How to choose between all-season, summer, and winter tyres? A beginner’s guide to tyre types.

What is one of the most challenging aspects for drivers and car owners in the UK? Most would agree that it is the ever-changing weather of the UK. You could be driving on a dry road and a wet one, all in one day. This is why choosing the right tyre is important for such conditions. In the recent industry, you will find a number of tyres from different brands. Before choosing from them, you have to understand their basic differences, advantages, and disadvantages. This guide is to help you in making such decisions. Find out more about the different tyres Leeds types, based on weather conditions, and how to choose the right one among them.

The basics of tyre types.

Before moving on with the right way to choose the best fit for your vehicle, let’s find out detailed information on the different tyre types:

Summer tyres.

Summer tyres are made to offer you the best performance in temperatures above 7°C. With them, you get excellent grip and handling on both dry and wet roads that are common during the summer months.

Pros:

Performance: Summer models offer maximum traction and braking efficiency during the warmer months. 

Fuel efficiency: They have lower rolling resistance that leads to better fuel efficiency. 

Longevity: Summer models are made to last longer in warm temperatures. Hence, you get better longevity with them.

Cons:

Low performance in cold weather: The compound that is used in summer tyres can harden in low temperatures. This can cause reduced grip with the roads. 

Not suitable for snow or ice: Since they cannot grip the road surface in cold weather, they are not suitable for driving in snowy or icy conditions.

Winter tyres.

When the temperatures fall below 7°C, winter tyres are your best option. With their special tread patterns, they are made to perform on snow, ice, or on any cold and wet surfaces.

Pros:

Traction: They are made with softer rubber compounds. These remain flexible even in cold temperatures for a better grip. 

Safety: Since they offer improved grip, there are shorter braking distances on snow and ice, which is important for your safety. 

Tread patterns: Their tread designs can effectively disperse snow or slush in the cold weather. This helps in prevention of aquaplaning.

Cons:

Not suitable for warm conditions: Winter models are made with soft rubber compounds that often wear out faster in warm conditions. This makes them unsuitable for use in summer months. 

Fuel efficiency: Another disadvantage of winter models is their higher rolling resistance. This can lead to your car’s increased fuel consumption.

All-season tyres.

The tyre type that is made to offer a balance between summer and winter models is all-season type. You can use them in different weather conditions, throughout the year.

Pros:

Convenience: With them, you don’t have to spend time and efforts on changing tyres every season.

Cost-effective: Besides convenience, all-season models also allow you to save money. You can avoid the extra costs of purchasing and replacing two sets of tyres, every season. 

Performance: They are made to offer adequate grip in various weather conditions. Hence, you get sufficient performance throughout the year.

Cons:

Low performance: All-season models usually do not match the specialised performance which you get from summer or winter models. This is especially valid for extreme weather conditions. 

Not suitable for extreme winters: You might get a balanced efficiency in all seasons, but they do not perform as well in heavy snow or extreme winters.

How to choose the right tyre type?

Now that you are familiar with the types that are usually available for different seasons, which one should you choose? Here are some key aspects to consider:

Weather conditions: A major point to consider because this will determine the right choice for your vehicle. Usually the UK faces mild winters, so all-season tyres could be the top choice. However, in regions having extreme snowfall, you should invest in winter models during the cold months.

Driving habits: Another point to consider is your driving habits. For example, if you mainly drive in the city, you could opt for all-season models. On the other hand, long distances and extreme weather will require you to switch between summer and winter models.

Vehicle type: You also need to consider your vehicle type to choose the right Tyres Bantam Grove. Depending on the type of car you own, the right fit should match your vehicle’s specifications.  

Budget: Finally, the right fit also depends on your budget. Winter and summer models would mean having to invest in two sets of tyres. Meanwhile, with all-season ones, you can avoid such expenses.

The safety and comfort you experience during your rides, usually depends on the tyres you choose for your vehicle. If you opt for winter models in summer months, you could be compromising on your riding comfort. Similarly, an all-season model for extreme winters is a compromise of your safety. Follow this guide for detailed insight into the types that you can choose from. Make your purchase decision based on what your vehicle requires and the conditions you are driving in. Enjoy high-performance and comfortable rides with the perfect fit for your vehicle.