Difference between summer and all season tyres

Less rolling resistance - This improves the handling and efficiency of the car, which leads to reduced fuel costs.

Shorter braking distances - In most UK temperatures, summer tyres offer slightly better braking distances than all season tyres.

Cracks and split - The rigid material on summer tyres does not have the elasticity required for frosty conditions when rubber stiffens. As a consequence, the material can crack or even split. Not only does this reduce the lifespan of the tyre, but it can also be extremely dangerous.

Reduced grip - The relatively small number of grooves in the tread means that summer tyres can struggle to dig into snow or ice. Instead, they compact the snow/ice and are likely to skid. This issue also leads to longer braking distances.

Easier to manage - All season tyres mean you avoid the time and hassle of having to change your tyres every year. Alternatively, it means you avoid the cost of getting somebody else to perform the task.

Better cold weather performance - Whilst summer tyres deteriorate in performance when the temperature drops below seven degrees, all season tyres continue to offer a safe, efficient drive even when the temperature drops below zero.

Performance on icy roads - Whilst all season tyres are better for driving on snow or ice than summer tyres, they do not perform as well as winter tyres. In extreme weather conditions, all season tyres are still susceptible to loss of grip and poor handling.

Cost - All season tyres are typically more expensive than standard summer tyres found in the UK. So, although they represent a cheaper option than using separate summer and winter tyres, it is a more expensive venture than just using summer tyres all year round.