Why Winter Tires Matter

What Are Winter Tires?

Winter tires are specifically designed to handle cold, snowy, and icy conditions. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are engineered with specialized rubber compounds that remain flexible in temperatures below 45°F. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining traction, as it allows the tire to grip the road even in extreme cold. The deeper tread patterns of winter tires, combined with numerous sipes (small slits in the tread), help to channel slush, snow, and water away from the tire's contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

Winter tires provide a critical safety advantage for drivers in snowy areas like Colorado. Winter tires are not just about handling snow; they are about delivering superior performance in any winter condition, from hard-packed snow to black ice. This means better control and a safer drive, even in the worst winter conditions.

How Much Traction Do You Lose Driving In The Snow?

Driving in snow significantly reduces traction, and this loss can be hazardous if you're not properly equipped. Standard all-season tires lose effectiveness when temperatures drop, leading to longer braking distances and reduced handling. According to various studies, summer or all-season tires in winter can reduce a vehicle's stopping distance by up to 30% compared to winter tires. This means you might need up to 60 feet more distance to come to a complete stop on snow-covered roads.

Winter tires are designed to mitigate this loss of traction. They can maintain up to 50% more grip in snowy and icy conditions than non-winter alternatives. This increased traction comes from both the unique rubber compounds and specialized tread patterns that are engineered specifically for snow and ice, ensuring that drivers maintain better control and shorter stopping distances.

Why The Winter Tire Tread Design Works In Snow

The tread design of winter tires plays a crucial role in their effectiveness on snowy roads. Winter tires have deeper grooves and more aggressive tread patterns compared to all-season or summer tires. These features help to "bite" into snow and ice, providing better traction. The numerous sipes increase the tire's grip by creating additional edges that enhance stability and control, particularly when braking or cornering.

In regions like Colorado and New Mexico, where snowfall can be significant, the tread's ability to evacuate slush and snow is invaluable. Winter tires reduce the risk of snow build-up within the tread, ensuring consistent contact with the road surface. This prevents the tires from turning into slippery, packed-snow rollers that can compromise safety. A well-designed winter tire enhances traction and improves the vehicle's ability to handle and turn on icy roads.

Safe Driving Tips In The Snow

Driving safely in the snow requires more than just winter tires, though they are a fundamental component. Here are some essential winter driving tips:

These tips, combined with winter tires, can help drivers navigate snowy and icy roads more confidently.

Different Winter Tire Options

Choosing the right winter tire depends on your driving needs and the typical winter conditions you face. Here are some common winter tire options:

Phil Long Dealerships offers a range of winter tires suitable for Colorado's and New Mexico's variable winter conditions, from deep snow to icy patches. Selecting the right winter tire can significantly improve safety, comfort, and overall driving experience during winter.

Why Choose Winter Tires From Phil Long Dealerships?

At Phil Long Dealerships, we understand the demands of winter driving in regions like Colorado and Raton, New Mexico. We offer a comprehensive selection of winter tires, each designed to enhance safety and performance in challenging winter conditions. Our team is knowledgeable and ready to help you choose the best tire for your vehicle, whether you need a studless option for heavy snow roads or a high-performance winter tire for mixed conditions. Visit one of our locations, and let us help you make winter driving safer and more secure.

Drive Safer With Winter Tires

Winter tires are critical for safe driving in snowy and icy conditions. They provide the necessary traction, handling, and braking performance that standard all-season tires can't match in winter's chill. By choosing winter tires, especially those from a trusted dealer like Phil Long, drivers can ensure they are well-prepared for whatever winter throws their way. Remember, the right tires can make the difference between a safe winter journey and a dangerous one.

For those in Colorado and Raton, New Mexico, winter tires are not just an option but a necessity. Equip your vehicle with the best winter tires to navigate snow-covered roads confidently and safely. Winter tires make all the difference in maintaining traction, handling, and control during the colder months. Visit Phil Long Dealerships to find the winter tires that fit your needs and keep you safe this winter season.

By following these guidelines, you'll be better equipped for safe and reliable winter driving, regardless of winter weather's challenges. Remember, winter tires are not just a seasonal accessory but a vital part of your vehicle's winter readiness. Stay safe, drive carefully, and trust the experts at Phil Long Dealerships for all your winter tire needs!