Canadians have a reputation the world over for being excessively polite and well-mannered peacekeepers. Some misguided souls might also equate this with being soft and flimsy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Canadians are some of the world’s toughest, rugged and resilient inhabitants to go through months-long winters filled with frigid temperatures, ice storms, and daunting driving conditions. Just being able to get home after work through storms and streets filled with ice, snow, and rain (often falling at the same time) should require a badge of honor, to say nothing about the crater-like potholes and numerous road closures we have to navigate as well. Depending on where you live in Canada and how severe a winter you experience, you may be wondering if all-season vs winter tires may be the right choice for you. Let Auto-Scrap guide you through the debate and help you choose the right tire set for your seasonal driving experience.
The 411 on Winter Tires
Even the most winter-hardened Canuck has tried flooring it to escape a snowbank after a particularly large snowfall, rather than rely on a tender balance of shoveling and traction (usually in the form of sand, salt, or traction pads).
Either way, what helps get you out of that jam is a good set of winter tires. Winter tires have larger and blockier treads that allow for the easier passage of water, snow, and slush. Additionally, the rubber it is made out of is softer, allowing the tire to maintain flexibility in colder temperatures. These features make them ideal for areas where cold weather, snow, slush, and water are prevalent, and are mandated by law in provinces like Quebec, where conditions such as these abound.
The biggest drawback to winter tires is seasonal change and storage. However, the storage issue can be sidestepped if you pay your garage an annual storage fee. And as much as the seasonal change may be a hassle, you’ll feel the difference driving in a Canadian winter with a good pair of winter tires installed!
What You Need to Know About All Season Tires
All-season tires are a bit of a misnomer, in that these tires are fine for spring, summer, and fall but are not ideal for heavy winters. These tires lose grip at 7 below Celsius, which invalidates their use in the majority of the country. At the same time, the tire treads are smoother and straight- perfect for gripping the road during warm and hot conditions and in the rain, but decidedly not for severe winter conditions.
The Verdict: All-Season Vs Winter Tires
When it comes to choosing all-season vs winter tires, it really comes down to climate and terrain. If you live in a part of Canada that experiences mild winter temperatures and little to no snowy or icy conditions, then you can get away with a set of all-season tires. However, if you live in a part of the country that experiences extremely low temperatures, heavy snow, and icy conditions, then winter tires are not only recommended but may be required by law!
For more information on whether all-season vs winter tires are the right fit for you or to purchase a set of tires, contact Auto-Scrap today!