In the winter months, we tend to think about our tyres more than any other time of the year. The ice, snow, and rain bring dangerous driving conditions and as the only area on a car that actually touches the ground, we rely heavily on our tyres to keep up safe and sound.
With this in mind, it’s time to take a look at the technology of tyres so when it comes to getting tyres from Kwik Fit you are well prepared for the journey ahead.
What Makes A Summer Tyre
These tyres are made for weather conditions of +7°C as they use hard rubber that softens in mild climates to reduce elasticity, which allows for better grip in warmer conditions. It is not just the rubber compound that makes these tyres perfect for summer but also the tread pattern, which is designed to improve traction for better control in warmer conditions.
When temperatures drop below +7°C summer tyres are no longer suitable and should be changed for winter tyres. This is because summer tyres use less natural rubber and as a result will harden in cold climates making them brittle.
What Makes A Winter Tyre
The use of natural rubber allows for softened material even in cold conditions, which helps tyres maintain flexibility and grip to the surface. The tread on these tyres is designed to reduce aquaplaning for improved control.
When driving in winter you may be likely to come across snow – even in the UK, so how do winter tyres help with these driving conditions? It is all about the tread depth that helps wheels keeps a grip on the surface. The deep treads or sipes on winter tyres help to compact the snow, and as snow clings to snow, this increases grip.
As well as summer and winter tyres, you can also get tyres that are fit for all seasons, but what makes these fit for all conditions, considering summer and winter tyres have such specific qualities.
What Makes Tyres Fit For All Seasons?
All season tyres are designed with modern climates in mind, where winters are not as severe and summers are not too hot. Their design is strategic using high-density siping that both quickly removes water and allows for extra grip when temperatures drop.
The material used allows for a good performance in varying climates, although the season specific tyres are more likely to provide excellent performance when compared.
So, if we have materials that allow us to drive in these varying conditions, what are the benefits of 4×4 tyres?
The 4×4 Tyre
At first glance, you will notice these tyres are larger than the average tyre, which is obvious given the size of the vehicle they help to move. However, just like a 2×2 a 4×4 vehicle also has a number of tyres to choose from, each designed with a specific function in mind.
Firstly, there are your average tyres that are perfect for daily use, as well as the odd off-road adventure. Other tyres used by 4×4 drivers are off-road tyres which although great for unconventional road use are not suitable for driving on tarmac roads, using these tyres everyday will result in increased fuel consumption due to resistance.
Many 4×4 users opt for all terrain tyres which have a tread perfect for daily use, but can also handle hills and the odd muddy situation.
No matter what car you drive and investing in the correct tyres for each season, you should also think about driving best practice and to ensure you know your stopping distances, here’s the latest video from Kwik Fit:
