3PMSF, M+S and ice grip – what's the difference?
Winter tyre markings in brief: which is a declaration and which is based on a standardised test.
M+S
M+S (Mud and Snow) is a manufacturer's marking that does not require a standardised snow test.
3PMSF
The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol shows that the tyre has passed a standardised snow test. On the EU tyre label, it is shown as the snow grip pictogram.
Ice grip
The ice grip pictogram on the label shows that the tyre has passed an ice braking test. It is typical of Nordic friction tyres. European-type winter tyres generally do not carry this symbol.
Landsail examples
| Model | 3PMSF | Ice grip |
|---|---|---|
| PolarDragon Soft | yes | yes |
| PolarDragon | yes | no |
| 4-Seasons 3 | yes | no |
Data: EPREL database, checked 05.10.2026.
Models mentioned in this article

PolarDragon Soft
Nordic winter: ice, compacted snow, loose snow and slush – without studs.

PolarDragon
Central European-type winter: wet and snowy roads, less ice.