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It may still feel warm now, but the colder weather will be upon us soon. This means it’s time to start preparing for winter, which includes, getting the right winter tires for your Subaru. But what are the best tires for the job? Let’s look at tire types and why you should equip them.

Why Do I need Winter Tires?

First and foremost, all-season tires aren’t the same as winter tires. Winter tires can be identified by a snowflake inside a mountain symbol. This means that these tires were stringently tested to perform in weather conditions under 7 C. These tires are made of a special blend of rubber and silicon that performs best in colder climates.

Even with AWD you still need winter tires. Winter tires are designed to perform best during these colder months and allow your vehicle to grip the road better. AWD only allows your vehicle to react to tough terrain, not to make the terrain easier. That’s the job of your tires. Check out this graphic by the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada and Traffic Injury Research Foundation on why you should get winter tires on your AWD vehicle.

 

What are the Best Winter Tires?

 

Bridgestone Blizzak WS90

First, we present the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90. The tread is made of a multicell, silica-enhanced compound that contains bite particles specially made to grip ice, making the tire a leader in control and handling on icy roads. The tread is stiffer and has more interlocking sipes than in the past, which means the tire handles and corners well on dry, wet, and snow-covered roads.

Michelin X-Ice Snow

Next up we have the Michelin X-Ice Snow. These tires have great mileage, meaning they can go for more kilometers than most, and even comes with a mileage warranty, the only tires to do so.

Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3

Finally, we’d like to suggest Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 SUV for the best winter tires for your SUV. These tires are made similarly to the ones mentioned above. One major difference is Nokian’s Aramid fibre sidewall technology. The material is the same material used in the aerospace and defense industries, resulting in a very durable and puncture-resistant sidewall. According to Cansumer.ca, the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 tires have earned a reputation of being able to handle everything winter can throw at them. It is made of a special compound that includes silica, grapeseed oil, and natural rubber. These materials generate excellent handling in winter conditions because they keep the tire flexible. Still, it rides comfortably and is very quiet, increasing everyday driving ease.

When buying tires, make sure to buy the right size for your vehicle. You can find this information in your driver’s manual and on the inside of the driver’s side door. If you have any questions or need tire storage, find a dealer near you!

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