Overview
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 is a premium studless winter tire engineered for drivers who demand the highest level of safety and confidence in snow, ice, and cold, wet conditions. Designed for passenger cars, crossovers, and small SUVs, the R5 targets both everyday commuters and enthusiasts in regions where winter brings harsh conditions and unpredictable road surfaces. Its focus is maximum traction on snow and ice, predictable handling on winter-worn city and highway roads, and a quiet, comfortable ride for the long haul. Available in a wide range of sizes, it’s a top pick for anyone prioritizing winter safety and control above all else.
Key Specs
| Type | Studless Winter (Snow/Ice) |
| Available sizes range | 14″–21″ rim diameters |
| Speed rating examples | R (106 mph), T (118 mph), H (130 mph) |
| Load index examples | 91 (1356 lbs), 94 (1477 lbs), 98 (1653 lbs) |
| Tread pattern | Directional, dense siping, aggressive V-shaped grooves |
| Technology highlights | Arctic Grip Crystals, Double Block Grip, Silent Touch tread, snow claws in grooves |
Performance: Dry
On dry, cold pavement, the Hakkapeliitta R5 delivers predictable and stable handling, with a clear focus on safety rather than sporty response. Steering feel is precise for a winter tire, and there’s good confidence during lane changes or evasive maneuvers. Braking distances remain competitive among premium winter tires, though, as with most in this segment, stopping power and cornering grip are not on par with all-season or summer tires. Highway tracking is stable, but drivers transitioning from all-seasons may notice some softness and flex—expected for a tire optimized for cold-weather flexibility and snow traction. For daily commuting and cautious winter driving, the R5’s dry performance is reassuring and free from major compromises.
Performance: Wet
Wet performance is a Nokian hallmark, and the R5 continues the tradition with excellent resistance to hydroplaning and stable behavior in slush or standing water. The directional tread design, with deep, V-shaped grooves, channels water efficiently, maintaining grip even as temperatures hover near freezing. Sipes and the silica-rich compound ensure short stopping distances and secure cornering, though, like all winter tires, aggressive driving on wet roads can reveal some squirm and longer braking compared to performance all-seasons. For typical winter wetness—rain, thawing slush, and puddles—the R5 delivers consistently secure traction and inspires driver confidence.
Performance: Snow & Ice
This is where the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 stands out. In deep snow, the tire’s aggressive tread blocks and dense siping bite into loose powder and packed snow, offering strong forward traction and lateral grip. Acceleration from a stop, hill climbs, and braking feel controlled and predictable, minimizing wheelspin even for front-wheel-drive vehicles. On icy surfaces, Nokian’s Arctic Grip Crystals embedded in the compound, along with thousands of sipes, deliver exceptional grip—especially during starts and emergency stops. Compared to most premium winter rivals, the R5 matches or exceeds expectations for ice braking and cornering. Drivers report confident control on black ice, with minimal loss of traction or unpredictable slides. Snow claws in the grooves help sustain grip as the tire wears, extending winter safety deeper into its service life.
Comfort & Noise
Winter tires are often plagued by excessive road noise and vibration, but the R5’s Silent Touch tread and optimized block arrangement noticeably reduce cabin noise. At city and highway speeds, the tire produces a gentle hum—quieter than many competitors—making it ideal for long winter journeys. Ride comfort is another strong suit: the sidewalls and compound absorb potholes and winter surface irregularities with a plush, composed feel. For drivers upgrading from older winter models or budget options, the refinement of the R5 will be a welcome improvement, especially on rough, frost-heaved roads.
Durability & Economy
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 is built for endurance in harsh winter climates. The tread compound resists cracking and hardening in extreme cold, and the double block design helps distribute wear evenly across the tread. While not as long-lasting as an all-season, the R5’s tread life is above average for a premium winter tire; most drivers can expect multiple seasons of safe service if rotated and stored properly in the off-season. Rolling resistance is relatively low for a winter tire, aiding fuel efficiency compared to older-generation snow tires. The R5 does not carry a UTQG rating, as is standard for dedicated winter tires in the US, but Nokian’s reputation for quality and rigorous testing backs up the tire’s durability claims. No winter tire is immune to rapid wear if used outside cold conditions; swap to all-seasons or summers once temperatures rise.
Sizes & Alternatives
The Hakkapeliitta R5 is offered in a broad spectrum of sizes, fitting compact cars, sedans, crossovers, and even some minivans. Two of the most popular fitments for US drivers are 205/55 R16 (common for compact/midsize sedans like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic) and 225/60 R17 (popular on crossovers and family sedans like the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4).
Popular Sizes
- 205/55 R16
- 195/65 R15
- 225/60 R17
- 215/60 R16
- 235/45 R18
Key Alternatives
- Michelin X-Ice Snow
- Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
- Continental VikingContact 7
- Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT
- General Altimax Arctic 12
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding traction on snow and ice
- Predictable and safe handling in all winter conditions
- Low road noise for a winter tire
- Excellent resistance to hydroplaning and slush
- Longer tread life than many winter competitors
Cons
- Premium price point
- Dry road performance not as sharp as some all-seasons
- Soft feel and slight squirm at highway speeds
- No UTQG rating (industry standard for winter)
- Should not be used outside cold months to maximize lifespan
Verdict
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 sets the benchmark for winter tire safety and performance, especially for drivers facing regular snow, ice, and freezing rain. Its grip on icy surfaces is outstanding, and its behavior in deep snow is confidence-inspiring. Comfort and noise levels are above average, making winter commutes and road trips less fatiguing. While it comes at a premium price, the R5 justifies the investment with its long tread life and consistent performance over multiple seasons. If you live in the northern US, Midwest, or mountain states where winter road conditions can turn treacherous overnight, the Hakkapeliitta R5 is an excellent choice—particularly for drivers who prioritize safety and peace of mind over sporty handling. Those in milder climates or seeking a sharper dry-road experience might find better value in a top-performing all-season or all-weather tire, but for true winter capability, few options can match what Nokian delivers here.
The article mentions a quiet, comfortable ride. I’ve read some winter tires can get loud—how noticeable is the road noise difference compared to typical all-seasons?
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 is designed to be quieter than many other winter tires, thanks to its special tread pattern and materials. While it might be slightly louder than premium all-season tires, most drivers report the difference is minimal and much less than with traditional studded or aggressive winter tires.
I see the R5 comes in sizes up to 21 inches. Are there any concerns or limitations when using these on larger rim sizes for small SUVs?
Using the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 on larger 21-inch rims for small SUVs is generally fine, as long as the tire size matches your vehicle’s specifications. Just keep in mind that larger rims often mean shorter sidewalls, which can reduce ride comfort and increase the risk of damage from potholes or curbs, especially in winter conditions.
How does the Arctic Grip Crystals technology in the tread actually work to improve ice traction, and is it noticeably better than regular studless winter tires?
Arctic Grip Crystals are tiny, hard particles embedded in the tread compound. They act like built-in micro-studs, biting into ice for better grip. As the tire wears, new crystals are exposed, maintaining traction. Many drivers report noticeably better ice performance compared to other studless winter tires, especially on slippery surfaces.
I’m new to buying winter tires and noticed the R5 comes in a pretty big range of sizes. How do I figure out which size is best for my small SUV?
To find the right size for your small SUV, check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb—these show the recommended tire size. When choosing the R5, match these numbers (like 225/60R17) to Nokian’s available options to ensure proper fit and performance.
Is it worth going for the H or T speed rating if most of my winter driving is at 55 mph or less, or will a lower speed rating like R perform just as safely?
For winter driving mostly at 55 mph or below, the R speed rating is perfectly safe and suitable. The higher H or T speed ratings are only necessary if you regularly drive faster. You won’t sacrifice safety or performance at those speeds by choosing the R-rated Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5.