Four Winter Driving Facts You May Not Know, Plus Why They Matter

DAYTON, Tenn. – Tires generally look similar, but they offer major differences in performance that can play a big role in driver safety. That’s especially true in the winter months, when snow and ice raise the stakes during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.

That’s why Nokian Tyres is here to correct common misconceptions drivers have about staying safe on the road during the most wonderful time of year. The Finland-based inventor of the winter tire offers more tips and education via its First Things First campaign this winter. Drivers can access advice, video content and tire education at NokianTyres.com/First.

Here are four surprising driving facts that can help ensure travelers arrive at their destinations safely this winter.

1. All-season tires aren’t designed for use in wintry weather

Despite their name, all-season tires are a compromise. They lack the specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds needed to perform in snow, ice and freezing temperatures, making them less effective when conditions turn severe. Drivers can tell whether their tires are certified for winter driving by looking for the three-peak mountain snowflake emblem on the sidewall. Elite winter tires also carry an ice grip symbol, which indicates they’ve passed rigorous ice testing.

2. All-wheel drive doesn’t replace winter tires

It’s called “all-wheel drive,” not “all-wheel stop.” All-wheel drive helps with acceleration but doesn’t improve braking or cornering on slick surfaces. Even worse, it can instill false confidence that leads to unsafe driving. Winter tires provide the grip needed to stop and steer safely, which is especially valuable for heavier vehicles that require longer braking distances.

3. Winter tires aren’t just for snow

The term “snow tires” doesn’t tell the whole story. Winter tires aren’t just for slick roads; they’re also better in cold weather. All-season tires begin to harden and lose grip when temperatures fall below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius). Winter tires’ softer compounds stay flexible and offer better traction in frigid temps, even without snow or ice on the roads.

4. You need four winter tires, not just two

Some people believe that only the drive wheels need winter tires. Nokian Tyres disagrees. Installing winter tires only on the front or rear axle can lead to dangerous handling imbalances. For optimal safety and control, it’s important to equip all four wheels.

For more than 90 years, Nokian Tyres has led the way in winter tire innovation. From creating the world’s first winter tire in 1934 to developing advanced technologies for today’s line of flagship Hakkapeliitta winter tires, Nokian Tyres continues to set the standard for safety and performance.

To access Nokian Tyres’ First Things First campaign, dealers and drivers are invited to visit NokianTyres.com/First. They can also follow the company on social media; its handle is @NokianTyresNA on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.