Snow tires and winter tires are the same

winter tires

When it comes to winter tires, they used to be called snow tires as they were used once you had a snowfall, nowadays they have evolved and nowadays snow tires is used synonymously with winter tires, as that better indicates their ability to also handle ice and slush that frequently occur during the winter. Winter tires now refer to tires that are approved for winter use and have the severe service emblem aka snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This is different from the M+S marking that just indicates that the tread can handle mud and snow due to more transverse tread placement and self-cleaning tread.

When it comes to winter tires that are approved for winter use, they have the necessary performance tests to indicate the ability to perform in winter conditions. Winter tires always have to be paired with all-season tires for the warmer seasons. Despite the name, all-season tires are basically summer tires that are made for all the warm seasons, but not for the cold winter season.

Key when it comes to winter/snow tires is that you have them mounted before the snow falls. Winter tires outperform all-season tires when the temperature reaches 45 degrees Fahrenheit, so there is no need to wait for the snow to arrive, change already when you notice that the temperatures start creeping down towards 45 degrees. This way you will be ready for the winter when it comes so that you can drive safely from the get-go.

For more information regarding where to find your snow tires for your vehicle, visit: www.nokiantires.com

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