Blog

Close-up on a winter tire

When temperatures plummet and snow blankets the roads, driving conditions can become treacherous. If you’re wondering whether winter tires are safer for cold-weather driving, read on. The team here at Waterloo Kia has broken down all the ways winter tires enhance safety and why they’re a worthwhile investment for Canadian drivers.

To learn more about tires for Kia vehicles, visit Kia.ca.


Read More
How Powerful is the 2024 Kia Carnival?
2024 Kia EV9 Safety Features


Designed for the Cold 

Winter tires are specifically engineered to perform well in cold conditions. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires use a special rubber compound that remains flexible even in freezing temperatures. This flexibility allows the tire to grip the road better, reducing the risk of sliding on icy or snowy surfaces. All-season tires, while versatile, lose their effectiveness once the temperature drops below 7°C. Their traditionally-made rubber can become stiff, compromising traction and control. 

A winter tire on a snowy road

Superior Traction and Control 

Winter tires feature deep tread patterns and unique siping (small slits in the tread) that enhance grip on snow and ice. These features allow the tires to dig into snow and channel water or slush away, reducing the likelihood of hydroplaning. Whether you’re navigating a snowy street or braking on a frosty highway, the added traction can make all the difference.

Aren’t All-Season Tires Good Enough? 

While it’s true that all-season tires are practical and can perform well in a wide variety of circumstances, the fact remains they lack the specialized design qualities that make winter tires the safer choice for the colder parts of the year. Whether it’s braking speed, traction, or handling, winter tires will outperform their all-season counterparts whenever the roads are slick with ice and snow. 

Shop for Winter Tires at Waterloo Kia 

Drivers in the market for winter tires in the Waterloo, Ontario area can find this and other parts and accessories available for purchase right here at Waterloo Kia, located at 583 Colby Drive. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (519) 772 – 0783, or visit our winter tires page to learn more. 

To learn more about tires for Kia vehicles, visit Kia.ca.