Best anti-aquaplaning Winter tyres

This ranking evaluates winter tyres specifically on their ability to resist aquaplaning, which is the loss of traction that occurs when a layer of water builds between the tyres and the road surface. The scores are derived from two key test properties: aquaplaning-longitudinal, which measures the tyre's grip and braking performance when driving straight through standing water, and aquaplaning-cross, which assesses stability and control when cornering on wet surfaces. Both criteria are equally important and combined to form the overall ranking score. These scores come from independent, reputable test organizations such as ADAC, AutoBild, and TÜV, ensuring objective and reliable results. The ranking covers a broad selection of 68 winter tyres, with the top performers representing a mix of premium and upper-middle market segments.

The results reveal a strong presence of premium segment tyres dominating the top spots, with Continental's WinterContact TS 870 leading the pack thanks to its exceptional aquaplaning resistance in both straight-line and cornering scenarios, scoring above 92 in both tests. Close behind are other premium contenders like the Pirelli Cinturato Winter and Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+, which also demonstrate excellent wet-weather safety. Interestingly, upper-middle segment tyres from Hankook show impressive performance as well, with models like the W462 Winter i*cept RS3 and Winter i*cept RS2 W452 securing high ranks, proving that effective aquaplaning resistance is not exclusive to the most expensive tyres. The field is relatively tight at the top, with only a few points separating the leading tyres, indicating strong competition and incremental improvements in wet traction technology. Budget tyres are less represented here, highlighting that aquaplaning resistance remains a key strength of premium and upper-middle offerings.

If aquaplaning resistance is a priority, drivers should focus on tyres that score highly in both longitudinal and cross aquaplaning tests, as this balance ensures safety during wet braking and cornering. Tyres like the Continental WinterContact TS 870 and Hankook W462 Winter i*cept RS3 are excellent choices for those who frequently drive in heavy rain or on slushy roads. However, buyers should consider potential trade-offs such as noise levels or snow grip, which may vary between models even within the same segment. This ranking is particularly relevant for drivers in regions with frequent winter rain or slush, where wet-road safety is critical. Prioritizing tyres with proven aquaplaning resistance can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by loss of traction in wet conditions.