Studded Snow Tires: How They Differ From Normal Tires, Pros, and Cons - In The Garage with CarParts.com (2024)

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Studded snow tires are a type of winter tire with studs that increase traction. These studs are made of durable materials like rubber and steel and are installed along the tread area.

The studs increase the vehicle’s grip on icy and snow-covered surfaces. The stud’s shape improves the wheel’s ability to “bite down” on the terrain, giving it additional traction. Let’s explore how these studs work, what advantages they offer, and what drawbacks you’ll face when using them.

How Are Studs Installed?

Snow tires with studs are generally made without the studs first. The tires have marked tread areas that allow mechanics to insert tire studs using a stud gun.

While it’s possible to insert the studs at home, you’re better off bringing your tires to a professional who knows what they’re doing to ensure proper installation.

Is It Possible to Drive With Studded Tires Without Studs?

Yes, you can drive with studded winter tires without installing the studs. They’ll perform about as well as your average winter tires.

What’s the Difference Between Studded Tires and Normal Tires?

Obvious differences aside, studded tires are significantly more effective at driving over snowy terrain than regular tires. However, unlike regular tires, you can only use them in winter. This is because, without snow, the studs have the potential to damage the road.

Plus, studded tires are specially designed for winter, meaning their performance will decrease in temperatures higher than 44°F. When used outside of winter, they deteriorate quickly and lose a lot of traction. In short, you’re better off using normal tires for every other season.

Advantages of Using Studded Snow Tires

Expect increased traction when you use snow tires with studs. It’s hard to beat studded tires when it comes to maintaining a solid grip in snowy terrain. You’ll have an easier time safely maneuvering your vehicle on and off the road.

Increased Safety and Control

Control is a matter of life and death when driving in risky conditions. Winter driving is especially dangerous because ice and snow make it easier for vehicles to skid out of control, making crashes and accidents more likely for vehicles.

Studded snow tires are a step above regular winter tires when it comes to improving a driver’s control over their vehicle. You can count on them to make off-road trips safer.

Improved Uphill and Downhill Driving

Because studded snow tires increase traction, they make driving uphill and downhill more manageable. This is doubly true when driving on snowy, icy roads where slipping and losing control can have fatal consequences.

More Maneuverability in Ice and Snow

More traction means more maneuverability. Driving with studded snow tires gives you extra adhesion to icy and slippery surfaces. This prevents your wheels from skidding, shortens braking distances, and ensures your vehicle stays on course when accelerating.

Off-Road Capabilities in Wintertime

Last but not least, studded tires are perfect for drivers who don’t want to let snowfall get in the way of their off-road adventures. Studded tires make driving over snow-covered mud and dirt a breeze. They’re perfect for rural areas during the winter season.

Disadvantages of Using Studded Snow Tires

Although studded snow tires are better than winter tires at increasing traction during the winter, there’s no denying they come with some disadvantages. For example, they can damage the road, cost more than regular tires, and certain states ban their use.

Does More Harm Than Good on Asphalt

Arguably the biggest downside that comes with using snow-studded tires is how they damage asphalt roads. They generate enough friction to create ruts and holes in the road. Studded tires also wear down and lose traction when used on asphalt roads frequently.

Incredibly Costly

Another problem that comes with using studded snow tires is that they’re expensive to buy, install, and use. A set costs approximately 20% more than your average set of winter tires. That doesn’t account for the labor costs you’ll have to pay to install studs on the tires.

Studded tires also increase your vehicle’s overall fuel consumption because of the added friction. That means you’ll need to refuel at the gas station more frequently.

Not Meant for Long-Term Use

Studded tires can and should only be used when it is snowing. They wear down faster outside of the winter season and work best in specific conditions.

Prohibited in Some States

Although studs help vehicles gain much-needed traction during wintertime, there’s no denying that they have destructive capabilities. For example, studded tires can damage asphalt roads by generating friction.

Because of this, Florida, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Texas banned the use of studded tires. Conversely, there are only seven states where you can use studded tires legally and unconditionally. Other states only allow studded tires during specific months and seasons.