What is the difference between all-weather, summer and winter tires?

May 02, 2023
Tips, Sector
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Summer tires are usually used between Easter and October. The right time to change tires depends less on the months. The actual factor is more about the temperature and current weather conditions. Ideally, summer tires should be installed at temperatures above 7° Celsius as they contain a harder rubber compound and therefore have a high level of grip on dry and wet roads.

With winter tires, however, the optimal time or temperature for changing tires applies when weather conditions are below 7° Celsius. The rubber compound of the tires is significantly more flexible and softer than that of summer tires. This results in sufficient grip and better adhesion even on icy roads. Winter tires also have so-called “sipes” which interlock in the snow and thus ensure greater driving stability.

A key advantage of all-weather tires is that they can be driven all year round, saving you the hassle of visiting the workshop and storing them. The tires must therefore be designed for both cold and warm temperatures. It is therefore obvious that they cannot fully meet all the parameters of winter and summer tires. According to tire tests, most all-weather tires are particularly good in winter and don't have to hide in ice and snow. However, a few compromises have to be made in summer when the road is dry and at high speeds. Summer tires are superior, especially when it comes to braking distances, rolling resistance and rolling noise.You can read here what you should look for in an all-weather tire .