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What’s the difference between summer and all-season tires?

Summer Tires

To start, the tread compounds are a significant differentiator. Summer tires are made from a combination of rubber, silica, and polymers designed to withstand extreme heat while maintaining road grip.

Regarding tread depth, there is another important difference. Summer tires have shallower tread depths and tread designs tailored for traction and minimal rolling resistance. The large circumferential grooves help swiftly drain water and prevent hydroplaning. The tread is usually larger and more continuous. Flexible sidewalls provide additional road contact.

Summer tires are not suitable for snowy/icy conditions due to the lack of siping designed for snow grip. In addition, the rubber compositions present in summer tires harden in freezing temperatures.

All-Season Tires

All-season tires have deeper treads allowing for better moisture evacuation and grip on a variety of terrain. They're made to provide excellent traction in winter and summer.

Although most all-season tires can tolerate extremely cold temperatures, they are not designed to withstand excessive heat like summer tires. Their main advantages are a smooth ride, long(er) lifespan, and adaptability in terms of application.

Even though all-season tires are more convenient because they can be used all year, keep in mind they aren't as well-suited to summer temperatures and conditions.

	Summer Tires	All-Season Tires
Optimal Temperature	Above 45 degrees F	30 degrees F and above
Structure	Less tread depth, wide tread blocks	Moderate tread depth, more defined tread blocks
Rubber Compound	Hard rubber compounds that soften in the heat	Moderate rubber compounds engineered for long life & varying temperatures
Grooves	Wide circumferential	Moderate, often combine with siping
Traction	Strong, responsive grip	solid, stable grig in varying seasons
Tread Life	25,000 +/- miles	60,000 +/- miles
Best Suited For	High-performance vehicles	Passenger cars and SUVs

 

Which Tires Are Best For Me?

Choosing between summer vs. all-season tires is largely based on where you live, what you expect to meet on the roads, and how you drive your vehicle.

If you live in an area like Bermuda Dunes, CA with more moderate weather year-round, all-season tires might be your best bet unless you are driving a sports car and you enjoy the feel of the road and strong cornering ability. 

Daniels Tire Service is family-owned and operated and one of the oldest tire retailers in California.  If you are in the market for tires for your vehicle in the Bermuda Dunes area, then check out our large selection of highly competitive tires at danielstireservice.com