What to Look for When Choosing a set of Winter Tires

When you live and drive in Canada, it can seem like winter is never very far away. You also know that if you want to say safe on the road when the weather gets cold, you need a set of winter tires. As with any major purchase, it’s important to have the winter tire facts you need in order to ensure you choose the set that’s right for you when it comes to your driving style, as well as varying weather conditions.

Start by Choosing Winter Tires That are the Right Size for Your Vehicle

Tire sizes vary, so depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you’ll need to find the right size to suit your needs. It’s not difficult to find this information, and typically, tire sizing requirements for your vehicle are displayed on a sticker located on or near the driver’s side door frame. Likewise, tire sizes are commonly printed directly on the tire sidewall. Once you know the tire size your vehicle requires, you can narrow down the tires that are right for you.

Ensure Your Winter Tires Have Treads to Keep You in Control 

Tread patterns can add visual flair to your vehicle, but they’re more than just eye candy. In fact, the right tread patterns will help you stay confidently in control in messy winter weather conditions. When choosing winter tires, you should look for a set that includes a unidirectional tread design and sipes. These designs allow your tires to effectively disperse snow, slush and other debris while driving, resulting in improved breaking and acceleration, as well as better overall handling and control of your vehicle while driving in adverse weather.

The Severe Service Winter Tire Designation is a Must

The Tire and Rubber Association of Canada strives to ensure that the winter tires available in the Great White North are designed to withstand our climate. If a tire meets the requirements set out by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, it will feature the Severe Service Winter Tire designation, which is an image of a snowflake in front of a mountain on the sidewall of your tire. This designation means a tire is capable of handling the diverse driving conditions you’ll experience during a Canadian winter.

Brand Names Matter

Experience counts for a lot, and when it comes to protecting you and your family on the road, It’s important to choose a winter tire option from a brand name you trust. At your local TIRECRAFT , you’ll find winter tires from the biggest names in the industry, including:

• Michelin
• Hankook
• Toyo Tires
• General Tires
• GT Radial
• Goodyear
• Firestone 
• Bridgestone
• Nokian

Oftentimes, winter tires manufactured by an established brand will include a limited tread wear warranty, as well as a warranty that covers quality defects. Additionally, some brands may offer limited mileage warranties, as well as money back guarantees.

Regardless of the tires you choose, TIRECRAFT offers the TIRECRAFT Advantage Plus program—an extended warranty program that provides you with coverage that goes beyond your manufacturrer’s warranty. The TIRECRAFT Advantage Plus program offers:

• A 12 month, 20,000km mechanical warranty
• A 30 day satisfaction guarantee on your tires
• Complimentary flat tire repairs
• Complimentary tire rotations
• Road hazard protection
• And more!

When you’re driving in the winter, or any other time of year, it’s nice to have the added level of protection and peace of mind that this program provides.

Be Prepared for Snow With the Right Winter Tires

With the information you need in hand, you can confidently choose the perfect set of winter tires for your vehicle. You can also be sure that you’ll be ready for whatever the often unpredictable Canadian winter will throw at you! For more information on winter tires, be sure to download our FREE Ultimate Guide to Winter Tires. Inside you’ll learn why winter tires are a safer choice than all seasons, how to check your winter tire tread depth, how to store your winter tires when not in use, and more! Get your copy today!

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