Studded vs Studless Winter Tires in Newfoundland: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between studded and studless winter tires in Newfoundland is less about finding one universal winner and more about matching the tire to the roads you actually drive. A commuter travelling mostly on plowed highways around St. John’s may have different priorities than someone regularly facing packed snow, freezing rain, rural roads or steep untreated driveways.
This practical guide explains the difference, what to check before buying and which current winter tire options are available from True North Tires.
Studded vs. studless winter tires: the short answer
Studded winter tires accept metal studs that can add mechanical bite on hard-packed snow and ice. Studless winter tires use winter tread patterns and cold-weather rubber compounds without metal studs.
Both types are purpose-built for winter conditions. The right choice depends on your route, the frequency of icy conditions, road noise preferences and whether you want the flexibility of a studdable tire.
When studded winter tires make sense in Newfoundland
Studded tires can be a practical choice for drivers who frequently encounter polished ice, packed snow, steep grades or roads that are not cleared immediately after a storm. This may include rural commuters, shift workers travelling before plows are active and drivers with difficult driveways or secondary-road routes.
A studdable tire can also be purchased without studs, but studs must be installed correctly and in accordance with applicable seasonal rules. If you are considering studs, confirm the current Newfoundland and Labrador permitted-use dates before installation and use.
Current studdable options
- Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 in 235/55R19 XL 105T — a studdable winter tire with an extra-load rating.
- Ovation W-686 Ecovision in 225/50R17 XL 98H — a studdable winter option for compatible vehicles.
- Cooper Evolution Winter in 215/70R16 100T — a studdable winter tire in a common crossover and SUV size.
- Cooper Discoverer Snow Claw in 275/55R20 XL 117T — a studdable truck and SUV winter tire for compatible fitments.
When studless winter tires make sense
Studless winter tires are a strong fit for drivers who want dedicated cold-weather performance without metal studs. They are often attractive for regular commuting on a mix of wet pavement, slush, snow and ice, particularly where roads are plowed and treated consistently.
Because there are no studs, they avoid the additional road noise associated with studded tires. They are still winter-specific tires and should be installed as a complete set of four for predictable vehicle behaviour.
Current studless options
- Nexen Winguard Sport 2 in 235/45R18 XL 98V — a studless winter tire with an extra-load rating for compatible vehicles.
- Vredestein Wintrac Pro in 245/45R19 XL 102W — a studless winter option in a performance-oriented size and rating.
- Cooper Discoverer True North in 245/70R17 110T — a studless winter tire for compatible SUVs and light trucks.
- Maxtrek Trek M7 in 265/60R18 XL 114S — an extra-load studless winter option for compatible fitments.
How to choose for your Newfoundland driving
1. Start with your normal route
Think about the worst conditions you routinely face—not only the best-maintained road on your commute. Frequent ice and untreated roads may favour studded tires, while mixed urban and highway driving may favour studless winter tires.
2. Match the exact tire size and rating
The numbers and letters on the tire sidewall identify its size, load index and speed rating. Do not select a tire based only on wheel diameter. Check the driver-door placard or owner’s manual, and confirm compatibility before ordering. XL means extra load; it does not automatically make a tire suitable for every vehicle requiring that size.
3. Use four matching winter tires
A complete matching set helps preserve balanced traction and predictable handling. Mixing winter and non-winter tires—or significantly different tread designs—can create uneven grip between axles.
4. Check tread depth and pressure regularly
Cold temperatures reduce tire pressure, so check it when the tires are cold and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Inspect for uneven wear, damage and declining tread depth throughout the season.
Frequently asked questions
Are studded tires always better on ice?
Studs can provide additional mechanical grip on hard ice, but overall winter performance also depends on tire design, tread condition, temperature, vehicle systems and driving technique.
Are studless winter tires the same as all-season tires?
No. Studless winter tires are dedicated winter products designed for cold-weather conditions. All-season tires are a different category intended for broader seasonal use.
Can I put winter tires on only two wheels?
A matched set of four is recommended for balanced traction, braking and handling. Installing only two can create a large grip difference between the front and rear axles.
Should I buy the same tire size shown on my current tires?
Use the vehicle placard and owner’s manual as the starting point. A previous owner may have installed a different wheel or tire size, so confirm fitment before purchasing.
Shop winter tires in Newfoundland
True North Tires can help you compare studded and studless winter tires by vehicle, tire size and the roads you drive. Browse current options at TrueNorthTires.ca or call 709-714-1901 for fitment help and Newfoundland delivery information.