What Are Traction Tires?

Tractions tires are available for cars, trucks and SUVs. There is a wide range of traction tire styles depending on the desired use. The use of traction tires is mandatory in some circumstances.

Off-road traction tires.

Identification

Tires labeled mud and snow, M+S, all-season, all-weather or snow tires are considered to be traction tires by highway departments. Traction tires may have a mountain or snowflake symbol.

Function

All-season and mud and snow designated tires can be used year-round. Snow and studded snow tires should only be used in winter. All-season tires are suited for all-around driving, while mud and snow tires are typically better suited for off-road and non-highway conditions.

Features

Mud and snow tires have lugs to help them dig into mud, snow or rocky surfaces. Snow and all-season tires can have sipes or small cuts in the tread that help the tire get traction on slippery surfaces.

Limitations

Snow tires are compounded with softer rubber to stay flexible in cold conditions. These tires will wear rapidly if used on dry roads in warm weather.

Range

Tires rated mud and snow or M+S have lugged tread. These tires can range from models that are designed for comfortable highway travel to heavy-lugged models only suitable for serious off-road four-wheeling.

References

• Traction Tire Qualifications

Resources

• MSN Auto News: Getting a Grip on Winter Tires