The facts on winter tyres

Unlike many other European countries, we in Ireland haven't been giving much attention to the use of winter tyres. It means having a second set of tyres and probably wheels, but in some countries this is mandatory between certain winter season dates.

The recent kind of cold weather may well be making us think differently. But in fact, winter tyres aren't just for snowy conditions, but for any temperatures at 7degC and below.

Here's some info that may be of interest if you are considering this. Also, while it means extra investment up front, the overall cost shouldn't be any more over three or four years, as the average driver would go through two sets of tyres in that time anyhow.

Stop Quicker.
Winter tyres stop up to 20% quicker when driving in cold weather conditions compared to summer tyres.

Better Grip.
Special rubber and silica compounds offer increased levels of grip when outside temperatures drop below 7°C.

Maximum Safety.
Sophisticated tread patterns and an increased number of sipes provide increased levels of safety and mobility.

Braking distance at 80km/h on wet road under 7°C
Winter tyres – 65.7m
Summer tyres – 70.5m

Braking distance on an icy road from 30km/h
Winter tyres – 57m
Summer tyres – 68m

Figures for thought ...