Winter tyres are commonly used in countries around the world that have severe winter weather conditions of snow, ice, rain and slush. The majority of large manufacturers sell rubber designed specifically for winter conditions, which are known as either winter or snow to reflect their standard times of use. A small snowflake or snow covered mountain is depicted on the tyre-wall to ensure confusion does not arise between winter and summer compounds.
Rubber designs have been created as a compound that maintains its flexibility in temperatures falling below 7C; these compare favourably with summer designs that are harder, and can become brittle in freezing winter conditions. Winter versions can be designed as narrower than regular summer wheels that cut through deep, unploughed snow; other designs include those that are wider than summer wheels that increase the amount of rubber available to grip snow covered roads. Alongside the more flexible rubber, the tread is often deeper to allow the rubber to spread across patches of snow and ice for increased grip. Braking and stopping times are often increased with a winter compound.
Many drivers believe the inclusion of electronic traction and gripping devices of their vehicles will increase the ability of the vehicle to stay on the road on snow covered roads. Although the ability of a vehicle to keep control is increased, it is not possible for a motor vehicle to stay safe on a winter road when the rubber used cannot grip the road surface. One of the main advantages of using winter compounds is the increased grip offered during dangerous driving conditions.