Tires for Long Winter Trips: Experiences from Ukrainian Travelers

Winter road trips across Ukraine require reliable tires that ensure safety and comfort. Ukrainian travelers exploring winter routes share their experiences in choosing tires capable of handling harsh conditions. In this article, we’ll look at the TOP 4 winter tire models perfect for long-distance travel and offer practical tips for selecting them.

Why Is Tire Choice Important for Winter Travel?

Winter in Ukraine is unpredictable: snowfalls, ice, and wet asphalt alternate, especially on long routes. High-quality winter tires provide stability, short braking distances, and fuel efficiency—crucial for long journeys. To buy winter tires with optimal performance, consider traveler reviews and test results such as ADAC, and choose trusted stores like Asva.ua—a company with 29 years of experience in the automotive tire market.

Key Requirements for Winter Travel Tires:

1. Reliable grip on snow and ice

2. Resistance to hydroplaning on wet roads

3. Durability for long-distance driving

4. Low noise levels for comfort

TOP-4 Tires for Winter Road Trips Across Ukraine

1. Michelin Alpin 7

Michelin Alpin 7 are friction-type tires that received high ratings in the 2024 ADAC tests for eco-friendliness and mileage up to 53,200 km. Ukrainian travelers praise their excellent grip on wet roads and quiet ride, making them ideal for highway trips such as Kyiv–Lviv or Odesa–Uman.

Advantages:

● Excellent grip on wet asphalt and snow
● High wear resistance
● Low noise level for comfortable trips

Recommendation: for passenger cars and city crossovers

2. Continental WinterContact TS870

Continental WinterContact TS870 is the leader in the 2024 ADAC tests with a score of 2.1 for handling on snow and wet roads. Tourists traveling in the Carpathians note its precise handling and short braking distance (3% shorter than its predecessor). Thanks to Cool Chili Compound technology, the tires remain elastic even in extreme cold.

Advantages:

1. Excellent handling on ice and snow

2. High resistance to hydroplaning

3. Fuel savings due to low rolling resistance

Recommendation: for passenger cars and long-distance highway trips

3. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+

Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ received the highest score (1.4) for grip on snowy roads in ADAC tests. Ukrainian drivers traveling in mountain regions appreciate these tires for their stability on snow and reliable performance on icy sections. The Traction Protection technology ensures confident braking even in challenging conditions.

Advantages:

● Excellent grip on snow and ice
● Good fuel efficiency
● Long-lasting tread life

Recommendation: for highways and snow-covered routes

4. Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ 4x4

Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ 4x4 are SUV tires suitable for winter off-road trips in the Carpathians or on dirt roads. In 2018–2019 tests, they showed excellent results on wet surfaces (rated B). Tourists highlight their stability on slippery surfaces and comfort during long trips.

Advantages:

1. Good grip on wet and snowy roads

2. Suitable for SUVs and crossovers

3. Stability on mixed surfaces

Recommendation: for SUVs driving on unpaved roads

Read also: Comparing: Roof Rack or Tow Bar Rack – Which Is Better?

Comparison Table of Winter Tires: What to Choose for Your Needs

Practical Tips from Ukrainian Travelers

Ukrainian winter road trippers share their tips on selecting and using tires:

● Check the manufacturing date. Tires older than 5 years lose elasticity even if unused (check the DOT code on the sidewall)
● Consider the route. For highways, choose Michelin Alpin 7 or Continental; for off-roads, go with Vredestein
● Buy from trusted sellers. Reliable shops like Asva.ua offer certified tires with warranty
● Don’t skimp on balancing. Improper installation reduces performance and accelerates wear
● Use seasonal storage. If you don’t have space for tires, store them at specialized centers

How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip

Before a long trip, check the condition of your tires and rims. Winter tires should have a tread depth of at least 4 mm to ensure reliable grip. Also check the tire pressure—it should match the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. If you plan to buy new tires, pay attention to traveler reviews and tire tests to choose a model that fits your routes. For example, friction tires are suitable for mild winters in central Ukraine, while reinforced-tread models are better for the snowy Carpathians.

Additional Tips:

1. Check for damage (cracks, bulges) before installing tires

2. Ensure the tire shop uses modern equipment for accurate balancing

3. Book tire service appointments early to avoid seasonal queues

Choosing tires for winter travel across Ukraine is key to road safety and comfort. Michelin Alpin 7, Continental WinterContact TS870, Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+, and Vredestein Wintrac Pro+ 4x4 have received high praise from Ukrainian travelers for their reliability and versatility.

Check out the selection at Asva.ua (one of Ukraine’s leading tire retailers) and choose tires that will make your winter trip unforgettable.