I've been using the Schwalbe Marathon Winter 26 x 2 (4 rows of studs). Not the Schwalbe Winter (this has only two rows). Does it make a difference? It sure does. When the roads are clear I pump up to the max 70 PSI allowing tire to run on center bead. When snow and ice I reduce the pressure to 35 allowing the spikes to make contact. The outer row helps in cornering. Adjusting pressure helps spikes last longer when on pavement. You also run smoother and quicker when you have a clear road. I have been doing this for 7 years commuting 14 miles round trip in Maine. These are my winter tires and then I have a set for marathon plus for summer.