When winter comes along, there are many things you’ll need in your home to cope with frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall. It is equally important for you to consider the tools you’ll need to drive safely in the winter months. Standard windshield wipers will often stop working once they’re covered in too much ice and snow. That’s why you need to buy a good pair of winter wiper blades.
Important Factors to Consider When Buying Winter Wiper Blades
There are many things to consider before purchasing the best winter wiper blades for you. In this section, we’ll talk about the benefits of using winter wiper blades and detail the most important factors to consider.
Types of Wiper Blades
There is a range of windshield wiper designs. The two biggest differences between the two factors. How they will be used, and how they will be mounted on your car.
Let’s Talk about Hooks
There are several types of hook designs on wiper blades. The most common are the J-Hook, Bayonet, and Pin Arm. The J-Hook is a more recent design and can be found on many of the newer brands of wiper blades. Check your manufacturer’s manual before purchasing new wiper blades to be absolutely sure which hook will work for your windshield wipers.
Single vs. Dual Mount
A single mount wiper blade will be extra-long in length. These types of wiper blades are used on larger vehicles like trucks and buses. This is because they have stronger motor mounts that can generate the appropriate amount of power to move the large blades back and forth across the windshield. Dual mounted wiper blades are the most common type you’ll find on vehicles. These come standard on cars and can clear away light layers of dust and rainfall.
What to Look for in Winter Wiper Blades
There are many factors to consider before purchasing winter wiper blades for your vehicle. Below we’ll share the most important things to consider before you buy.
Length of Blades
Windshield wiper blades will come in various sizes and are usually measured in inches. Remember that the wiper blade on the driver’s side will be longer in length than the passenger’s. Though many brands have a feature on their product page that allows you to check if their product is compatible with the make and model of your car, you should first check your manufacturer’s manual to find out the exact size of your wiper blades.
Effective Water Repelling
Melting ice will begin to accumulate on your windshield and can separate the attachment between the blade and rubber on your wipers. This will affect how well they wipe away precipitation on your windshield. You should get wiper blades that will automatically drain away melted ice to avoid this issue.
Some wiper blades may be designed with an added chemical like silicone to help coat the windshield when it is in use. The layer it creates on the glass will encourage water to bead, which helps the blades wipe the water away more easily. If you live in a really rainy area, you should buy wiper blades with this water-repelling feature.
Blade Grip and Covering
The hinge joints on wiper blades directly affect how strong its grip is. Hinge joints will loosen over time, especially during the winter months when your blades have to work harder to remove ice and snow from your windshield.
A covering (or sheath) over the blade joints will strengthen your blade’s grip and will help prevent the joints from loosening too much. Usually, blade sheaths are made of rubber because they have better durability. Check to see if the rubber is heat and corrosion-resistant, as this will encourage a more streak-free wipe.
Curves on Wipers
The curve of your windshield will determine the type of curve you should look for in wiper blades. This is especially important to consider if you have a very pronounced curve on your windshield.
Top 8 Best Winter Wiper Blades 2021
1. Best Overall Pick: Rain-X 2-IN-1 Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 18”
- Type: All-Season
- Buy in a 1- or 2-pack
Key Features
Rain-X 2-IN-1 is designed with built-in water-repellent technology, which protects your windshield and makes it easier to clear away rain, snow, and sleet while you drive. Additionally, the advanced beam blade technology ensures that your wiper blades will adhere more seamlessly to the contours of your windshield. Rain-X wiper blades are superbly aerodynamic in design, which makes them less noisy and less likely to lift in heavy winds.
These winter wiper blades are easy to install. They come with a pre-installed universal adaptor that fits 96% of all vehicles! Some users have had issues with the rubber blade sliding out from the wiper when it is in use. To avoid this issue, be sure that the small plastic adaptor is properly locked into the wiper blades.
Pros
- Water-repellent technology coats your windshield in a protective layer
- Beam blade design contours seamlessly to the curve of your windshield
- Aerodynamic feature reduces noise and wind lift
Cons
- Rubber blade may slip if not installed correctly
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 26”
- Type: All-Season
- Mounting Type: Hook
- Buy in a 1- or 2-pack
Key Features
Bosch Icon wiper blades will fit almost any vehicle, and its beam-style bracket-less wipers will clear away heavy snow from your windshield in smooth, even strokes. Their hook adaptors make them easy to install.
The wiper blades have dual-rubber technology with an outer silicone covering and an inner soft rubber core that moves with ease across your windshield. There are also pressure points along the length of the blade, so they will work quietly. The flexible asymmetric spoiler feature will help distribute an even downward force along the length of the blade to hold it firmly in place when it is moving at faster speeds.
Bosch Icon blades are also heat- and corrosion-resistant, which keeps your windshield safe from damage and ensures the blades last a long time. They have a heavily curved design, which means they will not perform well on flat windshields. Some users have found that the blades streak badly when in use. Give your wipers a thorough clean if you run into this issue.
Pros
- Compatible with most vehicles
- Hook adaptors make them easy to install
- Dual-rubber technology ensures blades move easily
- Asymmetric spoiler feature holds blade firmly in place
Cons
- Won’t work well on flat windshields
- May streak heavily when in use
3. Most Versatile: AERO Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 13-28” (front); 10-16” (rear)
- Type: All-Season
- Mounting Type: J-Hook
- Can purchase rear and/or front wipers
Key Features
AERO wiper blades are OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) quality, which means they are used by a wide range of automotive companies on a variety of car models. This ensures that their blades will work with almost any type of vehicle. Just be sure to remove the plastic covering from the rubber blades when you install them.
The blades are made with a Teflon coating, making them durable and ensuring a clean motion across your windshield when in use. AERO blades have an asymmetrical rubber spoiler design that helps them to stay flat, even when moving at high speeds. The blades are also bracket-less, which prevents snow from building up too much.
Though the AERO blades are meant to work quietly and wipe your windshield clean, some users have found that the Teflon coating leaves behind a light residue, while other users have complained that the blades will skip and make a loud noise.
Pros
- OEM quality that fits most car makes and models
- Teflon coating ensures blade durability
- Asymmetrical spoiler design holds blade firmly to the windshield
Cons
- Teflon coating may streak
- Blades may skip on windshield
4. Best Budget Pick: TRICO Ice Extreme Weather Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 13-28”
- Type: Winter
- Mounting Type: Bayonet, Side Lock
Key Features
TRICO Ice Extreme Weather wiper blades are infused with Teflon, ensuring that they glide across your windshield in smooth, even motions. Adding to this, the flexible design keeps the inner parts of the blades from freezing, which also means that the blades will contour to the curves of your windshield more seamlessly.
The heavy-gauge wiper resists tearing in extremely cold temperatures, ensuring that these blades will last a long time. They are also easy to install on your car with one click. They come with five different adaptors, so you won’t have to worry too much about the type of mechanism that holds the wipers on the specific make/model of your car.
These blades are made specifically for winter use. Users who have used them during the summer and/or winter months found that the blades skip across the windshield frequently.
Pros
- Teflon coating ensures a smooth blade motion
- Flexible design keeps inner parts of blade from freezing
- Blades contour easily to curve of windshield
- Heavy-gauge wiper is resistant to tearing in freezing temperatures
- Comes with five different adaptor options
Cons
- Only for winter use
5. Easiest to Install: ANCO 30-11 Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 11-24”
- Type: Winter
- Mounting Type: J-Hook
- Can buy in 1- or 5-packs
Key Features
ANCO wipers are made specifically for use during winter. You will need to change them out after the winter season is over.
The DuraKlear rubber compound makes the blades more flexible and helps prevent streaking on the windshield as it wipes. The rubber covering also prevents ice from building up on the hinges. The heavy-duty frame stands up well to the general wear and tear of constant use. Because the blades aren’t as curved as other products, they may not fit as well on newer vehicles.
Its KwikConnect system means you can install these wipers in minutes. Be sure to keep a few spares. However, these blades are not as durable as other products. They’ll need replacing after about six months of hard use.
Pros
- DuraKlear rubber compound ensures blade flexibility and prevents streaking
- Heavy-duty frame handles general wear and tear
- KwikConnect system makes them easy to install
Cons
- Only for winter use
- Blades need replacing after approximately six months
6. Michelin Stealth Ultra Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 16-28”
- Type: All-Season
- Mounting Type: Top Lock, Side Pin, Side Lock, Hook
Key Features
Michelin wiper blades keep your windshield free of rain and can stand up to mild winter weather. Its framework is encased to protect the blades against ice and/or snow buildup. The blades are designed with a basic rubber style, and they are extremely durable. When there is thick ice build-up, you will need to use a chipper to remove the ice for the blades to work properly.
Its strongest feature is the independent suspension rail that connects the wiper tips. It ensures that the blades fit seamlessly against your windshield for an effective wipe. The Smart Hinge joints also help the wipers to grip firmly to your car across the length of the blade.
The EZ-Lok connector system makes these wiper blades super easy to install and/or replace. Users warn that the instructions for installation are not very helpful, so it might be a long process for you if it’s your first time putting new blades onto your car. Once you figure out which adaptor to use, it should be fairly easy.
Pros
- Stands up well in rain and mild winter conditions
- Basic rubber style is extremely durable
- Independent suspension and Smart Hinge joints
- EZ-Lok connector makes them easy to install
Cons
- May not work well with thick ice buildup
- Installation may be tricky for first-timers
7. Rain-X Latitude Wiper Blades
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 16-28”
- Type: All-Season
- Mounting Type: J-Hook, Side Pin, Large J-Hook, Bayonet, I & L, PTB
- Can buy in 1- or 5-packs
Key Features
Rain-X Latitude wiper blades have a solid body design that is free of all those little holes that are on standard windshield wipers. This ensures that the wiper blades do not collect frost, ice, or snow. The blades have a blended graphite coating and a rubber encased substructure that ensures blade flexibility and grip when in use. The coating also reduces the noise it makes while it works!
You’ll find the Rain-X wiper blades super easy to install with its pre-installed small J-Hook adaptor. It also comes with a variety of other adapter options: Side Pin, large J-Hook, Bayonet, I & L, and PTB. Just be sure to remove the plastic protector after installation for the wiper blades to work properly. Some users have found that the rubber slides off of the blade when in use.
Pros
- Frame designed to prevent frost, ice and snow build-up
- Blending graphite coating ensures flexibility and grip
- Easy to install with a variety of adapter options
Cons
- Rubber may slide off of blade when in use
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Length: 16-28”
- Type: All-Season
- Mounting Type: Top Lock
Key Features
Michelin Cyclone wiper blades are made of soft rubber material for excellent flexibility. The blade will grip your windshield tightly for a cleaner, smoother wipe, and its Smart-Flex design creates multiple pressure points along the length of the blade to better deal with harsh weather conditions like sleet, snow, and hail.
Installing these wiper blades is super easy with its EZ Lok connector system. Some users have stated that, though the wipers do an excellent job of keeping your windshield clear, they create a loud clunking sound as it wipes across the glass.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Soft rubber blades are flexible and easily grip windshield
- Multiple pressure points on the blade make it easy to deal with sleet, snow, and hail
Cons
- Can be noisy when in use
Buying the Best Winter Wiper Blades
If it’s your first time buying winter wiper blades, it can be difficult to know which ones are the best for you. In this section, we’ll review why you need winter wiper blades and the most important factors to consider before purchasing them. We’ll also discuss additional features to consider, talk about the differences between all-weather blades and winter blades, and share some tips on how to care for your wiper blades.
Why Use Winter Wiper Blades
Winter wiper blades will run across your windshield with a greater force, which is important when handling heavy precipitation like ice and snow. Unlike standard windshield wipers, winter wiper blades are specifically designed to handle cold weather with the high-grade rubber wrapped around the hinges to prevent ice buildup on your windshield.
Key Benefits of Using Winter Wiper Blades
- Winter wiper blades push with a greater force than standard wiper blades. You’ll need this strength to handle heavy precipitation like ice and snow, as standard wiper blades are only equipped to handle rain and light dust.
- Winter wiper blades are specifically designed to handle cold climates. They have high-grade rubber wrapped around their hinges that prevent ice buildup.
- Standard windshield wipers will bend over time when heavy ice collects on them and destroys their levers.
Winter Wiper Blades Options
The most common hook designs for wiper blades are J-Hooks, Bayonets and Pin Arms. Be sure to check your car’s owner manual before buying winter wiper blades.
You should also be aware of the differences between single and dual mount wiper blades. Single mounts are extra-long in length and more appropriate for larger vehicles like trucks or buses. The motor mounts on these vehicles are stronger and generate more power to move the larger blades across the windshield.
Dual mounted wipers, on the other hand, are the more common types of blades found on most standard-sized vehicles. They can handle clearing light dust and rainfall from your car’s windshield.
Key Features to Look for in Winter Wiper Blades
Below are the most important features to consider before you buy a pair of winter wiper blades.
Wiper Blade Length
Wiper blades will come in various sizes and are usually measured in inches. Keep in mind that the driver’s side wiper blade will be longer in length than the passenger’s. Though many products will allow you to check if they are compatible with the make and model of your vehicle, you need to first check your manufacturer’s manual to find out the exact size of your wiper blades.
Water-Repelling Abilities
Melting ice will accumulate on your windshield over time. This can separate the attachment between the blade and rubber on your wipers, which will then affect how well they are able to wipe away precipitation. You should get wiper blades that will automatically drain away melted ice to avoid this issue.
Some wiper blades have an added chemical like silicone on them, which coats the windshield when they are in motion. The thin layer it creates on the glass will encourage water to bead, making it easier to wipe away. If you live somewhere that rains a lot, you should buy this type of wiper blade.
Grips and Coverings
How strong the grip is on your wiper blades will depend on the hinge joints. They will eventually loosen over time, especially when in use during winter months, as they have to work harder to wipe away ice and snow. Consider purchasing the Rain-X Latitude wipers, if you need a pair with good grip.
The covering (or sheath) over the blade joints will help strengthen the blade grip and will keep the joints from loosening too much. Blade sheaths are usually made of rubber, as they are more durable. Look for rubber that is heat and corrosion-resistant. This will ensure a more streak-free wipe when they are in use.
Wiper Curves
If you have a windshield with a more pronounced curve, you will need to spend more time looking for wiper blades that will accommodate this. The TRICO Ice Extreme Weather Wiper Blades are a great option if you have a particularly curved windshield.
Other Features to Look for in Winter Wiper Blades
Though these factors aren’t deal breakers, you may want to consider them before purchasing your winter wiper blades.
Aerodynamics
The shape of your wiper blades is an important feature to consider when it comes to air resistance. A wiper with a more aerodynamic design like the Rain-X 2-in-1 will drag less and move more smoothly across your windshield, even during heavy winds.
Noise Level
Winter wiper blades are specifically designed to remove snow and ice from your car. However, when there is too much snow buildup on your windshield, some wipers can get pretty noisy! The quality of the rubber on your wiper blades will determine how loud they get. Additionally, wiper blades made of silicone are generally quieter. If you’re looking for wiper blades that are on the quieter side, consider purchasing the Bosch Icon Wiper Blades.
Beam Blades
These types of blades are bracket-less and have a steel spring built into the rubber. This design helps to better distribute pressure across the blade, ensuring that pressure isn’t solely focused on the joints. It also makes your blades more compatible with the curve of your windshield.
Differences between All-Season Blades and Winter Blades
All-season wiper blades are usually summer-specific and will have open frameworks. This is because they are not made to deal with snow or ice. This makes them lighter in weight than winter wiper blades that are made with sturdier and heavier frames.
Though the all-season wiper blades will cause less stress to the wiper motor, they will not stand up well in heavy rain or snow as well as winter blades. All-season blades are also thinner and made of natural rubber. Winter blades, on the other hand, will be thicker and most likely made with a rubber compound. They will damage more quickly if exposed to heat and UV rays for too long, but they will be more effective at cleaning your windshield in the winter months.
How to Install Winter Wiper Blades
If this is your first time installing winter wiper blades, don’t fret! Watch the following video to learn how to set them up properly on your vehicle.
How to Clean Wiper Blades
From time to time, you may need to clean your wiper blades for them to function effectively. Watch the following video for tips on how to clean them properly.
Replace Your Wiper Blades If…
- Your wiper blades are skipping across your windshield and not moving in a smooth sweeping motion
- Your wiper blades leave behind any streaks on your windshield.
- Your wiper blades only wipe away sections of dust or precipitation from your windshield.
- Your wiper blades make a squeaking sound even when they are wet.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what to look for in winter wiper blades and the best product choices to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the right one for you!
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
