Studs or Non-Studs. What to Choose?
Before buying tires on the eve of the winter season, many buyers wonder which tires to choose - with spikes or without. This is an eternal question to which there is no definitive answer.
To begin with, let's discuss the types of winter tires.
There are three types of winter tires:
- studded
- non-studded for harsh winters (Scandinavian type)
- non-studded for mild winters (European type).
To make the right choice for you, let's discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different types.
What are the advantages of studded tires? Studded tires are chosen primarily for traction. In conditions of snowy and icy winters in most of the country's territory, safety comes first. On ice, studded tires still have the shortest braking distance. And at the same time, on asphalt, these tires are not inferior to non-studded Scandinavian tires. Such tires are suitable for beginner drivers, those who travel a lot outside the city and on uncleaned roads, and those who need a car every day, regardless of weather conditions.
In large cities, more and more drivers are inclined towards non-studded tires. All because non-studded tires have made significant progress in technology in recent years. New rubber compounds and technologies have allowed to seriously reduce the difference in braking on ice. On snow and asphalt, it's already difficult to say unequivocally which tires will be better. Non-studded tires should be chosen by those who value comfort, not only acoustic but also in terms of operation. Non-studded tires can be installed on a car in advance, without waiting for the high season and queues at the tire fitting, and removed from the car when spring has finally arrived and all weather caprices have ended. Non-studded tires are suitable for those who want to drive safely on winter roads but prefer comfort in the city and on asphalt.
Non-studded tires for mild winters are designed for driving on asphalt and snow. They can be used in regions where ice and temperatures below -10 to -15°C are rarely encountered in winter, or in large cities where roads are regularly cleaned and anti-icing agents are used. The rubber compound of these tires is more rigid and behaves better on asphalt.
Each type of tire has its advantages and disadvantages. Before proceeding to choose, you need to determine where you will be driving, your driving style, what kind of car you have, and what is most important to you in a tire. Based on these answers and knowing the advantages of each type of tire, you will easily find a suitable tire on our website.