Choosing the right tire for rain and snow can be challenging with so many options available. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by brands touting their tires as the best for wet and winter performance. To help you cut through the noise, we’ve reviewed five of the top-performing all-season tires that excel in wet and snowy conditions, catering to different budgets and driving needs.
- The Michelin CrossClimate 2 offers top-tier wet and winter performance with excellent treadwear.
- The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive delivers similar wet traction and comfort.
- The Bridgestone WeatherPeak provides a balanced performance across varying conditions.
- The Nokian Encompass AW01 stands out as an excellent value for its average price.
- Finally, the General AltiMAX 365 AW offers reliable performance without breaking the bank, making it a great option for budget-conscious drivers.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key performance metrics of each tire, compare their real-world traction in rain and snow, and help you decide which one best fits your driving conditions and budget.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | Premium |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | Premium |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | Premium |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | Average |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | Budget |
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.4 |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | 9.3 | 9.4 |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | 9.1 | 9.1 |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | 9.2 | 9.1 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | 9.0 | 9.3 | 9.0 |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | 8.7 | 8.9 | 8.6 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.9 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | 9.0 | 8.6 | 8.5 |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | 9.1 | 8.7 | 8.3 |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | 9.0 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.5 | 8.1 | 7.7 |
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.6 |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | 9.3 | 8.8 |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | 8.9 | 8.5 |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | 8.6 | 8.0 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.1 |
| Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive | 9.5 |
| Bridgestone WeatherPeak | 8.2 |
| Nokian Encompass AW01 | 8.2 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.5 |
Michelin CrossClimate 2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.2 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Treadwear
9.0 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: B
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.0 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.6 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.4 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.8 of 10
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out as a premium tire that delivers exceptional all-around performance in both rain and snow. Designed to provide excellent grip and handling, it meets the needs of drivers who face variable weather conditions.
Key Strengths
- Wet Performance: Rated at 9.4 - Excellent, with hydroplaning resistance and wet traction both scoring 9.4. This tire offers superior control in heavy rain.
- Winter Performance: Rated at 8.8 - Excellent, with light snow traction at 9.2, deep snow traction at 8.8, and ice traction at 8.5. The CrossClimate 2 provides confidence when navigating snowy and icy roads.
- Comfort: An 8.9 - Excellent rating ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, balancing high performance with everyday usability.
- Treadwear: Rated at 9.1 - Excellent, this tire is built for durability, offering a long-lasting performance that justifies its premium positioning.
Overall Performance
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 excels across all key performance metrics, making it a top choice for drivers who need superior wet and winter traction. Its wet performance rating of 9.4 outshines many competitors, while its winter performance score of 8.8 ensures it remains reliable in light to moderate snow. When compared to other premium tires, the CrossClimate 2’s balanced performance across wet, dry, and winter conditions sets it apart as a leader in its class.
Common Problems
Despite its strong performance, some drivers have noted that the Michelin CrossClimate 2 can be slightly noisier at highway speeds compared to other tires in its class. However, this is a minor drawback considering its outstanding wet and winter traction capabilities.
Value Analysis
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 falls into the premium price category, but its high scores in wet and winter performance, along with its excellent treadwear rating, justify the cost. This tire is ideal for drivers who want the best possible traction and handling in variable weather conditions. Although it's priced higher than average, its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those living in areas with frequent rain or light snow.
Bottom Line
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is a top-tier all-season tire that delivers reliable performance in both wet and snowy conditions. Its superior wet traction, impressive winter capabilities, and excellent treadwear make it an outstanding choice for drivers willing to invest in premium performance. If you’re looking for a tire that combines comfort, durability, and top-notch performance, the CrossClimate 2 is worth every penny.
Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.1 of 10
Wet Weather
9.4 of 10
Winter Weather
9.0 of 10
Tread Wear
8.9 of 10
Dry Weather
9.3 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.9 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.4 of 10
Cornering: 9.3 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.3 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.9 of 10
The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive is a premium all-season tire that provides top-tier performance in both wet and snowy conditions. Designed with advanced tread technology, this tire ensures exceptional traction, control, and comfort for drivers who frequently encounter variable weather.
Key Strengths
- Wet Performance: Rated at 9.4 - Excellent, with hydroplaning resistance at 9.3 and wet traction at 9.4, providing drivers with confidence and stability during rainy weather.
- Winter Performance: Rated at 8.7 - Excellent, featuring light snow traction at 9.0, deep snow traction at 8.6, and ice traction at 8.5. This tire ensures reliable handling in various winter conditions, making it a great option for those who face occasional snowfall.
- Comfort: Boasting a 9.1 - Excellent rating, the Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive offers a smooth and quiet ride, enhancing the overall driving experience.
- Treadwear: With an impressive rating of 9.5 - Excellent, this tire is built for durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Overall Performance
The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive showcases excellent wet and winter traction, ensuring dependable performance in challenging weather. Its wet performance score of 9.4 matches the Michelin CrossClimate 2, while its winter performance rating of 8.7 provides reliable traction on snowy and icy roads. This tire’s balanced capabilities make it an excellent choice for drivers who demand high performance year-round.
Common Problems
While the Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive excels in various conditions, some drivers have reported a slight decrease in fuel efficiency due to its enhanced traction features. However, this is a small compromise considering its top-notch wet and snow performance.
Value Analysis
Positioned in the premium price category, the Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive delivers exceptional performance and durability. Its high scores in wet and winter traction, combined with its excellent treadwear rating, justify its price. For drivers seeking a reliable, long-lasting tire that can handle diverse weather conditions, the Cinturato WeatherActive is a solid investment. Its performance rivals the Michelin CrossClimate 2, offering similar capabilities for those who prioritize wet and winter traction.
Bottom Line
The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive offers outstanding wet and snow performance, making it a top contender for drivers facing diverse weather conditions. Its excellent comfort and treadwear ratings ensure a smooth, long-lasting ride. While it comes at a premium price, its balanced performance and durability make it a worthwhile option for those who seek top-tier traction and handling in both rain and snow.
Bridgestone WeatherPeak
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.7 of 10
Treadwear
8.2 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 70,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.1 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.1 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.5 of 10
The Bridgestone WeatherPeak is a premium all-season tire that offers a balanced performance in wet and snowy conditions. It is designed to provide reliable traction, handling, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for drivers who experience frequent weather changes throughout the year.
Key Strengths
- Wet Performance: Rated at 9.1 - Excellent, with both hydroplaning resistance and wet traction scoring 9.1. This ensures stability and safety on rainy days, offering dependable handling even in heavy downpours.
- Winter Performance: Rated at 8.7 - Excellent, featuring light snow traction at 9.1, deep snow traction at 8.7, and ice traction at 8.3. This makes the WeatherPeak suitable for regions that experience regular snowfall.
- Comfort: With a rating of 8.7 - Excellent, this tire provides a pleasant driving experience, balancing ride quality and noise control for everyday comfort.
- Treadwear: Rated at 8.2 - Good, the Bridgestone WeatherPeak promises durability, making it a long-lasting option in the premium tire category.
Overall Performance
The Bridgestone WeatherPeak offers an impressive balance across wet, dry, and winter conditions. Its wet performance rating of 9.1 ensures reliable traction in the rain, while its winter performance rating of 8.7 makes it capable of handling snowy roads. Compared to other premium options, the WeatherPeak maintains a strong presence with its consistent performance across varying weather conditions.
Common Problems
Despite its strong performance, some users have noted that the Bridgestone WeatherPeak’s treadwear could be improved. With a rating of 8.2, it may not last as long as some of its premium competitors, particularly in regions with harsher weather conditions. However, its overall performance in wet and winter conditions generally outweighs this minor drawback.
Value Analysis
The Bridgestone WeatherPeak is positioned in the premium price range, offering a mix of high-end performance and comfort. While its treadwear rating is lower than some of its competitors, its excellent wet and winter traction makes it a strong value for drivers who prioritize safety and handling in adverse weather. The tire’s balance of performance, durability, and comfort justifies its price for those seeking a reliable all-season tire.
Bottom Line
The Bridgestone WeatherPeak is a solid choice for drivers looking for a premium tire that performs well in wet and snowy conditions. Its strong traction, balanced comfort, and reliable handling make it a top contender in its class. While its treadwear could be improved, its overall performance and safety features make it worth considering for those who drive in variable weather year-round.
Nokian Encompass AW01
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
9.2 of 10
Winter Weather
8.5 of 10
Tread Wear
8.4 of 10
Dry Weather
8.7 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.3 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 600
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.2 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 8.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.8 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.5 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.1 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.6 of 10
Road Noise: 8.0 of 10
The Nokian Encompass AW01 is an average-priced all-season tire that delivers excellent value, offering reliable performance in wet and moderate winter conditions. This tire is designed to provide solid traction and handling for drivers who need a dependable option without the premium price tag.
Key Strengths
- Wet Performance: Rated at 9.1 - Excellent, with hydroplaning resistance at 9.2 and wet traction at 9.1, ensuring reliable handling and safety on rainy roads.
- Winter Performance: Rated at 8.4 - Good, excelling in light snow traction with a rating of 9.0, while deep snow traction is rated at 8.2, and ice traction at 7.9. It provides dependable performance for moderate winter conditions.
- Comfort: With an 8.3 - Good rating, the Nokian Encompass AW01 offers a comfortable ride, focusing on both ride quality and noise control.
- Treadwear: Rated at 8.2 - Good, this tire provides reasonable longevity, making it a cost-effective option for everyday driving needs.
Overall Performance
The Nokian Encompass AW01 strikes a great balance between wet and winter performance. Its wet performance rating of 9.1 matches some of the more expensive options on this list, while its winter performance rating of 8.4 makes it suitable for regions that experience occasional snow. Although it doesn’t match the top-tier winter ratings of premium options, it remains a solid performer for most winter driving situations.
Common Problems
Some drivers have noted that the Nokian Encompass AW01 could perform better on icy roads, with an ice traction rating of 7.9. Additionally, its treadwear rating of 8.2 indicates that it may not last as long as some higher-end tires, particularly if driven frequently in demanding conditions. However, these concerns are generally minor considering its overall value and performance.
Value Analysis
Positioned in the average price range, the Nokian Encompass AW01 offers excellent value for its level of performance. Its high wet performance scores and decent winter capabilities make it a smart choice for drivers who need solid traction without paying a premium. While it doesn’t have the highest treadwear rating, its durability is still reasonable for the price, providing a cost-effective option for those looking for quality on a budget.
Bottom Line
The Nokian Encompass AW01 is an excellent all-season tire for drivers seeking a balance of performance and value. It provides reliable traction in both wet and moderate winter conditions while maintaining a comfortable ride. Though it may not match the treadwear and ice traction of premium options, its performance and reasonable price make it an appealing choice for value-conscious drivers.
General AltiMAX 365 AW
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.8 of 10
Winter Weather
8.1 of 10
Treadwear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.9 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.8 of 10
Road Noise: 8.5 of 10
The General AltiMAX 365 AW is a budget-friendly all-season tire that delivers solid performance in both wet and winter conditions. It’s designed for drivers who need reliable traction and handling without the premium price tag, making it a great option for those looking to maximize value.
Key Strengths
- Wet Performance: Rated at 8.8 - Excellent, with hydroplaning resistance and wet traction both at 8.8. This ensures dependable control during rainy weather, providing safety and stability on wet roads.
- Winter Performance: Rated at 8.1 - Good, offering light snow traction at 8.5, deep snow traction at 8.1, and ice traction at 7.7. It provides adequate handling in moderate winter conditions, making it suitable for drivers in regions with occasional snow.
- Comfort: With an 8.6 - Excellent rating, the General AltiMAX 365 AW delivers a pleasant driving experience, focusing on ride quality and noise control.
- Treadwear: Rated at 8.5 - Good, this tire offers good durability, making it a lasting option within the budget-friendly category.
Overall Performance
The General AltiMAX 365 AW provides balanced performance, particularly in wet conditions, where it achieves an 8.8 rating. Its winter performance score of 8.1 is respectable for a budget tire, ensuring safe handling in light snow and moderate winter weather. While it may not match the high performance of premium options, it still offers reliable traction for most everyday driving situations.
Common Problems
Some drivers have noted that the General AltiMAX 365 AW could benefit from better ice traction, with a rating of 7.7 indicating it may struggle on icy roads. Additionally, while its treadwear rating of 8.5 is solid, some users have reported that the tire’s lifespan could be improved, especially under heavy use or in more demanding conditions.
Value Analysis
As a budget-friendly option, the General AltiMAX 365 AW provides solid performance without a hefty price tag. Its wet performance is competitive, and its winter capabilities, while not top-tier, are suitable for most drivers facing occasional snow. The treadwear rating of 8.5 suggests reasonable durability, making it a cost-effective choice for those who need reliable all-season traction without the premium cost.
Bottom Line
The General AltiMAX 365 AW is an excellent choice for drivers seeking a budget-friendly tire that doesn’t compromise on safety. It offers dependable wet and winter performance, along with a comfortable ride, making it an attractive option for value-conscious drivers. While it may not excel in severe winter conditions, it provides a great balance of performance and price for everyday driving needs.
Resources
- Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
- Choosing the best tires for wet and rainy conditions - Les Schwab
- How most all-weather tires provide an edge in the snow - Tires Easy
Final Thoughts
Finding the right tire for rain and snow depends on your priorities, whether it's top performance, comfort, or affordability.
- The Michelin CrossClimate 2 leads the pack with its outstanding wet and winter traction, making it perfect for those willing to invest in premium performance.
- The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive provides a close match in wet performance, adding comfort to the mix.
- For balanced performance at a premium price, the Bridgestone WeatherPeak stands out as a reliable choice.
- If you're looking for value without compromising too much on performance, the Nokian Encompass AW01 is a strong contender in the average price range.
- Finally, the General AltiMAX 365 AW rounds out the list as a dependable budget-friendly option for everyday driving in wet and snowy conditions.
Whether you prioritize traction, durability, or cost, one of these five tires is likely to suit your needs. Compare their strengths to find the best match for your vehicle and driving style.
