I've never had the studs wear out on a Nokian, but all of them eventually rip out at the sides. Tape works for a while to keep them functional, but I've gone through about one tire per winter. Mind, they get abused alot under me! But I've had the same set of summer tires (Michelin) for three years now so it isn't all me. THey might last longer at a higher PSI, but they seem to work better if kept on the low side. I suspect that's why I'm tearing them.