I've only used factory studded tires, however I've ridden snowy roads a lot over the last 4 or 5 years. The road condition you talked about avoiding is called mashed potatoes, and I think the only tires that would be o.k.on mashed potatoes would be fat bike tires (i.e. Surly Pugsly). That's the only tire that would possibly allow float on these conditions. Otherwise, avoid the mashed potatoes or stay 'light' on your bike.