I'm new to the winters in Alaska, but the best traction is important to me, so I decided to put studded tires on. In researching brands, it seems Nokian Hakkapeliitta is one of the best choices. We first tried to put 55 profile tires on (little higher for clearing snow), and also because they are clearing out the Hakka 4's at a great price.... However the 55 profile does not clear . So alas, the tech said he could put on Hakka 5's for 2x the price. Then he checks a few things, and says... he just received a special order of Hakka 7s for about the same price.

So far they grip great, but I'm waiting for another good freeze to put them to the real test. The biggest difference I can tell are the shape of the stud and something they call "air claw" technology. According to the Nokian website the Hakka 7s won't be in America until next winter. Just thought fellow Evo owners in Alaska woulds like to know!