I do my research on Consumer Reports. I've been using Michelins for 30 years or so. Even when they aren't the top rated, they are up there and consistent in the performance that I want.
I have a full-sized AWD GMC Savana van and need snow and sand traction... Florida and SW Colorado mountains in the Winter.
I use 5 alloy wheels and 5-wheel rotation to get more use out of the spare. My original spare was unused and "like new" but obviously weakened by oxidation and being under the van for 14 years, but looked good.
I replaced my tires April last year as they were approaching the end of the warranty period, but still looked great at 53 months and 49,444 miles in use. The van was at 121, 344 miles.
We finally got to travel last May and June after 2 1/2 years staying at home for COVID and then my triple bypass operation in December last year... the day we had planned to leave on our Christmas trip out to SW CO.
My current tires are Michelin Defenders 235/75R16 112T D LTX and I'm not going to replace them with any cheapies. I get my tires done at Sam's Club and they have good prices, can have sales and discounts, and their road hazard warranty is great with free rotation and balancing. $20 a tire for 5 tires installation and the warranty, so I still come in under $1,000... $925 for these last 5. I'm happy and feel safe whizzing down the road at 15 to 20 over the limit when it's safe.
USAF Retired '88, NRA Life Member. Wife USAF Retired '96
Avatar: Wynn re-enlists his wife Desiree, circa 1988 Loring AFB, ME. 42nd BMW, Heavy (SAC) B-52G's
Frédéric Bastiat’s essay, The Law: http://mises.org/books/thelaw.pdf
Thomas Jefferson said
“A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.”
and
"Peace is that brief glorious moment in history when everybody stands around reloading".