All-season tyres are becoming increasingly popular on the European market. While not entirely new (discussions about them began thirty years ago), their advancements have led to a rational increase in popularity. Their popularity is primarily due to convenience: they meet year-round regulations, including winter tyre requirements, and eliminate the need for a second set of tyres, saving you money. For drivers, this eliminates the hassle of switching between summer and winter tyres twice a year. While it's a major advantage, selecting and using them correctly is essential: here's our guide to help you make informed decisions.
How do you spot an all-season tyre?
These tyres have the speed ratings of summer tyres and the mandatory M+S designation (frequently accompanied by the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol). M+S means Mud and Snow. The 3PMSF symbol, which stands for 3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake, indicates that the tyre has successfully undergone rigorous tests to ensure excellent grip on snow and meets winter driving standards.
What are the main characteristics?
All season tyres are designed and built to provide heat and wear resistance in hot weather, provide traction in winter snow, deliver good wet performance and have a superior wear resistance to winter tyres when used in temperatures above 20°C.
Technically, how do they differ from summer-only or winter-only tyres?
In two ways in particular. The secret to all-season tyres lies in their rubber compound. The increased silica content ensures the compound remains soft, even when the temperature drops below 7°C. The tread pattern is a game-changer: more sipes and deeper grooves mean superior water evacuation compared to summer tyres.
Which cars are a good fit for all-season tyres?
All-season tyres are generally not recommended for sports cars because a performance-oriented car needs high-performance tyres. On the other hand, all-season tyres can be the right choice for small city cars, compact cars, mid-size cars, and SUVs. But it's important to understand the primary use of the vehicle. Winter tyres are still the best choice in heavy snow and ice conditions.
How important is the car's intended use in making this decision?
Extremely. If the driver does not travel more than 10,000–15,000 km per year and travels occasionally in areas with high snowfall rates, all-season tyres can be a good solution. Those who frequently travel in harsh winter conditions should opt for a double set of tyres. Alternatively, all-season tyres can be used, but with chains always ready in case of very critical situations.
But are chains mandatory for all-season tyres?
With all-season tyres marked with the 3PMSF symbol, drivers can confidently navigate snowy roads without the hassle of snow chains. Having said that, if you travel a lot in areas with snow risks, it is always advisable to have them.
What is the performance of an all-season tyre?
Premium tyres have come a long way, now offering performance on par with dedicated winter and summer tyres. While all-season tyres have improved, nothing beats the performance of specialised tyres when you're facing the challenges of icy roads in winter or scorching asphalt in summer.
Do all-season tyres mean I can skip the tyre specialist altogether?
Even all-season tyres require periodic maintenance: rotation every 10,000 km to balance wear between axles, balancing for driving comfort, and possibly an alignment every year, which never hurts. All-season tyres mean you can beat the seasonal tyre change crowds and book your appointment at your leisure.
