With the summer rubber we have solved, it’s time to move on to another season. Consider the types of tires intended for frost. Go!
Very soon gradually every day will become colder and colder. Consider in advance possible winter rubber variants.
For example, according to the legislation of the Russian Federation, the driver is obliged to drive only on winter rubber in the period from 1 December until the last day of February.
Of course, the following situation is possible: weather conditions change before the season. Then you should protect yourself in advance. If the temperature outside the window is 7 degrees Celsius and lower — it’s time to change shoes!
So, consider 4 types of suitable tires:
Studded
This view is easy to distinguish from the rest. The presence of protruding 1/1.5mm thorns is the main feature of the model. Strong grip with the surface ensures reliable driving on the road, many people in northern countries use «Srears». It is noteworthy that they are banned in the Eastern part of Europe: Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia, Macedonia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Turkey, Germany, Netherlands and Portugal. This is related to possible damage to roads, which will lead to additional government expenses.
The pins themselves can be of different shape, often used a combination of several. It is considered that studded tires are the most reliable.
All-season tires
As we discussed earlier, this kind of tires can be used year-round. But it is worth remembering that their characteristics can be inferior to both summer and winter options. And due to their versatility, the price of them can be much higher than on seasonal models.
Unstudded / European
It is worth noting that the analog of studded tires are friction. They in turn are divided into European and Scandinavian.
Based on the name, it can be understood that this kind is intended for movement mainly on asphalt road. In this context, the main distinguishing feature is the presence of rubber particles. They resemble «vortexes» in their shape.
Unstudded / Scandinavian
This type of tyres is the most popular in Russia, as it is suitable for the weather conditions of the country. «Sticky» (well-known name) is recommended to use on roads with high snow but not ice.
Interesting fact
According to data from late October to early November 2023, studded tyres were the most popular among Russian car owners.
Which tyres should I choose?
Five years ago it was considered that studded options were suitable for heavily snow-covered and iced roads, not studded ones should be used on paved roads with sprinklers.
Now the technology has advanced and it is possible to choose both options. Different companies try to design their models so that they are suitable for any conditions.
Often it is worth paying attention to those who drive with you on the same roads. It is recommended to consult with colleagues, friends and employees of the SDT of your city.
The depth of the winter tyre tread shall be at least 4 mm.
For crossovers, you should always pay attention to the load capacity. This option is after the radius (for example, after R12). You have to look at the index translation table and then choose a suitable model.
After selection, it is necessary to check the pressure in the wheels on the street, you can also use special tables.