Talvipyörät

Talvipyörät, often referred to as winter tires or snow tires, are a type of tire specifically designed for use in cold weather conditions, including snow, ice, and slush. They are characterized by a special rubber compound that remains flexible at low temperatures, providing better grip compared to all-season or summer tires. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining traction on slippery surfaces.

A key feature of talvipyörät is their tread pattern. These tires typically have deeper grooves and more biting edges, known as sipes, which help to channel away snow and water, preventing hydroplaning and improving grip. The aggressive tread design also allows the tire to dig into snow, enhancing traction.

The use of talvipyörät is mandated or strongly recommended in many countries during winter months due to safety concerns. They significantly reduce braking distances and improve handling and stability in challenging winter driving conditions. While they offer superior performance in the cold, talvipyörät generally have a shorter lifespan and may reduce fuel efficiency and increase road noise compared to summer tires, making it advisable to switch back to regular tires when temperatures rise above approximately 7 degrees Celsius.