Snow Tires

[super66]

Alright decision made. I'm getting the 2 rears, the fronts have plenty of life, if I struggle in the first snow fall, I can buy new fronts then.

Now I just have to find the best route to work with no stops or turns

[DenverSteve]

I think the confusion is your sentence: "I am assuming I'll be more than great with fresh tires on the back regardless of brands." Which is patently incorrect. You will be far less than great.

Brand, model and consistency between front and rear matter a great deal. Simply buying random "Winter" tires for the rear and ignoring their compatibility with the fronts is dangerous. Additionally, buying "random" rears and then replacing fronts if it doesn't work out is, well, ridiculous. If you need only new rear tires, then buy what you have on the front to match. Otherwise buy a new set of tires, have them siped and/or studded, if your Winter's need this, and drive safely.