Thought for 39s

By Scott Kraft Technology Producer for Utah Channel 3 Published: September 14, 2025

LAS VEGAS — As Southern Utah gears up for another season of snowy trails and icy backroads—from the Wasatch Front’s powder-packed passes to the high-desert challenges near Zion—vehicle traction becomes a must for safe outdoor pursuits. The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, set for November 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, will spotlight real-world solutions for conquering winter conditions. With over 2,400 exhibitors and 160,000 attendees expected, this year’s event promises hands-on previews of tires, chains, and systems engineered for ice and snow, drawing from my engineering tests on products that perform under Southern Utah’s variable terrains.

Drawing from my background in electrical engineering and field testing, I’ve vetted gear that balances grip with durability, much like the setups I’ve reviewed for local hunters and off-roaders. SEMA 2025’s focus on winter traction aligns with rising demand for all-weather tech, per industry data showing a 25% uptick in UTV and truck modifications for snow since 2023. Expect booths buzzing with innovations from established players like Michelin, Continental, and Nokian, alongside emerging brands like ATLANDER and Groundspeed.

Leading the charge, ATLANDER Tires will debut advancements in their all-terrain lineup at SEMA, featuring a 3D triple-sipe design that balances tire stiffness for enhanced stability in snow. This tech, optimized for pickup trucks and SUVs, improves handling on slick surfaces without sacrificing dry-road performance—a boon for Utah drivers transitioning from desert dust to winter slush. Priced competitively under $200 per tire, these will be at Booth #43067, where reps plan demos showing superior snow traction via lab-tested metrics.

Groundspeed Tires’ Voyager XT series, hitting SEMA shelves, incorporates GX Silica compound with nano-grade silica for better snow traction and balanced wear. Rated for severe snow service with a Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) certification, these tires trap snow in grooves for added grip, reducing slip on icy inclines. At around $150-250 depending on size, they’re ideal for light trucks navigating Southern Utah’s remote hunts, with full specs on display at their booth.

Continental’s TerrainContact A/T, a SEMA staple, returns with Snow-Groove technology that locks snow for improved handling and stopping power. This all-terrain tire, with full-depth sipes for ice traction, has won accolades like Best New Tire at past SEMAs and holds 3PMS certification. Starting at $200, it’s engineered for SUVs and trucks, offering the versatility needed for Utah’s mixed conditions—expect updates at Booth #41061.

Michelin’s CrossClimate2, a top all-weather performer, will showcase its prowess in snow with directional tread patterns and silica compounds that maintain flexibility in cold temps. Priced from $150, this tire excels in wet and icy scenarios, per independent tests showing 60% better snow traction than standard all-seasons. Look for it alongside Nokian’s WR G4 and Goodyear’s Assurance WeatherReady, both 3PMS-rated options emphasizing winter grip without studs.

Beyond tires, traction aids like automatic snow chains from RUD Chain will demo at SEMA, providing instant grip for trucks via push-button deployment. These systems, full-auto rated for forward and reverse, cut installation time and work on slick roads without manual hassle—essential for Utah’s sudden storms. Alternatives such as K&K snow socks and König CB-12 cables offer lightweight, easy-fit options for Jeeps and SUVs, with crisscross patterns for low-clearance vehicles and speeds up to 30 mph. Escaper Buddy mats, at $50-100, provide portable recovery for stuck vehicles in snow or mud.

SEMA’s New Product Showcase will feature these alongside seminars on winter modifications, like the C-Suite Social for pros. For Utah Channel 3 readers tackling Henry’s Mountains or St. George’s slick spots, these tools mean safer adventures. Early registration ends October 31—secure your badge for Industry Day and live demos at semashow.com.

As the desert chill sets in, SEMA 2025 isn’t just a show; it’s your toolkit for winter mastery. Vegas, get ready to grip.

Scott Kraft is the Technology Producer for Utah Channel 3. He is a degreed Electrical Engineer that applies engineering testing/procedures to products that are of technical interest to those participating in sporting activities in Southern Utah.