Winter tire question(s)

I generally understand the desires for different tire widths. In sand you want a wider tire with lower pressure for best traction. On dry pavement you want as much tire surface on the road for best traction, etc.

As far as snow goes, what works best, wider tires, skinnier tires, higher pressure, lower pressure? I realize that tread pattern plays a major role however I am not asking about that at this point. Also, does rim size play ANY role in this discussion other than the tire sizes you have available with your specific rims?

Appreciate your help.

 

different kinds of snow; packed/compact, loose, wet, powder, or ice and temperature all play a factor, and require a different approach.
1) Get a dedicated winter tire as it is made with compounds that stay flexible at lower temperatures - that is the key.

2) If you are going to be mostly on roadways with compact snow or ice, get an ice tire type. (lots of siping, & small tread blocks) Larger contact surface in cold conditions on ice will work. Lots of icy conditions add studs, or carry chains. If temperature is closer to freezing, then a narrow contact point that puts more pressure on the surface can melt the ice, making it easier to find traction.

Plowing through fresh wet snow or slush, a narrow winter tire with more open tread will get you through to the ground layer and less likely to be pulled around by the heavy snow. Adding chains for when there is ice underneath the snow will help in those circumstances for low speeds.
Deep snow, then a wide contact patch to compact the snow and 'float' by compacting the available snow without sinking to the ground works. I've driven on trails compacted by snowmobiles overtop of 3-4' of snow successfully at lower tire pressures. Just don't drive off the trail. In deep snow, pretty much the combination of drag underneath, and the lack of downforce because the snow your underside is compacting, supporting your vehicle weight will mean you will loose traction. That usually occurs at bumper depth snow.

3) How you drive - no sudden changes, will help you maintain control.

 

Good information. Thank you!

 

In general, for driving in snow that isn't deeper than your ground clearance, narrower is better. Dedicated snow tires are the way to go. I have Michelin X-ice tires on the Honda Civic that are I think an inch narrower than the summer tires. 235/85-16 Cooper ST Maxx on the Tacoma year round.