Are Snow Tires Necessary?

Snow tires help improve traction. The differences between snow tires and conventional (“all-season”) tires include:

• Rubber: All-season-tire rubber tends to harden, which can cause tires to lose their grip. The rubber on snow tires is specifically designed for low temperatures, allowing them to keep a good grip even as temperatures fall.

• Tread pattern: Snow-tire tread is deeper and has a greater number of slits to maximize surface-edge contact with the road. More edges create a stronger grip.

If you must drive on potentially unsafe roads, consider equipping your vehicle with snow tires for greater safety.

– Anthony Blackman, Atlantic Tire and Service