Hi, I have 17" slites ,and need to get around in the Iowa snow thats just around the corner. Also the ride with these 17"ers is board hard, I'm willing to give up some handling for a lot better ride. Sooo ,I need to get a set of all seasons that have a good ride,and perform like a snow tire,with good looking wheels . 15" or 16". If I could afford it ,I'd go with two sets of wheels and tires then sell off the s lites.

 

Nokian has a few Iowa dealers listed, so I'd at least take a look at some of their all-season tires. I have their snow tires and they're amazing (and needed in Vermont). People who live in NYC / Boston and head to Vermont for skiing seem to really like the less agressive Nokians for the winter, some even use them year round.

http://www.nokiantire.com/

 

I'd look @ 16's and use 205/50/16 - non runflats. This gives look performance and comfort!

Alex

 

The only all season that I know of that actually works as a snow tire is the Nokian Hakka WR.

http://www.tirefactory.net/wr.htm

 

The only winter tires I'd recommand are Vredestein!

I've used them for a long time and think they are the best... Might be a little expensive, but worth it!

 

I'm figuring the tallest and most narrow tire will work the best in snow, so what is the best,tallest tire that will fit a Mini? 15" rims don't bother me. Konig Rewinds are nice.

 

In the sizes that are out there & available I'd say a 185/65/15 is about it. If you find a narrower one let us know.

 

175/65TR-15 Continental ContiWinterContact TS810 S are available from tirerack for $55 each. I have some on order with a Sept 9 expected availability. That's a narrower tire

 

Check out http://www.snowtire.info/

 

I can vouch for Green Diamond tires. Had the MDT (Michelin MX4 pattern) all-season previously for 2 years.... those carbide chunks were the difference.

Right now, running the Winterforce tires... nice and loud & squirmy knobby tires-- great in the snow though