The Best European Tires for Alpine Winter in 2023-2024 by TiresVote.com 2024

The Best European Tires for Alpine Winter in 2023-2024 by TiresVote.com

Navigating the challenging terrains of the European Alps during winter demands nothing but the best when it comes to tire performance. At TiresVote.com, we've dedicated ourselves to the pursuit of identifying the top-performing winter tires for such demanding conditions. After an exhaustive review of dozens of professional tests and charts from all corners of the world, we've curated a list that represents the pinnacle of tire technology for the 2023-2024 Alpine winter season.

Our rankings are anchored by our proprietary CoreScore, a comprehensive metric that amalgamates user reviews with the results of professional tire tests conducted by a myriad of experts. This ensures that our recommendations are not just popular, but are backed by real-world performance and expert evaluations. The information we present is the culmination of extensive research, subtraction, and elimination processes, ensuring that you are equipped with detailed and truthful insights into the best tires the planet has to offer for the Alpine winter.

  1. Continental WinterContact TS 870 - Winner
    Continental WinterContact TS 870
    90 60
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Continental WinterContact TS 870 is a high-performing winter tire, renowned for its balanced performance across varied conditions, making it a top choice for drivers navigating the challenging terrains of Alpine winters. It has consistently demonstrated superior traction, exceptional drivability, and unmatched steering responsiveness in numerous professional tests. It is particularly distinguished for its strong wet grip, notable fuel economy, and sector-leading performance in wet, dry grip, and snow conditions. However, it has shown some limitations, such as not fully realizing its "best in braking" ambition and having a relatively long dry braking distance.

    • Balanced performance across varied conditions.
    • Exceptional wet grip complemented by notable fuel economy.
    • Superior steering responsiveness and traction.
    • Ranked among the quietest tires in multiple tests.
    • Strong traction on icy roads and commendable performance on snow.
    • Effective aquaplaning resistance and low rolling resistance.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Winner - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023.
    • Winner - Autozurnal: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Winner - ADAC: Winter Tire Test R15 2023.
    • Winner - ADAC: Winter Tire Test R16 2023.
    • Ranked #2nd - Tyre Reviews: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    Noise   Wet Handling   Driving Safety   Dry Handling   Snow Traction   Ice Traction   Ride Quality   Rolling Resistance   Wet Braking   Ice Handling   Snow Braking   Dry Braking  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
  2. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    Bridgestone Blizzak LM005
    88 56
    · Winter · 2019 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is a premium-class winter tire, excelling on wet and dry terrains. Its design emphasizes safety and efficiency, particularly in wet grip capabilities. While it consistently delivers in wet and dry conditions, it faces some challenges in snowy terrains. Nevertheless, its consistent top-tier performance and economic benefits make it a top choice for winter driving.

    • Stellar wet performance with neutral to slightly understeering characteristics.
    • Superior performance on dry pavements, marked by quick stopping capabilities and stable cornering.
    • Dominant in snow tests, leading in categories like snow braking and snow traction.
    • Economically efficient, contributing to fuel savings and low rolling resistance.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Winner - Auto Motor und Sport: Winter Tire Test R20 2023/24.
    • Ranked #2nd - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023/24.
    • Winner - Auto Bild Sportscars: Winter Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Winner - Tyre Reviews: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Ranked #2nd - Autozurnal: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    Wet Handling   Wet Performance   Noise   Snow Braking   Snow Traction   Dry Performance   Rolling Resistance   Aquaplaning   Snow Handling  
    Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
  3. Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330
    Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330
    90 44
    · Winter · 2020 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Hankook Winter i*cept evo3 W330 stands out as a winter tire that delivers a well-rounded performance across various terrains and conditions. With its proficiency in handling snowy and wet roads, it ensures safety and confidence for drivers. The tire's design prioritizes short stopping distances on both snow and wet surfaces, complemented by its dynamic handling capabilities. While it offers a plethora of advantages, especially in terms of its price-performance ratio, it does have a few areas where it could improve, such as ride comfort and noise emission.

    • Consistently short stopping distances on snowy and wet terrains.
    • Dynamic handling, ensuring a responsive drive in various conditions.
    • Effective resistance against aquaplaning, enhancing safety.
    • Attractive price point, offering good value for its performance.
    • Notable wet performance, including handling and aquaplaning safety.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Ranked #2nd - Auto Bild Sportscars: Winter Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Ranked #5th - Auto Bild Allrad: SUV Studded Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Ranked #6th - Tyre Reviews: Best Performance Winter Tires 2021.
    • Winner - Auto Bild Sportscars: Winter Tire Test R18 2021.
    • Ranked #3rd - Tyre Reviews: Winter Tire Test R18 2021.
    Wet Braking   Wet Handling   Snow Handling   Snow Braking   Snow Traction   Driving Safety   Price   Aquaplaning   Outside Noise   Comfort  
    USA+ USA+ · Canada Canada · Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+ · South Korea South Korea
  4. Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
    Continental WinterContact TS 870 P
    88 48
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Continental WinterContact TS 870 P is a premium-class winter tire that stands out for its impressive performance across a range of conditions. It particularly excels in snowy terrains, offering enhanced acceleration and confident cornering. The tire's design emphasizes safety, especially with its strong resistance to aquaplaning. While it boasts commendable dry handling and low noise levels, it does have areas of improvement, particularly in wet braking distances and handling during sharp realignments. Despite these minor setbacks, its low rolling resistance and overall handling make it a top choice for those seeking a reliable winter tire.

    • Superior lateral stability on snowy terrains, ensuring rapid acceleration and assured cornering.
    • Robust resistance to lateral aquaplaning, enhancing safety during wet conditions.
    • Reliable dry handling, with only minor areas for refinement.
    • Economic advantages due to its low rolling resistance.
    • Reduced noise emission, contributing to a more comfortable driving experience.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Ranked #4th - Auto Motor und Sport: Winter Tire Test R20 2023/24.
    • Ranked #3rd - Auto Bild Sportscars: Winter Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Ranked #2nd - Auto Bild Allrad: SUV Studded Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Ranked #8th - Autobild: Large Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Winner - Auto Motor und Sport: Winter Tire Test R19 2023.
    • Ranked #2nd - Tyre Reviews: Best Performance Winter Tires 2023.
    Snow Performance   Snow Acceleration   Noise   Dry Handling   Snow Handling   Rolling Resistance   Aquaplaning   Wet Braking   Wet Handling  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
  5. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
    Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3
    89 46
    · Winter · 2023 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Goodyear UltraGrip Performance 3 emerges as a winter tire that excels in snowy conditions, especially in braking. Designed to ensure high safety standards, it performs admirably on both wet and dry pavements. The tire's prowess in wet performance is particularly highlighted in deep-water aquaplaning tests, making it a suitable choice for regions with wet winters. While it offers a plethora of advantages, there are areas where it could improve, such as steering precision and rolling resistance. Despite these areas of refinement, its overall performance and safety features make it a top contender in the winter tire category.

    • Outstanding snow braking capabilities, ensuring reduced stopping distances.
    • Superior snow handling, instilling confidence in drivers.
    • Reliable lateral stability on wet pavements, enhancing safety.
    • Impressive wet handling, ensuring a seamless driving experience.
    • Led the pack in deep-water aquaplaning tests, showcasing its wet performance specialty.
    • Among the quietest tires, offering a comfortable driving experience.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Ranked #2nd - Auto Motor und Sport: Winter Tire Test R20 2023/24.
    • Ranked #3rd - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023/24.
    Snow Performance   Wet Handling   Noise   Snow Handling   Snow Braking   Wet Lateral Stability   Steering Response   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe
  6. Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 W462
    Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 W462
    87 33
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Hankook Winter i*cept RS3 W462, in its recent appearances in professional tests, has displayed commendable performance, particularly in dry and wet conditions. This tire, while showcasing significant improvements in handling and grip, still has areas of refinement, especially in snowy terrains and fuel economy. Its competitive pricing, combined with its well-balanced performance, makes it a considerable option for those seeking value and reliability in winter tires.

    • Notable improvements in dry and wet conditions, offering high levels of grip and swift direction changes.
    • Secured top ranks in dry handling and wet braking, indicating effective control and responsiveness.
    • Demonstrated stability in wet conditions, achieving good results in aquaplaning tests.
    • Competitive pricing, providing good value for its performance.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Ranked #4th - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2024.
    • Ranked #3rd - Tyre Reviews: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Ranked #3rd - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023.
    • Ranked #7th - Autobild: Large Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Ranked #3rd - Tyrereviews: The Best Winter Tires for 2022/23.
    Wet Braking   Wet Performance   Dry Handling   Dry Performance   Aquaplaning   Snow Handling   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe · South Korea South Korea
  7. Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
    Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2
    86 45
    · Winter · 2021 · Passenger - Performance Winter / Snow
    Verdict:

    The Pirelli Cinturato Winter 2 is a winter tire that has demonstrated a strong affinity for snowy conditions, with notable rankings in snow tests. It has shown impressive dry braking capabilities and has made steady improvements in fuel economy over the years. Despite its advancements and consistent dry performance, it still faces challenges, particularly in wet conditions, stability during dry handling, and fuel economy, where it lags behind some competitors.

    • Exhibited strong performance in snow braking, securing high positions in tests.
    • Impressive dry braking capabilities, surpassing several competitors.
    • Demonstrated consistent improvements in fuel economy from previous iterations.
    • Maintained consistent and commendable performance in dry conditions.

    Results of Professional Tests and Custom Top-Charts:

    • Ranked #5th - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023/24.
    • Ranked #4th - Tyre Reviews: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Ranked #4th - Auto Express: Winter Tire Test R16 2023.
    • Ranked #2nd - Autobild: Large Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    • Ranked #4th - Tyrereviews: The Best Winter Tires for 2022/23.
    • Ranked #7th - Autozurnal: Winter Tire Test R17 2023.
    Dry Braking   Dry Performance   Snow Braking   Noise   Dry Handling   Wet Traction   Rolling Resistance  
    Europe Europe · Russia+ Russia+
Year
2024
Max Score, points
100
Season
Winter
Auto Type
Passenger
List Type
Top Chart
Region
Europe
Date added
Sep 24, 2023
Date updated
Sep 27, 2023

See another Tire Tests