What type of tires should be considered for winter driving?

When considering tires for winter driving, all-season or snow tires are the best options due to their specific tread designs and rubber compounds that provide better traction in cold weather conditions, snow, and ice. All-season tires are designed to handle a variety of weather conditions, including light snow, making them versatile for areas with mild winter climates. However, snow tires are specifically engineered for severe winter conditions; they have deeper treads and are made from rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures. This flexibility improves grip on icy surfaces compared to standard or summer tires, which can harden in cold weather, significantly reducing their traction.

In contrast, standard and summer tires are not appropriate for winter conditions as they lack the necessary features to maintain grip in snow and icy roads. Racing tires are designed for high-performance vehicles and track use, prioritizing speed and handling over durability and grip in adverse weather, which makes them unsuitable for winter driving. Thus, using all-season or snow tires is essential for safe winter driving, as they enhance vehicle control and overall safety in challenging conditions.