You cant go wrong with either brand, not exactly cheap, but IMHO well worth the money. Surly's are built to accommodate wider tires such as studded ones easily. ANd they can be built up to suit your particular tastes. There are more than a few models in their range that would make amazing winter not to mention the rest of the year commuters. The LHT, Trucker Disc, Ogre, Troll, Cross check (not to mention the fat bikes) could all make fantastic winter bikes. FWIW I ride a cross check year round, for winter go with an IGH and studded tires/ I also have a Moonlander for the big snow days this winter, and I can't wait!