Winter tires are designed to be used in cold weather. All season tires, on the other hand, are designed for use year round. Which type is best for you? This article will help you decide which type of tires are right for your needs.
Winter tires are made with rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold weather, allowing the tire to maintain traction at low temperatures. Winter tire treads feature deeper tread depths than summer or all season tires, allowing for more biting edges for better grip on snowy roads. The addition of sipes (small cuts) in the tread blocks also allows the tire to grip the road better.
Winter tires also often feature a metal and non-metal compound, increasing wear resistance and preventing damage from cold weather puddles and frost heaves. This type of tire is often found on European vehicles or high end luxury cars.
All season tires are made for year round use, and are designed to provide good performance in most weather conditions. All season tires feature a stiffer tread compound that retains its shape at lower temperatures, but lacks the biting edges of winter tires. In northern states where there is no snow, all season tires will perform better on wet and dry roads.
If you live in an area with light snowfall, all season tires are a good choice. All season tires will also outperform winter tires on dry roads. However, if you live in an area with significant snowfall, winter tires are a better option. Further, if you live in an area with light or moderate snowfall, but experience extreme cold temperatures, winter tires could be the better choice for you.
Generally, Goodyear explains, summer or all-season tires may start to become less effective as temperatures fall below 45°F. Therefore, as temperatures start to consistently drop below 45°F, if you’re planning to use a winter tire, it’s time to make the switch. Accordingly, many people in the US have long used a rule of thumb of using winter or snow tires from Thanksgiving to Tax Day – which means from November to April. Of course, though, this varies based on your local climate.
Since winter tires are only designed to be used in the cold, it’s important that you switch back to all-season tires at the end of winter. If you don’t remove your winter tires before spring arrives, you may find yourself dealing with a flat tire or other damages from potholes and debris.
No matter what type of tires you use, it’s important that you regularly inspect your tires for wear and damage. Winter tire treads are often more susceptible to cuts and tears than summer or all season tires. If your tire is damaged, even if it isn’t showing any signs of having lost air pressure, replace it immediately.
In conclusion, both winter and all season tires have their benefits. It is important to consider your specific needs and climate before making a decision on which type of tire is best for you. Caring for your tires properly is essential to getting the most out of them. Regular inspections for damage and wear are crucial, especially if you use winter tires in the warmer seasons. For more information about tires and what’s best for you, stop by a Scott’s Auto location today!
