Are Winter Tyres Worth
Buying in the UK?

 

Winter tyres do provide benefits in colder months

The idea of buying winter tyres might seem unnecessary for many UK drivers. After all, the UK isn't typically known for its extreme winter conditions. However, winter tyres do provide benefits in colder months - especially in regions where temperatures drop below 7°C.

Webuyurcar.co.uk car experts explain why winter tyres can be a good investment and delve into how winter tyres work. We'll also feature 6 of the UK’s most popular winter tyre models to help you make an informed decision.

Winter tyres, also known as cold-weather tyres, are designed to perform better in temperatures below 7°C and on wet, icy, or snowy roads. Here are some reasons why they are worth considering in the UK:

1. Improved Traction: Winter tyres are engineered with a different rubber compound that remains more pliable in cold temperatures, resulting in far better grip on cold, wet, or icy surfaces.

2. Shorter Braking Distances: Winter tyres can significantly reduce braking distances on slippery surfaces. In the UK, where rain and frost are common during winter, this can be a crucial safety feature without the need to slam on the brakes and going into an uncontrollable skid.

3. Enhanced Handling: Winter tyres provide better control and stability on snow-covered roads, giving you added confidence when driving in adverse conditions.

4. Reduced Risk of Aquaplaning: The unique tread patterns of winter tyres are designed to displace water more effectively, reducing the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.

5. Cost-Effective: While buying an extra set of tyres may seem like an extra cost, having winter tyres can extend the life of your summer tyres and save you money in the long run.

7. Peace of Mind: Knowing your family have the right tyres for colder seasons can provide peace of mind, especially during unexpected winter weather events.

 

How Are Winter Tyres Different?

Winter tyres are specifically designed to perform well in cold and slippery conditions. Here's what makes them different from ordinary tyres:

1. Softer Rubber Compound: Winter tyres use a softer rubber compound that remains flexible at lower temperatures. This pliability provides better grip on cold and icy surfaces.
2. Deeper Tread Patterns: Winter tyres feature deeper and more intricate tread patterns than summer or all-season tyres. These patterns help channel water and slush away from the tyre's surface, providing better traction and improved grip on icy and snowy surfaces.
3. Higher Number of Biting Edges: The numerous edges on winter tyres ensure that they maintain good traction, even on slippery icy and snowy surfaces.

 

6 Popular Winter Tyre Models in the UK

To help you choose the right winter tyres for your vehicle, here’s six popular models available in the UK:

1. Michelin Alpin 6: The Michelin Alpin 6 is famous for its excellent grip on snow and ice. It offers responsive handling and shorter braking distances, providing enhanced safety in winter conditions.
2. Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3: Popular in Europe, the Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3 is a high-performance winter tyre that excels in wet and snowy conditions. It provides a smooth and comfortable ride while maintaining great grip.
3. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance Gen-1: Goodyear's UltraGrip Performance Gen-1 is a solid performer on snow and ice. It's designed for better traction and shorter stopping distances, even in harsh winter weather.
4. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005: Bridgestone's Blizzak LM005 offers reliable winter performance, especially on icy surfaces. It delivers excellent grip and handling, ensuring a secure drive in those cold conditions.
5. Continental Winter Contact TS 860: The Continental Winter Contact TS 860 is a popular choice due to its superb handling in winter conditions. It provides excellent traction on snow and ice, along with a comfortable ride.
6. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3: Nokian's Hakkapeliitta R3 is designed for extreme winter conditions. It's known for exceptional grip on snow and ice and is a popular go-to choice for drivers facing harsh UK winters.

 

Verdict: Are Winter Tyres Worth Buying?

While the UK may not experience the extreme winter conditions found in some other parts of the world, the benefits of winter tyres shouldn’t be overlooked – especially if you live in rural regions. Winter tyres offer improved traction, shorter braking distances, and enhanced handling, all of which contribute to safer driving in colder months. Considering the practical advantages and safety aspects, investing in a set of winter tyres for your vehicle in the UK can be a smart decision.

Moreover, with various reputable brands and models available, you can easily find winter tyres that suit your vehicle. Ultimately, the choice to invest in winter tyres is an investment in safety and peace of mind for your family during the winter season.

Article posted on: 15 December 2023. Author: Ken

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