Winter Tire Buying Guide: Our Top Picks

Driving in snow demands the right equipment, like winter tires. Snow tires are a crucial component for both safety and performance. But what are snow tires, and how do they differ from all-season options?

This guide will help you navigate the world of winter tires. We'll explore key features, compare types, and share our top picks for the best tires for snow. We'll cover when to switch, what to look for, and how to maintain your winter tires.

Whether you're a seasoned winter driver or facing your first snowy season, we'll help you make an informed decision. We’ll even help you identify the best winter tires for your specific vehicle. Ready to upgrade your vehicle's winter performance? Order new tires today from Fleet Farm.

Before Buying Winter Tires

Before investing in a set of winter tires, it's essential to understand them. You'll want to know what they are, how they differ from other tires, and why they might be necessary for your vehicle. Let's explore essential factors to consider when shopping for winter tires.

What Are Winter Tires?

Winter tires, or snow tires, are engineered for performance in cold weather conditions. These tires have key characteristics designed to improve traction and control on snow, ice, and cold, dry pavement.

1. Unique tread patterns with deeper groves and sipes (small slits in the tread blocks) for enhanced grip.
2. Special rubber compounds that remain pliable in cold temperatures, ensuring the tire maintains flexibility for better contact with the road.
3. Tread designs that channel snow, slush, and water away from the tire's surface, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaning traction.

Snow Tires vs. All-Season Tires: Which Is Better?

The debate between snow tires and all-season tires often arises when winter approaches. All-season tires provide adequate performance in a variety of conditions. However, they have some limitations in extreme winter weather.

Snow tires outperform all-season tires in winter conditions due to:

1. Superior traction on snow and ice
2. Better handling and braking in cold temperatures
3. Improved stability in slush and wet conditions

All-season tires have other advantages:

1. Acceptable performance in mild winter conditions
2. Year-round usability
3. Cost-effectiveness for regions with mild winters

Snow tires are better for safety and performance for drivers in areas with harsh winters. However, those in milder climates may find all-season tires suitable.

What Makes a Good Snow Tire?

The best tires for snow have several key features that set them apart:

1. Tread Design: Look for deep, wide grooves and many sipes. These features help channel snow and slush away from the tire's surface.
2. Rubber Compound: High-quality snow tires use specially formulated rubber compounds. These compounds stay flexible in cold temperatures, ensuring a better grip on icy surfaces.
3. Biting Edges: Small slits or jagged patterns in the tread blocks create thousands of biting edges that grip snow and ice.
4. Snow Platforms: Some tires feature small channels that collect and hold snow. This uses snow's natural tendency to stick to itself for improved traction.
5. Studdable Design: Some winter tires can accommodate metal studs for extreme ice conditions. However, these may be restricted in some areas.

When shopping for winter tires, look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, which indicates the tire meets the performance criteria for severe snow conditions. Given the wide range of options and sizes, selecting the right tire for your specific vehicle is essential for safety and performance.

When Should I Switch to Winter Tires?

Timing is vital when installing winter tires. Generally, you should switch to winter tires when temperatures get frosty—consistently below 45°F (7°C). Depending on your location, this typically occurs in late fall or early winter.

Key guidelines for switching to winter tires include:

1. Check local weather patterns and long-term forecasts
2. Don't wait for the first snowfall - cold temperatures alone warrant the switch
3. Plan to change back to all-season or summer tires when temperatures consistently rise above 45ºF (7ºC)

Remember, it’s better to switch too early than too late. Winter tires provide improved safety even on cold, dry pavement. Since tire selection is key to winter performance, choose tires designed for your vehicle’s specifications and the typical conditions in your region.

Is It Worth It to Put Winter Tires On?

Winter tires indeed cost more. However, they have significant value in safety and performance. Consider the following benefits:

1. Improved Safety: Winter tires can reduce braking distances by up to 30% in snowy conditions.
2. Better Handling: Winter tires' enhanced traction provides more confident cornering and better overall vehicle control in winter conditions.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle can handle winter weather can reduce winter driving stress.
4. Potential Cost Savings: While there's an upfront cost, winter tires can help prevent accidents. This could save on insurance premiums and repair costs.
5. Extended Tire Life: Using winter tires in cold months can extend the life of your all-season tires.

For many drivers, especially those in areas with severe winters, the benefits of winter tires far outweigh the costs. With a range of winter tire options available—including studded, non-studded, and performance tires—you can select the type best suited for your driving needs and typical winter conditions.

Do You Need 2 or 4 Winter Tires?

It's always recommended to install a full set of four winter tires. While replacing only the drive wheels might be tempting, this can lead to dangerous handling imbalances.

Using four winter tires ensures:

1. Balanced Handling: All four wheels have equal traction. This can prevent spin-outs or loss of control.
2. Consistent Braking: Four winter tires provide uniform braking performance. They reduce the risk of skidding.
3. Optimal Safety: The best winter performance and safety require a full set of winter tires.

Your vehicle's safety systems are designed to work with matching tires on all four wheels. Mixing tire types can compromise safety features like anti-lock brakes and traction control. When selecting winter tires, choose options compatible with your vehicle's specifications for the best results in winter conditions.

How to Buy Winter Tires

When it comes to winter tires, the right ones can make a significant difference in safety and performance. Here are key steps to help you choose winter tires that best meet your needs:

1. Know Your Tire Size. The first step in buying winter tires is identifying the correct size for your vehicle. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the placard on the driver’s side door to find the recommended tire size. Using the correct size ensures that your tires fit properly, providing optimal traction and control.
2. Use Fleet Farm's Vehicle Search Tool. To simplify your search, Fleet Farm offers a year, make, and model dropdown tool on our website. By entering your vehicle’s details, you’ll quickly see a selection of compatible winter tires, saving time and ensuring accuracy. Access the tire search tool here.
3. Consider Your Driving Needs and Climate. Different winter tires are suited to different conditions. Studded tires offer extra grip for icy roads, while studless winter tires are ideal for most snowy and slushy conditions. If you frequently face extreme winter conditions, consider high-performance winter tires. They're designed for optimal handling and braking on snow and ice.
4. Look for Essential Winter Tire Features. Quality winter tires have specialized tread patterns. They're made from flexible rubber compounds with biting edges that help them grip snowy and icy surfaces. The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol is a reliable indicator that a tire meets winter performance standards. It's there to give you added confidence in tough conditions.
5. Explore Fleet Farm's Recommended Winter Tires. If you’re unsure where to start, consider some of our best-selling winter tire models. Our options provide excellent traction and handling for a safer winter driving experience.

Following these steps and using Fleet Farm’s selection tools, you can find the ideal winter tires to match your vehicle and driving conditions.

After Purchasing Winter Tires

Once you've invested in winter tires, the job doesn't stop there. You must care for them properly, and you should understand their performance in various conditions. This knowledge will help you maximize their lifespan. It will also ensure you're using them effectively.

Best Way to Store Winter Tires

Proper off-season storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of your winter tires. Here are some key tips:

1. Clean the tires thoroughly before storage.
2. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3. If possible, store them in airtight plastic bags to prevent oil evaporation.
4. Store tires vertically if unmounted or stacked horizontally if mounted on rims.
5. Avoid storing tires near electric motors. They produce ozone, which can damage the rubber.

Can You Use Snow Tires When It's Not Snowing?

While snow tires are designed for winter conditions, they can be used when it's not snowing. However, their performance varies depending on the conditions:

• Cold, Dry Pavement: Winter tires perform well in cold temperatures, even without snow or ice.
• Wet Roads: The tread patterns on snow tires effectively channel water, providing good traction in wet conditions.
• Warm, Dry Pavement: Using winter tires in warm weather can cause faster wear and reduced fuel efficiency.

Performance of Snow Tires in Non-Snow Conditions

In non-snow conditions, winter tires may exhibit:

• Increased stopping distances on warm, dry roads compared to all-season or summer tires.
• More road noise because of their aggressive tread patterns.
• Slightly reduced fuel efficiency due to increased rolling resistance.

Winter tires can be used year-round, but that's not what they're designed for. Switch to summer or all-season tires when winter conditions have passed.

How Often Should You Get New Winter Tires?

The frequency of replacing winter tires depends on several factors:

1. Mileage: Most winter tires last between 20,000 to 40,000 miles.
2. Tread Depth: Replace snow tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch.
3. Age: Rubber degrades over time. Even with low mileage, consider replacing winter tires after 6-7 years.
4. Wear Patterns: Uneven wear may cause a need for earlier replacement.

Regular inspections can help you decide when to replace your winter tires.

Can You Drive Winter Tires on Dry Pavement?

Yes, you can drive winter tires on dry pavement, but there are some considerations:

• In cold temperatures, winter tires perform well on dry roads.
• Winter tires may feel "squirmier" on dry pavement as temperatures rise. This is due to their softer rubber compounds.
• Prolonged use on warm, dry pavement will make tires wear faster.

Switch to all-season or summer tires for optimal performance and longevity when winter conditions have passed.

How Long Do Winter Tires Last?

The lifespan of winter tires depends on several factors:

• Usage: Winter tires typically last 3-4 seasons with normal use.
• Driving Habits: Aggressive driving can shorten tire life.
• Road Conditions: Rough roads and potholes can cause premature wear.
• Proper Maintenance: Regular rotations and proper inflation can extend tire life.
• Storage: Proper off-season storage helps preserve tire quality.

On average, you can expect winter tires to last about 30,000 miles. However, even if the tread is still good, consider replacing winter tires after 6-7 years due to rubber degradation.

Our Best-Selling Winter Tires

At Fleet Farm, we offer a range of high-quality winter tires to suit various needs. Here's a look at some of our top-selling models:

Goodyear WinterCommand Passenger Tire

Goodyear WinterCommand is designed for those wanting to carve their own path in snowy weather. Consider these features:

• Three separate tread patterns to conquer multiple terrains
• Zig-zag sipes for exceptional handling throughout the tire's life
• Special compound for increased flexibility in cold temperatures
• Optional studs for enhanced traction in extreme conditions
• Available in 245/50R20 102T size

This tire is ideal for drivers who face varied and challenging winter conditions. Its innovative design allows it to perform well on snow, ice, and cold pavement.

<div class="rt-cta"><a class="cta-link-button inline-link" href="https://www.fleetfarm.com/search?Ntt=goodyear+wintercommand">Buy WinterCommand Passenger Tires</a></div>

Cooper Tires Evolution Winter Passenger Tire

The Cooper Evolution Winter tire provides stability when driving through deep snow. Check out these features:

• Suitable for cars, minivans, SUVs, and CUVs
• Studdable for extreme ice traction
• Wide contact sawtooth circumferential center rib for enhanced stability
• Multi-angle sipe positions for improved ice and wet grip
• Patented saw-tooth snow groove technology for superior snow-on-snow traction
• Available in 225/60R17 99T size

This tire is excellent for drivers who frequently encounter deep snow conditions.

<div class="rt-cta"><a class="cta-link-button inline-link" href="https://www.fleetfarm.com/brand/cooper-tires/_/N-2290611316?Ntt=winter+evolution">Buy Evolution Winter Passenger Tires</a></div>

Bridgestone Blizzak Winter Passenger Tire

Bridgestone Blizzak WS90s are engineered for winter driving performance. They can help keep your vehicle in control through the harshest conditions. Here's why you might want to check them out:

• Designed for cars and minivans
• Provides confident control and secure handling on snow and ice
• Delivers long-lasting performance for an extra winter season
• Available in 185/55R15 82H size

The Blizzak WS90 is a top choice for drivers who prioritize long-lasting performance. It offers reliable handling in severe winter conditions.

<div class="rt-cta"><a class="cta-link-button inline-link" href="https://www.fleetfarm.com/brand/bridgestone/_/N-1736324575?Ntt=blizzak">Buy Blizzak Winter Passenger Tires</a></div>

Michelin X-Ice Snow Winter Passenger Tire

The Michelin X-Ice Snow tire is designed for maximum mobility and safety. It offers excellent performance, not just when it's new but for seasons to come. Consider these features:

• Suitable for luxury performance touring, passenger vehicles, minivans, SUVs, and crossovers
• Offers shorter ice and snow-stopping distances
• Two types of full-depth 3D sipes for increased claw effect on snow and ice
• Aggressive winter tread design with a V-shaped pattern for enhanced snow, slush, and wet evacuation
• Innovative Evergrip Technology for long wear life
• A quiet and comfortable ride with great fuel efficiency
• Available in 275/40R19 H 105 size

This tire is excellent for drivers who want a balance of performance, comfort, and longevity.

<div class="rt-cta"><a class="cta-link-button inline-link" href="https://www.fleetfarm.com/service/detail/michelin-x-ice-snow-275-40r19-h-105-winter-passenger-tire/0000101753707">Buy X-Ice Snow Winter Passenger Tires</a></div>

FAQs

Do Winter Tires Work on Ice?

Yes, winter tires are designed to work effectively on ice. They feature:

• Special rubber compounds that stay flexible in winter weather
• Unique tread patterns with biting edges
• Micro-pumps and sipes that grip ice and evacuate water

No tire provides perfect traction on ice, but winter tires significantly outperform all-season or summer tires in icy conditions.

Do Snow Tires Replace Chains?

Snow tires can replace chains in many situations, offering:

• Improved handling and performance
• Less vehicle wear and tear
• Convenience (no need to install/remove)

However, chains may still be necessary in extreme conditions or where legally required. Check loval regulations and consider your specific driving needs.

Do Winter Tires Work in the Summer?

While winter tires can function in summer, it's not recommended to use them year-round because:

• Softer rubber compounds wear faster in warm temperatures
• Handling and braking performance may be compromised
• Fuel efficiency can decrease due to higher rolling resistance

Switch to all-season or summer tires for optimal safety and tire longevity when temperatures consistently stay above 45°F (7°C).

Do Winter Tires Use More Gas?

Winter tires can slightly increase fuel consumption due to:

• Increased rolling resistance from softer rubber compounds
• More aggressive tread patterns

However, the difference is usually minimal, and the safety benefits far outweigh the slight increase in fuel usage.

Are All-Season Tires OK for Winter?

All-season tires can be adequate for mild winter conditions, but they have limitations:

• Less effective in temperatures below 45ºF (7ºC)
• Reduced traction on snow and ice compared to winter tires
• Longer stopping distances in winter conditions

Dedicated winter tires are essential for areas with severe winters or frequent snow and ice. They provide superior safety and performance.