wlwesq

This is probably directed most to Gary, but anyone's thoughts are welcome.

I tend to lean toward the Studless Ice and Snow category of snow tires (that's Tire Rack's label for them) because of the superior ice and snow handling capabilities.

But, our winters here in South Bend, IN have been rather mild the last few years, and it seems more often than not, we're driving on dry or wet roads with no snow or ice.

My question is whether the Studless Ice and Snow category tires wear down more quickly when they aren't subjected to frequent days of snow or ice covered roads.

In other words, I'd rather spend the money on a set of Performance Winter tires that will last a season or three rather than a set of Studless Ice and Snow tires that will be worn out after just one season.

Thanks for any input!

Gary@Tirerack.com

I drive in the same conditions you do here in South Bend and I still use the studless ice and snow tires. I've never gotten less than three seasons out of set and for this area I feel the tradeoff in dry handling is worth the extra ice/slush/snow traction. Driving in dry doesn't wear them down so much as driving in warm weather will. This is why its important to take them off in the spring.<ul><li><a href="http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=AR8&amp;url=/winter/index.jsp">winter</a></li></ul>

wlwesq

Great--thanks Gary!