The difference between summer and winter tyres
A brief overview of the most important differences

Winter and summer tyres have to cope with different demands. As a result, they differ in both construction and composition.

Summer tyres

A summer tyre must have good braking properties in both wet and dry weather, as well as providing protection against aquaplaning. It should also give a comfortable ride and have a long service life. The tread on a summer tyre has to disperse water as quickly as possible in wet conditions while also providing the tyre with good traction.

The compound from which summer tyres are manufactured is designed not to become soft, even at high temperatures. However, summer tyres harden at low temperatures, which leads to a reduction in grip. It is therefore advisable to switch to winter tyres at temperatures below 7°C.

Winter tyres

Winter tyres are designed to operate in low temperatures and in snowy, muddy and icy conditions. A winter tyre tread contains numerous sipes that interlock with loose surfaces (such as snow). The sipes are complemented by grooves and indentations in the tread bars that act as grips for added traction.

Winter tyres are made from a cold-resistant rubber compound that exhibits reduced hardening, even at minus temperatures. This ensures that winter tyres remain on track and they provide shorter braking distances on slippery roads.

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