a technician holding a tire walking to a car

What are Summer Tires?

Summer Tire Uses & Benefits

Vehicles are built to operate in all kinds of climates and conditions. Drivers who properly prepare their vehicle for the road conditions in their area will find an increase in efficiency and performance. Buying the right type of tires for summer driving is one way a driver can see an increase in traction. Let’s break down what you should know about summer tire uses and benefits.

Read more: Supplying Your Vehicle for Summer

Summer tires provide better responsiveness, handling, speed, braking and traction on the road during summer weather conditions. When compared to all-season tires, summer tires provide better control and efficiency for sportier, high-performance vehicles. Summer tires also operate better in wet road conditions, as their treads were engineered to resist hydroplaning.

Summer Tire Traction Information

Tire over a black backgroundSummer tires, when compared to other tire types, have less-grooved surfaces and are designed to keep as much rubber on the road as possible. Their tire treads, which are made for optimal gripping of the road, are shallower than the treads found in other tires.

However, it is important to note that summer tires, as their name suggests, do not perform well in winter driving conditions. Summer tires were not designed for gripping on to icy or snowy roads, and as a result the driver will experience less traction and control. If you live in an area that experiences winter road conditions, you should alternate between summer and winter tires accordingly. For drivers who value longevity, all-season tires will provide reliable performance and traction over a longer period of time, but lack the benefits of dedicated winter or summer tires.

For drivers of sportier vehicles in warmer climates, summer tires are a great way to guarantee a better driving experience in the right conditions.

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