By Sean Delaney
We live in Toronto, and therefore, we’re not always sure what the winter will throw at us. We may have many days of snow-free roads, but we know mother nature can unleash the beast and blanket us with a copious amount of snow and sleet, creating slippery and icy roads. No one enjoys driving in snowy and icy conditions, but there is a practical solution: winter tires.
Many drivers wonder whether winter tires help keep you safer on the road or are worth the investment. You have to keep in mind that snow tires, in addition to giving you better traction in snow, also allow you to stop much quicker, likely avoiding a rear-end collision.
When the temperatures are below 7°C, all-season tires become hard and lose traction, leaving them almost useless. Small slits in the tire tread called “sipes” separate winter tires from all-season tires. In winter tires, sipes ensure that snow is dispersed, assist with acceleration from the stop position and reduce braking distances on slippery roads.
To ensure tires are winter certified, look for the snowflake emblem.
Created by the Rubber Association of Canada and the Rubber Manufacturers’ Association, this stamp ensures the tire meets specific snow traction performance requirements and has been designed for use in severe snow conditions.
And for all those winter tire needs, make sure to check out some of Emery Village’s expert winter tire retailers:
City Tire & Rim Co.166 Toryork Dr., Unit 3
Phone: 647 436 9475
Fast’n Tires & Auto Center2430 Finch Ave. W.
Phone: 416-746-2585
JK Auto Repair/Tires340 Garyray Dr.
Phone: 416-742-4444
Signet Tires1 High Meadow Place, Unit 19/20
Phone: 416-748-8473
Star Tire Service Ltd50 Rivalda Rd.
Phone: 416-745-4644
Tire Canada2300 Finch Ave. W., Unit 16+17
Phone: 416-749-3104
Viking Tire & Auto Centre1821 Wilson Ave.
Phone: 416-747-8500
Or check out all of the Emery Village’s BIA members by visiting:
emeryvillagebia.caClick on the directory tab.