Choosing the right tyres for your car is not just about keeping things running smoothly; it’s about safety and performance. Summer and winter tyres are designed for specific conditions, and understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for the season.
Compound Composition
The materials used in summer and winter tyres are designed for different temperatures. Winter tyres are made from a softer rubber that stays flexible when the temperature drops below 7°C. This flexibility improves grip on icy, snowy, or wet roads, making them ideal for colder months.
In contrast, summer designs are made with a harder rubber compound. This helps them stay durable and provide better handling in warmer weather. They resist wear during high temperatures and ensure your car performs well on dry or mildly wet roads.
Tread Pattern & Depth
The tread design and depth of tyres play a big role in how they handle the road. Winter tyres have deeper treads, usually up to 10 mm, with lots of tiny cuts called sipes. These features help them grip snowy and icy roads and reduce the risk of aquaplaning by directing water away from the tyre.
Summer designs have shallower treads, typically around 7-8 mm, and fewer sipes. Their design gives more surface contact with the road, improving grip and braking on dry or warm wet roads. This design also helps reduce road noise and fuel consumption during the summer.
Performance Considerations
Temperature has a huge impact on how tyres work. Winter tyres are built for temperatures below 7°C, while summer sets perform best in temperatures above this. Using the wrong tyres for the season can lead to problems. For example, summer tyres in the colder months may lose grip, and winter tyres in summer may wear out quickly.
Braking distances are also affected. Tests show that summer tyres can take up to twice as long to stop on wet winter roads compared to winter ones. On icy roads, the difference is even more noticeable, making it clear why the right tyres matter.
Examples: When The Right Tyres Make A Difference
Imagine you’re driving on a snowy road at 30 mph. With winter tyres, you can stop within about 35 metres. With summer tyres, it could take over 70 metres to stop—double the distance and potentially the difference between safety and an accident. Similarly, summer designs offer a smoother, quieter drive on warm roads, while winter designs would feel less stable and more worn out.
Why Change Your Tyres Depending On The Season?
Using tyres designed for the conditions not only keeps you safe but also helps your tyres last longer. Summer tyres in winter or winter tyres in summer wear out faster because they’re not built for those temperatures. By swapping tyres as the seasons change, you’ll improve your car’s performance and save money in the long run.
For Your Seasonal Tyre Needs, Contact Devon Tyres Today
By choosing tyres suited to the season, you’re not just improving your car’s performance; you’re making every journey safer. At Devon Tyres, we offer a wide range of summer and winter designs to suit every driver’s needs. Our team can help you choose the right tyres, provide expert advice, and even fit them for you. Don’t let the seasons catch you off guard—contact us today and ensure your car is ready for the road, whatever the weather.