Winter Tires vs All-Weather Tires: What's the Difference?


"Do I really need winter tires?" 

This is a question we hear all too often in our service centers and the answer is "yes!" If you live somewhere that the temperature regularly dips below 45 degrees, you should invest in winter tires.

Why Aren't All-Weather Tires Good Enough?

All-weather tires have somewhat of a misleading name. Yes, they are suited for all types of weather: rain, sunshine, light snow. But they are not the best option in every weather condition. 

 All-weather, or all-season, tires are designed for wet roads, dry roads, and light snow. Since we live in Colorado where icy roads are prevalent these days, winter tires will give you the best traction and grip. Their treads are designed differently from all-weather tires with specially formulated rubber that stays flexible at low temperatures for better vehicle control, yet still reduces snow build up. Additionally, in our area where Traction Laws can be put in effect, the Severe Snow Conditions Symbol on the sidewall of a winter tire indicates that you're in compliance if Traction Laws are active. 

Since this season has been particularly warm and dry, one could argue that winter tires are not essential this year. But what if next year is different? If you're able, make the investment now so that you're prepared when the snow does hit. 

You Need Winter Tires Even If Your Vehicle is AWD

All-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive vehicles improve traction on the road by distributing the power to all four wheels. That doesn’t help you once you put on the brakes, but winter tires will.

Match Your Tires

If you have two winter tires and two all-season tires, your vehicle is not able to work cohesively. Changing out just the two front tires will increase the likelihood that your rear tires will skid. Additionally, if you were to just add snow tires to your rear wheels, the front tires would lose traction and make it impossible to steer your vehicle!

Stay With the Season

We know it can seem like a lot of work, but your safety is of the utmost importance. When Spring rolls around (or the snow clears, whichever comes first...) be sure to replace your winter tires with all-season tires. This will keep your winter tires in better condition for next winter as gravel and warm, dry pavement will wear them down faster.

Consumer Reports compiled test data to show the advantages of winter/snow tires. Their advice:


  •      Always use four matching winter/snow tires for the best balance of handling and grip to stop, start, and take a corner on snow-covered roads.
  •       Look for the mountain and snowflake symbol indicating the tire meets an industry-defined level of snow traction. 
  •       Winter/snow tires will wear more quickly than all-season tires, and their performance in winter will decline as they wear. As a best practice, replace winter/snow tires before they are worn out, and if you remove them at the end of each winter, you may get three or four seasons of good use out of them.
From Consumer Reports

From Consumer Reports

Safe travels! Remember that Stevinson Automotive is here to help! Visit any one of our seven dealership locations across central and northern Colorado for advice on prepping your vehicle for icy road conditions or a long road trip. 



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