Tire studs are added to winter tires to increase traction.  They help with control, acceleration and deacceleration. An aluminum(lightweight) or steel body has a tungsten carbide tip that protrudes from the surface of a tire. There are a variety to stud designs on the market which are used in various conditions and with varying levels of performance and application.  The most common style is the single flange stud that you will see on a majority of the studded snow tires on the road during the winter on passenger cars and light trucks. Although tires with studs are noticeable on the road due to the noise they cause, damage to roads is negligible compared to the added safety in better stopping on snow and ice. Stopping distance with winter tires is less than half that of a summer tire at 60mph and studs only improve that in winter conditions.

Tire studs, specifically those classified under the Tire Stud Manufacturers Institute (TSMI) standards, come in various sizes to accommodate different tire types and conditions. The TSMI numbering system helps identify the correct stud size based on the tire tread depth. For instance, TSMI #12 is suitable for a 12/32″ tread depth, while TSMI #13 fits a 13/32″ depth. These studs are crucial for enhancing traction on icy surfaces, with the tungsten carbide pin protruding slightly to grip the road, improving vehicle control during winter driving conditions. Ensuring the proper TSMI size is critical for optimal performance and safety​.