Rating of the best silent winter tires for 2022

The operation of any vehicle in winter conditions is much more complicated compared to summer trips. At the same time, the noise emitted by car tires becomes an additional source of inconvenience while driving. However, there are exceptions - silent tires, which, due to special technologies, have a reduced noise level and give a comfortable feeling when driving. Such tires have a special marking so that the buyer does not make mistakes when choosing.

This review presents the ratings of the quietest tires installed on cars, SUVs (crossovers), as well as light-duty minibuses.

General information

A car tire is a wheel element in the form of an elastic rubber-cord shell on a disc rim filled with compressed air.

Intended for:

• setting the direction of movement of the car, regardless of climatic conditions or road surface;
• ensuring traction with the road;
• perception of the weight of the car when parked and in motion;
• shock absorption and absorption of road irregularities;
• transmission of effective motor power and braking forces.

Design

Main components:

• carcass - layers of rubberized cord to ensure strength, perception of internal air pressure, as well as transfer of external load from the road to the wheel;

• breaker - a metal wire embedded in rubber between the tread and the carcass to improve their interconnection, prevent delamination due to the action of centrifugal and external forces, absorb shock loads and increase resistance to mechanical stress;

• tread - a high-strength rubber layer with a relief pattern of grooves and protrusions on the outer surface (treadmill), in contact with the road surface, to grip the wheel with the road and protect the carcass;

• landing board - a thickened edge of the tire for a tight fit on the wheel rim;

• sidewalls - areas between the side and the shoulder area for protection against damage and marking;

• shoulder zone - the area between the sidewall and the tread to increase lateral rigidity, receive loads and improve the connection of the carcass with the tread.

Kinds

By appointment

1. For cars.

2. For off-road vehicles (SUV).

3. For commercial vehicles and minibuses.

According to operational parameters

1. Summer (road) - for movement at positive temperatures (more than + 5⁰С), but with loss of elasticity, deterioration in handling, lengthening of the braking distance at low temperatures.

2. Winter - for use in frost, with snow cover, ice with different tread height and rubber composition from summer:

• European - for a mild winter with an almost clean track, long slots along the tread diagonal and lugs on the side;

• Scandinavian (arctic, Velcro) - for winter with harsh conditions, material from soft grades of rubber compound with dense placement of sipes and shoulder blocks with a sharp edge, can be studded;

• Scandinavian (Arctic) with spikes - to achieve an advantage in icy conditions. However, when driving on asphalt, noise increases, and when accelerating or braking, the studs can fly out.

3.All-season - for a car with year-round use without regard to the season to save at the expense of safety in severe frosts or heat.

4. Universal - for SUVs and driving on different roads.

5. Off-road - for constant off-road driving with increased fuel consumption, noise and poor handling on asphalt.

By type of construction

1. Radial - frame threads follow along the radius, denoted by the letter R.

2. Diagonal - carcass threads are located at an angle to the radius of the wheel.

By tread pattern

1. Non-directional symmetrical - common models with recesses that have a mirror image. Installed in the car regardless of side or rotation.

2. Directional symmetrical - the best water discharge with high speed indexes for sports cars according to Rotation and wheel rotation.

3. Non-directional asymmetric - with excellent performance, combining the advantages of symmetrical tires. They are installed in the car according to the markings on the sidewall - Outer (outside) and Inner (inside).

4. Directional asymmetric - the inner side of the tread is reduced. They are set according to the designations Rotation, Outer, Inner.

By profile height

1. Regular -70-82% of the tire width.
2. Low profile - 50-65%.
3. Ultra low profile - less than 50%.

By sealing

1. Chamber.

2. Tubeless.

Noisiness

For passenger cars:

1. Quiet - with an approximate average noise level during movement of less than 70 dB;
2. Average noise - 71-73 dB;
3. Noisy - more than 74 dB.

Factors affecting noise reduction:

• the presence of continuous circumferential ribs connected by grooves;
• a variety of forms of tread blocks;
• small block sizes;
• reinforced shoulder stabilizing the blocks;
• small elements in the grooves to destroy the air flow;
• narrow size;
• rubber softness;
• soft suspension;
• low speed;
• pumping up to the recommended pressure values;
• regular maintenance - balancing, alignment, rotation;
• lack of spikes.

Criterias of choice

Attention is drawn to the parameters:

1. Tread pattern - dimensions should be larger than summer ones. The wedge-shaped geometry evacuates slush well and is suitable for heavy snowfalls. A diamond or rectangular design is best for driving on unpaved roads.
2. Speed ​​index - defines the maximum value at which performance is maintained and safety is ensured. Noise increases as the allowable speed increases. Letters are used.
3. Width - in direct proportion to the degree of noise, but with a negative impact on stability and stopping distance.
4. Softness - depending on the unique physico-chemical structure of the composition. The softer the rubber, the quieter the tire, but the faster it wears out.
5. The absence of spikes reduces noise, so friction tires are much less noisy.
6. Reputable manufacturers do not produce low-quality products that do not meet the declared characteristics, incl. by noise level.

Where could I buy

Popular models of silent winter tires can be found in specialized stores or at manufacturers' dealers. The best inexpensive goods must be carefully examined, touched and felt.In addition, you need to check the certificates of conformity, as well as listen to good advice and recommendations from managers - what tires are there, which company is better to buy, how to choose, what to look for, how much it costs.

Pre-budget novelties, which are demonstrated by the best manufacturers, can be studied and ordered online in an online store or on popular platforms representing car tires. As a rule, product cards are placed there, which contain descriptions, characteristics, features, as well as photos of products sold.

The best silent winter tires

The rating of high-quality silent winter tires was compiled according to the opinions of buyers who left reviews in the E-Catalog and Yandex.Market aggregators. The popularity of models was determined by performance, noise level, reliability and safety.

The review presents ratings among silent tires for passenger cars, SUVs and minibuses.

TOP 5 best silent winter tires for passenger cars

Michelin X-Ice Snow

Brand - Michelin (France).
Producing countries - Poland, China.

Nordic novelty of the French brand, designed for use in regions with severe weather conditions. The new symmetrical V-pattern retained traction properties down to 4mm depth and fully utilized the contact patch on wet surfaces. The basis of the central edges are divided macroblocks. Improved performance is achieved by changing the geometric shape of the drainage grooves with an increase in their width. Equipped with two types of 3D slats - straight in the shoulder areas and curved slots on the central ribs.

The use of frost-resistant Flex-Ice 2.0 technology in a rubber compound with interspersed polymers increases grip on loose or packed snow, as well as on ice.

The price range is from 4028 to 23814 rubles.

• low noise level;
• stylish drawing;
• short braking distance;
• high stability;
• fast self-cleaning from snow sludge;
• increased resistance to hydroplaning;
• wear resistance;
• long service life.

• clearly expressed have not yet been found.

Video review of rubber:

Viatti Brina V-521

Brand - Viatti (Italy, Germany, Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Domestic model for safe operation in winter on Russian highways with constant traffic jams, chemicals or pits. Stability when maneuvering or cornering provides an asymmetric non-directional pattern with an increased number of checkers.

Impact mitigation occurs through the use of VRF technology and the ability of the rubber compound to change stiffness in accordance with the road surface. Due to the large number of transverse-longitudinal grooves, dirt, slush or water is quickly removed from the contact patch with the road.

The model range is offered at prices ranging from 1990 to 8850 rubles.

• low noise;
• good road holding;
• good handling;
• long service life;
• excellent value for money.

• require precise balancing;
• sometimes leads on a wet track.

Video review of the model:

Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice 2

Brand - Goodyear (USA).
Producing countries - Poland, Slovakia.

Nordic model with directional tread for operation on deep snow, ice or dry asphalt.The removal of melted snow is provided by a pattern, sawtooth shoulder blocks, as well as wide drainage grooves. Stability at high speeds and grip with the surface are guaranteed by hybrid lamellas, which have a zigzag pattern at the bottom and a mesh pattern at the top. Active notches on the central rib improve braking properties.

At negative temperatures, the parameters are preserved due to the cryo-adaptive rubber compound with cryosilane. Course stability with enviable handling is achieved by a hard base layer of a rubber compound with persistent elasticity in cold weather.

You can buy at a price of 3380-15524 rubles.

• good performance;
• quality manufacturing;
• predictive management;
• noiselessness;
• good traction;
• wear resistance.

• uneven behavior in a rut;
• controllability deteriorates with increasing temperature;
• weak sidewall.

More information about the model:

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2

Brand - Nokian Tires (Finland).
Country of origin - Russia.

An energy-efficient model for comfortable driving of most passenger cars on snow-covered roads. The addition of tiny crystal particles to the Nokian Cryo Crystal rubber compound provides excellent traction on ice. The presence of silica necessitated the addition of rapeseed oil, which acts as a catalyst for the cryogenic silica compound. Thus, the content of natural rubber is increased, which works as a stabilizer and gives excellent elasticity.

The change in pattern and the increase in the number of sipes have become additional elements of balance and excellent grip.An improvement in the efficiency of acceleration or deceleration was achieved by equipping the tread with special teeth that create additional edges.

Sold at a price of 3632 - 24000 rubles.

• low noise level;
• good handling;
• does not break into a skid;
• low rolling resistance;
• economical fuel consumption;
• application of the innovative Nokian Cryo Crystal compound for excellent grip;
• high performance drainage system with lamella pumps;
• wear indicator.

• rubber softness;
• overpriced for Russian products.

Video review:

Yokohama Ice Guard IG-50+

Brand - Yokohama (Japan).
Country of origin - Russia (sometimes Japan).

A popular model for comfortable movement in difficult conditions. Thanks to constructive solutions in the manufacture of an innovative rubber compound and 3D sipes, it has excellent performance on icy tracks. Optimization of the chemical formula of the compound with an increase in the content of silica increased traction properties. The rubber compound exhibits excellent absorbent properties by incorporating absorbent micro-bubbles into the structure to wick away moisture. In addition, it contains a white gel to give elasticity and improve the removal of a water film from an icy surface.

Offered at prices ranging from 2800 to 11650 rubles.

• low noise;
• minimum vibration;
• predictability of behavior on any surfaces;
• confident traction in the snow;
• resistance to sudden temperature changes;
• shortened braking distance;
• wear resistance;
• optimized rubber compound;
• reduced fuel consumption;
• extended service life.

• deterioration of adhesion at positive temperatures;
• does not like sudden movements.

Promo models:

comparison table

	Michelin X-Ice Snow	Viatti Brina V-521	Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice 2	Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2	YOKOHAMA ICE GUARD IG-50+
Diameter	14-20	13-18	13-19	13-21	12-19
Profile width (through 10)	155/…/255	175/…/255	155/175/…/245	155/…/285	135/…/265
Profile height (through 5)	40…70	40…80	40…70	30…70	35…70; 80
spikes	No
RunFlat Technology	option	No	No	option	No
Pattern Type	symmetric	asymmetric	symmetric	symmetric	asymmetric
Maximum speed index	H, T	Q, R, T	T	Q, R	Q
Load index	75…102	82…109	69…104	75…109	68…104
Maximum load, kg	387…850	475…1030	325…900	387…1030	315…900

TOP 5 best silent winter tires for SUVs

Continental ContiVikingContact 6 SUV

Brand - Continental (Germany).
Country of origin - Russia.

Friction model for all-wheel drive cars for the conditions of northern cold winters. Compound with good grip due to additional additives (polymer, silicon, silica) in the rubber compound. The elastic and elastic structure is preserved with a sharp temperature drop up to -40⁰С.

The tread with an asymmetric pattern conditionally consists of three zones. Inclined rubber blocks with dense sipes and sharp edges form the inner shoulder section, which is responsible for flotation on a snowy track. The central zone with sinusoidal sipes contains a longitudinal rib to improve traction on icy roads. Good cornering control is achieved by the outer sidewall, which includes paired rubber blocks. The special structure of the sipes ensures safety when driving on snow and ice. Rubber jumpers prevent the blocks from warping during braking or acceleration.

It is offered at a price of 6060-17500 rubles.

• noiselessness;
• narrow tread with increased friction and improved grip;
• high traction characteristics;
• optimized lamella structure;
• good handling;
• good water drainage;
• predictable behavior on a snowy road.

• too soft rubber;
• small lamellas are clogged with snow porridge;
• sometimes hard to balance;
• high price.

Video review:

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2

Brand - Bridgestone (Japan).
Country of origin - Russia.

Quiet model for confident braking and excellent handling on icy or snowy roads. The specially designed pattern ensures a smooth transition from the first to the second outer blocks for even pressure. The combination of innovative edges and cross-channels of the central zone improves handling stability with accelerating dynamics.

Tight contact with the road is achieved due to the new shape of the shoulder blocks. The surfaces are equipped with special micropores to absorb water. This composition improves handling on ice. In addition, efficiency is improved by including an RC polymer in the rubber compound that is not affected by temperature changes. The ejection of snow sludge is achieved by the correct gap between the slats with pressure distribution in the contact patch.

• high adhesion coefficient;
• low noise level;
• the ability to accelerate in winter to a speed of 180 km / h;
• micropores that reduce the break-in period;
• 3D slats with self-cleaning function;
• the use of a new composition of the rubber compound MultiCell;
• a large number of edges;
• excellent permeability.

• clearly expressed were not found.

Video review of the model:

Viatti Bosco S/T V-526

Brand - Viatti (Italy, Germany, Russia).
Country of origin - Russia.

Non-studded model with an asymmetric non-directional pattern for use on SUVs in harsh climatic conditions. Massive rubber blocks with a complex geometric shape and pointed corners improve traction and flotation. The edge effect is enhanced by a dense mesh of sipes that enhance traction on slippery surfaces, minimizing slippage or uncontrolled skidding.

Controllability during maneuvering is provided by rigid blocks of the shoulder zones. Snow slush or mud is removed by a system of drainage channels, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

Physical wear is slowed down by the use of microscopic silicon dioxide crystals in the rubber compound. The inclusion of special additives in it allows you to better adapt to sudden changes in temperature with the achievement of reliable contact with the coating.

The multi-layer structure of the tire, including a metal cord, a rigid breaker and a screen, provides protection against strong impacts when driving on rough roads.

Sold at a price of 3010-7056 rubles.

• little noise;
• reinforced cord;
• exchange rate stability;
• wear resistance;
• holds the road well;
• excellent value for money.

• a little harsh;
• jumps on bumps;
• slips on ice.

Rubber video:

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV

Brand - Nokian Tires (Finland).
Country of origin - Russia.

Friction model for operation in difficult weather conditions with an improved rubber compound. The addition of rapeseed oil increased wear resistance and improved handling performance.In addition, positive results were achieved with the use of multi-faceted crystals, reminiscent of mini-studs, well clinging to the road.

In an aggressive pattern, the number of sipes is significantly increased, the sharp edges of which provide indispensable assistance on icy tracks. Outward-opening grooves in the improved shoulder areas ensure quick self-cleaning of water or slush. Prompt response to changing weather conditions is carried out thanks to lamella activators in the shoulder and central zones.

The multi-layer structure dampens vibration for a comfortable ride on rough roads.

You can buy at a price of 5700 to 24000 rubles.

• low noise level;
• smooth running;
• excellent grip on icy or snowy surfaces;
• exchange rate stability;
• dynamic stabilization;
• quality manufacturing;
• long service life;
• wear indicator;
• light weight.

• collects small stones;
• high price;
• during thaws, controllability deteriorates.

Video review:

GoodYear Ultra Grip + SUV

Brand - Goodyear (USA).
Producing countries - Poland, Slovakia.

Silent model for operation in winter conditions on full-size SUVs or crossovers. Comfortable driving in difficult conditions is achieved by using the latest technology. A revolutionary helical layer has been added to the groundbreaking carcass structure to increase handling and strength, while also reducing distortion during vigorous maneuvering.

Driving stability is ensured by the V-TRED directional tread pattern with uniform pressure distribution across the contact patch.Longitudinal stability is achieved by a rib in the central part. The use of 3D-BIS Technology when lamellaring blocks creates bulges that are included in special recesses. A large number of stiffening ribs on powerful shoulder blocks improves grip when driving on loose snow, slush or mud. The appearance of hydroplaning effect is prevented by water drainage by two wide longitudinal grooves and curved transverse channels. Side impact protection is provided by a ring located on the outside.

Production with Run Flat technology is possible.

The average price is 11960 rubles.

• noiselessness;
• excellent performance characteristics;
• does not notice the track;
• clear control;
• good cross-country ability.

• sometimes on ice it keeps rather weakly.

Tire video review:

comparison table

	Continental ContiVikingContact 6 SUV	Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2	Viatti Bosco S/T V-526	Nokian Tires Hakkapeliitta R2 SUV	GOODYEAR Ultra Grip + SUV
Diameter	15-21	15-22	15-18	14-21	16-20
Profile width (through 10)	215/…/275	195/…/285	205/…/265; 285	185/…/295	215/…/275/295
Profile height (through 5)	40/…/75	40/…/80	55/…/75	30/…/75	40/…/75
spikes	No
RunFlat Technology	option	No	No	option	option
Pattern Type	asymmetric	symmetric	asymmetric	symmetric	symmetric
Maximum speed index	T	R, S, T	T, H	R	T, H, V
Load index	96…116	96…117	94…116	86…119	98…112
Maximum load, kg	710…1250	710…1285	670…1250	530…1360	750…1120

TOP 3 silent winter tires for minibuses

MAXXIS Vansmart Snow WL2

Brand - Maxxis (Taiwan).
Producing countries - China, Thailand, Vietnam.

Friction model for operation of minibuses in winter conditions. It has excellent traction and grip characteristics, providing an appropriate level of safety during a trip on slippery roads.An increase in tenacity with a reduction in braking distance is provided by numerous lamellas on the working surface.

The inclusion of silicic acid (silica) in the structure of the rubber compound improved grip on wet roads and reduced rolling resistance. An innovative pattern with closely spaced 3D lamellas has increased performance.

Quick cleaning of the contact patch from melted snow and water is provided by wave-like annular and lateral transverse grooves in combination with a dense network of lamellas. Improvement in steering sensitivity is achieved due to the wide central stiffening ribs. The use of a stable carcass not only improved grip, but increased strength and durability.

Sold at a price of 3460 - 7320 rubles.

• reliability;
• noiselessness;
• durability;
• optimization of fuel consumption;
• exchange rate stability;
• improved acceleration dynamics.

• not detected.

Triangle Snow-PL01

Brand - Triangle Group (China).
The country of origin is China.

Winter model for equipping small-tonnage minibuses, for Gazelle or Ford Transit. It has improved longitudinal coupling properties, increased load capacity, long service life. Asymmetrical pattern with increased density of lamellas. Numerous edges on the contact spot are provided by narrow slots located in millimeter proximity to each other. Thanks to them, reliable grip with confident behavior on the road is achieved.

The central part of the running area has an almost flat appearance. In this case, the shoulder zones with significant curvature. Due to this design, the width and area of ​​the contact patch is increased, which improves performance.

The average price is 4060 rubles.

• low noise level;
• good grip on snowy surfaces;
• confidently holds the road;
• wear resistance;
• long service life;
• excellent value for money.

• hard to find for sale.

More information about the model:

Toyo Observe Van

Brand - Toyo (Japan).
Producing countries - Japan, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, Taiwan.

Model for the operation of commercial vehicles of small capacity on a snowy road, incl. for Niva. In the manufacture of the running part, NanoBalance technology is used, which increases the stability of the physico-chemical properties of the compound. In addition, on cold surfaces, additional grip is imparted, combined with reduced abrasion and rolling resistance.

The symmetrical four-row tread pattern has a non-directional arrangement of elements. The central part is equipped with two wide longitudinal ribs, representing massive blocks connected by jumpers to improve performance. Uniform distribution of the load to increase the reliability of grip and improve handling is provided by blocks at the edges. Due to the transverse arrangement, the braking distance on slippery roads is reduced.

The model range of standard sizes is offered at a price of 4120 - 13633 rubles.

• exchange rate stability;
• wear resistance;
• economical fuel consumption;
• long service life;
• reinforced frame;
• low noise;
• shortened braking distance;
• stylish design.

• some users find them very soft;
• requiring precise balancing.

Video demonstration of the model:

comparison table

	MAXXIS Vansmart Snow WL2	Triangle Snow-PL01	Toyo Observe Van
Diameter	2017-12-01 00:00:00	14-16	14-17
Profile width (through 10)	155/…/235	185/195/215	175/…/235
Profile height (through 5)	55/…/80	65/…/80	55/…/80
spikes	No
RunFlat Technology	No
Pattern Type	symmetric	asymmetric	symmetric
Maximum speed index	R, T, H	Q	R, S, T, H
Load index	88…118	102…113	90…121
Maximum load, kg	560…1320	850…1150	580…1450

The procedure for choosing silent winter tires

1. Determine the preferred type of tires - Scandinavian or European.
2. Choose a manufacturer - a well-known brand (Bridgestone, Pirelli, Michelin), a reliable mid-ranger (Toyo, Viatti, Firestone) or a cheap newcomer (Rosava, etc.).
3. Look in the service documentation for the car specification, check the type and size of tires corresponding to a particular model.
4. Find a reliable dealer who does not sell counterfeit tires under the guise of branded tires.
5. Carefully inspect the product, for which a working glove should be held in the direction of the picture - with normal sliding, the grip will be good.
6. Feel for softness - with a deflection under the fingers, the tire will not harden and will properly perform its functionality.
7. Check the expiration date, which should not exceed two years (with a longer period, the quality of the tires deteriorates). Date of manufacture on the sidewall - four digits.
8. Examine the marking and ask the seller for a certificate of conformity to control the permission to operate this type of tire on the territory of our country.

Change tires on all wheels at once!

If the weather conditions worsen and the air temperature drops to +7 degrees, it is better to go to a tire fitting and change tires.

Enjoy the shopping! Take care of yourself and your loved ones!