Winter tires, also known as snow tires, are mainly used on snowy and icy roads. The tires have a tread design with significant gaps that are useful in increasing traction while driving. Studded tires are effective on snow and ice because they have ceramic studs that extend beyond the tire to improve traction. Winter tires are more effective and quieter on the bare road, while studded tires can be ineffective on clean roads. Both types of tires can be used during the winter season.
Studded tires are inserted with studs that ensure the tread grips firmly on the road. Cold weather conditions can support studded tires on dry roadways. When driven in warmer weather, the tires can wear out faster, and the tire studs can cause noise. Winter tires use softer rubber compounds to ensure the tire has more grip in cold conditions. Compared to studded tires, winter tires can be used in temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit and not just in snowy or icy weather conditions. Although both types of tires are more effective in cold temperatures, winter tires can be used in warmer temperatures that do not exceed 7 degrees Celsius.
Winter tires are less expensive and more effective in unpredictable weather than studded tires. Winter tires can be mounted earlier in the fall to be used in rapidly changing weather conditions. Using studded tires on bare roads causes damage; therefore, winter tires are more effective in rapidly changing temperatures since they are quieter and less damaging on dry pavements. When comparing prices, studded tires are more expensive than winter tires because of the cost of studs and the manufacturing process of treads that can hold installed studs.
Studded tires are safer on snowy and icy roads as compared to winter tires. Metal studs inserted into the treads grip on roads with ice and snow. The grip on studded tires has more intensity and is more effective than a snow tire. Using studded tires in northern and coastal areas that experience snow and ice buildup can provide added traction and increase road safety.