Studded Tires and Regulatory Limits: What You Need to Know
In recent years the number of studs in studded tires has often increased, but many manufacturers still choose a noticeably smaller count. The reason lies in safety and regulatory realities, not just marketing choices. Since early 2016, the number of nails allowed per meter of tread is capped by safety rules for wheeled vehicles. For most sizes, the limit is 60 studs per running meter of tread. A typical tire size such as 235/60 R18 has a profile length of two meters and thirty-two centimeters, which means the maximum permissible stud count in that tire is 139 pieces. These limits are grounded in the need to balance grip with road wear and overall vehicle safety on winter surfaces.
There is a loophole, however. The quantity of studs is not officially restricted if the tire wears the road within acceptable parameters. Proving this requires a dedicated wear and tear assessment, an evaluation that can be extremely costly for manufacturers. The cost and complexity of such testing influence decisions across the market, especially among brands aiming to keep prices competitive while meeting basic safety requirements.
First, economy class tire makers often skip the extra expenditure involved in the wear test, sticking to the bare essentials of the technical regulation. This keeps prices lower but may limit stud density.
Second, reducing the destructive effect of studs on the road is not a trivial task. Achieving lighter road impact can demand unusual and expensive engineering solutions, plus repeated testing. Only leading tire producers tend to take these extra steps. Midrange manufacturers frequently walk a tight line between the number of studs and the force they apply to the roadway, seeking a practical compromise that preserves performance while controlling wear and cost.
People frequently wonder how the behavior of a vehicle on a slick surface changes with different stud counts and stud protrusion. A comprehensive comparison of eight 235/60 R18 studded tire models for crossovers was published in a notable automotive magazine in late 2022. An online version of that test is in development for publication on this site, with updates planned to reflect new data. Check back for fresh insights and practical guidance about tire performance on snow and ice.
- To extend stud durability, proper tire break-in and maintenance are essential. Practical steps for correct bed-in and care are described here and are worth following for any winter tire user.
- Updates and discussions about tire care and performance can also be followed via messaging channels on social platforms dedicated to automotive topics.
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