All-season tyres or winter tyres - Which ones should I choose?
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Unlike many countries in mainland Europe, such as Sweden and Austria, winter tyres are not a mandatory requirement or strongly recommended by authorities in the UK. In fact, only a small percentage of drivers have them. However, most people would agree that quality summer tyres are unsuitable for outside temperatures below zero. So the question here is, what are the advantages of winter tyres over all-season tyres? Which one is a more cost-effective solution for drivers in the UK?
All-season tyres vs winter tyres: what’s the difference?
Winter tyres are designed for a specific purpose. The structure of the tyres is supposed to provide maximum traction in cold and icy conditions. They have a softer compound which stays flexible in low temperatures to ensure better vehicle handling, as well as deep grooves and cuts in the tread. This tread design allows the tyres to effectively clear away slush and snow and dig into ice and snow to maintain traction with the road. However, due to their softer compound, they are not suitable for use in warmer conditions. They work best when temperatures drop below 7°C.
All-season car tyres offer a safe and economical, all-year-round alternative. Their harder compound makes them more durable and suitable for a variety of weather conditions. They also incorporate similar characteristics to winter tyres as the grooves in the tread pattern provide better grip in cold conditions than summer tyres and added aquaplaning resistance. However, they are a compromise: all-season compounds don’t offer the same amount of flexibility as winter ones in cold conditions or the same amount of rigidity as summer ones in hot conditions, which may affect performance.
Choosing the right tyres for certain weather and road conditions will help them last longer and could save you more money in the long run.
Winter tyres vs all-season tyres: which ones perform better?
You can only really compare how they perform based on where you live, the climate and how low the temperatures drop to. In general, all-season tyres are more versatile and durable than winter tyres. Not having to swap between summer and winter tyres can also save you time and money. They are suitable for wet conditions and mild winters. Although they have a better average braking distance than summer tyres, there is no doubt that winter tyres offer more traction and a better braking performance in snowy or icy conditions. It’s similar to the difference between sturdy trainers and winter boots. The downside is that the latter can’t be used all year.
Is it worth having winter tyres in the UK?
In general, many parts of the UK do not experience extreme winters. This is why many people can get away with only using one set of all-season tyres. They perform well in wet conditions and can manage light winter driving. However, if you experience heavier snowfall and freezing conditions, winter tyres may be worth the investment. This is particularly true for the more remote, rural areas of the UK. It may also depend on how often you use your car. If you’re only using it for short trips and visits within urban areas, you’re less likely to want to swap between two types of tyres.
You can find a range of cheap winter tyres online. Alternatively, snow chains or snow socks may be a cost effective alternative.
