Winter tires are specially engineered with rubber compounds that keep their elasticity in colder temperatures and advanced tread designs that grip better in dry, wet, icy and snowy conditions. Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol and speak to a tire specialist about which dedicated winter tires might be right for your vehicle and local conditions.

Canadians have more winter tire choices than most drivers around the world, but dedicated winter tires are the safest option for Canadian drivers.

For most passenger cars, CUV’s, SUV’s and small vans, drivers have three basic choices for the winter driving season: 

• all-season tires,
• all-season tires with the 3PMS symbol and, 
• dedicated winter tires with the 3PMS symbol designed only for use in winter . 

In addition, to choices above,  pick-ups, large SUV’s and large vans may also be fitted with the more aggressive all-terrain tires or all-terrain tires with the 3PMS symbol. 

Selecting the right tire can mean the difference between a surefooted winter motoring experience and a nervous drive. Driving on all-season tires in winter months results in longer stopping distances and compromised handling when temperatures fall below 7°C. All-season tires with 3PMS (all-terrain tires for pickups and SUVs) offer moderately better traction than other all-season tires. But they are designed for occasional, medium snowfalls and may not provide the grip needed for rigorous winter driving conditions. Dedicated winter tires with the 3PMS symbol feature softer tread compounds that retain their elasticity even at extremely cold temperatures. They provide superior traction and significantly shorter stopping distances in all winter driving conditions from icy, slushy, and snow-covered roads to cold, dry pavement. Dedicated winter tires perform best and are hands down the safest choice.

Still uncertain? Your service professional can guide you through the process and help determine which choice may be best for you.

Get up to speed on winter driving habits and techniques that can keep you safer this winter: read A Pro’s Guide to Winter Driving.  

Canadian Tire product specialist demonstrates how to get your vehicle winter-ready.