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Studded tyres are reserved for the most extreme climatic conditions. If you drive in very harsh climatic regions, on icy and heavily snow-covered roads, we recommend that you equip your vehicle with studded tyres (if allowed by your local legislation).
A studded tyre has metallic studs on its tread for grip on ice and heavy snow.
These are the most popular studded tyres:
These tyres also exist in "studdable tyre" versions. If you wish to receive the "studded" format, please check that the term "studded" features in the tyre's description.
Most popular sizes:
What are the features of studded tires? How to choose them? Can all vehicles use this type of tire? Find all the answers in this guide.
Studded tires are rubber casings whose tread contains studs or spikes. This anti-skid device allows the vehicle to have good grip on snow and ice (black ice). Thanks to the studs, the vehicle is able to face the extreme weather conditions of winter.
While studded tires are useful to motorists during winter, it must be acknowledged that they present practical constraints the rest of the time. In summer, on non-icy or non-snowy roads, their use poses a lot of problems. When they are in direct contact with the asphalt, they are noisy and rather uncomfortable compared to other types of tires. The studs can also damage the asphalt over which the wheels pass. They can also be projected against the side of the vehicle when the tires deteriorate. That's why, in France, the use of studded tires is restricted and regulated by law. We will address this point later in the article.
According to the decree of July 18, 1985 relating to anti-skid devices equipping tires, the use of studded tires is allowed from the Saturday preceding November 11 until the last Sunday in March. These dates can be modified by prefectural derogation if atmospheric conditions require it.
The use of studded tires outside the authorized periods is punishable by a 4th class fine, corresponding to an amount of 135 euros, according to article R314-3 of the Highway Code. The penalty is also the same for the use of these special equipment on unauthorized vehicles.
The driver of a vehicle equipped with studded tires must place in a clearly visible position at the rear a specific sticker. It is a removable disc of 15 cm in diameter that must be placed on the lower left part of the bodywork. The law also allows you to put a sticker on your rear windshield. Finally, the item placed must only be visible on the vehicle during the authorized period for the use of these wheels. According to the Highway Code (article R413-7), in case of non-compliance with this provision, the motorist can be fined a 2nd class fine, i.e. 35 euros accordingly.
When they are equipped with these tires, in mountainous areas or not, vehicles must not exceed a speed of 90 km/h. This only concerns private cars, four-wheel public transport and goods transport vehicles with a total loaded weight of less than 3.5 tons.
This value is reduced to 60 km/h for emergency intervention vehicles, rescue vehicles, dangerous goods transport vehicles and goods transport vehicles with a total loaded weight of more than 3.5 tons.
In France, the use of studded tires is allowed for private vehicles, public transport vehicles and goods transport vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons (ministerial decree of July 18, 1985).
For other types of vehicles, the use of these tires may be authorized by prefectural derogation if the atmospheric conditions require it.
Winter is fast approaching and you want to buy new studded tires? If so, you must first take into account your habits of traveling on snowy roads.
Studded tires are recommended if you drive on secondary roads, highways constantly covered with snow or country roads. On the other hand, if your daily commute includes regularly plowed highways or if you drive in town, it is rather recommended to opt for traditional winter wheels.
Studded tires allow effective braking on icy surfaces. But, to equip yourself with them, you have to choose between 2 types each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Of average quality, new studded tires at the retailer (also called studdable tires) are more economical than those from the manufacturer. However, they are noisier and less durable. Retailers generally use studs that are not very efficient and increase friction on the asphalt. This naturally causes a rise in noise level.
As for factory studded products, they offer better performance. More respectful of the environment and the asphalt, they produce less noise and have a good lifespan. In addition, they offer a higher yield than those of studded tires at retailers. The studs used in factories are much more sophisticated.
What to choose? We strongly advise you to mount factory studded tires directly on your vehicle for safe driving. Their purchase represents a better investment, as you will use them for several years. This will save you money in the medium and long term. In addition, you will keep your vehicle in good condition for a longer time.
The wheels are in constant contact with the road and ensure the connection between it and the vehicle. The condition of the tire directly influences the good grip on the ground, the vehicle's road holding and the braking distance.
To know when to change your tire, you just need to check the wear indicator located at 1.6 mm in the main groove of the tread. If it is reached, then you need to proceed with a replacement. If you don't do it, your vehicle will be immobilized and you risk receiving a ticket.
It should be noted that below 3 mm, the grip of the tires is already greatly reduced. They can lose contact with the road, which greatly increases the risks of aquaplaning or hydroplaning: skidding, loss of control, sliding of the car. Under these conditions, you risk endangering your life and that of other road users. Therefore, plan to change these winter-adapted tires as soon as you start to notice the first signs of wear.
Knowing the exact lifespan of studded tires is an impossible exercise. Their lifespan depends on several elements, including the condition of snowy roads, the design technology, the weather conditions, the driving style, the maintenance, the frequency of use…
Generally, after 5 years of use, the wheels must be thoroughly checked by a professional. As a precaution, it is advised not to exceed 10 years of use, even if your wheels still seem usable. It's a matter of your safety!
Do you want to extend the life of all the studded tires on your car? If so, it is possible to reduce their wear rate by following a few tips.
First of all, you should think about taking care of them by maintaining them properly. Be attentive to the pressure of your tires and the wear of the tread. You should also check the geometry (alignment and balancing) of your tires at least once a month to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Then, you should know that your driving style can cause a faster or slower wear of your wheels. Driving too fast, braking abruptly and making abrupt starts are all practices that prematurely damage your studded tires.
Buying your tires online is a good way to get them at the best price. In addition, you have access to a wide range of products from which you can choose without constraint. This is not always possible in physical stores.
Online, you have the possibility to consult the reviews and comments (positive and negative) of former customers before proceeding with your purchase. This also allows you to know more about the product before acquiring it. You will be able to get information about the real lifespan of studded tires, the comfort they provide…
Just like a physical store, an online store can offer you a tire mounting service. When you make a purchase from our team, our network of mechanics is at your disposal to help you mount your new tires. We take care of delivering the tires to the partner of your choice. This partner will contact you immediately after delivery to schedule an appointment.
What to remember? In winter, studded tires are a practical solution for better traction on slippery or icy roads. They guarantee safety, better road holding and driving comfort. At Tyreleader.ie, you have access to a very rich collection of high-quality studded tires. Make your choice now and benefit from the best prices on the market.