Like many other vehicles, one of the most challenging aspects of driving a Tundra is getting through the dreaded snow. Since driving on slush comes with an abundance of problems (particularly the lack of grip and safety hazard) a good tire decision could mean the difference between life and death.
Top 5 Best Winter Tires for Tundra
Listed below is a compilation of the 5 best winter tires for your tundra. These have been carefully picked to cater to different driving styles as well as excel in a broad range of categories.
Best tires for stock size Tundra rims:
- Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 Winter/Snow SUV Tire 285/60R18 116 R
- Continental Conti 4×4 WinterContact Radial Tire – 255/55R18 109H
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 SUV Studless Winter Tires
Best tires for after-market rims:
- Michelin Latitude X-Ice XI2 Winter Radial Tire – 235/65R17/XL 108T
- Yokohama Geolandar I/T G072 107R SL/4 Ply Tire
1. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 Winter/Snow SUV Tire 285/60R18 116 R
We consider it to be the best winter tire one can get for a Tundra…
The Blizzak DM-V2 is one of Bridgestone’s many best selling tires. This product is “a mark of confidence” and a “must buy” as multiple reviews claim. The fantastic performance has to be attributed to the intelligent tread which has been designed to allow a good grip, handling,steer control and excellent ice traction ALL at the same time. Moreover, for consumers who love aggressive tread patterns, the Blizzaks are the perfect investment. However, despite the pattern, the noise emission remains surprisingly low. The compound of the tire has also been enhanced with grooves in order to channel snow and water which provides resistance against hydroplaning as well as maintains the sturdy grip. 3D sipes are also incorporated in order to provide snow traction. This tire is good for reckless driving and its price is decent compared to other ice tires.
The only downside to this is the increase in noise and vibration with due time and the fact that the grip significantly reduces when driven in deeper snow. There is also high treadwear due to the relatively soft tread.
Pros:
- Great traction
- Good hydroplane resistance
- Good for fast driving
- Decent grip and control
Cons:
- Decreased grip with time
- Reduced performance for deep snow
- High Treadwear
- Tread loses flexibility in warmer temperatures
2. Continental Conti 4×4 WinterContact Radial Tire – 255/55R18 109H
A highly off-road capable tire with a huge load capacity…
The Continental Conti is highly recommended for truck drivers that seek to transport large amounts of load and demand off road potential. Enhanced with a silica based compound this tire provides traction, optimal braking and features a low rolling resistance which ensures fuel economy. When it comes to climbing steep hill tops or rocky terrains that are embedded in snow, the Conti winter contact is your best bet. This is because the tread is accustomed with biting edges (which allow it to combat snow) and feature a more open design which allows the tire to efficiently climb over rocky terrains. The noise emission is low and the driving comfort is great on slush however, there are complaints of loud roaring when shifting to a drier surface. The price is comparatively high when compared to premium brands however the tread is not as durable as its competition.
Pros:
- Good braking and traction
- Decent treadwear
- Good off road potential
- Great hydroplane resistance
Cons:
- Very costly
- Low puncture resistance
- Increased noise due time
3. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 SUV Studless Winter Tires
European precision engineering at its finest…
European based Nokian Hakkapeliittas are the best possible choice for any pickup truck/SUV owner. Not only do these tires have an abundance of good reviews from users but the company also provides long term warranties for the product which makes it a number one pick for many consumers. Perhaps the biggest drawback of these tires are the high price point, however since they deliver good quality, the notion is justified. The R3’s are engineered with a smart tread that allows it to attain a sturdy grip and handling even at temperature below -10 degrees. The comfort levels are phenomenal and there are no notable concerns regarding the noise factor. As for ice traction and braking, this tire receives top marks. The hydroplane resistance is also very good. This product is also good in terms of fuel economy, this is aided via a special formulated tread which offers a low rolling resistance and generates less heat while on the go.
For this model the only drawback is the cost and steer control in deeper snow, otherwise the ride performance is off the charts.
Pros:
- Good fuel economy
- Very good traction and grip
- High stability
- Low noise emission
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Low steer control in heavy snow
4. Michelin Latitude X-Ice XI2 Winter Radial Tire – 235/65R17/XL 108T
The best performance and steering response among winter tires…
Michelin is renowned for its supreme quality tires that deliver excellence. This tire is great in terms of grip, traction and braking however these features are only accommodated if the levels of snow are below 1cm. Hence, the deep snow performance of this tire is not up to the mark. Treadwear is average and the hydroplaning resistance is decent. However, noise emission and ride comfort is good as evidenced by many happy consumers. Fuel consumption is relatively good too. As for the drawbacks, there’s a significant lack of grip and control with this tire, which can account for a huge safety hazard. The price (just as the case with any other Michelin tire) is very high, however since the tire comes with a large number of concerns, the cost is not justified.
Pros:
- Low noise
- Good ride comfort
- Good fuel economy
- Great traction and braking
- Decent treadwear
Cons:
- Not cost effective
- Bad deep snow performance
- Decent treadwear and puncture resistance
- Increased vibration with time
- Notable safety concern with the grip
5. Yokohama Geolandar I/T G072 107R SL/4 Ply Tire
Uncompromised quality and finesse at a great price point…
Yokohama tires are popular in the market mainly because of their quality for a standard price. It is a prime pick for drivers looking for a good winter tire on a budget. One of the best things about this tire is that it guarantees a very good mileage, almost 41,400 miles. Another reason this tire is popular is because it is a fantastic choice for driving in deep snow, it can accommodate upto 4-6 inches of snow. Most customers rave about the steering response which is said to be immaculate regardless of the level of snow. Consumers also favour Yokohama because it manufactures a large range of tire sizes that brands like Bridgestone or Michelin usually do not offer. This is ideal for those looking to buy tires for the recent models of Tundra. Lastly, the tire is very stable, perfect for both heavy wet and hard packed snow, and demonstrates good hydroplaning resistance however, some critical responses over noise and rubber quality have been noted.
Users do complain, however, that with due time the tire weakens in terms of its grip and dangerously slides over ice.
Pros:
- Quality for price
- Good mileage
- Large range of sizes
- Good grip and control
Cons:
- Poor fuel economy
- Increased noise with time
- Rubber weakens over time
If you are worried about the wet performance of your winter tires, do check out this article: Are winter tires good in rain?
