Snow tires are specifically designed to maneuver in the difficult or dangerous conditions of snow zones or mountains where the temperature regularly drops below 40 degrees. Snow tires are distinguished by a mountain snowflake symbol on the wall of the tire. If you see this blue stamp, it means the tires have been tested and proven for snow, ice, and slush.
The benefits of snow tires include improved traction, vehicle handling, and skid control. They have deeper, wider, and more jagged tread than regular tires, allowing the tire to pick up snow and maintain traction. They are also softer and more flexible than summer tires, allowing them to grip the road better. Many are also studded.
Studded Snow Tires
A studded winter tire has metal spikes (called studs) added to 1/8" diameter pinholes in the tread. These studs protrude slightly from the rubber tread surface, helping break through packed snow and ice-covered roads for added traction in the most extreme winter conditions.
Studless winter tires offer great traction for most winter conditions without the use of the metal spikes. However, studs often provide the best traction when encountering severe ice or packed snow.
Unsure where to start? Discover how to choose the right snow tires for your vehicle .
