Winter tyres are specifically designed to perform at their best when temperatures fall below 7°C. While they are commonly used across many European countries—where they are often a legal requirement during the winter months—winter tyres are not mandatory in the UK. However, they can significantly enhance safety and control in cold, wet, and icy conditions.
At Wick Tyre, we believe winter tyres deserve far more attention than they currently receive in the UK. The improved performance they offer during the colder months makes them a smart investment for safety-conscious drivers.
Winter tyres are made from a special rubber compound that remains flexible in cold temperatures, helping to maintain grip on icy or wet surfaces. They also feature deeper tread patterns and extra sipes (thin slits in the tread blocks), improving traction, braking, and control in wintery conditions.
Summer vs Winter Tyres – Stopping Distance
To put things into perspective:
At 60mph, a car fitted with summer tyres will typically take around 70.5 metres to stop on a cold, wet road.
With winter tyres, that distance is reduced to approximately 65.7 metres.
That difference—roughly the length of a large family car—can mean the difference between a safe stop and a collision.
Winter tyres are marked with a ‘snowflake on a mountain’ symbol to show they meet the required winter performance standards.
Enhanced performance in cold weather conditions
Improved grip on snow, ice and wet roads
Better braking distances in low temperatures
Increased road safety during the colder months
Some winter tyres even come studded for extreme conditions
At Wick Tyre, 11 Chapman Road, London, E9 5DW, we begin stocking a wide range of quality winter tyres around September/October in preparation for the colder months ahead.
If your vehicle isn’t already fitted with winter tyres, we strongly recommend fitting four at the same time to avoid compromising your handling and traction.
You can search online using your tyre size or vehicle registration, filter by ‘Winter Tyres’, and select a convenient fitting date. We offer same-day or next-day fitting, depending on availability.
Need help choosing winter tyres or unsure if they’re right for you?
Give us a call on 07983 977372 – our experienced team at Wick Tyre is always happy to help.