These tires are formulated with high-silica rubber compounds that remain pliable when temperatures drop below seven degrees Celsius (forty-five degrees Fahrenheit). The tread blocks feature thousands of tiny slits called sipes that bite into snow and ice. Because the rubber is so soft, driving them on hot, dry pavement causes rapid treadwear and compromised handling.
Swap those summer slicks for a set of winter tires before the first freeze or you'll be in a ditch.
Also heard as
- Snow tire
Do not mix it up with
- All-season tire: All-season tires harden in freezing temperatures and lack the deep sipes required for severe snow and ice.
Related terms
Snow tire
A tire engineered with specialized rubber and tread for freezing temperatures.
All-season tire
A tire designed with a tread pattern and rubber compound meant for year-round use in moderate climates.
Summer tire
A performance tire engineered for maximum grip on dry and wet roads in warm weather conditions.
Studded tire
A winter tire embedded with small metal pins to maximize traction on hard-packed snow and ice.