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Tire technology has come a long way from the days of the Model T, when your brand-new car came with light grey rubber and canvas tires...and a complimentary patch kit that was used quite regularly!

These days, tires use technologically advanced composite materials suited for many different weather and use cases. And as Wisconsin Winter drivers, we have to say thank goodness for this! Those Model T cars couldn’t last a month driving around Stevens Point in February. Nothing like today’s tires that are built for any weather, climate and location. 

But even today, not every tire is made for every occasion.

Tire treads are designed for specific jobs, whether it’s gripping in Wisconsin snow and mud, reducing vibrations, or displacing water quickly and efficiently. There are so many options of new tires on the market today that it can get dizzying!

When choosing the right tires for your vehicle, it’s essential to consider factors such as driving habits, climate, and the type of vehicle you own. Once you know the type of driving, you’ll be doing, it will be easier to decide on the features you need in your tires. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision – or you’re always welcome to stop by your local Schierl Tire & Service, where our professional tire technicians will be happy to help you find the exact tire you need.

1. Driving Habits:

• Daily Commuting:
  • Recommended Tires: All-season tires.
  • Features: Balanced performance in various conditions, suitable for everyday driving.
• Performance Driving:
  • Recommended Tires: Summer or high-performance tires.
  • Features: Enhanced grip and handling at higher speeds, optimized for performance-oriented driving.
• Off-Roading:
  • Recommended Tires: All-terrain or mud-terrain tires.
  • Features: Aggressive tread patterns, reinforced sidewalls for off-road traction and durability.
• Long-Distance Travel:
  • Recommended Tires: Touring or grand touring tires.
  • Features: Comfortable ride, good mileage, and low road noise for extended highway driving.

 

2. Climate Considerations:

• Hot and Dry Climate:
  • Recommended Tires: Summer or performance tires.
  • Features: Optimized rubber compound for high temperatures, improved handling on dry roads.
• Cold and Snowy Climate:
  • Recommended Tires: Winter or snow tires.
  • Features: Specialized tread patterns and softer rubber for enhanced traction on snow and ice.
• Mixed Climate (All Seasons):
  • Recommended Tires: All-season tires.
  • Features: Versatile performance in a range of conditions, suitable for mild winters.
  • If you can, keeping a set of summer tires and a set of Winter tires for your vehicle will extend the life of both sets – and not just because they’re used half as often. Switching between specialized seasonal tires can:
    • Optimize their performance in their respective seasons
    • Stay on top of tire rotations, balance, and alignment

 

3. Vehicle Type:

• Sedans and Coupes:
  • Recommended Tires: Touring or grand touring tires.
  • Features: Comfortable ride, good handling, and low road noise.
• SUVs and Crossovers:
  • Recommended Tires: All-terrain or highway terrain tires.
  • Features: Versatile tread patterns for on- and off-road use, reinforced sidewalls.
• Trucks and Heavy-Duty Vehicles:
  • Recommended Tires: All-terrain or mud-terrain tires.
  • Features: Durable construction, aggressive tread for off-road capability.

 

4. Tire Size and Specifications:

• Check the manufacturer's recommendations in your vehicle's owner's manual for the appropriate tire size, load index, and speed rating.

 

5. Budget Considerations:

• High-quality tires may come at a higher price but consider them as an investment in safety and performance. Look for value rather than solely focusing on the cheapest options.
• A quality set of tires designed for your driving style and vehicle specifications will last longer with proper maintenance.

 

6. Online Reviews and Ratings:

• Read customer reviews and check tire ratings from reliable sources to understand real-world performance and durability.

 

7. Professional Advice:

• Consult with a tire professional or your vehicle manufacturer for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and driving conditions.

 

Remember, the right tires can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Consider these factors carefully, and don’t hesitate to call your local Schierl Tire & Service with questions. Our team is always ready to help you make the best choice for your driving needs.