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It's the middle of January, and winter is more than ready to bring about its lowest temperatures and storms between now and the end of February. Many drivers who were interested in doing so have already made the changeover to snow tires or winter tires. However, some of you may have seasonal tires that won't make it through winter or otherwise need a set installed now. That's why today's article is a look at the different types of snow tires you might choose to equip your vehicle with for driving in Fort Plain, NY.

Snow Tires

It is common to hear "snow tires" being used interchangeably with "winter tires," and many sources will claim they are the same. However, there is technically a difference, or was at one point in time before the two became intertwined in the mind of the public. Snow tires were any non-winter tire that met snow traction requirements to display the three-peak mountain snowflake(3PMSF) symbol. The idea was that you could count on a snow tire to provide better traction and handling in cold, snowy, and icy conditions, but you shouldn't expect it to provide the same level of performance as a dedicated winter tire.

But it might help to look at "snow tires" as a category today, in which case, there are different types of snow tires you might consider buying for your vehicle, namely: all-weather tires and winter tires.

All-Weather Tires

All-weather tires are versatile tires designed to perform well in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, and dry surfaces. They combine features of both summer and winter tires, offering a balanced tread design that provides adequate traction and handling throughout the year. All-weather tires typically have a rubber compound that remains flexible in colder temperatures, making them suitable for light winter conditions, while also maintaining performance in warmer weather. They are often referred to as all-season tires with the 3PMSF, but there is some debate about whether that's fair since other tires (like all-terrains) can also meet 3PMSF standards and thus may be eligible for the "all-weather" description.

All-weather tires are typically better in winter conditions than standard all-season tires but don't have the same longevity. If you need a more robust snow tire than a standard all-season tire (which, is typically referred to as a "three-season tire"), then an all-weather tire might be the right choice.

True Winter Tires

True winter tires, also known as dedicated winter tires, are engineered for harsh winter conditions. They are not a "jack-of-all-trades" tire. Everything in their engineering is for winter weather conditions, and they are typically the best bet if you'll be driving during severe winter road conditions. Here are some key features that set winter tires apart:

1. Rubber Composition
Winter tires are made from a special rubber compound that remains flexible in low temperatures. This flexibility allows for better grip on icy and snowy surfaces, enhancing overall performance.

2. Tread Design
The tread patterns on winter tires are designed with deep grooves and biting edges that provide excellent traction on snow and ice. Many winter tires also feature sipes—small slits in the tread—that improve grip by increasing the surface area that contacts the road. Because these tires are designed for winter only, the tread pattern is not focused on dry conditions or other conditions associated with spring, summer, and fall. Every part of the tread is geared toward traction on snow and ice, brake performance in winter driving conditions, and getting your vehicle through winter's biggest storms.

3. Performance in Extreme Conditions
True winter tires excel in extreme conditions, including heavy snow and ice. They are ideal for regions that experience severe winters, where temperatures consistently drop below freezing.

Shop Snow Tires in Fort Plain, New York

Choosing the right type of snow tires for winter driving is crucial for safety and performance. All-weather tires offer versatility for mild winters, while dedicated winter tires provide superior traction and handling in severe conditions. Understanding the differences between snow tires can help you make an informed decision that suits your driving needs.

If you're ready to equip your vehicle with the best tires for winter, visit us today to explore our wide selection of snow tires. Your safety on the road starts with the right tires!