Richards right, it really depends on what you are looking for. I run and have always run a "traditional" snow tire. They are a little noisier on the road but as far as traction etc is concerned I love them. The ones I purchased I have now are going on to their 5th winter and probably still good for another one, depending on what kind of winter we have. Be honest with yourself, why spend the money on a performance tire for winter??? think about it, ITS WINTER. I don't think cornering at high speeds is going to be necessary. Okay going out and having fun in the snow is good but I still have fun with my tires too.
Think about the type of driving you do and go from there. For me my concern is I do so much driving mainly highway so I wanted something that could deal with that plus still give me amazing traction to get me through those wonderful winter days way up here. If you were staying in the city I may consider a more performance type tire but again, are they really worth the money in the end. Use your common sense and stick with it. Everyone has their own opinions on what is good and/or bad in the end it is your money and your safety that really matters.
BTW, my tires are made by Hercules and have been a pretty decent tire for what they were. Price was good too. If I remember correctly about $50/$60 each I think (5 years ago).
As for rims, stick with steel. I use aluminium and I am actually going to be switching to steel tomorrow. One of my rims got damaged last winter and just cannot be balanced anymore. I find they tend to get damaged easier in the winter since the conditions are more harsh. Again why put the extra money into it. Yeh the look better but your like me, the car is dirty most of the winter at best. How bad will the rims look against a car covered with road salt.
