Winter driving can be treacherous, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures creating hazardous road conditions. Equipping your vehicle with the right tires is essential to navigate these challenges. If you want new winter tires, we can help with our tips to help you choose the right tire for winter driving. Stay safe and confident on the road during the colder months with these easy-to-follow guidelines.

Look for the Severe Snow Service Symbol

When shopping for winter tires, check for a mountain and snowflake symbol on the sidewall. This symbol, also called the Severe Snow Service Symbol, indicates that the tire has passed rigorous tests and performs well in snow conditions. Tires with this symbol provide superior traction and handling on snow and ice compared to standard all-season tires.

Consider Studless or Studded Tires

You may need to decide between studded and studless winter tires in regions with harsh winters. Studded tires have metal studs embedded in the treads, providing extra traction on icy roads. However, they can be noisy and damage road surfaces. They’re even prohibited or restricted in some areas.

Studless winter tires rely on advanced rubber compounds and tread designs to effectively grip ice and snow-covered roads. They offer excellent traction and performance and are often preferred in areas with harsh winter conditions.

Choose a Dedicated Winter Tire

Although all-season tires may perform well in moderate winter conditions, they typically don’t provide optimal performance in severe ice and snow. Dedicated winter tires feature specialized rubber compounds that remain pliable in cold temperatures, providing improved grip and traction over all-season tires. Their tread patterns also expel snow and slush, ensuring maximum contact with the road surface.

Check the Size and Load Capacity

When selecting winter tires, choose the right size and load capacity for your vehicle. Numbers and letters represent a tire’s size. An example could be 205/55R16. Consult your vehicle’s owner manual or the placard inside the driver’s side door jamb for the correct tire size.

Additionally, check the tire’s load-carrying capacity to ensure it can support your vehicle’s weight. You can find this information on the tire sidewall or in your vehicle owner’s manual.

Consult a Trusted Tire Expert

For personalized advice and recommendations, consult a trusted tire expert. They can assess your specific driving needs and help you decide on the best winter tire for your vehicle.

Find Winter Tires at RNR Tire Express!

Preparing your vehicle for winter driving is essential for ensuring your safety on the road. By following these tips and choosing the right winter tires, you’ll be able tackle even the most challenging driving conditions confidently. If you’d like to talk with a tire expert about winter tires, there’s no better place to do it than RNR Tire Express! Our experts will help you find the best tires in Clovis for your vehicle at a price that fits your budget. Browse our inventory of tires online or schedule an appointment today!