I've got GYSAs.

Which is better?

Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V1 replacing the DM-Z3 - $120
or
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R SUV - $???

Sounds like the Nokians will get better mileage, but anyone know a place that sells them for less than $160?

When you mention mileage, do you mean mpg or treadwear. If the price difference is 40/tire, go with the No's. The Blizz high traction compound only comprises 2/3 of the tread depth.

I think the prices will be similar if I can find anyone actually selling the tires.

I meant MPG. The Hakkas have a low rolling resistance compound.

The Hakka's have 12/32's tread depth.
The Blizzaks 14/32s and the special compound for only 55% of the tread depth. That means it has it until 6.3/32s are left and you'd better replace your snows at 6/32s anyways.

Blizzaks I can get in 245/70, 245/75, 255/70, 265/70, and 265/65. I think the Nokians only come in 265/65 according to the Nokian website, but I've seen foreign sites with other sizes listed.

I wonder if I should go for the skinnier tires if I decide on Blizzak... might make better mpg and traction, right?

I've heard blizzaks suck in slush... is that true?

Blizzak DM-Z1's 245-70-17 ordered for the 4runner as they are $121 ea on tirerack.com

that was quick... some people wait months before pulling the trigger

I have not used Blizzak's on a truck, only cars. I can tell you they have a funny feeling when you drive them. Car and Driver described it as a squishy feeling. It happens from riding on the tall, soft treadblocks. That info came from a review of the old DMZ3's. Going down to a 245/70 is almost an inch narrower and will have a different contact patch. This will sacrifice a little lateral stablilty, something you will definitely notice and I don't believe you will like. I'd recommend the stock width.

Nokians drive a lot better. You will pay more, but IMO it's worth it. Full siping, full depth high traction compound, better mpg (Hakka R- suv), Hakka siping. Plus you can choose from several different snow tire options to best fit your driving.
Hakka SUV
Hakka 5 SUV
Hakka R SUV
Hakka LT

I'd say the more open tread pattern tires will do best in slush. That would be the Hakka LT. I know that the grooves in my Hakka 5's are "polished" to allow the snow to clear the tread more easily. I have driven 2 winters on them, including wet snows of march-april, safely, with little tire wear evident.

I'd think a little longer and balance the safety vs. price pros and cons.

Dr. Chandrasekhar,

A great post... but you're too late. The tires are shipped.

So you think the narrowness will cause me to lose traction on corners?

Supposedly the DM-V1s are made to have improved dry performance over the DM-Z3s.

Hopefully the new design will help... and no, you wont lose control in corners, but you may lose a little of the feel and handling our trucks are noted for.

The Blizzaks proved and excellent choice... utterly unstoppable in the snow... I am the fastest vehicle out there in the worst conditions. The narrowness appears to help. They hand very well!

Bumpin this. There is no comparison either in grip or price. Friend here runs the Blizzaks and she is disapointed. I run the Hakkas and I am not....just poorer.

I found this snow tire rating table interesting, albeit '08 - '09. The APA is a Canadian outfit that actually tests these tires. YMMV.

APA.ca


And here's another comparo, but IDK where they get their info.

http://www.consumersearch.com/snow-t...101204202927:s

If you are comparing the Hakka 5 SUV to the Blizzak DM V1, that is a poor comparison. The Hakka 5 SUV will always win on the ice because the studded.

Summit, nice follow up on your tire purchase. I've ordered black steelies, and will probably order my Blizzaks Monday.

What was your thinking in ordering the narrower tire? Good results?

Excellent results: I can cut slush to pieces. It also cross through slush and snow between lanes when passing or in unplowed areas of the road when making turns without loosing traction or spin inducing dragging. The skinnier tires cut through to the pavement.

I notice almost no handling degradation on the dry... well no more than you would expect from an R rated snow.