Winter tires

[newmanium]

Alright, I've done a bunch of research on this - got a few clarifications maybe somebody here can answer.

Blizzak has two options for the X5 - the LM-60 RFT and the DM-V1 non-RFT. It appears the LM is the performance oriented option, and the DM-V1 seems to be a more true "winter" tire (R speed rating). Is this correct? Any particular recommendations one way or the other? I have the spare, so I'm open to doing a non-RFT, the DM-V1 is much cheaper. Also don't mind losing some handling for better winter performance.

Any other recommendations? The Continental WinterContact looks interesting, but I haven't found many reviews. Also seen some mention for the Michelin Alpin, just not sure how good their ice/rain performance is. Most important is hydroplane resistance and ice handling. Not as worried about snow or dry weather handling.