Nokian Hakkapeliitta 8 or Gislaved NordFrost 100. The first, as I saw it, is 1000–1500 rubles. more expensive. Is she worth it? For me, stability and quietness are important, since on my Lifan Solano no soundproofing. The recommended sizes 195/60 and 185/60 are indicated on the car door, is 185/65 possible? As I understand it, 195 is for summer, 185 is for winter. Thank you in advance.

Sergey Mishin: A typical Russian approach: "I would like good tires, but not cheap." Free cheese only happens in one place… Gislaved NordFrost 100 is perhaps one of the quietest spikes. You are right, tires are narrower for winter, wider for summer. As a rule, wheel arch contact occurs with wider tires, and 5% of the profile height should not be critical. To understand whether the tires are higher for your car, they should be tried on: it is enough to assemble and put one front wheel. Press the suspension, turn the steering wheel all the way to the left and right, pay attention to the gap between the tires and the edge of the arch.

20141013_06–2

x x: What about re-studded wheels?

Sergey Mishin: I don't trust re-studding. First, you need to understand why the spikes fell out of the tread. If the holes are slightly larger in diameter than required, then the new spikes will fall out again. If spikes of reduced diameter are to blame, you need to find the right ones. Secondly, you need to find the same studs that the tire was originally studded with. And it's not that easy. They differ in size, configuration (single-flange, double-flange, three-flange), materials, shape of the carbide insert… Thirdly, road dirt, sand, etc. has already got into the open hole, and it is unlikely that it will be possible to clean it perfectly. Those remaining dirt that could not be removed will work as an abrasive, intensively wearing out the new stud and rubber around it, which will lead to repeated loss of studs.

Yura Baranov: Tell me - the wheels are on r14 tires 205–70! Q: Can I put 185-70 tires on these rims?

Sergey Mishin: In your case, you need to specify the width of the rim of the existing discs. Find on the surface of the rim (under the tire) an embossed marking of its width. It is a number indicating the width of the rim in inches, followed by the letter J. The ratio of tire width to wheel rim is shown in the table.

Archi Thomas: There was a question about the choice of winter tires for the VAZ "classics". The choice fell on Nordman 4 or 5, Yokohama IC35, I also consider Tunga Nordway. I understand that Tunga does not fit into this company, but I have never met her in tests. Actually the question is: what is better to put, and what do you say about Tungu? Standard sizes 175/70R13...

(3 votes, average: 5,00 out of 5)

Do you know what car tires will look like in the near future? According to leading developers in the industry, car tires will be narrow and have a large diameter. In fact, they will resemble the wheels of bygone days, only made using new technologies. And in order to increase energy-saving and environmental properties, and at the same time optimize production, the rubber components will be radically changed.

Already at present, vegetable oils are used in production, which have replaced traditional components from petroleum products. The result of this was the appearance of silica (i.e. silicon) from rice husks, walnut shells are added to increase the adhesion effect, and experiments are also carried out with rubber extracted from dandelions - the search for new solutions, together with the development of alternative raw materials, is gaining momentum. In addition, the very concept of tires will undergo fundamental changes. For example, technology that maintains the desired tire pressure automatically is already being used with might and main, there are samples universal tires with “studded as needed” and airless tires that do without air (gas) pumping at all, that is, we are returning to the era of pre-pneumatic tires.

Here is that small statistics for 2014, which was mentioned above, for the domestic market, which shows sales in the retail market of winter passenger and light truck tires. Based on this, the article was built: “The Best Winter Tires 2014/2015” and the statistics show what market shares are occupied by foreign brands:

But here you need to make a small reservation, these figures show only a couple of bus segments: A and B - i.e. Premium class and middle class, and segment C is still outside these statistics - which includes economy-class winter tires. It should be noted that C-class products include domestic, Chinese and a number of other foreign tire manufacturers, and account for almost half of the market sales. What will happen next is still unknown, because the situation on the tire market is currently unordinary. Now let's see what Petrovich wrote to us.

Choosing the best winter tires 2014/2015

Since the entire range prepared by manufacturers for the winter period of 2014/2015 is almost impossible to put on the shelves. We decided to highlight the most popular models- novelties of the current and some of the last season, for example, the price of several tire sizes sold on our market is indicated. In addition, for some tire models, the current rating is indicated according to a 10-point scale, compiled from customer reviews. We start with winter tire models of the so-called premium and medium price range (A and B segments).

1. Winter tires Bridgestone presented since last year on our market by an optimized assortment of the Blizzak family. And here the new friction tires of the Blizzak VRX model come first.

The following model is new model studded tire Blizzak Spike-01.

In addition, the company has prepared winter season 2014/2015 new friction model for crossovers/SUVs - Blizzak DM-V2.

2. Winter Continental tires - the company pleased motorists with the release of a new friction model - Conti Viking Contact 6. This model replaced the veteran with the number 5, which we have known since 2008.

Regarding the studded winter tires of this company, let's say that a “lightweight” model called ContiIce Contact HD was manufactured and put on the market. Which fully complies with the new EC requirements, its sales have already started with us. Although, according to motorists, this winter the predecessor will “steer” on cars, i.e. – ContiIce Contact.

3. Dunlop Company last year introduced its new studded tire model - Ice Touch.

It is worth noting another new model of the last winter season, which belongs to the class of friction tires - Winter Maxx WM01 from Dunlop.

4. Gislaved also last season introduced a new generation of studded tires called Nord Frost 100.

Here it is worth noting that the number of spikes in this tire fully complies with the new requirements for European countries (ie, no more than fifty pieces per meter of wheel rolling). What did not prevent this model from showing really excellent results, participating in comparative tests and earn wide popularity among motorists.

5. Last season, another novelty from Good Year Company is a model called Ultra Grip Ice Arctic, which received excellent reviews along with high ratings from car enthusiasts.

By the way, already for this winter season, Good Year has prepared and launched a version of this model on the market, which is positioned as winter tires for crossovers. This is the Ultra Grip Ice Arctic SUV. In addition, the friction model of the Ultra Grip Ice 2 tire was released in a new generation.

6. Again, since last season by Hankook new studded tires of the Winter i-Pike RS W419 model are offered to motorists.

7. We got to Michelin, offering car enthusiasts from the winter 2013/2014 season its new generation X-Ice North 3 model, in which, according to the manufacturer, the sidewalls have become more durable.

This novelty has become a logical addition to the already known to consumers - the third generation of the friction tire model - Michelin X-Ice 3.

8. We'll tell you, of course, and, oh Nokian, which presented its model studded tires - Hakkapeliitta 8. For these tires, the company increased the number of studs by 1.5 times, but at the same time the tires fully comply with the new EU rules, which refer to the restrictions on the impact of studded rubber on asphalt road surfaces.

In addition, the manufacturer also offers friction tires in the new generation of the model - Hakkapeliitta R2, which received reinforced side parts.

And this season, you can already get acquainted with the version of studded tires for crossovers model - Hakkapeliitta 8 SUV, also with reinforced side parts, plus models of studded tires located in the middle price range - NordMan 5 and NordMan 5 SUV will enter the market.

Note that the NordMan 5 model was created on the Hakkapeliitta 5 “platform”, namely, the developers borrowed the carcass from it along with the tread pattern. But they used a more simplified composition of the rubber compound for the tread, and the tire received not a multifaceted, but a round core. According to the manufacturer, the braking distance on icy surfaces has been reduced by about 7 percent compared to the previous model.

As for the NordMan 5 SUV, these winter tires use the multi-faceted studs and carcass of the Hakkapeliitta 5 SUV, which was removed from the assembly line, although the composition of the rubber compound was left the same.

9. Pirelli Company- here it should be noted that it does not often produce winter tires, especially for the "harsh conditions of the north." But nevertheless, I would like to note the studded tire model called Ice Zero.

10. Toyo Company offers car enthusiasts a studded model of winter tires - Observe G3-Ice, which differs from other representatives in a fairly wide range of sizes - more than 100!

11. Not far behind and Yokohama, introducing a new generation of well-known studded tires - Ice Guard IG55. Compared to the previous model, the IG35, the new tire, as well as shortening the braking distance, also greatly increased the stud integration strength, the company said.

It is worth noting another development of the company, these are friction winter Ice tires Guard IG50, which are presented on the market in a fairly wide range of sizes - more than 90 types!

By tradition, group C (economy class tires) is represented by models of domestic manufacturers. It is worth noting that a separate part of them has already closely approached the price of mid-level tires. Among the new developments Russian companies(although you can see where the “tracks” lead from in the tread pattern), you can notice the studded tires of the Cordiant model snow cross. By the way, the company claims that these tires have a shorter stopping distance on an icy surface compared to the “prototype”.

It can be noted on the domestic market that a new brand has appeared, which can be attributed to the budget ones - this is Formula, formed (created) under the "patronage" of the famous Pirelli. So, this company has released the current model of studded tires - Formula Ice.

Talk about economy winter tires and not mention original stamps from the Middle Kingdom, it is simply impossible. New names, and especially new tire models, are released almost regularly, this also applies to the winter tire segment. By the way, here manufacturers declare models that have been tested at the world-famous training ground of the town of Ivalo, located in northern Finland.

New products include winter tires from Aeolus- This manufacturer is better known for the manufacture of tires for special and commercial vehicles. But starting from 2011, he expanded the range with tires for cars. In the new 2014/2015 season, the company offers motorists studded tires of the Aeolus Ice Challenger model.

In order to have plenty to choose from, we will present you a couple more models from China, the so-called “studded”, in addition, these tires are similar to the tread pattern copied from the once popular tire– Gislaved NF III.

Model Sunny SN-3860

Model Triangle Group TR777

Rating of non-studded and studded winter tires 2014/2015

Among the leaders of winter non-studded and studded tires, it is worth noting Gislaved and Nokian, which confidently promote their models on the market. Not far behind them are such Japanese tire companies as Yokohama and Bridgestone, which are also famous for summer tire models.

But in addition to these eminent manufacturers, it is nice to see domestic companies in the top twenty of the best winter tires, for example, Cordiant, which is deservedly in the TOP, making inexpensive, but high-quality tire models.