Snow tires or ice tires?

Has that question been on your mind? Are you wondering which winter tire is better suited to your particular needs? You are not alone. There are quite a lot of options on the market when it comes to buying winter tires, and there is something for every budget. Here’s how you can make the best possible choice.

Before making that choice, it is important to ask some questions. In the end, your driving habits, where and how often you plan to drive your car this winter will determine the next step.

If, for example, you are an urban explorer whose critical path is limited to the quickly plowed streets of a residential neighborhood or a city center, the purchase of the most versatile tire is often recommended.

In practice this means tires that offer a durable rubber outsole with fairly wide grooves to evacuate both heavy snow and slush on warmer days. It should also offer a number of lateral grooves whose mandate is to preserve grip on icy surfaces. These tires are generally identified as being for snow and ice.

If you plan to use your vehicle on country roads on your way to the ski lodge, or simply on roads that you know to be often icy and remote, studded tires, or at the very least high quality tires might be best. They will ensure a faultless grip on the most demanding roads. You should know however that they will be louder.

They will be also be more expensive. That said, your tire is the only point of contact between you and the road, and you therefore want to make sure that you focus on quality before only looking at the best deal.

In all cases, consult a specialist who can suggest two or three tire models. Tire centers have read all of the reviews, and they have talked to clients. They know how to help you and find the very best tire based on your needs and your budget.

Thank you to St-Leonard Toyota for helping put this article together.