Equip your vehicle for snowy streets with the right winter tires. Discover expert tips to choose tires that ensure safety, performance, and reliability.
When winter arrives with its icy roads and snow-covered streets, ensuring your vehicle has the right tires can make all the difference in safety and performance. Picture yourself navigating through snow-draped streets or icy highways—without the proper tires, each turn or stop can feel unpredictable.
Winter tires can excel in these extreme conditions with unique tread patterns and rubber compounds that remain flexible even in frigid temperatures. Whether you need to commute through snowfall or venture into slick mountain terrain, we’ll help you choose the right winter tires to tackle any icy road.
Look for the “Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake” (3PMSF) Symbol
The three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol is an essential marker to look for when shopping for winter tires. This emblem signifies that the US Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) has tested and certified the tire to provide reliable performance on snow and in severe winter conditions. Compared to the “M+S” (mud and snow) tires, which may seem versatile but lack specialized features, tires with the 3PMSF rating can specifically handle icy roads, slush, and deep snowfall.
Assess the Average Temperature and Snowfall in Your Area
If temperatures consistently drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celcius), winter tires are an essential investment. This is because their rubber compounds remain soft and pliable in cold conditions, unlike all-season or summer tires that can harden and lose traction.
Additionally, think about the frequency and severity of snowfall where you live. Do you experience occasional dustings or relentless snowstorms? Areas with heavy snowfall demand tires with deeper tread patterns and advanced traction technology to confidently cut through snow and ice.
Closely Evaluate the Tread Patterns and Design
The tread patterns and design are inarguably the most important factors to pay attention to while you’re choosing a solid set of winter tires. Look for tires with deeper grooves and intricate tread patterns, as these features channel away slush and provide maximum contact with the road surface. Additionally, many winter tires come with sipes—thin slits in the tread blocks—that enhance traction by biting into icy surfaces.
Some also feature unique compounds or zigzag designs that maintain flexibility and control even in sub-zero temperatures. Paying close attention to these design elements can mean the difference between a safe winter drive and slipping or skidding on hazardous terrain.
Consider Studded vs. Non-Studded Tires
Choosing between studded and non-studded tires is an important step in winterizing your vehicle. Studded tires offer exceptional performance on icy and hard-packed snow surfaces, thanks to the metal studs embedded in the tread that dig into the ice for superior grip. These are particularly useful in regions with long, harsh winters. However, they can generate more road noise, and some areas restrict them due to road damage concerns.
On the other hand, non-studded winter tires rely on advanced rubber compounds and cutting-edge tread designs to deliver impressive traction and stability without the need for studs. They provide a quieter and smoother ride and are often more versatile, but they don’t function as well as studded tires on extremely icy roads and slushy conditions.
Remember, investing in quality tires is a commitment to smoother, safer travel during the coldest months.