Winter Tires vs. All Season: What's the Difference?

The Grand Island and Hastings winters can be a tough time for travelers, but the right preparation makes all the difference. So when the temperatures start to drop, you’ll find many Holdrege drivers pulling a set of winter tires from storage. What’s the difference between winter tires vs. all-season tires? Let the experts at Midway Auto Dealerships inform you, and feel free to drop by Kearney to explore your options at our tire center.

The Benefits & Drawbacks of Winter Tires

While a good set of all-season tires delivers well-rounded performance throughout the year, it doesn’t excel on slick winter roads. Winter tires are more specialized, so they can handle even the toughest weather with ease. Here are some of the reasons you might make the switch:

Advantages

• Unique Rubber Compound: The rubber compound in all-season tires performs the best in moderate, mild climates. The rubber in a winter tire is more flexible, so it won’t freeze or turn brittle. This translates into a much better grip.
• Specially-Designed Tread: The tread on a winter tire is also deeper and more aggressive than an all-season tire. Not only does this aid with traction, but the grooves also help disperse water and snow buildup as you drive.
• Biting Edge Design: Winter tires feature a “biting edge” that really digs into snow and ice. This means you can drive with greater confidence, even during a snowfall.

Disadvantages

• Wear: Because winter tires are more flexible, they wear out faster during hotter weather. 
• Swapping Out: Unlike all-season tires, you’ll want to swap out your winter tires once the temperatures get warmer.

Winter Tire Storage

If you’re thinking of getting a set of winter tires, you might wonder how to keep them safe during the remainder of the year. Here are a few things to consider for proper winter tire storage:

• Store Clean Tires: Clean and cover your tires before putting them in storage for the year. Washing salt away prevents corrosion and damage while covering your tires protects them from the elements.
• Clean & Temperature-Controlled Storage: Find a clean and temperature-controlled space to stash your tires safely. We recommend stacking and rotating them periodically, so they maintain their shape.
• Tire Pressure: Tire pressure in the winter always drops, because air becomes less dense in your tires. Check your tire pressure in winter periodically, and check your tire pressure again before storing your set for the year.
• Tread Wear: Winter tires last a long time, but it’s always a good idea to inspect the tread. Look for normal wear and tear, as well as any punctures or damage.

Find Your Next Set of Tires at Midway Auto Dealerships

We’ve gone through the basics of winter tires vs. all seasons, but if you have questions, contact us at any time. We’d be happy to help you purchase a new set at our tire center or schedule maintenance to winterize your vehicle in Kearney.