Summer Tires vs. Winter Tires – Which is the Right Choice?

Choosing the right tires is crucial for your safety and your vehicle’s performance. But what are the differences between summer and winter tires, and when should you switch? Here’s everything you need to know!

1. Differences in Rubber Composition

• Summer tires are made of a harder rubber compound that remains stable even at high temperatures. This reduces wear and improves grip on dry and wet roads.

• Winter tires have a softer rubber compound that stays flexible even at low temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice.

2. Differences in Tread Pattern

• Summer tires have a flatter tread with fewer sipes, ensuring greater contact with the road and optimizing grip in dry and wet conditions.

• Winter tires feature deeper tread grooves and additional sipes, allowing for better water, snow, and slush dispersion, enhancing traction on slippery surfaces.

3. Safety and Braking Distance

• Summer tires offer shorter braking distances on dry and wet roads when temperatures exceed 7°C.

• Winter tires perform better at temperatures below 7°C, as they provide improved grip on slippery roads and significantly shorter braking distances on snow and ice.

4. When Should You Change Your Tires?

The general rule is: From O to O – October to Easter, you should use winter tires. Once temperatures consistently exceed 7°C, switching to summer tires is advisable.

5. Alternatives: All-Season Tires

For regions with mild winters, all-season tires can be an option. They combine characteristics of both summer and winter tires but are not as effective in extreme weather conditions as specialized models.

Conclusion

The choice between summer and winter tires strongly depends on climatic conditions. Those prioritizing maximum safety and performance should adhere to seasonal tire changes. All-season tires provide a compromise solution for milder winters.

Have you already planned your next tire change? Be sure to schedule an appointment with your workshop in advance! 

Tip: If you want to save yourself the hassle of seasonal tire changes and maintenance, Enterprise minilease is a smart alternative. With a flexible car subscription, you always have the right vehicle for the season—without long-term commitments!