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Winter Driving in a Gladiator: Are Stock Tires Safe for Snow? (2025 Test)

The Jeep Gladiator is built to handle rugged terrains, offering a perfect blend of off-road capability and daily drivability. However, winter driving presents unique challenges, especially in regions with heavy snowfall and icy roads. Are the stock tires on the 2025 Jeep Gladiator capable of handling snow and ice safely, or should owners consider upgrading to dedicated winter tires?

In this comprehensive guide, we will analyze how the stock tires perform in winter conditions, compare them with winter-specific alternatives, and provide recommendations for enhancing your Gladiator’s safety and performance in snow.

Understanding the Jeep Gladiator’s Stock Tires

Jeep offers different stock tire options depending on the Gladiator trim level. The type of tire plays a significant role in how well the truck performs on snow and ice.

Stock Tire Options on the 2025 Jeep Gladiator:

  • Sport and Sport S – Bridgestone Dueler A/T 245/75R17

    • These are all-terrain tires with moderate off-road capability.

    • Designed for mixed driving but not optimized for extreme winter conditions.

  • Willys – BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 255/75R17

    • One of the best all-terrain tires, offering good snow traction but not a full winter tire.

  • Rubicon and Mojave – Falken WildPeak A/T3W 285/70R17

    • More aggressive all-terrain tires designed for off-road performance.

    • Better than standard all-seasons in winter but still not specialized for icy roads.

While all-terrain (A/T) tires offer decent performance in light snow, they are not as effective as winter tires on ice or deep snow. The rubber compound and tread design of dedicated winter tires are engineered specifically for cold conditions, providing significantly better grip and braking performance.

How Do Stock Tires Perform in Snow? (2025 Winter Test)

To evaluate the winter performance of the stock tires, we analyzed user experiences, conducted independent tests, and compared them with winter-rated alternatives.

Key Performance Metrics in Snowy Conditions

  1. Traction on Snowy Roads

    • The Falken WildPeak A/T3W performed better than standard all-season tires, providing reasonable traction in packed snow.

    • The Bridgestone Dueler A/T had noticeable slippage on icy roads.

    • The BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2, with its Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating, handled better but still struggled in deep snow.

  2. Braking Distance on Ice

    • Winter tires like the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 stopped 35% faster than stock all-terrain tires.

    • The Falken WildPeak A/T3W took longer to stop on icy roads, making emergency braking riskier.

  3. Cornering Stability

    • The stock tires tended to slide more in sharp turns compared to winter-specific tires.

    • Winter tires maintained better road grip, reducing the risk of spinning out.

  4. Handling in Deep Snow

    • The BFGoodrich KO2 performed well in moderate snow but struggled in deeper accumulations.

    • Winter tires excelled in deeper snow, with their softer rubber and deeper grooves preventing the truck from getting stuck.

Key Takeaways from the 2025 Winter Test

  • Stock all-terrain tires can handle light snow but are not ideal for icy roads or deep snow.

  • Braking distances on ice are significantly longer with stock tires compared to winter tires.

  • Cornering and emergency handling are much safer with winter tires.

Conclusion: If you drive in areas with heavy snowfall and icy roads, switching to winter tires is strongly recommended for better safety and control.

Best Winter Tire Upgrades for Jeep Gladiator

If you decide to upgrade your stock tires for safer winter driving, here are some of the best options available:

1. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2

  • Best Overall Winter Tire

  • Outstanding grip on snow and ice

  • Shorter braking distance in icy conditions

  • Soft rubber compound remains flexible in cold temperatures

2. Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV

  • Best for Long-Lasting Performance

  • Offers excellent traction on both packed snow and ice

  • Longer tread life than most winter tires

  • Quiet and comfortable for highway driving

3. Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT

  • Best Budget-Friendly Winter Tire

  • Great for wet and slushy conditions

  • Good stability on ice

  • More affordable than premium brands

4. Nokian Hakkapeliitta LT3 (Studded Option)

  • Best for Extreme Winter Conditions

  • Studded design for superior grip on ice

  • Durable for long winter seasons

  • Not legal in all states due to road damage concerns

Other Winter Driving Tips for Jeep Gladiator Owners

Besides upgrading your tires, consider these additional winter driving tips to ensure maximum safety:

1. Adjust Your Driving Habits

  • Drive slower in snowy or icy conditions to maintain control.

  • Increase following distance to allow more time for braking.

2. Use 4WD Wisely

  • The Jeep Gladiator’s 4WD system improves traction but does not shorten braking distances.

  • Engage 4H mode for snowy roads but avoid 4L unless driving through deep snow or rough terrain.

3. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

  • Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, reducing traction.

  • Inflate tires to the recommended PSI for optimal performance.

4. Carry Winter Essentials

  • Keep a snow shovel, tire chains, ice scraper, and emergency kit in your truck.

  • Use sand or kitty litter for added traction if stuck in deep snow.

Final Verdict: Are Stock Tires Safe for Snow?

Stock Jeep Gladiator tires are NOT the safest option for winter driving, especially on ice or deep snow. While they may handle light snow adequately, they do not offer the same level of grip, stability, or braking power as dedicated winter tires.

Who Can Keep Stock Tires?

✔️ Drivers in regions with mild winters or only occasional snowfall
✔️ Those who stick to well-plowed roads and avoid extreme winter conditions
✔️ Off-road enthusiasts who prioritize all-terrain capability over winter-specific performance

Who Should Upgrade to Winter Tires?

✔️ Anyone driving in areas with frequent snow and icy conditions
✔️ Those needing maximum safety for daily commuting in winter months
✔️ Drivers who want shorter braking distances and improved control on ice

Investing in a set of high-quality winter tires can significantly improve your Jeep Gladiator’s handling and safety in snowy conditions. Given the unpredictable nature of winter roads, having the right tires can be the difference between a smooth drive and a dangerous situation.

Final Recommendation

For casual winter driving, BFGoodrich KO2 or Falken WildPeak A/T3W can handle moderate snow but won’t match the safety of winter tires.

For serious winter conditions, upgrading to Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 or Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV will provide maximum safety and control.

Winter driving requires the right tools—don’t let inadequate tires put you at risk! ❄🚙