Winter tires: what is best size?

[sr5sport4run04]

I just got my new 4runner with dunlop at20 265/65-17. As I live in a very snowy place, i need winter tires.
It seems that only blizzak are the same size and they are bo for this year. Some dealers suggest different changes:
275/60-17 (nokian) (About same height, but will they rub?)
265/70-17 (higher. Will I have to change the spare too?)
245/70-17 (same height, but narrower. Will it change the driving?)

Is anyone ever tried those sizes?
Tnx

 

[mike_d]

within reason, the narrow the tire, the better. it allows the tire to dig through the snow and down to the road where it'll get better traction.

on my truck, i run 31x10.50 or 32x11.50 for the summer and 30x9.50 for the winter. i just got a set of the winter dueler (light truck blizzaks) and so far they're great, but i haven't run them enough to know how well they wear.

mike

 

[sr5sport4run04]

I finally bought Nokian 275/60-17. The handling is a lot better than with the original Dunlop AT20. It's much more stable when cornering or when it's windy. I didn't try it in snow. Just waiting for the next snowstorm... Sure I'll go for this size next summer.

 

[03sportv8]

Have you made a decision regarding what size to buy? I just did some homework and the Nokian's sound like the way to go. Not sure how much they are compared to Blizzaks or other US alternatives though. Any advice as to size would be appreciated - for an '03 sport edition.

 

[MacVay]

It's nice to see others here in Canada on this board. I'm in Ottawa and I am trying to figure out what I'm going to do for my new 05 V8 for Winter Tires. My main problem is Winter Rims. Did you get Winter Rims for your truck?

Cheers,

 

[carina71]

I just got my new 4runner with dunlop at20 265/65-17. As I live in a very snowy place, i need winter tires.
It seems that only blizzak are the same size and they are bo for this year. Some dealers suggest different changes:
275/60-17 (nokian) (About same height, but will they rub?)
265/70-17 (higher. Will I have to change the spare too?)
245/70-17 (same height, but narrower. Will it change the driving?)

Is anyone ever tried those sizes?
Tnx

I've been running with the 17 wheels and Michelins (will have to check the exact size and model) up and down the infamous Dalton Highway in Alaska (main road running north to Prudoe Bay). I have been very impressed with their performance on snow. I was considering studded tires, but have not found any for 17 inch wheels. After running with the Michelins for a while now, I don't think I will need studs unless I would be spending a lot on time on WET-ice conditions.

I have heard that Blizzak are good as well, but cannot speak from experience.

Carina71