Winter tires explained
Winter tires are not simply tires with a chunkier tread. The compound is formulated to stay pliable in deep cold, and the tread is cut with thousands of sipes that bite into snow and channel the thin water layer that forms on ice. The result on a cold morning is a stopping-distance difference measured in car lengths — the single largest safety upgrade available to a winter driver.
- Season
- Late fall through early spring
- Temperature
- Designed for below 7°C / 45°F
- Best for
- Anyone driving through real snow and ice
Strengths
- Dramatically shorter braking distances on snow and ice
- Compound stays flexible below freezing, unlike all-seasons
- Deep sipes and biting edges maintain grip in slush
- Running them preserves your summer or all-season set
Trade-offs
- Wears quickly if used in warm weather
- Softer compound means slightly vaguer steering on dry pavement
- Requires storage space and a seasonal swap
Buy these if
- Your region sees regular snow or sustained sub-freezing temperatures
- You drive hills, rural roads, or before the plows run
- Your province or state mandates winter tires seasonally
Our top-rated winter tires
Scored on dry grip, wet grip, treadwear, ride and value.
WinterBridgestone Blizzak WS90
Bridgestone
The gold-standard studdless winter tire — uncanny snow and ice grip for drivers who genuinely need a winter set.
WinterPirelli Scorpion Winter
Pirelli
The winter specialist for SUVs and crossovers — snow and ice confidence tuned for heavier, taller vehicles.
Winter Tires: common questions
When should I install winter tires?
When daily highs consistently drop below 7°C (45°F) — usually late October to mid-November in most of Canada and the northern US. Install before the first storm, not after it.
Studded or studdless?
Studdless winter tires are better for almost everyone: they perform well on snow, slush, and cold pavement without the noise or road damage. Studs are worth it only if you routinely face glare ice or hard-packed snow roads.
Do I need four winter tires?
Yes. Fitting two creates a severe grip imbalance — front-only understeers off corners, rear-only spins under braking. Every manufacturer and safety authority recommends four.