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Snow tires and all-season tires both have excellent benefits, but it’s important to know the difference and which tires are more beneficial at which point in time. Your local auto shop can help you find new tires that will perfectly suit your vehicle any time of year. Here are some considerations regarding snow tires and all-season tires to help you determine the most suitable tires for you:

Consider Traction

A major consideration to make, especially during the winter months, is the traction your tires bring to the table. All-season tires and snow tires are comprised of different types of rubber. Snow tires are more beneficial in the winter because they are more pliable and soft, which allows for better traction on the roadways. The tread is also deeper and has enhanced grooves and patterns (compared to all-season tires) which allow for better grip on the road. This allows for better control when braking and steering, which could quickly become hazardous in winter driving conditions without adequate tread.

Consider Air Pressure

All-season tires and snow tires should both be able to hold air and maintain the proper PSI. One quick way to know if your tires are losing air is to check your tire pressure using a tire gauge. It’s also important to make sure your TPMS service light isn’t on (which would require filling your tires with air immediately). All-season tires lose air and become flat faster in harsh freezing temperatures, requiring them to be assessed and filled more frequently. Winter tires, on the other hand, are equipped to handle frigid temperatures and retain air for longer periods of time. It’s important to check your tires any time there is a significant change in temperature or if your tires appear low on air. Snow tires are more suitable for winter weather because they retain air better, which means there is less chance of permanent tire damage, flat tires, or a tire blowout.

Consider Driving Conditions

When it comes to the extremely varied weather we get throughout the seasons in the upper Midwest, all-season tires and winter tires each have their own time to shine. Summer weather can wear out winter tires faster because heat can wear out winter tires more quickly. The rubber compound that winter tires are comprised of is specifically designed for use in colder temperatures. All-season tires will also handle more easily and allow for more efficient braking, acceleration, and steering during the warmer months. Both all-season tires and winter tires have great benefits, but it’s important to utilize them at the right time. Once the temperature starts falling significantly and consistently, it’s a good idea to swap your all-season tires for winter tires.

Both all-season tires and snow tires each have their own benefits, but snow tires are especially equipt for safe and secure winter driving. If you’re ready to invest in snow tires in New Richmond, be sure to contact us at Tire Pros & Wheel Experts. We also offer any auto services that you may need to help ensure your vehicle is safe to drive on the roads this winter. Watch for Part 2 of this blog series for further considerations regarding all-season tires and snow tires.