Although they may seem similar, using a winter tyre in summer is not recommended, as the softer tread will wear down quicker on warm tarmac. Optimal handling will also be reduced, extending the stopping distance of your vehicle, and you’re likely to find yourself with increased fuel consumption too.
Equally, using summer tyres in winter is not recommended, as these tyres are not designed to withstand cold temperatures. Without the deeper tread and additional grooves of winter tyres, summer tyres can struggle to grip the roads in icy or snowy weather. Driving in snow with summer tires fitted on your vehicle can increase your braking distance to two times longer than if you had certified winter tyres.Their tread compound naturally stiffens in freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of skidding or slipping on winter roads. This stiffness can also lead to damage on the tyre itself, as without the necessary elasticity the rubber can crack and chip.
And what is the difference between summer and all-season tyres? If you have to choose between the two, check out this article.
