Suggestions for All Season Tires?

[Deftech]

Living in Chicago, and struggleing through a pretty mild winter last year on the stock tires, I think I better start looking for some replacements. Anyone know of any tires available for our Celicas that are actually worth it in the winter. (GTS Rims)

Any suggestions appreciated

[Kenshi]

Not too familiar with bad weather as I live in Southern California, but I've always heard that you should skip all season tires and just get some dedicated winter tires. The reason being that all seasons are generally considered "no seasons" as they don't grip the road at all. Keep a seperate set of summer and winter tires that you can rotate throughout the year.

[autxr]

I agree with Kenshi, but if I were buying all season tires I would look hard at the BFG G-Force KDWS tires (assuming they have the right size).

Scott

[Mjolnir]

BLIZZAK. nuff said!~
My Choice b/c it has a higher speed rating (130 mph):
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/bridgestone/bs_lm22.jsp

Low speed rating (90mph), but BEST pure winter tire!
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/bridgestone/bs_blizz_mz01.jsp

[MikeUK]

I did an extensive search this year on tires and the conculsion I reached is that (at least for up here in Canada) the best reviewed tire was the Michelin Artic Alpine. Which I curently have installed on the car.
It has good Ice traction, good snow traction, low noise, and a good depth of tread (which unlike the Blizzaks dosn't wear out half way through the life of the tire). Ask around Alpine sell out fast here, a good indicator of the performace and suitability.
I would say the tire rack review was good but incomplete as they only tested indoors on an Ice rink. I'd take a more in-depth search on the web and talk to people in your area, as snow/ice conditions will vary from region to region.
Also the higher speed rating are usally at the scarifice of the grip on snow and ice. Most tires that meet the severe snow rating are maxed out at 100mph. (enough for winter driving IMHO).
Even in snow tire there are comprimises. Find out what conditions you need covered and then pick the tire 'you' need.
How much highway over rural driving will you do?
The expected snow fall, and how fast it gets cleared or packs down, ie will you be driving on snow, ice, or cleared road most of the time. etc. etc.
Oh and I'd recommend 4