Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires

As we enter the winter months in Saskatchewan, you may be getting ready to swap out your summer tires for winter tires. The tires you use during summer are generally all-season tires, but that name can be deceiving. While all-season tires provide a smooth ride in most weather conditions, it is recommended that you switch to winter tires, given the harsh winters we experience in the Regina area. Learn more in this all-season tires vs. winter tires comparison from the service team at Standard Motors.

What’s the Difference Between All-Season Tires and Winter Tires?

All-Season Tires Pros

• Provide a smooth and quiet ride
• Provide adequate traction in wet and dry road conditions

All-Season Tires Cons

• Are not made to perform in icy or snowy road conditions
• Tread compound becomes more rigid in cold weather

Your new car, truck, or SUV is originally fitted with all-season tires. As previously stated, all-season tires are manufactured to provide dependable performance in most Saskatoon weather and road conditions, but they are not designed for deep snow, ice, or temperatures under 7 degrees Celsius.

Winter Tires Pros

• Deeper tread and sharper edges enhance control and traction in snow or ice
• Tread compound stays flexible in degrees below 7 Celsius

Winter Tires Cons

• Not as smooth to drive on in dry or wet road conditions, especially if they feature studs
• Will wear out faster if driven in warm weather

Winter tires, which are often referred to as snow tires, are specifically made to deliver the traction, handling, and control you need in ice, snow, and slush. They are manufactured using a tread compound that will stay soft and flexible in cold weather, and have wider and deeper tread grooves and sharper edges to improve traction. Some winter tires also feature studs in the tread that can increase traction even more.

Get Affordable Winter Tires Today at Standard Motors

Whether you need to purchase a set of winter tires or need your winter tires installed near Kyle, the team at Standard Motors is here to help. Use our convenient online Tire Wizard to find the right winter or all-season tires for your car, truck, or SUV, and then schedule an appointment with our Service Centre in Swift Current. We can provide the full menu of tire care services, from mounting and balancing to tire rotations and wheel alignment. Make sure to take advantage of our service coupons and parts specials, and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our Service Centre.