Nastarenkaita

Nastarenkaita, commonly known as studded tires, are a type of tire designed for winter driving conditions, particularly in icy and snowy environments. They are characterized by the presence of metal studs embedded in the rubber tread. These studs are typically made of hardened steel or carbide and protrude slightly from the tire surface.

The primary function of nastarenkaita is to improve traction on ice and hard-packed snow. The sharp edges of the studs dig into the slippery surface, providing a grip that is significantly better than that offered by conventional winter tires. This enhanced grip can reduce braking distances and improve acceleration and cornering stability in challenging winter weather.

However, nastarenkaita also have drawbacks. The studs can cause considerable noise pollution, especially on dry or wet pavement. They also contribute to road wear, accelerating the deterioration of asphalt surfaces. For this reason, many regions have regulations regarding the use of studded tires, including limitations on when they can be used and sometimes fees associated with their use.

The effectiveness of nastarenkaita is most pronounced on ice and compacted snow. On bare asphalt, their grip advantage is reduced, and they can be more prone to hydroplaning than non-studded tires. Their use is a trade-off between enhanced winter traction and the associated noise and road wear.