The winter season is often the most dangerous time of year for drivers. The roads become slick with snow and ice, making it harder for cars to gain traction and easier for drivers to spin out. For these reasons, it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Winter tires are suitable for all vehicles, not just industrial ones. You should be able to easily find the right winter tires to fit wheels like these 2018 Nissan Maxima rims. Here’s why winter tires are worth the investment.
Shorter Braking Distances
Nothing exemplifies why winter tires are worth the investment more than braking on icy streets. When road conditions are bad, drivers need more time and space to slow their vehicles because their tires can’t get sufficient traction. This issue makes it more difficult to brake and stop quickly enough. It can be especially problematic if a driver needs to brake on short notice and causes a fender bender. Winter tires will ensure you retain control of your vehicle in such slick conditions and are able to stop promptly to prevent any accidents.
How the Cold Affects Tires
A major reason why regular tires can’t retain traction like winter tires is that the compounds in tires harden when the temperature falls below 44 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature drop makes tires more rigid and prevents them from gripping the pavement well.
What Makes Winter Tires Superior?
What gives winter tires greater performance? There are three main factors: rubber compound, tire structure, and tread pattern. Winter tires have more flexible rubber compounds combined with sophisticated tread designs to compensate for poor road conditions. This tread pattern includes sipes—small grooves cut into the tread blocks—that allow the blocks of the tire to move while retaining rigidity whenever your vehicle turns. This keeps the blocks free of snow by throwing it behind the vehicle and ensuring the tire can grip the ground.