Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
I purchased these for my Ford Explorer - after having run them on my Subaru the previous winter. I have not had the opprutunity to test them on the slickest ice yet... but after running them for one winter I knew these were going to be my favorite. They are quiet all the time and I have not noticed any loss of traction in the dry. I do drive a little less aggressively because of hte season, because they are a softer compound, because they are very expensive... but I am very confident in my decision. I would say for me, these are the best decision I made. A dedicated winter tire is necessary for those of us driving in winter conditions. I wanted a top rated, ICE rated, severe... more than just 3-peak tire. The Hakkapeliitta R5 is that tire. Yes, I may be a brand snob, and I may also watch too many reviews... but I wanted what I thought was the best for me and my safety. What more could anyone ask?