4-season tires: manufacturers have given up

Most motorists change tires when cold weather sets in and summer returns. There is a good reason for this: to ensure good support and effective braking, the rubbers depend directly on the ambient heat. Difficult, in this case, to be effective at +50 degrees as well as at -10 degrees.

However, in view of the latest tests carried out by the TCS, two manufacturers have (almost) succeeded in this feat of producing tires as effective on the hot asphalt of summer as on the snow in winter. These are Goodyear, with its Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, and Pirelli, with its Cinturato All Season SF2.

These two models received such good marks that they were declared highly recommended. The first still has some weak points in the dry when the temperature is high. The second is as convincing in winter as in summer conditions, but it loses effectiveness with wear. However, for users who only occasionally ride on snow, the choice is interesting.

And no worries about the law. In Switzerland, winter tires are not compulsory. On the other hand, in France, under mountain law, they are obligatory (or failing that, chains or snow socks) in certain departments, such as Haute-Savoie and Ain, near Geneva.

Either way, no problem: all 4-season tires carry the snowflake symbol. They are therefore considered “real” winter tires and are therefore authorized all year round.

Have a good trip!

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