Not Alaska no, but venturing to ski resorts in the Cairngorms from time to time and previous traction issues on summer tyres just getting out my street when it has snowed, has prompted me to give these a go this year.
Tyre Maxxis Vansmart Snow WL2 215/60 R17 109/107H 8PR - Tyre Leader
Unless your into cycling, Maxxis is little known in this country. Much bigger in Asia, USA and the continent. I know the ratings are not the whole story, but A rated for wet weather grip and C rated for economy. Will let you know how I get on with them. I think Tyreleader are based in Luxemburg, however they were 20 quid a tyre cheaper than other suppliers and delivered in 3 days.
Just a wee word on my experience with winter tyres. And it is just that, only personal experience and by no means scientific here. When its cold, wet or on snow, winter tyres do make a huge difference to grip and traction. However, on winter days when temperatures are warmer and driving has been, well lets say progressive, I've found when they do reach their limit, winters are much more abrupt in how they let go than summer tyres from the same brand. Blinking DSC / ESP lights and a requirement for a mit full of opposite lock sometimes occured when not really expected.
Im sure 99.99% of the time, we dont get close to the limit of a tyre but like most things vehicle related, tyres meet many compromises. Winter tyres are great for the purpose they are designed for. Perhaps less so in more favourable weather conditions. Once again, just my own thoughts on winters and shared in hopefully promoting everyone's safety, but maybe worth keeping enthusiasm on the open road pegged back a notch or two if your running winter boots.
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