Demanding driving conditions call for car tires that perform safely, even on snowy roads or muddy terrain. Luckily, tire manufacturers use markings that help car owners find the right tires that can withstand demanding driving conditions. Two markings that drivers should look for in their tires are the 3PMSF and M+S symbols. Here’s what they mean and when you should get tires with these extra qualities.
What is the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol?
As its name suggests, the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol pictures a mountain with three peaks and a snowflake inside it. The 3PMSF symbol indicates that a tire has been designed for severe snow conditions requiring extra traction for safe driving. A tire manufacturer can include the 3PMSF symbol on the tire sidewall once the tire has passed winter traction performance tests required for using the symbol. Therefore, tires with the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol can be called winter tires (also known as "snow tires").
What is the M+S (Mud and Snow) symbol?
For less demanding driving conditions, find tires with the M+S (Mud and Snow) marking on the sidewall. M+S tires provide better starting, stopping and driving performance in snowy conditions than non-M+S tires. The tire provides better traction than regular all season tires in difficult winter driving conditions, but is outmatched by tires with the 3PMSF symbol. M+S tires do not meet the same standards as winter tires with the 3PMSF symbol on their sidewall. Therefore, M+S tires are suitable for occasional snowfall and for driving on wet and muddy roads.
Should you use winter or all season tires?
All season tires are, in fact, suitable for only three seasons if you encounter snow and other peculiarities of the winter months. Colder temperatures harden the rubber compound of all season tires and lower their responsiveness. So if you live in an area that consistently experiences temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), then you should consider a winter-rated tire for the winter months. Nokian Tyres offers all-weather tires that are intended for year-round use, including colder months. The Nokian Tyres Remedy WRG5 all weather tire is rated for winter driving, yet offers the performance and fuel economy you expect from all season tires.
If your area experiences consistent winter driving conditions like snow and ice during wintertime, we recommend a dedicated set of winter tires. For areas of North America that do not see temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius), then all season tires or ultra-high performance (UHP) are perfect for year-round use.
When to use winter tires
For driving in the snow, always choose a dedicated winter tire or all weather tire with the 3PMSF symbol. If you live in an area that experiences extreme winter conditions throughout the winter season, it's best to opt for a set of winter tires to change to during those months. For icy wintry roads that experience the most demanding of winter driving conditions, consider a set of studded winter tires. Remember to always refer to local regulations for specific requirements about using winter tires, as some states and provinces outlaw the use of studded winter tires.
If you live in an area where winter conditions merely visit a few times per season, consider a winter-rated all weather tire, which is reliable in snow and yet equally suitable for comfortable driving performance year-round. The Nokian Tyres Remedy WRG5 all weather tire may be the solution for you in these circumstances. You can read more about the differences between all season and all weather tires here.
Many car owners refer to winter and snow tires interchangeably, and they do indeed refer to the same thing. However, all tires are not equally safe when driving conditions get tricky. Make sure to check that your winter or all-weather tires are equipped with the 3PMSF marking to ensure they are fit for driving in demanding winter conditions and provide great snow traction.
Always refer to local winter driving regulations about the use of winter tires. Read our winter driving tips here. Consider legendary Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta winter tires for your next set of snow tires. Our flagship Hakkapeliitta tires are tested north of the Arctic Circle in the harshest winter conditions.
When to use all season tires
Dedicated winter tires are not necessary for car owners driving in snowless and warm conditions, where temperatures rarely drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius). All-season tires are great for all seasons – if you live on the southern end of North America. For those in warmer locales, be sure to select premium all season tires that offer reliable grip, efficiency and handling on dry, wet and slick North American roads. The Nokian Tyres One family of all season tires are built to withstand rugged back roads and daily urban driving alike.
Find your local Nokian Tyres dealer and choose high-quality tires for safe driving in every weather condition:
