What to look for in a winter tire

As a premium Toronto valet parking company we know a thing or two about tires and how they handle on challenging road conditions. So take it from us — when the season changes from the crisp fall air to a wintery chill, it’s time to change your tires. 

For vehicle and driver safety, here are some tips on what to look for in a winter tire:

3 important elements of snow tires:

  • Tread pattern
  • Tread depth
  • Tread compound

These elements are different in a winter tire versus an all-season and provide you with better traction, performance, and predictability in winter driving conditions. 

When buying winter tires:

  • Know your tire size
  • Compare design and quality 
  • Buy early before they’re out of stock (hint: before the first snowfall)
  • Buy a full set
  • Research and ask experts

Other things to consider:

  • Road conditions on your usual routes — while they may be a Sunday drive in the summer, even small inclines, sharp turns, or dips in the road can contribute to dangerous winter driving conditions
  • The average temperature in your area — it’s safe to say that if you live in Canada, you need winter tires. But for your information, they’re typically recommended anywhere (and anytime) that the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius. 

At Gatsby Valet, we know the difference a tire can make. As premier valet parking experts, we’ve driven all kinds of cars in all kinds of weather. To our valued guests, we always recommend winter tires for safety and performance.