When winter hits Alberta, driving can become challenging. Choosing between winter tires and all-season tires is a critical decision that impacts your safety and vehicle performance. Winter tires are specifically designed
for temperatures below 7°C, where their unique rubber compounds remain flexible and provide better grip on icy roads. In contrast, all-season tires harden in cold weather, which can reduce their traction and stopping ability on icy and snowy surfaces.
Winter tires are equipped with deep treads and special patterns that
channel snow and slush away, improving road contact. All-season tires,
while versatile, are better suited for moderate climates and light snow, a
their shallower treads don't grip as effectively in harsh winter conditions. The design difference means that winter tires can shorten stopping distances significantly, giving them a clear advantage on snow-covered roads. For Alberta's snowy and icy winters, winter tires provide a more secure driving experience.
Here's a quick comparison:
Using winter tires during Alberta's colder months also helps extend the life of your all-season tires, as winter tires handle the harsh conditions that might otherwise wear down your year-round tires faster. Installing winter tires on all four wheels is recommended, as using just two can cause an imbalance, making your vehicle harder to control in snow and ice.
If you're unsure of which option is best, visit us at Drayton Valley Ford and Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centre. Our team can help you select the right tire to meet your specific driving needs, giving you confidence on the road this winter. Don't wait until the snow starts falling--prepare your vehicle now for a safe and stress-free winter driving season!
Our Winter Performance Package will have your vehicle ready to take on the slush, ice and snow this season! Prep your vehicle with:
Four Ford-approved dedicated Winter tires!
Four Motorcraft® tire pressure monitoring sensors!
Four Ford-approved steel or aluminum wheels!
BONUS 30,000 FordPass reward points!
Drayton Valley Ford is now charging a seasonal tire storage fee of $59.99, please keep this in mind during tire season!
Contact our team for a quote here . If you already have your tires, book your tire swap in our Quick Lane here.