Full disclosure, I work for a tire company that was previously mentioned in this post which would make me seem bias. But I am pickier about my tire choices and quality now that I work for a tire company.
In my experiences and from seeing the countless experiences of others here is what I have to say:
Toyo MT's- Ran them for two years- Good for all year driving, on & off road, good in the snow but they do wear quickly with a lot of highway driving. They also MUST be rotated every time you change your oil or you will notice the wear quick.
Maxxis Bighorns- Great winter tire when studded, but I did see a LOT of wear when they are run in the summer. If you want a studless tire I would not recommend these for your winter only tire.
The Cooper tires I have seen work great in the winter and wear excellent for a winter tire. I would also look into the Hankook and Goodyear's studless winter tire selection. Pick you dealer; ask what they have the best experience with and what they can get the best prices on. You have to trust you dealer, if they won’t stand behind the tires they sell you then don't buy from them. I have no problems with buying tires online or from a giant box store like Wally world but when you buy tires from a local tire center you are supporting them and they should be backing you.
I currently run the Mickey Thompson Baja Claw which are great in the summer but I’ll soon be putting on my winter set of studded Maxxis Bighorns.
Also remember, don't go wide for winter tire. You want traction and weight on those tires, not wide flotation like you would in the summer for mudding.