A strong 245/50R20 winter tire should match your vehicle’s approved size and load needs while offering the kind of cold-weather traction your routes demand. This list suits SUV and crossover drivers choosing among studless designs, a studded option, and tires with different load and speed ratings. Continental VikingContact 8 leads with 105H XL sizing, a listed 2,039-pound load capacity, and features aimed at winter traction, reduced rolling resistance, and quieter driving.
Pirelli Scorpion Winter adds a stated Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, while Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV is the dedicated studded choice. The options also vary in weight, from 30.9 to 38 pounds, and in whether they specify XL construction or studs.
Confirm vehicle fitment and local stud rules before ordering.
Continental VikingContact 8 is the strongest all-around pick in this group because it is listed in 245/50R20 105H XL, with a 2,039-pound load capacity and winter-focused 3D sipes and snow edges. Its listed features also include a noise-optimized tread and a compound intended to reduce rolling resistance. That combination makes it a compelling choice for drivers who want winter traction alongside load capacity and comfort-oriented design, provided the vehicle approves this size and rating.
Our Top Picks

Its 105H XL rating and 2,039-pound listed load capacity pair with 3D sipes, snow edges, and noise-optimized tread features.
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Best Certified OptionThis 105H XL studless tire has stated Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification and circumferential grooves for water evacuation.
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Best Ice FocusIts listed Multi-Cell compound is designed to dispel water from ice, and the product targets SUVs, CUVs, and light trucks.
View on Amazon- Best Studded Option Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV
Compare the 245/50R20 winter tire options
| # | Product | Size | Rim Size | Weight | Load Capacity | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Continental VikingContact 8Best Overall | 245/50R20 | 20 in | 30.9 lb | 2039 lb | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Pirelli Scorpion WinterBest Certified Option | 245/50R20 105H XL | 20 in | 32.6 lb | 2039 lb | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2Best Ice Focus | P245/50R20 | 20 in | 32.6 lb | 1874 lb | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Nokian Nordman North 9 SUVBest Studded Option | 245/50R20 | 20 in | 32 lb | 2 lb | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8SUV and CUV winter driving | 245/50R20 | 20 in | 38 lb | 16 oz | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Sumitomo Ice EdgeSnow, ice, and slush commuters | 245/50R20 102T | 20 in | 33.9 lb | 1874 lb | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Goodyear WintercommandWinter cornering and ice grip | 245/50R20 | 20 in | 31.4 lb | 1874 lb | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Milestar WinterguardStuddable winter tire buyers | 245/50R20 | 20 in | 32 lb | 1874 lb | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best 245 50R20 Winter Tires

#1 · Best Overall
1. Continental VikingContact 8
- Size: 245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 30.9 lb
- Load Capacity: 2039 lb
Best for: Quiet winter EV driving.
Why it ranks #1: Its 105H XL rating and 2,039-pound listed load capacity pair with 3D sipes, snow edges, and noise-optimized tread features.
Continental’s noise-optimized tread pattern is a defining feature, intended to minimize vibration and sound for a quieter ride, including at high speeds. The VikingContact 8 also links its next-generation Nordic tread compound to reduced rolling resistance, supporting buyers weighing winter traction against efficiency.
The noise-optimized tread pattern is described as reducing vibration and sound, a practical consideration for drivers seeking a quieter cabin on winter journeys. Continental says its Nordic tread compound reduces rolling resistance to support fuel economy and extended EV battery range. Three-layer sipes and snow edges are specified to improve traction and handling in snow, slush, and icy conditions. The 245/50R20 tire carries a 105H XL designation and a stated 2,039-pound load capacity for specification comparisons.
- Noise-optimized tread aims to minimize sound and vibration
- Nordic compound is described as reducing rolling resistance
- Compound is associated with fuel economy and EV range support
- Three-layer sipes and snow edges improve winter traction and handling
- Its 105H XL specification differs from the 102T specification sought by some buyers.
Skip it if you specifically require a 102T tire specification; the Sumitomo Ice Edge lists 245/50R20 102T.
The VikingContact 8 suits drivers prioritizing quiet winter travel, snow and ice traction, and the stated efficiency benefits, including EV range support. Its 105H XL specification is a relevant boundary when comparing tires against vehicle requirements.
Full product details
| Brand | Continental |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 29.6 x 10 x 29.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 30.9 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2039 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Continental |
| Part Number | 3457860000 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Standard Manufacturer Warranty |
| Model Number | 3457860000 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Continental VikingContact 8 Winter 245/50R20 105H XL Passenger Tire
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#2 · Best Certified Option
2. Pirelli Scorpion Winter
- Size: 245/50R20 105H XL
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 32.6 lb
- Load Capacity: 2039 lb
Best for: Severe-winter SUV handling.
Why it ranks #2: This 105H XL studless tire has stated Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification and circumferential grooves for water evacuation.
Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification identifies the Pirelli Scorpion Winter for moderate to severe winter weather, giving buyers a clear qualification to consider. Its circumferential grooves also funnel water away, while its directional and asymmetric tread is intended to support cornering and lane-change uniformity.
The Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification marks this 245/50R20 tire for moderate to severe winter conditions. Circumferential grooves funnel water out to reduce hydroplaning risk on wet, icy, slushy, and snowy roads, connecting the tread layout to changing surface conditions. The directional and asymmetric pattern promotes uniformity during cornering and lane changes. Pirelli identifies the Scorpion Winter as a studless tire for CUVs and SUVs, and its 105H XL specification and 2,039-pound load capacity provide further comparison points.
- Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for moderate to severe winter weather
- Circumferential grooves funnel water away
- Directional and asymmetric tread promotes cornering and lane-change uniformity
- Studless design is identified for CUVs and SUVs
- Directional tread requires orientation-conscious mounting.
Skip it if you want embedded studs for icy surfaces; the Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV Studded lists them explicitly.
The Scorpion Winter suits CUV and SUV drivers seeking a certified studless tire for severe winter conditions, with water evacuation and handling features named. Its directional tread calls for orientation-conscious mounting, and its 105H XL specification remains a fit consideration.
Full product details
| Brand | Pirelli |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 29.69 x 9.96 x 29.69 inches |
| Item Weight | 32.6 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2039 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Pirelli |
| Part Number | 2919100 |
| Model Number | 2919100 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 105H XL |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Pirelli Scorpion Winter 245/50R20 105H XL
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#3 · Best Ice Focus
3. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
- Size: P245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 32.6 lb
- Load Capacity: 1874 lb
Best for: SUV ice braking focus.
Why it ranks #3: Its listed Multi-Cell compound is designed to dispel water from ice, and the product targets SUVs, CUVs, and light trucks.
Bridgestone’s Multi-Cell compound is the Blizzak DM-V2’s key feature: it dispels water from the ice surface to combat slippage and improve braking. That ice-focused approach is paired with stated stopping power on snow and ice, for SUV, CUV, and light-truck winter use.
The Multi-Cell compound is described as dispersing water from the ice surface, connecting the material to reduced slippage and improved braking. Bridgestone also highlights confident stopping power on snow and ice and reliable handling in winter conditions, giving this tire a clear focus on control. It is listed as a 245/50R20 102T SUV tire, with a stated 1,874-pound load capacity. The product details emphasize ice performance rather than naming the broader mix of tread and water-channel features found on some alternatives.
- Multi-Cell compound dispels water from ice
- Compound is described as combating slippage
- Improved braking on ice is a stated benefit
- Listed for SUV, CUV, and light-truck use
- Its listed 102T specification is lower than the Pirelli Scorpion Winter’s 105H XL designation.
Skip it if you need the listed 105H XL specification; the Pirelli Scorpion Winter provides that designation in 245/50R20.
This Blizzak suits SUV, CUV, and light-truck drivers focused on ice braking and winter handling, with a stated 102T specification. Its strongest documented features center on ice, so shoppers comparing broader tread details should weigh that focus.
Full product details
| Brand | Bridgestone |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire |
| Item Dimensions | 29.69 x 9.96 x 29.69 inches |
| Item Weight | 32.6 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 1874 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Bridgestone |
| Part Number | 2459 |
| Model Number | 2459 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | P245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 Winter/Snow SUV Tire P245/50R20 102 T
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#4 · Best Studded Option
4. Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV
- Size: 245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 32 lb
- Load Capacity: 2 lb
Best for: Studded SUV winter traction.
Why it ranks #4: Embedded studs and a tread described for deep snow and slippery terrain make this 105T XL SUV tire the explicit studded choice.
Embedded studs give the Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV its clearest advantage, targeting grip on icy surfaces and extreme winter conditions. Its listing also identifies a tread optimized for deep snow and slippery terrain, making it an option for SUV and crossover owners facing demanding winter roads.
The embedded studs are specified to provide grip on icy surfaces, while the deep-snow-optimized tread addresses a different winter challenge: moving across snow and slippery terrain. The robust construction is described as resisting wear and tear, supporting long-lasting performance. Listed in 245/50R20, this SUV/crossover tire also carries a 105T XL designation in its title. Those seeking a studded setup should note that the listing explicitly describes the studs as embedded, rather than merely presenting a studdable tire.
- Embedded studs are specified for icy-surface grip
- Tread is optimized for deep snow and slippery terrain
- Robust construction is described as wear-resistant
- Listed for SUV and crossover use
- Its embedded-stud construction may not suit buyers seeking a studless winter tire.
Skip it if you need a studless design; the Pirelli Scorpion Winter is explicitly described as a studless CUV and SUV tire.
This Nokian suits SUV and crossover drivers prioritizing embedded studs and deep-snow tread for severe winter conditions. Its studded construction is the key boundary: shoppers seeking a studless tire or a different winter setup should look elsewhere.
Full product details
| Brand | Nokian Tyres |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Weight | 32 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Nokian |
| Part Number | TS32984 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Standard Manufacturer Warranty |
| Model Number | TS32984 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV Studded Winter 245/50R20 105T XL SUV/Crossover Tire
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#5
5. Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8
- Size: 245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 38 lb
- Load Capacity: 16 oz
Best for: SUV and CUV winter driving.
Why it ranks #5: Designed for CUVs and SUVs, it combines a cold-flexible Nano-Fit compound with Maxx Sharp Edge siping for winter-road grip.
Nano-Fit rubber compound is the Winter Maxx SJ8’s defining feature: its flexibility in winter conditions is intended to support performance on icy roads. Dunlop also identifies this 245/50R20 winter tire for CUVs and SUVs, giving those vehicle owners a size-specific option to assess.
The Nano-Fit compound is described as keeping the rubber flexible and rigid for performance on icy roads, connecting the material choice to cold-weather use. Maxx Sharp Edge siping bites into the road to boost grip, while the tire’s grooves drain water, supporting traction and water evacuation in winter conditions. The 245/50R20 size and 102R specification are stated for vehicle-specification comparisons. It is listed as tire only, and the listing says it is not for sale in Arkansas.
- Nano-Fit compound is described for icy-road performance
- Maxx Sharp Edge siping is intended to boost grip
- Grooves are described as draining water
- Identified for CUV and SUV use
- It is not for sale in Arkansas, limiting availability for buyers there.
Skip it if you live in Arkansas; the Goodyear Wintercommand Winter 245/50R20 is another listed winter-tire option.
Consider the Winter Maxx SJ8 if you drive a CUV or SUV requiring 245/50R20 and want the listed compound, siping, and water-draining groove features. Its stated Arkansas sales restriction is a firm boundary for shoppers in that state.
Full product details
| Brand | DUNLOP |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 29.69 x 9.96 x 29.69 inches |
| Item Weight | 38 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 16 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Dunlop |
| Part Number | 290124128 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Standard Manufacturer Warranty |
| Model Number | 290124128 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 245/50R20 102R
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#6
6. Sumitomo Ice Edge
- Size: 245/50R20 102T
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 33.9 lb
- Load Capacity: 1874 lb
Best for: Snow, ice, and slush commuters.
Why it ranks #6: This 102T tire is described for snow, ice, and slush, with stated emphasis on cold-weather grip, stability, and ride comfort.
Sumitomo describes the Ice Edge as delivering cold-weather grip alongside stability, handling, and ride comfort, making its broad winter-road focus the key distinction. The 245/50R20 102T specification gives shoppers a concrete size and service description to compare with their vehicle requirements.
The Ice Edge is presented for snow-, ice-, and slush-covered roads, and its stated combination of cold-weather grip and stability addresses changing winter surfaces. Sumitomo also names handling performance and smooth ride comfort, relevant to drivers balancing control with everyday road use. Its 245/50R20 102T specification and 1,874-pound load capacity provide concrete comparison points. The supplied details do not name a specialized compound, siping pattern, or studded construction, so its strongest documented case is the overall winter performance description.
- Specified for snow, ice, and slush-covered roads
- Cold-weather grip is a stated focus
- Stability and handling performance are identified
- Smooth ride comfort is part of the description
- Its supplied description gives no specific tread or compound technology to compare.
Skip it if you want named siping and compound details; the Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 lists Nano-Fit rubber and Maxx Sharp Edge siping.
The Ice Edge fits shoppers who want a 245/50R20 winter tire described for varied snowy, icy, and slushy roads, with comfort and handling also in view. Buyers prioritizing published tread or compound specifics may prefer a more detailed listing.
Full product details
| Brand | SUMITOMO |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 30 x 30 x 9.13 inches |
| Item Weight | 33.9 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 1874 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Sumitomo Tire |
| Part Number | EDG82 |
| Model Number | EDG82 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 102T |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Sumitomo Ice Edge 245/50R20 102T
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#7
7. Goodyear Wintercommand
- Size: 245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 31.4 lb
- Load Capacity: 1874 lb
Best for: Winter cornering and ice grip.
Why it ranks #7: Its flexible sipes are intended to bite into ice and snow, while angled sipes are described as supporting cornering stability.
Corrugated, angled sipes distinguish the Goodyear Wintercommand, with the stated purpose of supporting stability while cornering. Flexible sipes also bite into ice and snow to help prevent getting stuck, pairing control in turns with winter traction in this 245/50R20 tire.
Goodyear describes flexible sipes as biting into ice and snow, a feature aimed at traction when winter roads are slippery. Separate corrugated, angled sipes help provide stability while cornering, giving buyers a specific handling-related feature to weigh alongside grip. The product is a 245/50R20 102T tire, and the listing says three designs are tuned for car, SUV, or pickup classes. The supplied description calls this a premium studless winter tire, so it is not the choice for shoppers specifically seeking embedded studs.
- Flexible sipes are intended to bite into ice and snow
- Corrugated, angled sipes help provide cornering stability
- Listed as a premium studless winter tire
- 245/50R20 size and 102T specification are stated
- Its studless construction does not provide the embedded studs listed for the Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV.
Skip it if you want embedded studs for icy roads; the Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV Studded lists embedded studs.
Choose this Goodyear if you want a studless 245/50R20 tire with described ice-and-snow-biting sipes and cornering support. Its listed 102T specification and studless construction are important boundaries for buyers comparing vehicle requirements or seeking studs.
Full product details
| Brand | Goodyear |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire |
| Item Dimensions | 29.7 x 10 x 29.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 31.4 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 1874 pounds |
| Manufacturer | GOODYEAR |
| Part Number | 236818 |
| Model Number | 187066565 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Goodyear Wintercommand Winter 245/50R20 SL 102 T Tire
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#8
8. Milestar Winterguard
- Size: 245/50R20
- Rim Size: 20 in
- Weight: 32 lb
- Load Capacity: 1874 lb
Best for: Studdable winter tire buyers.
Why it ranks #8: This exact-size 102T winter tire is studdable, but the supplied product details provide fewer specific traction features than higher-ranked options.
Studdable construction is the Milestar Winterguard’s clearest differentiator, giving winter-tire shoppers an option that can accommodate studs for icy-season use. Its listed 245/50R20 size and 102T service description identify the tire’s specification, while the tire-only listing keeps the purchase focused on the tire itself.
The 245/50R20 size and 20-inch rim specification make this a candidate for vehicles requiring that tire size, while the 102T designation describes its listed service specification. Its studdable construction is the key winter-use distinction: buyers seeking a tire that can accommodate studs can consider that option for icy conditions. The listing identifies it as a passenger tire and supplies a 1,874-pound load capacity, useful details when comparing specifications, but does not describe a particular tread or rubber technology.
- Studdable construction offers the option of studs
- Listed in 245/50R20 size
- 102T service description is provided
- Specified load capacity is 1,874 pounds
- Studs are not stated as included, so studded-ready shoppers must account for that separately.
Skip it if you want studs already specified as embedded; the Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV Studded explicitly lists embedded studs.
This suits shoppers seeking a 245/50R20 winter tire with studdable construction and a stated 102T specification. Its listing does not detail tread technology, and studs are not identified as included, so it is less clear for buyers seeking a ready-studded setup.
Full product details
| Brand | Milestar |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 28 x 28 x 10 inches |
| Item Weight | 32 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 1874 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Milestar |
| Part Number | 24000209 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Standard Manufacturer Warranty |
| Model Number | 24000209 |
| Rim Size | 20 inches |
| Size | 245/50R20 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 245/50R20 |
Listed on Amazon as: Milestar Winterguard 245/50R20 102T (Studdable) SL Radial 20 inch Tire
View on AmazonAvoid the size-and-rating compatibility trap
A matching 245/50R20 size alone does not confirm that a tire is appropriate for a particular vehicle. Check the vehicle placard and owner’s manual for approved tire size, load index, speed rating, and any XL requirement before buying; do not assume a higher listed capacity overrides vehicle requirements. The products here include 102T, 102R, 105T XL, and 105H XL ratings, so they are not identical replacements in every application.
The supplied load-capacity entries also vary in reliability: most list 1,874 or 2,039 pounds, while Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 shows 16 ounces and Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV shows 2 pounds. Those unusual entries should not be treated as credible tire capacity figures.
Verify the tire’s sidewall markings and manufacturer documentation, and confirm the seller’s exact specification if a listed rating conflicts with authoritative fitment information.
Studs trade ice grip for route restrictions
Studs are a distinct choice for drivers who regularly encounter icy roads, but their suitability depends on where and when they drive. Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV is the only explicitly studded model in this selection; its details cite embedded studs and tread optimized for deep snow and slippery terrain. Milestar Winterguard is described as studdable, which is not the same as arriving already studded.
The other listed designs are not presented as studded tires, and several emphasize studless construction or tread features instead. Before choosing studs, check local regulations and consider the roads you use: stud rules can vary, and a tire that suits frequent ice may be unnecessary for mostly clear or wet winter routes.
Also confirm whether the exact tire listing includes studs, since product descriptions distinguish built-in studs from a studdable design.
How to Choose 245/50R20 Winter Tires
Load and speed rating
Look for a load and speed rating that meets or exceeds the vehicle maker’s approved requirement, rather than choosing by tire size alone. This selection ranges from 102R and 102T options to 105T XL and 105H XL models. Listed load capacities are 1,874 pounds for several 102-rated tires and 2,039 pounds for the Continental and Pirelli XL tires, though some entries are clearly anomalous and should be verified.
The 105H XL options may suit a vehicle whose fitment calls for that rating; a 102T tire may suit an application approved for its lower rating. The vehicle placard and owner’s manual decide which end of this range is appropriate.
Studded, studdable, or studless
Choose a tire construction that matches your winter roads and local rules. Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV is explicitly studded, and its listing highlights embedded studs for icy surfaces; Milestar Winterguard is described as studdable, so verify whether the tire is supplied with studs before treating it as a studded option. Pirelli Scorpion Winter is specifically described as studless, while the remaining listings do not all specify stud status in the supplied details.
Frequent icy-road drivers may prefer to investigate the studded Nokian and check legal restrictions. Drivers seeking a non-studded design can consider the stated studless Pirelli, or compare the other models’ listed winter tread features and confirm construction with the manufacturer.
Winter traction features
Compare the specific winter features listed, rather than assuming every tire handles snow and ice in the same way. Continental VikingContact 8 lists 3D sipes and snow edges; Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 describes a Multi-Cell compound intended to dispel water from ice; Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 cites Maxx Sharp Edge siping and a Nano-Fit compound. Pirelli Scorpion Winter adds Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification and water-draining circumferential grooves.
Drivers prioritizing the listed ice-focused compound can investigate Bridgestone, while those wanting a stated severe-winter symbol can look at Pirelli. These details identify design intent, not a head-to-head performance result, so match them to the conditions you commonly encounter.
Which 245/50R20 Winter Tire Should You Choose?
For a balanced feature set with an XL rating, 2,039-pound listed capacity, and quiet-tread design, choose Continental VikingContact 8, the top-ranked option. If a stated Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification and studless construction matter most, consider Pirelli Scorpion Winter. For an SUV or crossover driver focused on the listed ice-oriented Multi-Cell compound, Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is a strong alternative.
Choose Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV if you specifically want embedded studs, after checking local rules; Milestar Winterguard is described as studdable, not necessarily pre-studded. Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8, Sumitomo Ice Edge, and Goodyear Wintercommand offer other stated winter tread or compound features.
Before ordering any model, verify approved size and ratings against your vehicle documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm that 245/50R20 is approved for my vehicle?
Check your owner’s manual, the tire-information placard, or vehicle manufacturer guidance for approved tire size and required load and speed ratings. Confirm that the full specification—not just 245/50R20—matches. If the guidance is unclear, ask a qualified tire professional or the vehicle manufacturer before ordering or installing tires.
Are studded winter tires legal where I drive?
Check the rules for every jurisdiction where you plan to drive; studded-tire laws can differ by location and may include seasonal restrictions. The Nokian Nordman North 9 SUV title specifies studded construction, while Milestar Winterguard is described as studdable, not necessarily pre-studded. Confirm the tire’s actual configuration and local requirements.
Should I replace only two winter tires or install a matched set of four?
A matched set of four is generally the safer choice for balanced traction and handling, especially on vehicles with all-wheel drive. Mixing winter and non-winter tires or substantially different tread conditions can affect vehicle behavior. Check your vehicle manufacturer’s guidance and consult a tire professional before replacing fewer than four.
What do the load and speed ratings mean when choosing among these tires?
Load and speed ratings identify capabilities that must meet your vehicle’s requirements; the size alone is not enough to confirm compatibility. These listings include differing ratings, such as 102T and 105H XL. Compare the complete tire specification with your vehicle documentation, and do not select a lower rating unless the manufacturer approves it.
What is the difference between studded and studdable winter tires?
A studded tire has studs installed, while a studdable tire is designed to accept studs but may be sold without them. The Milestar title says “Studdable,” whereas the Nokian title says “Studded.” Verify the actual tire configuration before purchase, and check local rules before driving with studs.
Final Words
Start by confirming that 245/50R20 and the tire’s complete load and speed ratings are approved for your vehicle. For a balanced feature set, the article ranks Continental VikingContact 8 first; consider Pirelli Scorpion Winter for stated snow certification and studless construction, or Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 for its ice-oriented compound. Choose studded or studdable options only after checking local rules, and follow vehicle guidance on replacing tires as a matched set.

