Sportstick

If you are thinking of "performance" and "capability" as separate characteristics, the entire studless winter tire category, of which the Maxx is a less capable entry (vs Blizzak, XIce), will provide surprisingly good snow/ice traction. "Performance winter" tires are a trade off on the very reason you want them, but do feel better on dry/minimally covered roads even if extremely cold. Some write off "performance" for the winter, just wanting to be sure they have the most "capability". Others can't bring themselves to do that, and take the risk. Your personal choice on how to balance that decision.

ben_aip

I've just PM you