stuckincincy Posted October 24, 2006 Posted October 24, 2006 Snow tires have a rubber composition that remains more flexible in cold temperatures, so have better compliance with the road surface under those conditions. They also have smaller tread blocks and more siping, to entrain snow. Trapped snow has more affinity with snow, better than rubber with snow, so there is better ability for transmitting tractive force. A relatively recent happanstence (ten years or so) is wider tires (style over substance; image is everything). Regardless of weight distribution, the net pounds per square inch applied to the road surface is lessened, and that works against desireable inclement traction. Moreover, even mundane sedans are showing up with wide, speed-rated V tires and the like. Hard rubber, inflexible carcasses. But manufacturers know that wide skins are considered "macho", and are in demand. A dealership knows full well he will get more sales if he orders vehicles with zoomie wide-wheel and spoiler packages than with extra airbag options or anti-lock brakes. As mentioned by others, the changeover from all-season tires to true snow compound tires can be dramatic when the snow flies.
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