How do winter tyres work?
The high-tech rubber in winter tyres is designed for all temperatures below seven degrees Celsius. In these temperatures, the rubber does not harden as quickly as conventional tyres. The harder a tyre, the less likely it is to be able to grip loose or slippery surfaces. In the case of winter tyres, this can prevent accidents on icy and wet roads in cold temperatures. The also have a deeper tyre tread than standard tyres. All tyres on UK roads must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm a simple test is to slide a 20p piece into the tread. If the outer edge of the coin is hidden from view, the tyre is legal on UK roads. The deeper tread depth and unique pattern of winter tyres prevents aquaplaning when there is surface water and increases grip on icy roads.
