Do studded tires offer drivers an advantage in winter driving?

That’s the debate raging in recent days after suggestions that the province review its policy on winter tires. Some, including the City of Mount Pearl, indicate that damage and deep ruts on the province’s roads are caused by studded tires.

Jim Brazil of Safety NL told the VOCM Morning Show that he had studded tires on his vehicle in the winter months, but they’re only ideal in certain conditions. He says studded tires work best in icy conditions and they offer no advantage over regular winter tires when it comes to snow itself.

He says it takes longer to stop in dry conditions on studded tires and there is an increased risk of hydroplaning when the pavement is wet.

Winter Tires Vastly Superior to All-Season

 

If you’re considering not putting snow tires on your vehicle this winter, think again.

Brazil says snow tires are vastly superior to all-seasons in cold temperatures, snow and ice.

He says the rubber compound used in winter tires handles much better in colder temperatures, even when the road is clear and dry.

Brazil says winter tires are softer, offering better traction when the mercury dips below 7°C.

Brazil says he wouldn’t go so far as to suggest that winter tires be mandatory, but he says they are much safer—giving 30 to 50 per cent better traction than an all-season in winter conditions.