If you're getting close to needing new tires, consider going to a narrower one. The stock size on my pickup is 265x70x17. I'm running 245x75x17. They have the same diameter and load capacity but are a bit narrower in the tread.
Narrower tires handle better in rocks and on rough roads, they have better traction in snow, and they give you more room under the front fenders for chains.
Yep. Narrow tires have a skinner contact patch which equates to more vehicle pounds per inch. Stated another way, the tires have more ability to dig in for traction.
