What I like are Studless Winter Tires..
such as the Bridgestone Blizzack.
Other companies have their versions as well.

I didn't put my new Blizzacks on a Vanagon , but on a 2WD rear wheel
drive  turbo volvo sedan..
instant magic.  Loved 'em immediately.   On all 4 wheels of course.

it's not only their tread design,
it's the rubber compound used too - specifically formulated for ice and
snow and cold slippery surfaces.

Scott

On 12/16/2013 6:32 PM, Dennis Haynes wrote:
> With the alloy wheels (not a standard option until 87) you can go with a
> 225/70-14 tire. This will be slightly taller and 40mm wider than stock. The
> standard load index for this size is 98 or 99 which is a small step above
> the 97 the factory205/70-14XL tires had from the factory. There a number of
> tire choices still available in this size including a Nokian.
>
> Do note that the term "Snow" tires is fading and now the move is towards
> "winter" performance. Part of this is that tires that have really deep
> grooves and stuff to go through deep snow then fail on icy roads or even
> slush.  It's all about compromise and which characteristics are real
> important. "Winter" tires should also be used on all 4 wheels. Nokian also
> has some good options for all-season tires that also work very well in
> Winter.
>
> Dennis
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
> Dake Collins
> Sent: Monday, December 16, 2013 8:09 AM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: snow tires
>
> Wu-Wei, my '84 Westy with standard 14" alloy rims, has informed me with
> great enthusiasm and a sense of urgency that she needs new snow tires for
> Christmas. I've looked around the Belfast Maine area and I get conflicting
> opinions of little or no value so I'm turning to my trusted sources on "the
> List" - What are your recommendations for snow tires?
>
>
> Thanks & Happy Holidays,
>
> Dake 'Ian' Collins
> Wu-Wei '84 Westy
>