Winter tires are not the same as All-season tires. The tread design and tire compounds used on Winter tires are designed to provide as much as a 25 to 50 percent increase in traction over All-season tires. This improved traction and resulting maneuverability provide greater safety and control in snow and ice conditions. Recognizing the importance of Winter tires as a unique category, the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) has set a new standard for winter traction. Before deciding whether to purchase Winter tires or All-season tires, you should know the difference.

To learn about differences in tread design between Winter and All-season tires, click here; to learn about differences in tread compounds, click here.

For advice on driving during different seasons, click on Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter driving.

Finally, note that All-season tires have a mud-snow designation, such as M+S, M&S, or M/S. In contrast, because Winter tires are different, the RMA designates Winter tires that meet the new severe snow standard with a new symbol:

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