225/50R17 Winter Tires in Newfoundland: Hankook, Pirelli and Bridgestone
Drivers shopping for 225/50R17 winter tires in Newfoundland can choose between studdable and studless designs, but size is only the starting point. Load index, speed rating, vehicle requirements and the roads you normally travel all matter.
True North Tires currently lists three active dedicated winter options in this size: the Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2, Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 and Bridgestone Blizzak LM001. This guide compares their verified listing specifications without relying on changing prices.
What does 225/50R17 mean?
- 225 is the nominal tire width in millimetres.
- 50 is the aspect ratio, so the sidewall height is approximately 50% of the section width.
- R indicates radial construction.
- 17 means the tire fits a compatible 17-inch wheel.
All three tires discussed here are marked XL, meaning extra load, and carry a load index of 98. Their speed ratings differ, so confirm the complete service description required by your vehicle using the driver-door placard and owner’s manual.
Current 225/50R17 winter tire options
Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 XL 98T
The Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 225/50R17 XL 98T is the studdable option in this comparison. Its active listing identifies:
- Size: 225/50R17
- XL extra-load designation
- Load index: 98
- Speed rating: T
- Winter-studdable construction
This option suits compatible vehicles whose drivers want the ability to add studs for extra mechanical bite on hard-packed snow and ice. Studs should be installed correctly and used only during the period permitted in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 XL 98H
The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 225/50R17 XL 98H is a studless winter tire. Its verified listing details include:
- Size: 225/50R17
- XL extra-load designation
- Load index: 98
- Speed rating: H
- Winter-studless construction
It is a relevant choice for compatible vehicles requiring a 98H service description when the driver prefers a dedicated winter tire without metal studs.
Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 XL 98H
The Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 225/50R17 XL 98H is also a studless winter tire. Its active listing identifies:
- Size: 225/50R17
- XL extra-load designation
- Load index: 98
- Speed rating: H
- Winter-studless construction
Like the Pirelli, it provides a dedicated studless option for compatible vehicles calling for a 225/50R17 XL 98H tire.
How do these 225/50R17 tires differ?
The Hankook, Pirelli and Bridgestone products share the same size, XL designation and 98 load index. The most important confirmed differences are:
- Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2: studdable, with a T speed rating.
- Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3: studless, with an H speed rating.
- Bridgestone Blizzak LM001: studless, with an H speed rating.
The Hankook is the clear fit when a compatible driver wants the option of studs. The Pirelli and Bridgestone are the two current choices when the vehicle is compatible with 98H and the driver wants studless winter construction.
For more help choosing between the categories, see our Newfoundland studded versus studless winter tire guide.
How to confirm fitment before ordering
Read the driver-door placard
The placard normally identifies the original tire size and recommended cold inflation pressure. The owner’s manual may list additional approved winter configurations.
Match load and speed requirements
Do not choose solely because “225/50R17” matches. Confirm the required load index and speed rating. These active products all carry load index 98, while the speed rating is either T or H.
Check wheel compatibility
If you are adding winter wheels, confirm the wheel diameter, width, bolt pattern, offset, centre bore and brake clearance. A 17-inch diameter alone does not guarantee a correct fit.
Install four matching winter tires
A matching set of four helps maintain balanced traction and predictable handling. Mixing winter and non-winter tires, or substantially different tread designs, can create unequal grip between axles.
Winter maintenance for 225/50R17 tires
Check pressure when the tires are cold and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s specification. Tire pressure normally falls as temperatures drop. Inspect tread depth, sidewalls and wheels regularly, especially after pothole impacts.
Uneven wear, vibration or pulling can indicate a balance, alignment, wheel or suspension issue. Addressing these signs early can help protect the tires and keep the vehicle driving properly.
Frequently asked questions
Are 225/50R17 98T and 225/50R17 98H the same?
No. They share the same dimensions and load index, but have different speed ratings. Use a tire that meets the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements.
Which current option can accept studs?
The active Hankook Winter i*Pike RS2 listing is studdable. The Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 and Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 listings are studless.
Can I install only two winter tires?
A matching set of four is recommended for balanced steering, braking and cornering in winter conditions.
Can another 17-inch tire replace 225/50R17?
Not automatically. Alternative sizing can affect clearance, load capacity, handling and speedometer accuracy. Confirm an approved fitment before changing sizes.
Shop 225/50R17 winter tires in Newfoundland
True North Tires can help confirm fitment and compare these current studdable and studless options. Visit TrueNorthTires.ca or call 709-714-1901 for availability, fitment help and Newfoundland delivery information.