Saskatoon Winter Tires in Canada

If you live in Saskatoon year-round, then you’ve probably experienced some harsh winter weather. And for Saskatchewan residents driving in extreme weather conditions, winter tires are recommended. Though the province of Saskatchewan does not legally require its residents to use winter tires during the colder months, it is something many locals choose to do, owing to the superior capabilities and added safety they offer. As you might already know, summer and all-season tires are only designed to perform in temperatures of 7 degrees Celsius and above. Some all-season tires do offer moderate performance in slush or light snow, but if you live somewhere like Saskatoon that sees months on end of sub-zero temperatures, ice, and heavy snowfall, all-season tires are not the safest option. Instead, you should be opting for winter tires, which are specifically engineered to perform in temperatures of 7 degrees Celsius and below and extreme conditions like ice and fresh snow. Ultimately, if you’re looking for peace of mind when driving during the winter in Saskatoon, you’re going to want to invest in a set of quality winter tires.

What is the difference between All-Season Tires and Winter Tires?

First, all-season tires only perform well in mild wet and dry conditions. This means rain or maybe light snow, but certainly not ice, slush, or heavy snow. For this reason, all-season tires are really only three-season tires in most Canadian provinces like Saskatchewan. To perform in a wide range of conditions, all-season tires have a finer tread pattern that is smooth and straight, as well as a harder tread compound. While these features are ideal for spring, summer, and fall driving, they become a liability in the winter. In contrast, winter tires are made of a soft tread rubber that allows them to maintain flexibility in cold temperatures, as well as deeper tread blocks, biting edges, and heavy siping, which ensures superior traction, grip, steering, and handling, even in the most extreme winter weather.

When Should I Change to Winter Tires?

Swap your all-season or summer tires for winter tires when temperatures are consistently below 7 degrees Celsius. As fall weather is notoriously unpredictable in Saskatoon, the exact date will vary from year to year, but you can expect to use your winter tires between mid-October and mid-April.

Why You Shouldn’t Use All-Season Tires in Winter

Some Saskatoon drivers may choose to leave the all-season tires on their vehicle year-round, and while the government won’t stop them from doing so, there are a few reasons why this isn’t the best idea. All-season tires will not only wear down faster when used in conditions they’re not meant for, but they will put yourself and other drivers at risk. This is because all-season tires do not have the same features as winter tires (high sipe density, biting edges, soft rubber compound), which prevents them from gripping most snow and ice-covered surfaces. The result? Longer-than-expected braking and acceleration times and the risk of skidding or hydroplaning. The best way to drive safely in the winter is with winter tires.

Choose Winter Tires at Tire Warehouse

Find the perfect winter tires for your vehicle at Tire Warehouse. Headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, we are the #1 online tire retailer in Canada and have been serving Canadians across the country for over four decades. Our fast and inexpensive shipping options allow us to deliver tires all over Canada, including Saskatchewan. As the leading tire provider, we have an impressive inventory of tires, ranging from winter tires and summer tires to all-season tires and light truck tires. Plus, we carry some of the biggest tire brands in the world, like Michelin, Firestone, Radar, GT Radial, Bridgestone, and more. Between our easy-to-navigate website, $5 shipping costs, and mobile installation service, shopping for tires at Tire Warehouse couldn’t be easier. Contact us today to speak to an expert and learn more about our winter tire offerings. You might be interested in winter tires pressure