What Is the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol on Tires?

Driving through snowy and icy roads can be unpredictable and dangerous. But if your tires display the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol, you can rest assured they are designed to handle serious winter conditions.

This small but critical marking isn’t just for show—it’s a certification that your tires meet specific winter performance standards. If you’re wondering what this symbol means, how it works, and why it matters, keep reading to learn about one of the most important safety features on your tires.

What Is the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol?

The 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol is a small six-pointed snowflake inside a three-peak mountain, found on winter tires and some all-season tires that pass strict snow traction testing.

This symbol signifies that the tire has been tested and approved for medium-packed snow acceleration under extreme winter conditions.
It is not just a marketing gimmick—it is an official certification that ensures your tires can handle harsh, icy roads.
Tires with the 3PMS symbol have scored at least 110 on the snow traction index, meaning they accelerate at least 10% better than standard all-season tires in snowy conditions.

This symbol was introduced in 1999 by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) and the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC). Today, the U.S., Canada, and Europe require tire manufacturers to meet strict standards before earning this designation.

Where Can You Find This Symbol?

You don’t need to guess if your tires are winter-approved—simply check the sidewall of the tire. The 3PMS symbol is clearly marked to indicate that your tires are ready for winter driving.

However, it’s easy to confuse winter-rated tires with other types, like mud and snow (M+S) tires. These tires have an M+S marking but don’t necessarily meet the same performance standards as 3PMS tires.

According to Paul Ulibari, general manager of Colorado Tire and Service, many customers mistakenly assume that big, knobby tires are better for snow. However, looks can be deceiving—true winter tires outperform even the toughest-looking all-terrain tires in icy conditions.

How Do 3PMS Tires Work in Winter?

Unlike regular all-season tires, 3PMS-rated tires are specifically designed for harsh winter driving. Here’s what makes them stand out:

Softer rubber compounds – Unlike standard tires that become stiff in freezing temperatures, 3PMS tires remain flexible, allowing better traction on ice and snow.
Siping technology – These tires have tiny slits (sipes) in the tread, improving grip on slippery roads by creating extra biting edges.
Deep tread patterns – The aggressive tread design allows snow to compact into the grooves, helping maintain traction instead of skidding.

Are 3PMS Tires Required by Law?

In some places, yes. Certain regions with harsh winters legally require 3PMS tires during winter months.

Canada: In Quebec and British Columbia, all drivers must use 3PMS-rated tires between December and March.
United States: While no nationwide law exists, Colorado enforces a winter traction law during snowstorms, requiring either 3PMS tires or chains.
Europe: Several European countries also mandate winter tires with the 3PMS marking on certain roads.

If you frequently drive in heavy snow or ice, switching to 3PMS-rated tires is a smart safety move, even if it’s not legally required.

What Other Symbols Can You Find on Your Tires?

Tires have more than just the 3PMS marking—they also include other important information.

Here are some key tire markings to look for:

Tire size – Found on the sidewall, indicating width, aspect ratio, and diameter (e.g., P225/60R16).
Load index – Shows the maximum weight capacity the tire can handle.
Speed rating – Indicates the maximum safe speed for the tire, with ratings from A1 to Y.
DOT code – Stands for Department of Transportation compliance and shows the tire’s manufacturing date.

Top Tires with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Symbol

If you’re looking for winter-approved tires, here are some of the best 3PMS-rated options recommended by industry experts:

1. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S

Best for: Trucks and SUVs
Why it’s great: All-season capability with outstanding snow traction.
Expert review: “You won’t go back to winter without one. The stopping and handling ability is night and day compared to standard tires.” – Paul Ulibari

2. Michelin X-Ice Snow Tires

Best for: Passenger cars, SUVs, and luxury performance vehicles
Why it’s great: Long tread life with excellent traction in deep snow and icy conditions.
Expert review: “As these tires wear, they develop a textured tread that improves winter grip even more.”

3. Toyo Celsius All-Season Tires

Best for: Year-round performance with winter capability
Why it’s great: Works in all conditions, making it a great option for areas with mild winters and occasional snowstorms.

These top-rated 3PMS tires are manufactured by leading brands, including:
✅ Goodyear
✅ Michelin
✅ Hankook
✅ Cooper
✅ Nokian
✅ Toyo
✅ BF Goodrich
✅ Yokohama
✅ Kumho
✅ Nitto

Final Thoughts: Should You Get 3PMS Tires?

If you live in a region with harsh winters, icy roads, or heavy snowfall, 3PMS-rated tires are the safest option for winter driving.

They provide better acceleration, improved grip, and enhanced safety, helping you avoid skidding, sliding, and losing control in dangerous conditions.

So, the next time you check your tires, look for the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol—because when it comes to winter driving, having the right tires could be the difference between getting home safely or getting stuck in the snow.