Does your fleet have the necessary tires for fluctuating weather conditions?

Are you aware of the various tire types, and how they can improve winter traction? Read on to determine whether all-season, all-weather, winter tires or studded winter tires are right for your fleet and the wintry conditions they face.

All-Season Tires are designed for a wide variety of conditions from blazing summer temperatures to colder winter temperatures while still focusing on a comfortable ride. However, with the convenience a tire that does it all, comes compromises when compared to tires designed with a singular focus. All-season tires tend to meet their limits with anything more than light snow, and stopping distances begin to lengthen when temperatures drop below 45°F (7°C) due to the rubber hardening in lower temperatures. Both convenience and cost savings of not having a dedicated set of winter tires make all-season tires a popular option for fleets that face limited winter conditions.

All-Weather Tires are a new product within the tire industry, and like all-season tires can be operated in a wide variety of conditions including summer temperatures. They differ in that they shift focus to improved traction in wintry conditions and carry the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake on their side walls. This symbol designates the tire is rated for winter traction. However, it will still fall short of the winter traction provided by a dedicated snow tire and may not meet the winter tire requirements of some governments and municipalities. Additionally, with this product being new, sizes and models limited. There may not be an option available for all vehicle applications. If you need more winter traction than all-season tires and would like to stay with one set of tires per vehicle, all-weather tires are an option to consider for your fleet.

Winter Tires are designed specifically to provide improved traction in wintry conditions. The tires will stay soft and pliable in temperatures well below 45°F (7°C), with winter-specific tread patterns providing additional slits in the tread blocks. These slits allow the rubber to remain pliable in colder temperatures and add additional edges that can improve traction in snowy or icy conditions. Outfitting your fleet with winter tires can also ensure your vehicles remain compliant with local winter tire laws, where applicable. The specific focus of these tires may mean they are not suitable for year-round use and should not be operated regularly in temperatures above 45°F (7°C). In addition to a second set of tires, added costs can also be expected in with seasonal tire changes and possible storage fees for the second set not in use. Careful planning is also required to ensure your fleet is outfitted with the proper tires in time for the changing seasons. This applies to fall and spring as operating winter tires in warmer conditions can increase wear and shorten their life. Despite being an additional cost for a fleet, winter tires can easily pay for themselves when considering the increased safety and continued mobility for fleets that face regular wintry conditions.

Studded Winter Tires are constructed in the same way as winter tires, with softer rubber compounds, and winter-focused tread patterns, but also include studs embedded into the tread block. This option offers additional grip over traditional winter tires in primarily icy conditions. However, the studs will contribute to additional road noise on dry roads and may not be permitted in all areas. Studded winter tires are an option to consider if a fleet is operated in particularly harsh winter conditions.

Finally, it’s important to remember that no matter what tires you choose to outfit your fleet with during the winter season, winter driving is a skill. Planning for additional travel time in wintry conditions can help get you to your destination safely!