Selecting Tires for Winter Driving

There are few feelings as frightening as losing control of your vehicle. In winter driving conditions, the chances of this happening increase. To stay safe on the road, it is important to select the right set of tires for your winter driving needs

Types of Tires for Winter 

There are a number of different types of tires. Consider your location and winter weather conditions when choosing which will be right for you.

·         All-season tires—These tires may be adequate for areas where slippery roads are less common and temperatures typically remain above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

·         All-weather tires—These tires are an improved version of regular all-season tires that provide better traction and braking in snow. They are suitable for areas with modest winters and limited snow and ice, but will not provide as much safety in more severe conditions.

·         Winter tires—Also called snow tires, winter tires have large treads and deep grooves to assist with traction and braking. These tires should be subbed in during the winter in areas where slippery roads and freezing temperatures are common. 

·         Studded tires—Winter tires with added metal studs provide effective safety in extremely icy conditions due to the studs helping to grip the road and even pierce the ice. Studded tires are not legal in all states due to the studs potentially damaging cement and asphalt. If you’re planning to use studded tires for your vehicle, check your local laws and have the studs installed by a professional.

Safety First 

The tires that you decide to equip your vehicle with during the winter are important, but, regardless of which you choose, there are also other steps to ensuring your safety. If using winter tires, make sure that you install a full set of four. Having unmatched tires can cause skidding or losing the ability to steer. Additionally, colder temperatures can cause tires to deflate and lead to other safety issues, so check your tire pressure on a regular basis.