Siping...any drawbacks??

I drive in the snow and ice, I know its good for traction. But seems to me it may affect performance (cornering). And exactly how does it make your tires last longer?

 

Here in Tahoe everyone tells me that it makes 'em last longer. But yes I hear ya on the squirmyness. I guess I'll see...

 

I have my Pirelli Scorpions siped, night and day difference in the snow and ice. I haven't seen any difference in longevity one way or the other.

 

OP I have factory siping on my Nitto's. They are great on snow and ice, I can't speak for hand siping. Also never heard of it making the tire last longer though.

And around here, studs are illegal, so not an option for me.

 

Siping makes them last longer by dissipating the heat. I saw it over and over when I worked at a tire shop. We used to sipe almost everything. For the average driver it's perfect. Traction for normal driving (dry, wet, snow, etc.) is far better with siping. It can get squirmy on a high performnce tire, but i don't think you'd notice on a taco. Siping will chunk out if you have a lot wheel spin though.

 

Ooops, its the Terra Grapplers. Thanks Wolf.