Driving conditions throughout the West are often unpredictable. The type of tires you have on your vehicle should depend on where you live, what kind of driving you do, and the weather conditions you can expect year-round. Here are the differences between all-terrain vs. all-weather tires and when either option could be right for you.
Please Note: Depending on your vehicle and tire size, both options may not be available. For example, all-weather tire options might not be available for a full-size pickup truck or full-size SUV. However, many all-terrain tire options available for these vehicles will have all-weather tire characteristics. For CUVs and smaller SUVs, all-weather and all-terrain tire options may be available and warrant consideration.
All-terrain tires are designed for the highway, local commutes, gravel roads, some off-roading, and most weather conditions, including light snow. With the added traction, all-terrains give your SUV, CUV or light truck a more aggressive look without sacrificing much in the way of fuel efficiency or ride comfort. However, the more aggressive the tread and that look, the more noise they can produce and the more they can affect your fuel economy overall.
Bottom line: A/T tires are a great choice if you use your vehicle to get groceries and take the family camping on the same weekend.
All-terrain tires are a mix of highway tires (H/T) and mud tires (M/T). That means A/T tires are great for daily driving, most weather conditions, and some dirt or mud. If you regularly navigate paved, gravel, and dirt roads, A/T tires might be the perfect choice. Les Schwab can help you decide on the right tires for your vehicle.
All-weather tires offer winter-driving capabilities along with capable performance in all other seasons. Instead of changing your tires twice a year (from summer to winter tires and vice-versa), all-weather tires handle great in the summer and offer better grip than standard all-season tires in winter driving conditions.
Additionally, all-weather tires are severe snow-rated (3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF)), offering measurable performance in the snow and ice. This qualifies them as a winter traction tire for mountain pass restrictions. These tires are made from a special rubber compound that stays flexible in colder temperatures, but still performs like an all-season outside the winter months.
Add to that a mud and snow rating (M+S) and you’re all set for nearly any weather you might encounter. While winter-specific tires are still a good idea for ice or snow-covered roads, all-weather tires take the hassle out of annual tire changeovers while still offering peace of mind in almost any weather.
Please Note: If you drive a larger SUV or full-size truck, all-weather tires might not be available in your size. But you may still have all-terrain options with the 3PMSF designation, which qualify as traction tires for mountain passes (similar to all-weather tires).
A set of all-weather tires can give you peace of mind for a coming snowstorm, while keeping you from swapping out your tires twice a year. If you consistently face winter driving conditions but don’t require or want a set of dedicated winter tires, all-weather tires could be the right fit.
All-terrain tires give drivers the versatility to tackle rugged landscapes as well as four-lane highways with ease. They are perfect for drivers who use their vehicle for daily commutes as well as weekend adventures in the outdoors.
All-weather tires are designed to perform well in all seasons, allowing you to have one set of tires instead of changing out twice a year.
Wherever you drive throughout the West, there’s a good chance you’ll face some interesting weather along the way. Les Schwab can help you decide between all-season, all-weather, all-terrain, and other tire options to meet your needs and keep you safe on the road. Schedule an appointment today at a store near you.
All-terrain tires have become increasingly popular among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. These tires are designed to provide reliable performance both on and off the road, making them a versatile option for a wide range of vehicles. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of all-terrain tires to help you decide if they're the right choice for your driving needs.
Pros:
Versatility: All-terrain tires are designed to provide reliable performance both on and off the road. They have a tread pattern that is optimized for a variety of driving conditions, from paved highways to dirt trails. This makes them a versatile choice for drivers who want a tire that can handle anything.
Traction: All-terrain tires are designed to provide excellent traction in a variety of conditions. They have a more aggressive tread pattern than highway tires, which allows them to grip the road better in wet or slippery conditions. This can improve your vehicle's handling and make it safer to drive in inclement weather.
Durability: All-terrain tires are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving. They have a tougher construction than highway tires, which allows them to withstand punctures, cuts, and other damage. This can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent tire replacements.
Aesthetics: All-terrain tires have a rugged, aggressive look that many drivers find appealing. They can give your vehicle a more aggressive appearance and make it stand out from the crowd.
Cons:
Noise: All-terrain tires tend to be noisier than highway tires. This is because they have a more aggressive tread pattern that creates more road noise as you drive. This can be a nuisance on long drives or when driving on paved highways.
Comfort: All-terrain tires tend to be stiffer than highway tires, which can lead to a rougher ride. This is because they are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving, which requires a stiffer construction. This can be uncomfortable for passengers, especially on longer drives.
Cost: All-terrain tires tend to be more expensive than highway tires. This is because they have a more durable construction and are designed to provide reliable performance in a variety of conditions. This can make them a less attractive option for drivers on a tight budget.
Fuel economy: All-terrain tires tend to have a higher rolling resistance than highway tires, which can reduce fuel economy. This is because they have a more aggressive tread pattern that creates more friction as you drive. This can lead to increased fuel consumption and higher costs at the gas pump.
Is It the Right Choice for You?
All-terrain tires can be a great choice for drivers who want a tire that can handle anything. They provide excellent traction, durability, and versatility, making them a popular option among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. However, they do have some drawbacks, including noise, comfort, cost, and reduced fuel economy.
If you're considering all-terrain tires, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your driving needs. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or in inclement weather, all-terrain tires may be the right choice for you. However, if you primarily drive on highways and value a smooth, quiet ride, highway tires may be a better option.
It's also important to choose a tire that is the right size and load capacity for your vehicle. Improperly sized tires can affect your vehicle's handling and safety, so it's important to consult your owner's manual or a tire professional to ensure that you choose the right tires for your vehicle.
When shopping for all-terrain tires, it's also important to consider the climate and terrain in which you'll be driving. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or in snowy conditions, look for tires with a tread pattern that provides excellent traction in those conditions. If you primarily drive on highways, look for tires with a less aggressive tread pattern that provides a smoother, quieter ride.
Overall, all-terrain tires can be a great choice for drivers who want a tire that can handle anything. They provide reliable performance and versatility, making them a popular option among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. By considering the pros and cons carefully and choosing a high-quality tire from a reputable brand, you can ensure that you make the right choice for your driving needs.