Your car’s tires are one of the most critical elements of the vehicle. They’re what stands between you and the road. They’re what enable you to accelerate smoothly, corner and handle on different types of terrain, and come to a stop securely. Your tires provide critical traction, keeping your car stable in inclement weather and road conditions. But you need to make sure your vehicle is equipped with the right tires in order to accomplish all of these driving feats. A set of all-season tires is a great choice. No matter what you drive, all-season tires can provide strong traction and secure grip whether it’s sunny, snowing, or raining. All-season tires can offer all-around benefits for your vehicle in any weather. And you can discover some of the best options right here.
If you’re looking for a smooth ride for your high-performance passenger car, you’ll love the Vercelli Strada 2 All-Season Tire. This is a fantastic tire for anyone who drives a vehicle with speed, sporty acceleration, and power. It’s a great fit for makes and models like the Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300S, and Dodge Charger. You get a smooth and comfortable ride with little noise all year round, even in wintry conditions.
The Strada 2 is a M+S rated tire that’s ideal for all-season use. You can trust in its quality and its capability all year round. Made with a high-silica compound, this tire provides superior performance in both dry and wet road conditions. It offers impressive traction and strong control when you’re facing rain, ice, or snow. The tire is built with sipes that are optimized to offer better traction in unpredictable situations. It can tackle everything from mud to light snow, giving you a secure grip and high-performance handling. Tread pattern grooves allow this all-season tire to roll smoothly and quietly no matter what surface you’re driving on.
- Available a wide range of sizes from 16 to 22 inches
- UTQG rating of 500 A A
- For high-performance passenger cars
- 245/45R20 103W
- Brand Vercelli
- Model Strada 2
- Weight 26 lbs
Offers a smooth, comfortable ride
Low rolling resistance
Strong grip even in wet conditions
Sizing can be slightly off
Can be a bit soft, with a softer ride
The Milestar MS932 Sport All Season Radial Tire is an excellent choice, and this tire can seriously stand up against all types of weather and all of your on-the-road needs. Built for touring, this all-season tire is designed to meet the expectations for everyday driving, commuting, and cruising around town. It offers T, H, and V speed rated performance and provides a consistent driving experience all year round. And you can put this tire to work on a variety of different vehicles, including crossover SUVs and passenger cars.
This all-season tire really shines when it comes to the design and construction of its tread pattern. The Milestar tire is built with a tread compound that’s enhanced for seasonal conditions, ensuring you get the same handling and execution whether it’s dry, raining, or snowing. Wide circumferential ribs offer strong stability and lateral grip, while lateral siping provides traction even in wet and slippery conditions. The tread grooves evacuate water to reduce your risk of hydroplaning too. You’ll enjoy traction and secure grip on the road all year with this all-season tire.
- Suitable for a variety of different vehicles
- 1,653-pound load capacity per tire
- 10 32nds tread depth
- 215/55R17 98V
- Brand Milestar
- Model Milestar MS932 Sport
- Weight 23.7 pounds
Quiet, comfortable ride
Offers great grip while cornering
Suitable for winter weather
May cause a decrease in fuel MPG
Tread can wear out quickly
Tires may not last past 10,000 miles
Highways and city roads don’t stand a chance against your car riding on your new Defenders. You get a 70,000 mile warranty and excellent performance in dry and wet traction conditions. These tires come with one of the best UTQG ratings available and boast an immense total load capacity at over five tons.
You’ll enjoy driving on these tires because they increase your traction on both dry and wet roads. They’ll also improve your fuel economy, just be sure to maintain your tire pressure, so you get the maximum benefit. They also have MaxTouch, a construction method to these tires, and creates a contact patch for the ideal rolling resistance and durability.
- 2,535 / 10,140 total load capacity
- UTQG of 800 A A
- For vans, pickups and sport utility vehicles
- 275/55R20 113T
- Brand Michelin
- Model Michelin Defender LTX
- Weight 39 pounds
Great warranty
Top notch wet performance
Increased fuel economy
Off-road performance severely lacks
Handles similar to a performance tire
Short tread life
Unique to these all-season tires is their noise canceling system that’s integrated into the inner lining of the tire. This plays a role in reducing that whirring noise you hear while driving, all while improving fuel economy. Their tread compound is greatly enhanced by silica, aiding in high temperature air pressure control.
This all-season tire has surprisingly great handling on off-road areas, though they perform horribly with even a light dusting of snow on the ground. With an average load capacity on your tires, we would have liked to see a standard warranty as well. Overall, these inexpensive tires are an excellent addition to your vehicle.
- 1,565 / 6,260 total load capacity
- UTQG of 400 AA A
- For cars in all weather conditions
- 245/40R18 97V
- Brand Pirelli
- Model Zero Nero
- Weight 29 pounds
Improved fuel economy
Inexpensive set
Unique tread pattern handles decently off-road
Poor winter performance
Warranty limitations are lacking
Loud road noise
The Westlake RP18 All-Season Radial Tire is a great option for anyone who wants a combination of value, affordability, and strong road performance. This tire is a particularly good choice for drivers on a budget. This all-season tire doesn’t sacrifice consistency or performance even though it’s very affordable. You get strong traction on both dry and wet surfaces, and this tire helps deliver a responsive steering result on every road. Designed as a touring tire, it’s a great fit for many different vehicles, including coupes, sedans, minivans, and crossovers.
Each one of these Westlake all-season tires is constructed with an intricate tread pattern that evacuates water. This is a critical feature when you’re driving in wet weather, and it can help reduce your risk of hydroplaning in rainy conditions. Vertical siping on the tire offers sideway traction and lateral stability, and circumferential grooves offer more contact with the road. You have great grip whether you’re driving in the summer heat or on icy or snowy roads in the winter.
- Fits coupes, sedans, minivans, and crossovers
- UTQG rating of 500 A A
- 10 32nds tread depth
- 215/60R16
- Brand Westlake
- Model RP18
- Weight 22.6 pounds
Strong performance at an affordable price
Non-directional tread pattern extends tread lifespan
Performs well on wet and dry surfaces
Traction and grip can suffer in hard-packed snow and ice
Can be noisy while driving, especially on the highway
The Goodyear Assurance All-Season Radial Tire is practical and reliable, and it offers consistency all year long. You get great traction whether you find yourself in dry or wet conditions, and this tire can even tackle snow. Designed with multiple biting edges, you’ll enjoy traction in all different kinds of weather and road conditions. Wide tread grooves help evacuate water and offer enhanced contact with the road, and large shoulder blocks provide great handling as well as increased stability. The tread design is even optimized to reduce noise and create a quieter ride.
This all-season tire really shines when it comes to long-term durability. It’s built to ride with stability over many miles. Aren’t sure you can trust this tire? You can be confident in its lasting ability thanks to a 65,000-mile tread life and a lifetime warranty. While the tire and its tread are made out of rubber, there are two steel belts and a polyester cord body that offer more strength and more durability. You’ll find this tire offers cornering, handling, and performance for the long term.
- Offers a tread lifespan of 65,000 miles
- Available in 14 to 16-inch sizes
- Ideal for sedans and minivans
- 205/55R16 91H
- Brand Goodyear
- Model Assurance All-Season
- Weight 16.52 pounds
Backed by a lifetime warranty and a treadwear warranty
Multiple biting edges offer better handling in wet weather
Quiet, comfortable ride
Wet traction can leave some drivers wishing for more
Tread may wear down faster than expected
Rain and light snow don’t stand a chance in your Primacy set of tires. Capable of supporting over 5,000lbs in total load capacity and rocking a superior UTQG rating, these tires offer you internal steel belts for added durability. Excellent road dry road traction lowers treadwear while improving your fuel efficiency.
BAZ technology improves your high-speed handling and performance, which can all be equipped to your sedan, minivan, or crossover vehicles. For an excellent all-around replacement price, you get immeasurable quality from one of America’s most-trusted names in tires: Michelin.
- 1,279 / 5,116 total load capacity
- UTQG of 620 A A
- BAZ technology
- 5,000 lb capacity
- Brand Michelin
- Model Primacy
- Weight 20 pounds
Excellent warranty
Surprising handling in 1/4-1/2” snow
Slow treadwear
A bit of road noise
Cracking along sidewalls
Fast treadwear
Minimize noise while gliding on one of the best warranties we’ve ever seen. You’ll drive easy knowing that Continental has everything under control, including those high-speed turns. With nylon-wrapped twin steel cables and a unique tread pattern for maximum traction, you’ll be able to take corners like a stuntman.
Improved handling due to the active edges on the contact patch gives you the ultimate protection and durability in stormy weather, no matter what. Enjoy the noise-free smooth ride as your fuel efficiency increases.
- 1,389 / 5,556 total load capacity
- UTQG of 500 AA A
- Nylon-wrapped twin steel cables
- Brand Continental
- Model ContiProContact
- Weight 24 pounds
80,000 mile tread life warranty
Improved high-speed performance
Reinforced stabilized interior tread
Pricey to replace the whole set
Terrible in winter/snow handling
Uneven tread wear
The well-rounded LTX comes with appeal on all sides—decent off-road and light snow handling while giving you high-speed turn capabilities and excellent durability. Your warranty is good for up to 70,000 miles, giving you plenty of room to work with.
This performance leaps forward compared to the other LTX models. If it’s about to snow and you need to hit the road for last-minute items, you’ll be good to go. On both wet and dry roads, this tire is like gliding on a cloud the entire drive.
- 2,535 / 10,140 total load capacity
- UTQG of 720 A A
- For vans, pickups and sport utility vehicles
- 3D Active Sipes
- Brand Michelin
- Model LTX M/S2
- Weight 38 pounds
Great warranty
Unique tread pattern
Slow treadwear
Expensive
Harsh ride
Need extra weight for better traction
Pirelli produces quality while focusing on keeping your initial cost on the lower side. This tire has high-speed performance on turns and stability when driving on dry roads. Between city and highway, you’ll get close to their 65,000 mile warranty.
This tire is phenomenal in the rain and handles well enough off-road. The unique tread pattern keeps you stable, riding easy, and most of all, these tires keep money in your pocket.
- 2,149 / 8,596 total load capacity
- UTQG of 740 A A
- 65,000 mile warranty
- For light trucks and sport utility vehicles
- Brand Pirelli
- Model Scorpion Verde
- Weight 4.4 pounds
Superb warranty
Excellent price
Improves fuel economy
Poor winter/snow performance
Produces whirring sound
Weak sidewalls
Continental is all about getting a great ride out of your vehicle. Specific components increase treadwear, allowing you to enjoy your tires for years to come. These tires are ideal for light duty trucks and crossovers, giving you ultimate control up to 95MPH
These tires operate quietly, cutting out any whirring sounds you may hear with other tires. Increase your fuel efficiency while receiving phenomenal traction on wet roads, light snow, and a bit of off-road handling for the dirt road traveler.
- 2,403 / 9,612 total load capacity
- UTQG of 740 A B
- For light trucks and SUVs
- Tri-net silica tread compound
- Brand Continental
- Model CrossContact
- Weight 40 pounds
70,000 mile warranty
Quiet operation
Firm responsiveness
Narrow width
Slightly less handling post 95MPH
Problems with balancing
All of the all-season tires available might seem similar, which makes it hard to identify which ones are high quality and which ones aren’t. If you’re having trouble figuring out which all-season tires are really the best of the best, you need to know the ins and outs of choosing a quality tire you can rely on.
Should I Invest In All-Season Tires?
All-season tires are a great, versatile addition to most vehicles. Not only do they offer excellent value because they can be used in any season, but they also come at a variety of price points. An all-season tire could be the perfect fit for your vehicle. The best way to determine whether these are the right tires for your needs is to consider the following questions.
Q: Do I experience improper handling while driving?
A: It could be that your tires are worn, or you’re using the wrong type. All season tires provide you with improved traction and handling in just about every circumstance (except extreme winter, which we’ll get into in a moment).
Q: Do I have trouble in the rain?
A: For the most part, we don’t think twice about hopping in the car when it’s raining. Having all season tires between you and the road improves your wet traction so you can move seamlessly.
Q: Are my tires under warranty?
A: Has it been a while since you changed your tires for a completely new set? If so, then it’s likely your current tires are no longer under warranty. Once your tires have reached a certain number of years or miles on the road, they’re no longer covered against damage or wear and tear like lost tread. Fortunately, a new set of all-season tires can include an excellent warranty. Some tires offer warranties as high as 90,000 miles, which ensures you’ll be able to confidently rely on them.
Benefits of All Season Tires
All season tyres are awesome, but don’t just take our word for it—take a glance over some of the key features behind all-season tires and why they’re the top pick of, well, just about everyone.
- Longer Treadwear: You’ll actually burn through them slower. Yeah, sounds crazy, but it’s true. They’re designed to evenly wear across the entire tire, so you don’t end up replacing them within the first year.
- Quiet Operation: Any time you’re in a car, it’s rather quiet, right? Depending on the size of your vehicle, your tires may be part of the reason you hear a whirring sound when you’re barreling down the highway. All-season tires and their unique tread designs stay smoother longer, so you don’t hear annoying low-pitched sounds while you’re driving.
- Affordable: Durable and more affordable? Yeah—it’s true. There’s a much higher demand for all-season tires, and as a result, the supply and demand mechanics work in your favor. You have so many competitors trying to win you over and get in the spotlight, and you get to benefit from that.
- Warranties: All season tires are meant to last, and manufacturers want you to know it. That’s why they slap 90,000+ mile warranties on their tires, so you know you’re riding on their good word.
Types & Factors to Consider When Buying All Season Tires
With any purchase, there are a few factors to consider when choosing your next all-season tire.
- Load Capacity: A standard car runs about 4,000lbs, and between the four of your tires, you need enough to handle that, plus passengers, plus some cargo. Our top all seasons tyres give you a max load of 1,653lbs per tire, or just over 6,600lbs in total. Basically, don’t transport a bunch of cinderblocks in the trunk of your sedan, and you’ll be fine.
- UTQG: If you’re not familiar, this standard for Uniform Tire Quality Grade. Comprised of various elements, such as treadwear, traction and resistance to temperatures, this metric measures the safety rating of your tires, and their overall quality.
- Fuel Economy: According to Bill VandeWater, an auto expert at Bridgestone Firestone North America, you can see as much as a 20% increase in your miles per gallon by choosing the appropriate tires for your vehicle. Look for a tread compound that has a low rolling resistance.
Understanding the Design of All-Season Tires
All-season tires are a very focused piece of equipment for your car. They’ve been designed to work perfectly between the realm of safety and performance, all while remaining durable and versatile. For the common commuter, the weekend warrior, and the busy dads out there, all season tires provide the perfect blend of safety in adverse weather conditions.
That being said, when the newscasters say to stay out of the snow, your all season tires are really not meant to handle those conditions, and you should abide by the weather forecast. We all know the weatherman is wrong (a lot), but your all season tires were not designed to handle snow and ice. It’s best to plan ahead or equip your other vehicle with snow tires.
Types of Tread Patterns, Performance, and How Long They Last
Ever wondered why your treads are the way they are? It’s not by accident or just to “look cool,” they all serve their own functions. Let’s get into it.
- Unidirectional: Designed to move in a single direction. These are standard on most cars, and they require rotations more than any other type. They’re only set to move in one way, one direction, so they wear down a lot faster on key points. Ever thought that getting your tires rotated was just a scheme for mechanics to get more money? Well, there’s actually a reason.
- Symmetrical: Able to be rotated in different ways, these last for a really long time (on average). Due to the groove patterns, you’re able to even out the wear-and-tear on these tires, so you don’t run through them too quickly.
- Asymmetrical: You’ll find these on muscle cars and sports cars. These combine a few different tread pattern standards to give you excellent grip, especially if you’re driving at a high speed. You get excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
Are All-Season Tires Good in Snow?
There’s a big misconception between the terms all season, and snow (or winter) for your tires. They are most definitely not good in snow. Here’s a summary for each tire type to better point out their primary differences:
All Season Tires – Perfect for wet roads and slippery trails, these are the best option for summer road trips without having to worry about a rainstorm on the GPS getting in your way. This also means that light bits of snow or slush on the road aren’t going to stand a chance against your new tires, but don’t push the envelope. Pushing through a bit of slush is alright, but when the roads haven’t been plowed yet, your all-season tires are going to know it.
Snow (Winter) Tires – Icy roads, snowfall, and some wet inclement conditions are the perfect opponent for winter tires. If your home is set far back on your property and you’re not planning on snow blowing or shoveling your entire driveway to the road (and nobody could blame you), you’ll need tires that are going to get over all of that mess. That’s where snow tires come in; they have a tread compound and pattern to maximize tread life and traction.
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Sources:
- Winter & Snow Tires vs. All Season Tires – Bridgestone
- Tire Tread Patterns – What do the Different Patterns Mean? – Pep Boys
- Tire Tread Patterns – Tire Rack
- Carefully Consider Fuel Economy – HowStuffWorks