Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle is essential for safety, performance, and legal compliance. The three main types of tyres are summer tyres, winter tyres, and all-season tyres. Each is designed for different weather conditions and driving needs.
This guide explains the key differences between winter, summer, and all-season tyres, so you can choose the best option for UK road conditions.
If you are unsure about your tyre size, visit our Tyre Size Guide before ordering.
Summer Tyres Explained
Summer tyres are designed to perform best in temperatures above 7°C. They use a harder rubber compound and feature tread patterns optimised for dry and wet road performance.
Benefits of Summer Tyres
- Excellent grip in dry conditions
- Strong wet braking performance
- Better fuel efficiency than winter tyres
- Low road noise and precise handling
When to Use Summer Tyres
Summer tyres are ideal from spring to autumn and suit most UK drivers who do not regularly experience snow or icy roads.
Browse our full range of summer car tyres available with fast UK delivery.
Winter Tyres Explained
Winter tyres are specially designed to perform in cold weather, typically below 7°C. They use a softer rubber compound that remains flexible in low temperatures and have deeper tread patterns for improved traction.
Benefits of Winter Tyres
- Superior grip on snow, ice, and slush
- Shorter braking distances in cold weather
- Improved traction on steep or slippery roads
- Better control in winter conditions
Winter Tyres in the UK
Winter tyres are not mandatory in the UK, but they are highly recommended for drivers in rural areas or regions that regularly experience snow or freezing conditions.
View our selection of winter tyres for cars, vans and 4x4 vehicles.
All-Season Tyres Explained
All-season tyres are designed to offer balanced performance throughout the year. They combine elements of summer and winter tyre technology and are marked with the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol.
Benefits of All-Season Tyres
- Good performance in both warm and cold weather
- Suitable for light snow and wet conditions
- No need for seasonal tyre changes
- Convenient and cost-effective solution
Are All-Season Tyres Right for Me?
All-season tyres are ideal for UK drivers who want one tyre for year-round use, especially in towns and cities where extreme winter conditions are rare.
Shop our full range of all-season tyres online today.
Winter vs Summer vs All-Season Tyres Comparison
| Tyre Type | Best Conditions | Main Advantage | Drawback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Warm, dry & wet roads | Best handling & braking | Poor performance below 7°C |
| Winter | Cold, ice & snow | Maximum winter grip | Faster wear in warm weather |
| All-Season | Year-round UK use | Convenience & versatility | Not as specialised as summer or winter |
Which Tyres Are Best for UK Drivers?
For most UK drivers:
- Summer tyres – Best for performance-focused driving
- Winter tyres – Ideal for cold climates or rural areas
- All-season tyres – Best all-round choice for everyday use
If you carry heavy loads, drive a van, or cover high mileage, checking the correct tyre load index and speed rating is also essential.
Need Help Choosing the Right Tyres?
If you’re unsure whether summer, winter, or all-season tyres are best for your vehicle, our tyre specialists are here to help.
Call us: 07511 984 234
Or visit our Contact Us page.
Browse our full range of new tyres online with fast UK delivery from PWT Europe Ltd.