Last Updated on February 24, 2024
Conquer Winter Trails with ATV Snow Tires
ATV snow tires are specially designed for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) that are optimized for riding in snowy and icy conditions. These tires feature deep and aggressive tread patterns with unique rubber compounds that enhance traction on snow and ice-covered terrain.
They are essential for maintaining control and stability when riding ATVs during winter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable off-road experience in snowy conditions.
The leaves are changing color, and the first frost will soon harden the ground in many parts of the country. Along with the cold temperatures comes the excitement of the hunting season and outdoor winter activities, especially for those with all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility vehicles (UTV).
If you have not already done so, now is the time to winterize your adventure vehicle. You may need ATV snow tires or new all-terrain tires that work well on snow. Finding the most efficient, high-quality ATV tires for your specific needs is essential for ensuring maximum enjoyment and safety during the hunt or activities you have planned throughout the winter months.
Do I need ATV snow tires?
Likely not. Almost any ATV tire will work on packed or hardened snow. The benefits of a dedicated ATV snow tire are most apparent when riding after a heavy snowfall, on untracked trails, or in heavy, wet snow. If you use your ATV mainly before winter weather hits and only occasionally after a fresh snowfall, a good all-terrain or even a mud tire should get you through the winter without problems.
If you ride year-round and live in an area with frequent snow, you will enjoy the added traction of an ATV snow tire. Unfortunately, there are tradeoffs to all that extra snow traction. For one, dedicated ATV snow tires are expensive. Secondly, you would need to change them out every spring, which has the added risk of damage to the beads during the bi-annual mounting process (unless you have an extra set of rims).
Thirdly, ATV snow tires are very specialized; only a few manufacturers even produce a dedicated snow/winter tire for ATVs, Quads, or Utility Vehicles.
What are my options?
The alternative to a dedicated set of ATV snow tires is a set of good all-terrain tires with tread features that aid in deep snow traction. Also, certain ATV mud tires and all-terrain tires can be studded. Studs will significantly improve grip in deep snow, packed snow, and ice, so this is a standard solution for many riders in northern states. Another option is snow chains. These are easily installed for the occasional ride on snow and are an excellent solution if your regular tires aren’t providing the grip you want.
What makes a great ATV snow tire?
You want to stay floating on top of the surface as much as possible for deep snow traction and not digging down into the snow. Like in sand, you want to avoid excessive wheel spin, so wider tires with tread paddles or independent blocks running radially across the tread work best. Deep chevron-shaped paddles like you find on ATV mud tires generally cause the tire to dig too deep in loose snow.
The wide bars and large void area between the tread on this type of tire also mean fewer radial edges and direct contact with a packed snow or ice surface. The result is less grip on well-traveled packed snow and icy trails. The type of tread rubber compound is also a consideration. ATV snow tires have rubber compounds that stay more pliable at colder temperatures.
The softer rubber of ATV snow tires provides more grip on ice and cold, dry roads and trails because the rubber flexes around terrain irregularities and obstacles. If you need an all-terrain tire’s versatility, pick one with an all-season tread compound. This assures you the tread rubber won’t overly harden in cold temperatures. Our top picks for winter riding all have good four-season tread rubber.
Which ATV tire works best on snow and ice?
Not very many tire manufacturers market models of dedicated ATV snow tires. Happily, there are all-terrain tires that have some of the tread and design features that aid in winter traction. Here are our top picks for ATV riders wanting the best snow traction possible but not wanting to change their tires for a dedicated ATV snow tire. Without studs, these tires are also excellent options for sports riders who like the fun of controlled sliding and drifting on ice.
#1 Kenda Bearclaw EVO K592
The Kenda Bearclaw EVO K592 tire has the best reviews for winter traction among our customers. It has large radial paddles for pulling power in wet snow or deep light snow, plus the addition of raised ribs between the blocks. These raised ribs provide additional pulling power and protection to the tire casing. When new, the dimpled tread blocks in the Kenda Bearclaw EVO K592 help in deep and packed snow.
Adding a center row of tread blocks adds more biting edges, which benefits all types of snow and ice, particularly at higher speeds. The tire also has an extensive and flat profile, which helps the tire stay on top of the snow instead of digging a hole and causing the wheels to spin. The tread can take studs but remains somewhat pliable in cold weather.
#2 Carlisle Turf Saver
The Carlisle Turf Saver tire is a highly versatile all-terrain ATV that works well on snow and ice. In hard-packed snow, where floatation is less of an issue, the Carlisle 489 excels thanks to the jagged tread pattern and plenty of leading edges for biting on snow and ice.
The tread pattern is perfect for snow traction, and the rubber stays soft at cold temperatures; however, the profile is not optimized for benign snow conditions.
Unlike the Kenda Bear Claw, the crown of the tire is more rounded, which causes it to sink into deep snow more than a dedicated ATV snow tire should. To overcome this, many of our customers stud this tire for extra traction and end up with an excellent tire for icy trails and mixed winter conditions.
#3 Greenball Sawtooth Lawn and Garden
The Greenball Sawtooth Lawn and Garden offers an aggressive tread pattern of independent tread blocks arranged in an offset paddle formation. This type of tread provides a lot of biting edges. The blocks themselves are dimpled for added traction when the tire is new. The offset paddle tread design makes for more balanced traction and less tradeoff between deep snow or packed snow surfaces.
The Greenball Spartacus tire has a radial construction, which gives the tire a broad, flat crown for more floatation on soft snow. The alternating-sized lugs and broad void areas prevent snow from packing in around the tread lugs. Considering all these features and the low price, this is an excellent all-terrain tire for anyone doing a lot of winter riding.
Since 2004, Tires-easy has provided high-quality, cost-efficient tire options to United States consumers. With over 50 years of experience in the tire industry, the staff at Tires-Easy offers tailored customer service and dependable guidance for any customer’s needs. Please get in touch with us for more information or to speak directly with a representative.
Conclusion
Riding on ATV snow tires during winter can significantly enhance your off-road adventures. These specialized tires provide the necessary traction and control to safely navigate through snow and icy terrains.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a novice, investing in ATV snow tires is wise to ensure an enjoyable and secure winter riding experience. So, gear up, equip your ATV with snow tires, and embrace the snowy trails with confidence and excitement.
FAQs
Can you use your ATV in the winter?
You can use your ATV in the winter with the right equipment, such as ATV snow tires, which provide the necessary traction for snowy and icy conditions.
Is it reasonable to ride a quad in the snow?
Riding a quad in the snow can be a thrilling experience, but it’s essential to have the appropriate tires, like ATV snow tires, to ensure safety and control in the snowy terrain.
Are ATV mud tires good in snow?
While ATV mud tires excel in muddy conditions, they may not provide the ideal traction on snow and ice. It’s recommended to switch to ATV snow tires for winter riding.
What ATV tires are good in snow?
ATV snow tires, specifically designed for winter conditions, are the best choice for riding in snow. They feature deep treads and unique rubber compounds for improved grip on snowy and icy surfaces.
