Two Falken winter models with almost identical names are built for different jobs. The standard Eurowinter HS02, with a symmetric directional tread, took over from the HS01 in the everyday car segment. Above it sits the HS02 PRO: an asymmetric tread pattern and winter UHP (ultra high performance) class, aimed at more powerful cars and SUVs on large wheels. The model reached the market in the 2022/2023 winter season, and the size range has been expanded since then.
The tread is divided into three functional zones. On the inner side, step-down grooves compress snow into the tread so that snow-on-snow grip can work, and the two main grooves flanking them are shaped in a zigzag, which adds extra biting edges in snow and slush. The outer part, by contrast, is responsible for steering precision and for grip on dry and wet asphalt. The three-dimensional Miura-Ori sipes follow the origami folding principle: under load they lock into one another, while the multi-directional MDS layout turns them in different directions so that the blocks stay firm. According to the manufacturer's measurements, in size 245/45 R18 the tread clears up to 101 litres of water per second.
The compound has no separate trade name. The manufacturer states that the winter compound is modelled at molecular level with Advanced 4D-Nano Design technology, and it is that technology which is credited with better wet grip and lower rolling resistance. Weight is the second thing Falken highlights: in the sizes concerned the tyre weighs up to 14% less than the previous generation, and the brand links this to lower raw material use as well. The sidewall has an aerodynamic design with a contrasting Nano Black print.
In everyday use the strong points are dry asphalt and a low noise level. In Auto Bild's 2025 winter test, in size 225/40 R18 the HS02 PRO recorded 65.0 dB, the best noise result in the whole field, while Auto Express described it as a comfortable everyday tyre with a reasonable balance of grip and comfort. Snow is the weaker side. In the same test the HS02 PRO came 19th out of 20 tyres for braking on snow, and finished last overall. In Auto Bild's wear projections the approximate mileage worked out at around 30,000-34,000 km, and that too was the lowest figure in the field.
The model is suitable for electric cars and hybrids: Falken lists it as original equipment on the electric Audi A6 e-tron in size 225/55 R19. In winter, rolling resistance affects how far an electric car goes on a single charge, and tyre noise is more noticeable without the sound of an engine in the background. Every size carries the M+S and 3PMSF markings. For the sizes in our catalogue, the EU label gives fuel efficiency from B to D, wet grip B or C, and exterior rolling noise of 69-73 dB. At the Rīgas Riepas shop this model is available in 150 sizes with wheel diameter from R14 to R21 inches.
