Consumer Reports is correct, these are the #1 winter tires. I have now bought and installed 6 sets of these on 6 family vehicles over the last 10 years, and i live in Northern/central British Columbia and I ski so they get lots of challenges on snowy and icy roads. I would not allol my daughters to drive their cars in the winter without XICE tires. The tread pattern does not look like a winter tire but it sure works.

I had the tires for two winters and am very satisfied with the tire's abilities on wet, dry, snow covered and icy roads. The tire does falter on slushy roads. It seemed like driving with summer tires. I suspect this is due to the limited groves in the tread for the slush to go so the tire rides up on the slush instead of channeling it away. The tire is very quiet and provides a soft smooth ride. Treadwear has been very good as well. This is important since I drive 90km to work. Overall great tire.