I know I live in the Seattle area. We don't get much snow normally. This year we have the high chance of having the coldest winter in 50 years. So what does that mean? Maybe 12 inches or more of snow for the winter season. I know it's not a lot. The problem is when a storm hits, pretty much the entire western side of the state shuts down. We don't have enough snow plows nor enough money to really operate them. That being said and having a 1 year old in a one car family, I would say it is important that we are able to get to the place we need to get to no matter the conditions. Plus it is just fun driving around in the snow.... as long as the rest of the state stays off the roads. People around here don't prepare for snow and don't have a clue how to drive in it. Anyways I got these tires off of TireRack.com for about $162 per tire (including shipping). I order them on 11/16 and got them on 11/18... and that was with the cheapest shipping option. I was impressed.

Once we get a storm I will let you know what I think of them. The only think I've notice as of right now is the tires feel very light vs my all-seasons Falken Ziex ZE 912. My thoughts are the side walls are likely not going to be as stiff but that's ok. As long as I don't crack any more rims like I did two years ago when we had a bad storm.

Update: Well we just got our first snow storm this season last night (11/22/2010). I have to say these tires are very good in compact snow and ice. Great grip for braking. I took the S4 out for some fun last night in a parking lot and I have to say that this tires kind of take out the fun in drifting because the grip so well. We did not get enough snow to see how they handle in deep power but I'm sure that they will do well. Anyway, I highly recommend them.