So-called "all-weather" tires
I have to come back to the subject of "all-weather" tires, also called "all-season" tires. These are tires that can be used all year ‘round and have the snowflake logo in the mountain silhouette. Some are designed as winter tires that can be used in summer, but many are basically all-seasons tires acceptable for use in winter.
Michelin produces one model, the CrossClimate, with a rather original tread design. Firestone has its Weathergrip, Goodyear the WeatherReady and Toyo the Celsius. But the most effective, according to several reports I've received, would be the Nokian WRG4, a "compromise" tire that should be very effective in areas of the country where snowfall is less abundant and low temperatures less frequent. They are also very good on wet roads.
Data on the effectiveness of these tires is rather thin, as few consumers in my part of the country have chosen them so far. Let's just say that, for those who opt for them, these are tires for motorists who will only go out in good weather in the winter. Their capabilities will be reduced during snowstorms. The only advantage they have is that they will save you rim changes in the fall and spring.
I do not recommend these tires for those who regularly drive in mountainous areas that receive a lot of snow.
See also: Are All-Weather Tires a Good Choice?
So here you have them, our recommendations for the coming winter. Of course, you'll have noticed that we're talking about quality tires that are often more expensive than discount tires (although the price of discount tires is starting to reach that of the big name brands).
However, if you need new winter tires for the upcoming cold season, remember that your life and the lives of your passengers depend on four points of contact with the ground, each one barely larger than the palm of your hand. Think about that when you're driving at 120 km/h! Is it better to pay a little more for more quality and safety?
Advice and information are provided via manufacturers, track and on-road testing, personal notes and the help of Anthony Jolicoeur from Pneus à Rabais, Raymond Cadieux from GT Radial and especially Stéphane Parenteau from Pneus Premier Choix in Laval, Quebec.
