‘Tis the season when all of the stores are playing Christmas Carols – a clear sign the holidays are almost here, but also a signal to start getting ready for the colder months ahead.
When the temperature drops to 7°C consistently it’s time to start preparing your car for winter and bracing for the imminent snow, slush and ice. For most drivers, this often means, off come the all-season tires, and on go the winter ones.
While most Canadians understand the importance of switching tires seasonally, especially those living in provinces that are tormented by heavy snowfall, some still wonder, are winter tires really necessary? The truth is, there may be another option.
“Designed to handle changing weather conditions through all four seasons, all-weather tires are becoming increasingly popular, as their flexibility and design benefit a variety of drivers and driving preferences, especially for those in areas that don’t experience heavy snowfall,” says Darryl Croft, OK Tire automotive expert.
All weather tires may be a strong contender for your vehicle and lifestyle. Here are a few ways to demystify which tire is right for you this winter:
What is the difference between All-Season and All Weather tires?
All Season tires are typically the most popular choice for consumers and thought of as a year-round tire that adequately meets any weather condition. That said, they are actually intended for moderate weather where the temperature does not drop below 7°C. The reality is that drivers in most Canadian provinces do not experience these types of mild weather conditions in the winter time. Generally, in Canada, a typical all-season tire performs optimally during the months of April through September.
When the temperature starts to dip below 7°C, all-season tires start to get harder, they feel more like hockey pucks, their traction is reduced and braking ability is affected.
Designed to handle changing weather conditions through all four seasons, all-weather tires are becoming increasingly popular, as their flexibility and design benefit a variety of drivers and driving preferences, especially for those in areas that don’t experience heavy snowfall,” says Darryl Croft, OK Tire automotive expert.
Another benefit of all-weather tires is the added bonus of not having to change tires each winter and spring or to have to find storage for the extra set of tires.
If you find yourself in an area that does not accumulate a lot of snow, all-weather tires are a strong contender and may be an option for you this winter season. Wondering where to begin? Check this handy resource to get started.
