Not everyone needs snow tires, but if you regularly need to drive in icy winter conditions, they can be a good investment.
Millions across the U.S. are bracing for life-threatening cold and snow
The National Weather Service warns of life-threatening cold and snow affecting a million people, leading to dangerous cold and travel delays.
- The price of studless tires varies widely depending on your vehicle and the specific set you need.
- Snow tires are made of a flexible compound and have more grooves for better traction on snow, slush, and ice.
Winter is here and 2026 is expected to bring a lot of snow. The worst winter storm of the season could be on the way, according to weather forecasts. Up to 18 inches or more of snow could accumulate in some areas.
Despite the severe weather, millions of motorists may still have to get to work, school, and other daily tasks during and after a major snowstorm. Fortunately, there are many snow tires that provide extra traction for winter driving.
Snow tires aren’t always necessary, but they can make a big difference for drivers who live in areas that are regularly hit by severe winter storms. How much will Americans have to pay for snow tires in 2026?
How much do studless tires cost?
The price of studless tires varies widely depending on several factors. According to AAA, low-end tires can cost anywhere from $200 to $600, while high-performance tires or premium brands can cost as much as $2,000 per set.
This may seem expensive, but “approximately 24% of weather-related accidents occur on snowy or icy roads,” says AAA. In slippery driving conditions, maintaining traction is paramount.
How are snow tires different from regular tires?
While the average tire is designed to provide traction on paved roads at moderate temperatures, snow tires are specifically manufactured to maintain traction with treads that account for snow, slush, and even ice. Snow tires have more sipes (grooves or grooves that provide grip) than the average tire. They also often feature stud holes for lightweight metal studs to increase traction on snowy and icy surfaces.
The rubber compound in all-season tires can become stiff in cold weather, but the compound in snow tires remains flexible at low temperatures. Popular snow tires include the Michelin X-Ice Snow, Bridgestone Blizzak WS90, and Continental Viking Contact 7/8.
Who should buy snow tires in 2026?
Snow tires are ideal for drivers who live in areas where it snows regularly. Additionally, it’s worth considering if your winter commute involves unplowed roads, steep hills, and potentially harsh driving conditions.
Although you can purchase one snow tire, a set of four performs best, so each tire on your vehicle has the same tread depth and style. Additionally, you can receive a discount if you purchase a set of 4.
Many auto service centers offer loyalty incentives that can make your total purchase and future services more affordable. Many tire shopping sites allow you to search for your specific vehicle and see a variety of snow tire options and customer reviews.
What happens to studless tires after the season ends?
Drivers can replace the snow tires with the original tires themselves after the season ends using a jack, stands, and appropriate tools to remove and tighten lug nuts. It is dangerous to jack up your car by yourself, so if you are not confident in changing the tire safely, we recommend that you use an auto service center or dealer.
The service center can install and balance the original tires after the season. Although more expensive than a DIY replacement, professional mechanics often have a lift for your safety and can perform additional checks on your vehicle and tires.
