Tips on Choosing the Right Winter Snow Tires

Chains, Metal Studded, Mud & Snow – Severe Weather Condition Tires

Nov 19, 2009 James Clausen

Choosing the right winter snow tires is important for safety in extreme weather conditions. Find out important facts when selecting winter snow tires.

The Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) provides criteria for a tire’s ability to handle snow conditions. There are several designations that the RMA provides for snow conditions.

There are also rules and regulations that govern the use of metal studded winter snow tires. These designations, rules and regulations are designed to help consumers select the right tire for a safer driving experience in winter driving conditions.

Mud and Snow Tires

The following markings for mud and snow tires can found in the sidewall of applicable tires. These sidewall markings meet the RMA definition of a mud and snow tire.

• M + S
• M/S
• M & S

In most instances, a tire with a mud and snow designation can be used in all seasons, not just winter months. M & S tires are designed for use in snow, but aren’t necessarily designed for severe winter snow conditions. A standard mud and snow tire is typically better suited for driving on paved roads that are well maintained in winter months. Choosing the right tire for specific driving conditions is important for vehicle safety.

Severe Snow Tire Designation

The RMA marking for severe snow conditions is located on the sidewall of the tire. The tire should be marked with an M & S designation, as well as the marking for sever snow conditions. The severe snow marking usually follows the M & S marking. The photo at the end of this article illustrates the RMA severe snow designation that’s located on the tire’s sidewall.

Metal Studded Winter Snow Tires

Studded winter tires can give the tire extra traction in slippery snow or icy conditions. There are however many rules and regulations throughout the U.S. and Canada. The laws can differ by state or providence. Before using studded winter tires, it’s advisable to check with the state or providence laws regarding studded tires. There are however general safety rules that should be followed.

• Studs should only be installed in new tires molded for studs.
• Never install studs on a used tire.
• Check with the manufacturer for the correct stud size
• If using studs on two tires, it’s acceptable to install studs on the rear axle of a rear-wheel drive vehicle only.
• Never install studs on the front tires only.
• If the car is front wheel drive, studs must be installed on all 4 tires.

Using Snow Chains on Tires

Snow chains are more commonly used as a temporary method of driving in snow for better traction. Just like studded tires, the laws governing the use of snow chains can vary by state. Snow chains are usually put on the driving axle, but some areas may require chains on all four tires. As a safety precaution, vehicle speeds should not exceed 30 miles per hour.

Proper tire care and maintenance is important for safer winter driving. Don’t let tires and devices used for severe weather conditions give the driver a false sense of safety.

Using severe weather tires, studs or chains certainly helps with traction, but extreme caution should still be used when driving in severe conditions. Besides tires, discover some other tips for getting a car ready for winter.

The copyright of the article Tips on Choosing the Right Winter Snow Tires in Car Care/Ownership is owned by James Clausen. Permission to republish Tips on Choosing the Right Winter Snow Tires in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Winter Snow Tires- Studded, Chains Mud and Snow

Severe Snow Designation Tire Sidewall Marking

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