Winter tyres in Estonia: dates, tread depth and choice
When winter tyres are mandatory, when studded tyres are allowed, and how to choose between friction, studded and all-season tyres.
Dates in Estonia
- Winter tyres are mandatory from 1 December to 1 March.
- Studded tyres may be used from 15 October to 31 March. In wintry road and weather conditions, studded tyres may be used until 30 April.
Check the exact rules and any changes on the Transport Administration (Transpordiamet) website.
Minimum tread depth
- Winter tyre: at least 3.0 mm.
- Summer tyre: at least 1.6 mm.
The requirements apply to cars, lorries up to 3.5 tonnes and trailers of 0.75–3.5 tonnes (Regulation No. 50 of the Minister of Roads and Communications).
Friction, studded or all-season?
- A studded tyre is suitable if you often drive on icy roads and compacted snow, especially outside towns. Landsail's upcoming studded tyres: IceDragon and IceDragon VAN.
- A Nordic friction tyre is suitable for quieter driving without studs; choose a tyre with the ice grip symbol, e.g. PolarDragon Soft.
- A European-type winter tyre is designed more for wet and snowy roads and less for ice, e.g. PolarDragon.
- An all-season 3PMSF tyre meets the winter tyre requirement, but on icy roads it generally falls short of a dedicated winter tyre, e.g. 4-Seasons 3.
The choice of model does not confirm suitability for a specific car. The correct size, load index and speed index are given in your vehicle documents.
Models mentioned in this article
PolarDragon Soft
Nordic winter: ice, compacted snow, loose snow and slush – without studs.
IceDragon
Icy roads and roads with compacted snow, where studs provide extra confidence.
PolarDragon
Central European-type winter: wet and snowy roads, less ice.
4-Seasons 3
Year-round driving in regions with mild winters and in the city.