Do all four studded snows have to match? (Complete set.)

[koda6966]

I already have two studded snow tires, Hercules Polar Trax, and need two more for the front. These tires are no longer in production, so I'm looking into some Winterforce tires to complete my winter set. But, Firestone has this message in the description.

Vehicles should always be equipped with equivalent tires at all wheel positions. All Winterforce radials, due to their exceptional hard-packed snow and ice traction when studded, must be used in sets of four to help ensure proper vehicle control.

Does it really matter, or are they trying to sell me two more tires?

 

[BRUTUS_T_HOG]

well IF you're driving a 2wd then you should only need 2 matching tires on the rear. but on 4wd trucks they all need to be the same size and brand doesnt matter, just as long as one brand is on the front and one of the back

 

[koda6966]

Alright, I was referring to the brand. I'm only 2wd so I don't have to worry about front to back differences, but I picked up some more 16" rims and I'm going to be getting some 225-75-R16 snows to match (sizewise) the two I already have.

 

[Original_Ranger84]

Yeah as long as you have similar tires on the drive axle you should be fine. you could just get some smaller tires up front and skip buying rims?

 

[koda6966]

Already have the rims, and I wanted em to match.