Overview
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is a premium studless winter tire designed for everyday drivers and enthusiasts who demand maximum safety and control in harsh winter conditions. Positioned in the winter segment, the WS90 is engineered for passenger cars, sedans, coupes, and smaller crossovers. Its focus is on delivering sure-footed traction on snow and ice, while maintaining respectable wet and dry road manners for those inevitable winter thaws. If you live in a region with regular snow, icy roads, or freezing temperatures, the WS90 targets your needs with a balance of technology, durability, and confidence-inspiring grip.
Key Specs
| Type | Studless winter tire |
| Available sizes range | 14″ to 20″ rim diameters; widths from 175mm to 275mm |
| Speed rating examples | T (118 mph), H (130 mph) in select sizes |
| Load index examples | 84 (1102 lbs), 94 (1477 lbs), 100 (1764 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Directional, high-sipe density, deep grooves |
| Technology highlights | Multi-Cell compound, EdgePerformance Technology, 3PMSF certified |
Performance: Dry
While winter tires are never optimized for dry performance, the Blizzak WS90 manages to deliver stable and predictable handling when the roads are clear but cold. In everyday driving at near-freezing temperatures, steering remains direct and body roll is well-controlled for a winter tire. Cornering grip is moderate—comparable to other premium winter tires, but less than what you’d expect from a dedicated all-season or summer tire. Braking distances are slightly longer in dry conditions due to the soft, pliable tread compound, but the tire never feels vague or unpredictable. Enthusiastic drivers will notice some tread squirm during aggressive maneuvers, but for most, the WS90 provides reassuring stability and safe responses on dry pavement.
Performance: Wet
Wet weather is where many winter tires can struggle, but the Blizzak WS90 stands out for its impressive hydroplaning resistance and wet grip. The directional tread design channels water efficiently, and the high sipe density boosts traction on cold, damp roads. Braking performance remains strong in rain and slush, with the tire maintaining good contact and short stopping distances for its class. Lateral grip is predictable, and the tire gives clear feedback before reaching its limits. Compared to previous-generation Blizzaks, the WS90 delivers a more confident and secure feel in heavy rain, making it a smart choice for those facing frequent winter storms and thaw cycles.
Performance: Snow & Ice
This is where the Blizzak WS90 truly excels. Bridgestone’s Multi-Cell compound incorporates microscopic bite particles that help grip icy surfaces, while the dense siping and angular tread blocks dig into packed snow. On deep snow, the tire claws forward with authority, minimizing wheel spin and keeping your vehicle moving even in challenging conditions. Ice braking and cornering are among the best in the studless segment, with the tire maintaining control and composure on polished surfaces. In real-world winter driving—stop-and-go city traffic, unplowed suburban streets, or packed highway snow—the WS90 inspires confidence, letting drivers tackle winter’s worst without hesitation. For those living in the Snow Belt or northern states, this tire sets the benchmark for non-studded winter performance.
Comfort & Noise
The Blizzak WS90 is notably refined for a winter tire. Road noise is well-suppressed thanks to the optimized tread block design, making highway cruising pleasantly quiet compared to older-generation snow tires. Ride comfort is also a highlight, with the soft compound and flexible sidewalls absorbing potholes and rough patches common during winter months. Some drivers may notice a slight hum at certain speeds, but it’s less pronounced than on many rival winter tires. Over expansion joints and rough tarmac, the WS90 remains compliant without feeling mushy or disconnected from the road.
Durability & Economy
Winter tires typically trade longevity for cold-weather grip, and the WS90 is no exception. Bridgestone does not publish a UTQG rating for this tire, as is common for severe snow tires. Real-world reports suggest tread life is improved versus previous Blizzak models, especially thanks to the EdgePerformance Technology, which helps maintain block stiffness as the tread wears. Most users can expect 3–4 seasons of reliable service if rotated regularly and removed during warmer months. Rolling resistance is moderate for a winter tire, resulting in a minor dip in fuel economy compared to all-season options, but not dramatically so. The Multi-Cell compound wears quickly in temperatures above 45°F, so the WS90 should be swapped out once spring arrives to maximize durability and value.
Sizes & Alternatives
The Blizzak WS90 is available in a wide array of sizes to fit popular US vehicles. Two of the most common fitments are 205/55 R16 (suitable for compact sedans like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Jetta) and 225/60 R17 (ideal for midsize sedans and small crossovers like the Subaru Outback, Toyota Camry, Honda CR-V).
Key alternatives in the premium studless winter segment include:
- Michelin X-Ice Snow
- Continental VikingContact 7
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5
- Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT
- General Altimax Arctic 12
Each of these offers slightly different strengths, but the WS90 is consistently rated among the very best for snow and ice traction.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional traction on snow and ice—class-leading in independent tests
- Confident, predictable braking and cornering in winter conditions
- Refined ride comfort and low road noise for a winter tire
- Strong wet weather performance, especially slush resistance
- Wide range of sizes to fit most popular cars and crossovers
Cons
- Faster tread wear if used above 45°F or left on year-round
- Dry handling not as sharp as all-season or summer tires
- Modest impact on fuel economy due to rolling resistance
- Premium price compared to some value-brand winter options
Verdict
For US drivers who regularly face winter’s worst—be it icy mornings, heavy snow, or unpredictable storms—the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 stands out as one of the safest, most capable winter tires you can buy. Its ability to deliver top-tier traction on snow and ice, paired with very good wet and dry manners for a winter tire, makes it an obvious choice for those prioritizing safety and control. Comfort and noise levels are pleasantly refined, making long winter commutes less fatiguing. The main caveats are its relatively quick wear in warm conditions and a price premium over some rivals, but these are justified by the WS90’s real-world performance edge. If your winters are tough and you value peace of mind in every forecast, the Blizzak WS90 deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist. For drivers in milder climates or those unwilling to swap tires seasonally, an all-season may be more practical—but for true winter confidence, the WS90 is a benchmark performer.
With sizes ranging up to 20 inches and different speed ratings, are there any notable performance differences between the smaller and larger WS90 models for sedans versus crossovers?
Yes, there can be some performance differences. Larger WS90 models, often used on crossovers, may offer slightly more stability and handling support due to their wider tread and stiffer construction. Smaller sizes for sedans typically focus more on ride comfort and nimble response. However, core winter traction and braking performance remain strong across all sizes.
How does the WS90 handle during those unpredictable winter thaws when you suddenly get warmer, wetter days—does the tread pattern help with slush and standing water?
The Blizzak WS90’s tread pattern is specifically designed to handle not just snow but also slush and standing water. Its deep grooves and channels help evacuate water and slush efficiently, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining good traction during those sudden winter warm-ups.
Does the WS90’s Multi-Cell compound or EdgePerformance Technology affect how the tire performs after a few seasons of use, especially in terms of grip on ice?
The WS90’s Multi-Cell compound maintains its ice-gripping benefits for the first few seasons, but as the tire wears and the top compound layer fades, its effect lessens. EdgePerformance Technology, focused on tread design, continues to help with grip and stability as the tire ages, though peak ice grip gradually decreases as with all winter tires.
How does the tread wear on the Blizzak WS90 compare to previous Blizzak generations or other premium winter tires, especially if you end up driving on dry roads for a good part of the winter?
The Blizzak WS90 offers improved tread wear over earlier Blizzak models, thanks to its enhanced compound and tread design. Compared to other premium winter tires, the WS90 generally holds up well, even if you drive on dry roads. However, like most winter tires, frequent dry-road use can accelerate tread wear compared to driving mostly on snow or ice.
Given the price point of Blizzaks, do you feel the extra confidence on icy mornings justifies the cost compared to less expensive winter tires for everyday city driving?
For everyday city driving, the Blizzak WS90 does offer noticeably better grip and control on ice and packed snow, which can make morning commutes safer. If your area regularly gets icy, the extra cost could be worth it for the peace of mind and added safety compared to budget winter tires. If conditions are milder, a less expensive tire might suffice.