Summer tires vs. winter tires

Fast facts: Seasonal tire checklist

• When the seasonal temperature falls below 7 °C (46 °F), it's time to switch to winter tires.
• Winter tires perform well in all cold weather conditions, ranging from snow and ice to wet and cold dry roads.
• When seasonal temperatures climb above 7 °C (46 °F), fit your wheels with summer tires.
• Summer tires deliver high grip levels on wet and dry roads, high stability in curves, and optimal mileage performance at warm temperatures.
• All-season tires offer safety, performance, and grip in moderate climates without the cost, effort, and time required for seasonal tire changes.

The weather changes throughout the year, which affects driving conditions on the road. Your vehicle will benefit from having tires fitted to the wheels that are specifically intended for your driving habits and regional weather conditions. In some countries, winter tires are even a legal requirement. In this section, we will discuss the differences between three tire categories; summer tires, winter tires, or all-season tires. 

Continental offers a variety of tires designed with leading technology to match all your driving needs. No matter what season it is, Continental will have you covered.

When do you need summer tires?

During the warmer season, where temperatures climb above 7 °C, you should fit your wheels with summer tires. They provide high grip levels on wet and dry roads through their dedicated tread patterns and tread compounds. Summer tires also provide high stability in curves and optimal mileage performance at summer temperatures. This means you can confidently drive your car on both dry and wet slippery roads during the warmer months. Remember, however, that summer tires are not suitable for winter conditions, so be sure to switch your tires when the season calls for it.

When do you need winter tires?

When the temperature falls below 7 °C (46 °F), it's time to switch to winter tires. These tires perform well in all winter conditions, ranging from snow and ice to wet and cold dry roads. They provide enhanced braking performance in snowy and icy conditions and feature a deeper tread pattern, clearing away slush and digging into snow for greater traction.

Another reason they're so effective is that they are made of a custom rubber compound that stays soft and flexible at low temperatures for better vehicle control. But it’s not advisable to use winter tires in warm weather; this softer compound will wear out faster on dry tarmac and need replacing sooner.