All-weather tires are getting more popular in Ontario. They promise one set of tires for the whole year, with no seasonal swap. But are they as good as real winter tires? The short answer: they’re a solid middle ground, but not a full replacement for everyone.
First, all-weather is not the same as all-season
This is where many people get confused. All-season tires are really three-season tires. They lose grip once it gets cold. All-weather tires are built for year-round use, including winter, and carry the three-peak mountain and snowflake symbol, the same winter rating that winter tires have.
How they compare
- Deep snow and ice: winter tires win. Their softer rubber and deeper tread grip better when conditions are at their worst.
- Cold, slushy city roads: all-weather tires do well and are far better than all-seasons.
- Summer heat: all-weather tires handle it. Winter tires wear fast and feel soft in warm weather.
- Tread life: since all-weathers are on the car all year, they usually need replacing sooner than a set you only use in summer or winter.
- Convenience: all-weathers win. No swaps and no storage.
All-weather tires make sense if you…
- Drive mostly in the city on roads that get plowed and salted
- Can work from home or stay off the roads during big storms
- Don’t have room to store a second set of tires
- Want better winter safety than all-seasons without the twice-a-year swap
Stick with winter tires if you…
- Drive rural or back roads, or commute on highways early in the morning
- Have to drive no matter what the weather is
- Have a steep driveway or live in a hilly area
- Want the best possible stopping in snow and ice
What about the insurance discount?
Ontario insurers must offer a discount for winter tires. Whether all-weather tires qualify depends on your insurance company, so call and ask before you buy.
Get honest advice
The right choice depends on how and where you drive. Tell us your routine and we’ll help you pick. Also see winter tires vs. all-season tires and the best time to buy tires in Ontario.
President Tire & Wheels is at 632 Colby Drive, Waterloo, serving Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge. Browse our tires or call (226) 698-1667. Financing is available on orders over $500.
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