Let’s Talk Tires. Does type really matter?

When it comes to our tires, the type of tire is always a hot-button issue. What is the difference between a snow tire and a regular tire? Does premium really make a difference? If you ask someone who sells tires they’re most likely going to tell you yes without hesitation. There are numerous kinds of tires available today on the market. The four main ones are all-season, winter, performance and summer tires. I know you have heard it all of your life, “get the right tires.” But do they actually make a difference? Yes they do!

As tires gain popularity in high performance cars and certain industries it's important to understand the difference between a snow tire and a regular tire. According to Firestone, “Colder temperatures cause the tread rubber of a regular tire to get stiffer and less able to conform to the irregularities of even a dry road. When you add ice and snow to the mix, regular tires have an even harder time gaining traction because the road’s irregularities are now filled in and smoothed over by the snow and ice. Also, when a frozen surface of ice and snow comes under pressure from a tire rolling across it, heat and friction melt the surface of the ice and produce a thin film of water. This water film makes icy roads especially slippery.”

With that warning, you also have to be cautious that snow tires are simply designed for winter. They won’t last and you’ll quickly be wasting away your tread if you keep them on when the conditions don’t call for wintery weather. If you live in an area that doesn't get much of a winter weather storm, keeping your regular tires on your car is likely your best bet.