Ice grip symbol: A new standard of winter tire

For years, Canadian drivers have been encouraged to look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol to indicate a dedicated winter tire is, indeed, safe for winter driving. To earn the mountain snowflake, a winter tire had to pass traction tests on snow. Now, drivers who face icy roads can look for a new symbol: the ice grip symbol.  

At Kal Tire, we’re excited to share news about the ice grip symbol—and how you can find tires designed for icy conditions.  

What does the new ice grip winter tire symbol mean? 

The new ice grip symbol is a way for drivers to identify winter tires designed to deliver superior performance braking on ice. It’s an international symbol developed by the ISO (International Organization for Standardization).  

To earn the ice grip symbol, all tires will have to pass traction tests on icy surfaces. Tests are conducted at an accredited independent test laboratory. Tires have to perform at least 18 per cent better than a standard reference tire to receive the symbol. That’s a big difference!  

In Canada, which tires carry the new ice grip symbol?  

Finnish winter tire pioneer Nokian Tyres played a key role in developing the standards for the ice grip emblem—and it was an early adopter.  

At Kal Tire, two Nokian tires will soon carry the ice grip symbol. The Hakkapeliitta R5 non-studded tire features a double block grip design to help bite into snow and ice, along with a new rubber compound that ensures the tire will stay soft and flexible at even the coldest temperatures. While the Hakkapeliitta 10 non-studded and studded winter tires are designed with patented double stud technology that changes stud positioning to optimize grip and handling on ice and hard-packed snow.