In Quebec, the law stipulates that every vehicle on the road must be equipped with tires specially designed for winter between December 1st and March 15th. This law ensures better safety on the road in difficult driving conditions. However, not only winter tires are allowed to be used during this period. Did you know that winter-approved all-season tires are also accepted?
Contrary to winter tires that are specially designed for driving in icy conditions, winter-approved all-season tires are supposed to be used year-round. This is why we call them all-season tires; they reach the minimal requirements set by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada.
Before using them in the snow, make sure that the special winter pictogram (a snowflake in a mountain) is present on your tires.
Which are the best All-Season Tires?
- BF Goodrich ALL TERRAIN T/A KO2
- Goodyear WRANGLER DURATRAC
- Goodyear WRANGLER A/T ADVENTURE
- Toyo OPEN COUNTRY A/T II
- Yokohama GEOLANDAR A/T G015
BF ALL TERRAIN T/A KO2
Put your trust in one of BF Goodrich’s most robust tires! Built with stronger sides, these tires are also made of thicker rubber that is wider on the shoulder. Their traction is 10% better on muddy roads and 19% better on snowy roads. These all-season tires exceed the TRAC’s requirements in terms of adherence in the snow, thus providing you with a safe drive even in winter.
Purchase these tires online.
GY WRANGLER DURATRAC
These Goodyear tires provide a quiet drive on paved roads. They are also performant on rough, even snowy roads. They are built with the TractiveGroove TechnologyTM which provides improved adherence in mud and deep snow.
Purchase these tires at your local Centre Auto Point S.
Goodyear WRANGLER A/T ADVENTURE
Designed to transition easily from paved roads to off-road driving, these robust tires contain a layer of KevlarMD DupontMC. 5 times more resistant than steel, Kevlar is a thermoplastic polymer that strengthens the tire. Their open strip design ensures versatile off-road adherence in both mud and rain while their biting edges provide good adherence in the snow.
Purchase this Goodyear tire online.
Toyo OPEN COUNTRY A/T II
These durable tires are recommended for vans and SUVS. With their polygonal blocks, zigzag blades, and deep grooves in their tyre tread, they ensure excellent performance in every season.
Purchase these tires at your local Centre Auto Point S.
Yokohama GEOLANDAR A/T G015
If you are looking for a durable, long-lasting, winter-approved tire, these Yokohama tires should be perfect for you. Their tridimensional grooves change shape as the tyre tread wears, allowing the tires to wear evenly and maintain their biting edges to ensure good adherence to the road in every season.
You can purchase these tires online.
Are winter-approved all-season tires a good idea?
Winter-approved tires seem to carry many advantages. First of all, from a financial point of view, it is simpler to only purchase one set of all-season tires rather than doubling your expenses by purchasing both summer and winter tires. Being able to keep your tires all year and avoiding paying for the bi-annual tire change is definitely a good argument for drivers.
Therefore, we think that we are saving money by avoiding changing our tires in the winter and spring. But are all-season tires really adapted to your driving style and resistant enough long-term?
Are winter-approved all-season tires enough?
It is important to note that although they are winter-approved, all-season tires are still less adherent on icy roads due to their rubber blend that is more rigid than traditional winter tires. This rubber is also not totally adapted to the winter’s cold temperatures and has a tendency to wear more quickly than conventional tire rubber. By wanting to be adaptable for every season, all-season tires get worn out more quickly. We think we are saving money on tire changes, but come to realise that we will have to purchase new tires more quickly anyway! Certain all-season tires only last 30 000 km, instead of 50 000 km with winter tires.
Finally, if you live in an area that is relatively protected from the elements, or in a city where the streets are regularly cleared, winter-approved all-season tires can be enough. Especially if you have the opportunity to stay home in case of big storms! If you live in the country or in a region that receives a lot of snow, it is recommended to purchase winter tires; they are adapted to these conditions and much safer.
Before choosing between winter-approved all-season tires and winter tires, think about your driving habits and the environment you live in. If you aren’t sure which tires are best for you, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at your local Centre Auto Point S. Our experts will be able to answer all your questions and help you make the right decision.