A winter-specific tire molded from a high-silica rubber compound designed to stay soft and pliable in temperatures below 45°F (7°C). The tread blocks feature thousands of tiny slits called sipes that open up to bite into snow and ice. Because the rubber is so soft, these tires will wear down rapidly if driven on warm, dry pavement.
Don't forget to swap the snow tires off the wagon before May, or you'll burn through the tread in a month.
Related terms
Winter tire
A specialized tire engineered with a soft rubber compound and deep sipes to maintain traction in freezing conditions.
All-season tire
A tire designed with a tread pattern and rubber compound meant for year-round use in moderate climates.
Studded tire
A winter tire embedded with small metal pins to maximize traction on hard-packed snow and ice.