Before the winter arrives, you should already have changed tires on your vehicle from all-season tires to winter approved tires. If you don’t already have winter tires, and you are in the market to buy a new set of, you are in for a bit of a challenge. The selection of tires will depend both on what type of vehicle that you have and where you live. Some areas might have very harsh and long winters and some areas might only see some sporadic spells of winter weather. You also have areas where you don’t see any winter weather during the year, here you are probably not buying winter tires unless you need them to drive to areas with winter conditions. You also need to be aware that some areas might also restrict the use of some tires, so you will need to check your local regulations. If you plan to drive to other areas, you will need to check what applies there as well.
When it comes to tires that can handle winter, you have studded tires, which are the original type of winter tires and have been around since the 1930ies. They have been continuously improved ever since then and have also given the rise to the non-studded tires. The studded tires have the best possible grip and performance on icy surfaces, due to its protruding metal studs. The non-studded tires that are still full-fledged winter tires even though that they don’t use metal studs to create grip. They instead make use of a unique tread design and often also use cryo-crystals in the tread to create an abrasive surface. This is what gives the tires excellent grip on icy surfaces, without the use of studs. These tires are not intended for summer use, as the rubber compound and the tread design has been optimized for winter conditions. Finally, you have the option to use all-weather tires that are approved for winter use. They are a hybrid tire that can function in all spectrums of weather and temperatures.
Winter approved all-weather tires, which are always non-studded, are more all-round tires that can be used all year round. They have a rubber compound that can handle a wider temperature range. They will allow you to be safe all year round regardless of weather. They are the perfect tires to use when you are really dependent on your car and you don’t want to worry about the weather forecast or end up waking up with the wrong tires for the weather conditions that day. They are perfect for areas that don’t have so harsh winter conditions, where you don’t need fully dedicated winter tires.
If your area has long harsh winters, then your options include both studded or non-studded tires. The choice is more dependent on personal preference and the weather conditions in your area. When you have more snow, both tire options are equally good and then the non-studded gives you a bit more flexibility as you can freely travel between countries. The studded tires are though superior if you drive in icy conditions, so if you want the ultimate grip the studded tires are your best choice.
For more information regarding tires options for winter conditions, visit: nokiantires.com
