While every part of your vehicle holds its own level of importance, tires rank high when it comes to a key aspect of your car running right. There are countless types of tires, each of which factor into performance, traction, the climate in which you live, and more. Tire types matter, and it is important to determine the best ones for your vehicle and your lifestyle as there is a tire type for virtually all driving styles and driving conditions. To determine the best choice, think of various factors, such as the types of trips you take each day as well as the performance you desire. Follow your vehicle’s manufacturer recommended tire specifications when considering which tire to buy. Then do your homework and find out which one is best suited for you!

An overview…..

Summer tires

It is the climate in which you live which determines whether or not a summer tire is the choice for you! If you drive a standard-size passenger vehicle, such as an SUV or minivan, and live in a climate that doesn’t dip below 45 degrees for the better part of the year, then summer tires would be an ideal choice for your vehicle. They are not designed for all-season traction, but instead are optimized for warm weather.

These types of tires perform well in both wet and dry conditions and also provide the top all-season traction. This tire’s tread is also ideal for providing the best dry road performance in summer temps. They generally feature solid contact patches, adequate circumferential grooves for hydroplaning resistance and little to no siping.

Snow tires

Snow, or winter tires, are the best choice for those drivers living in climates that typically drop below 45 degrees. They also are the pick for those areas of the country where snow and ice tend to linger for months. These types of tires are specifically engineered to perform in wintery conditions. They provide great traction, grip and control when you need it most. This is different from summer tires in that regard. Also, the tire’s special rubber compounds stay softer and more pliable than summer or all-season tires in frigid weather conditions, resulting in better grip and excellent braking ability.

These tires also differ from summer tires in their physical design which is made clear in the hundreds of small cuts in the rubber which create tiny edges that increase traction by gripping and grabbing wet, icy and snowy roads.

All-Season tires

While the name of these tires might indicate that they are good for all seasons everywhere, that is not entirely the case! If you live in an area of the country with relatively mild winters, then all-season tires would be a good choice for you. They are built to handle both wet and dry roads year round, including those covered in a light snow. These are NOT the tire for you if you desire those known for high traction and a good grip on snow and ice. These tires are available in two standard classes — Touring Tires (lower noise and better handling) and Passenger Tires (smoother ride and longer lasting).

For occasional rain and light snow, these are a good choice. However, they are not ideal for those drivers frequently traveling wet roads or those covered in heavy snow. Traction decreases as temperatures drop as these tires are made with a harder rubber compound that gets even firmer in freezing-cold conditions.

Performance tires

Whether you own a modest sedan or a family minivan, a set of performance tires is well within your grasp. They are not just for the exotic sports car anymore!

These are known for increased handling and better corning and come in the level of basic performance, high performance, ultra-high performance and competition. They are a typically wider tire with shallow treads resulting in a lower-profile look and feel.

Truck tires

When it comes to truck tires, much depends on what type of truck you own and the activities you do in it on a daily basis. For example, those who off road or typically drive in snow and mud need a specific tire when it comes to truck tires. These would include off-road or mud-terrain truck tires, which feature the largest, most aggressive tread pattern that are designed to handle off-road conditions including deep snow, silt and heavy mud.

Highway truck tires, though, differ in that they are built with durable, enhanced compounds and tread patterns intended to provide smoother rides in all season. Similar to this type of tire, highway truck tires are designed to withstand higher speeds while providing superior braking and handling in all road conditions.

All-terrain truck tires have a larger tread with multiple patterns and can better handle gravel, sand and light mud.

Take the time to determine which tire is right for you! Tire types matter and while the list can be a bit overwhelming, finding the right tire for your daily driving habits, the type of vehicle you own and the climate in which you live makes a huge difference when it comes to performance and handling. There is a type of tire for virtually every car, driving style and condition. Do your homework and make the best choice!