They( Nokians) ride fine, but are noisier. They are superior in traction, and have a loger life becasue Alpines are not the same all the way down the tread. Alpine are the best I suppose, for the performance oriented, but I think thats not the point in winter weather, personally.

Price wise, I have found the Yokohama Guardex to be about the best all around. They are noisy, like the Nokians, have the same rubber composition, and are well balanced, having a decent lifespan. They are not quiet as good on ice, but are close. The price difference between the Nokians and Guardex is signifigant. 44$ a tyre, vs about 74$ a tyre. contact discounttires( Not tyrerack.)