Winter tires: 8 myths debunked

The advantages of winter tires are clear.

The rubber compound used for winter tires differs from that used for summer tires, resulting in different levels of performance depending on the weather conditions. Winter tires remain flexible at low temperatures (below 7°C), whereas summer tires become stiffer and harder in the cold. Consequently, summer tires provide poorer road holding and less grip. 

If you choose to drive with summer tires in the winter, be aware that your braking distance will be longer.

Winter tires are often confused with snow tires, or even with the rain tires used in Formula 1 racing, which are designed for extreme conditions. However, these are three distinct types of tires.

It is incorrect to call winter tires "snow tires," as winter tires are suitable for public roads and provide significant advantages in wet and cold conditions. Snow tires, on the other hand, have deeper grooves and can support you in extremely snowy areas.

Whether you have winter tires or not, it is best to adjust your driving style and drive slowly on a slippery road. In snow or sleet, you may want to use snow chains for added traction. From November 1 to March 31, studded tires are permitted in our country and provide extra grip on particularly slippery roads.

All-season tires are a good alternative to winter tires. If you are considering these tires, make sure you have all the necessary information. Below are some advantages and disadvantages of all-season tires:

Advantages:

• You can use this type of tire year-round, regardless of the season.
• All-season tires have improved in quality in recent years, leading to better overall performance.
• They are cheaper since there’s no need for twice-yearly tire changes.

Disadvantages:

• All-season tires do not perform as well in high temperatures, and summer tires outperform them in this regard.
• In low temperatures, all-season tires cannot provide the same level of grip and safety as winter tires.
• Since they are used all year round, this type of tire will need replacement sooner.

As you can see, all-season tires are a good alternative for enjoying acceptable driving comfort all year round. However, if you want the safest option, it is best to use winter tires in the winter and summer tires the rest of the year.

Obviously, an extra set of tires involves extra cost. However, the price varies depending on the brand, material, size, and desired performance of the tires. Therefore, the price largely depends on your needs.

Remember that when you’re driving on winter tires, your summer tires won't wear out. This means your winter and summer tires will last longer than if you drive on just one type of tire year-round.

Winter tires are not just useful when it’s freezing. They provide extra grip on the road surface as soon as the temperature drops below 7°C. In Belgium, this is a regular occurrence in winter.

Winter tires are therefore definitely recommended.

In the past, winter tires were less reliable in heavy rain. Fortunately, this is no longer the case.

Today’s winter tires have an adapted profile and a deeper tread, ensuring that they offer sufficient grip on the road, even in rainy conditions.

This statement is absolutely not true.

An anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents your wheels from locking when you brake sharply. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) helps stabilize your car in critical driving situations. For example, it prevents your vehicle from rolling over in tight, high-speed turns.

Both systems only work if there is adequate tire grip. Therefore, they are not a replacement for winter tires, but rather a good supplement to them.

Of course, this is not true.

Winter tires are not miracle tires, so they cannot guarantee a 100% safe ride. Your driving style is still the most important factor in avoiding accidents. So, be careful on the road, especially in the slippery winter months. However, winter tires do provide greater safety in terms of grip and traction on cold surfaces.

There are many misconceptions about winter tires, but we have debunked the main myths in this blog. In short, if you want better grip, shorter braking distances, and a more comfortable ride on slippery roads, it’s best to opt for winter tires in cold temperatures.