QuestionI have a 2008 Subaru Impreza with 39,000 miles, driven daily in often snowy and always hilly, Vermont. When I bought my previous Outback Subaru, the dealer said don't let anyone talk you into buying snow tires for it.
I am ready to buy new tires. I hear different opinions from Subaru owners about all weather vs snows in Vermont. What does the expert say? Help!
AnswerJan,
There is no question that winter tires are superior to all season tires. They are designed to operate in snowy conditions, plus the tread compounds are formulated to operate at lower temperatures. By contrast, all season tires have to be able to withstand temperatures over 100°F, so they aren't optimal at typical winter temperatures. So I am an advocate of the use of winter tires.
However, there is a cost consideration here - one that I am not in a position to decide for you. Not only can I not be familiar with all the winter conditions for every portion of the US, but they will vary within geographical regions.
For example: When I lived in northern Ohio, I was situated just south of the where lake effect snow usually fell. Had I lived 20 miles north, my choices might have been different. While I chose to use winter tires, many of my colleagues chose not to - mostly out of the cost involved.
But the last consideration ought to be your driving expertise. While I consider myself to be an accomplished driver, my wife is not. So I have to temper my judgement with the idea that she may not have the driving skills to deal with less than favorable conditions.
