Going cross continental? Here’s 3 reasons to pick all-season tyres this winter

Whether you’re going skiing in Val Thorens or for a festive adventure at Stuttgart’s Weihnachtsmarkt, have you stopped to consider the tyres that’ll get you there?  

Route: planned. Roof box: loaded. Petrol tank: brimmed. Ready for a winter road trip? Not just yet. While most of us compile an extensive checklist before setting off on our winter holiday, tyres — and more specifically, their compound, condition, and tread pattern — rarely feature. 

And that’s a problem for several reasons. Firstly, driving on summer tyres in slippery, sub-zero conditions is dangerous. From vastly increased stopping distances to a terrifying lack of grip in the bends, the harder compound and shallower tread blocks of summer tyres are simply not designed to perform in icy environments. 

If that wasn’t enough, in much of Europe, it’s actually illegal to use summer rubber in the winter — and you could face hefty penalties for contravening those rules. 

So don’t risk it; here’s why fitting an all-season tyre like Continental’s award-winning AllSeasonContact 2, makes a whole lot of sense if you’re Europe-bound this winter. 

1. It’s a legal requirement in many European countries 

Though local laws and regulations do vary greatly, many countries on the continent mandate tyres that wear either M + S (Mud and Snow) markings, or full-blown 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) certification, during the coldest months. 

As you might expect, the likes of Finland and Sweden — with their bitter winter climates — legally require all cars to be fitted with at least an M + S tyre during the coldest months. However, in countries such as Spain, winter tyres are also required where traffic signs or road conditions dictate. Then, to complicate things even further, though many other nations don’t specifically require winter tyres by law, you may be held accountable for any incidents or delays where inappropriate tyres were deemed to be the cause. 

That’s why it’s crucial to choose rubber which not only performs well in the coldest climes, but also complies with local laws. With a true Three Peak Mountain Snowflake-certified option like Continental’s AllSeasonContact 2, you’ll be in the clear on both counts. 

2. They’re better all-rounders than dedicated winter tyres 

While winter tyres are considerably safer and more capable than summer tyres in snowy conditions this ability can come at a cost when the mercury rises,  reduced traction and longevity on dry, hot roads. 

But what if your desired destination has an ever-changing climate like the UK’s? The right all-season tyre offers the best of both worlds. 

Despite boasting tried-and-tested winter traction (as proven by the 3PMSF label), AllSeasonContact 2 also offers a safe and pleasurable year-round driving experience. With a B noise rating, it’ll be quieter than most dedicated winter tyre on your long motorway voyage to the port — and use less fuel or charge thanks to a B-rating for rolling resistance. 

3. You’ll keep feeling the benefits, even when you return home

When it comes to holidays, other than happy memories, you’re rarely left with anything to show for your initial outlay when it’s time to return to normality.  

However, with AllSeasonContact 2 tyres, your investment in safety is much longer lived. Just like many of the European nations where winter tyres are mandatory, the UK’s climate is highly unpredictable. That means the Continental’s blend of refinement, grip, and genuine cold-weather traction, make it a perfect companion. Plus, when snow does start to fall, you’ll not need to fork out for a set of winter wheels and tyres — with AllSeasonContact 2, you’re already prepared. 

Is it time to add all-season tyres to your winter road trip checklist? Let us know where you’re headed this festive period. 

Hero image credit:  Openverse (AI edits were made)