Your tires are the foundation of your vehicle’s safety and performance. But not all tires are created equal. From icy winter mornings to hot summer highways, choosing the right tire for the season can make a huge difference in traction, braking, and handling.
So how do you decide between winter tires, summer tires, and all-season tires? Let’s break it down.
Winter Tires: Built for Cold, Snow, and Ice
When temperatures consistently drop below 7°C, it’s time to think about winter tires.
Rubber Compound: Softer, flexible rubber that stays pliable in cold weather for maximum grip.
Tread Pattern: Deeper grooves and biting edges designed to cut through snow and slush.
Best For: Driving in snowy, icy, or cold conditions — especially in regions where winters are long and harsh.
Benefits of Winter Tires:
- Shorter stopping distances on snow and ice.
- Better control when cornering in slippery conditions.
- Reduced risk of sliding or losing traction.
👉 Even if you drive an AWD or 4WD vehicle, winter tires still provide superior stopping power compared to all-seasons in freezing temperatures.
👉 Related read: Not sure what your dashboard warning lights mean when conditions change? Our guide to common dashboard symbols can help.
Summer Tires: Precision in Warm Weather
Summer tires are made for performance in hot conditions — but not for cold weather.
Rubber Compound: Firmer rubber that offers responsive handling in warm temperatures.
Tread Pattern: Shallow, smooth tread with wide grooves that push water away to reduce hydroplaning.
Best For: Warm climates or summer-only driving where temperatures rarely dip below 7°C.
Benefits of Summer Tires:
- Excellent grip on dry and wet pavement.
- More responsive steering and handling.
- Shorter braking distances in warm weather.
⚠️ Important: In cold weather, summer tires harden and lose traction, making them unsafe for winter driving.
All-Season Tires: The Middle Ground
As the name suggests, all-season tires are designed to perform reasonably well in a variety of conditions.
Rubber Compound: Balanced blend to handle moderate cold and heat.
Tread Pattern: Versatile design for both wet and dry conditions.
Best For: Areas with mild weather and light snowfall.
Benefits of All-Season Tires:
- Cost-effective — one set of tires for year-round use.
- Good for drivers who face only occasional snow or ice.
- Longer tread life compared to winter or summer tires.
⚠️ Trade-Off: All-seasons are a compromise. They won’t match the winter grip of snow tires or the summer handling of performance tires.
👉 Related read: Learn more about your vehicle’s needs with our guide to parts and repair schedules.
Which Tire Is Right for You?
Live in a region with cold, snowy winters? Go with winter tires and switch them out seasonally.
Drive in warm climates year-round? Stick with summer tires for the best performance.
Mild winters with little snow? All-season tires can be a practical solution.
💡 Think of it like your wardrobe. You wouldn’t wear flip-flops in the snow or a parka in July — the same logic applies to your tires.
Check Tire Pressure Year-Round
No matter which tires you choose, proper tire pressure is key to safety and performance. Tire pressure can drop quickly in cold weather, so make a habit of checking it at least once a month — and always before a long trip.
💡 Learn more with our blog on tire pressure explained.
Remember:
Your tires are your first line of defense on the road. Choosing the right type for your climate and driving habits helps keep you safe, improves performance, and can even save you money by reducing wear and tear.
When in doubt, consult your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations or talk to a trusted tire professional to find the best option for you.
Need help on the road? Our Roadside Assistance team is always just a call away.
Ontario