Asymmetric winter tires

There is always a debate among drivers about which winter tires are better. Some are used to trusting classic friction tires with a uniform tread pattern, while others prefer studded models that bite into ice. But in recent years, you can increasingly hear about asymmetric winter tires. This is a special type of rubber that combines several characteristics at once, making it more versatile. While conventional models always work only under certain conditions, asymmetric ones are designed to give the driver stability on the road regardless of the condition of the surface.

Asymmetric tires are distinguished by the fact that the outer and inner parts of the tread perform different tasks. If you look at such rubber carefully, you can immediately see that one side of the pattern has deeper grooves, and the other is more like massive blocks with stiffer elements. This is the main idea. The inner part of the tire helps to drain water and slush, maintain control in slippery conditions. The outer part creates stability in turns and keeps the car on dry asphalt. This allows you to combine opposite properties in one product, which was previously considered impossible.

Let's imagine a typical Ukrainian winter. In the morning, the driver drives out into the snow that covers the road. In the afternoon, the temperature rises and the snow begins to melt, forming slush, puddles and wet asphalt. In the evening, frost again, and all this turns into ice. In such conditions, one tire always loses somewhere. Friction models work great on snow, but on wet roads they start to slip. Studded ones save on ice, but quickly wear out on dry asphalt and make noise. Asymmetrical rubber tries to be universal. It is the different tread pattern that allows you to adapt to changes during the day.

Another advantage is that asymmetric tires behave better in situations where the conditions for the wheels are different. For example, one side of the car can drive on clean asphalt, and the other on a snow-covered track. In such a situation, classic models feel unstable, especially if the speed is quite high. The asymmetric tread works differently. One part of it is responsible for removing snow, the other maintains rigidity and control, so the car keeps more level and is less prone to skidding. This is noticeable during quick maneuvers, overtaking on the highway and driving in mountainous areas.

Some drivers doubt whether it is worth taking this type of tire, because they are often more expensive than simple options. However, it is important to look wider here. Many asymmetric models wear out more evenly. This means that they can last longer than classic rubber. And if you calculate the costs for several seasons, it turns out that the difference in price is no longer so significant. In addition, even in the budget segment there are now models with an asymmetric pattern. They are available not only to owners of premium cars, but also to ordinary drivers who want to increase comfort and safety.

The best asymmetric winter tires in Europe

The market offers many options. For example, the Nokian WR A4 has proven itself excellently on wet roads and shows good traction on snow. Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+ is considered a universal solution for mixed winter conditions. Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 is noted for its stability at high speeds, which is especially important for owners of powerful cars. Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 is known for its water drainage and short braking distance, and Continental WinterContact TS 860 received high marks for steering precision and safety on ice. Among the budget options, it is worth mentioning the Barum Polaris 5, which is produced under the control of Continental and is well suited for daily use in our conditions.

Model	Approximate price for 1 pc.	Short description
Nokian WR A4	from 3200 UAH	Finnish asymmetric winter tire. High stability on wet asphalt and snow, low noise level.
Goodyear UltraGrip Performance+	from 3500 UAH	A universal model with an emphasis on stability in turns. Works well in mixed winter conditions.
Michelin Pilot Alpin 5	from 4000 UAH	French premium tire. Strong grip on ice and snowy roads, balanced at high speeds.
Bridgestone Blizzak LM005	from 3700 UAH	Japanese brand. Effective water drainage, excellent grip on wet roads andfrost resistance.
Continental WinterContact TS 860	from 3800 UAH	German model. Precise handling, short braking distance, stable behavior on snow and ice.
Barum Polaris 5	from 2500 UAH	Budget asymmetric model under the Continental brand. Durability and good value for money.

 

For tires to work properly, it is important to follow several rules. There is always an inscription on the sidewall indicating the inner and outer sides. If you mix them up during installation, the efficiency will be reduced and the meaning of such rubber will disappear. It is also worth remembering that asymmetric tires better reveal their potential on a serviceable car with the correct suspension geometry. If the camber is knocked down or the shock absorbers are tired, no rubber will compensate for these problems.

Drivers who have already tried asymmetric tires often note the difference in sensations. The car begins to obey the steering wheel more precisely, unwanted slippage in turns disappears, and confidence appears at high speed. This does not mean that other types of tires completely lose their relevance, but the asymmetric option really allows you to feel calmer in most typical winter conditions.

An interesting point is that it is used asymmetric tires from Europe that have become popular in Ukraine. There, drivers change tires more often than in our country, and sell sets with a large amount of tread left. This makes it possible to buy modern technology at a price that is significantly lower than new products. This option looks better than buying the cheapest new rubber of dubious origin. After all, even in used condition, an asymmetric tire made of high-quality materials works better than a new cheap one made without proper control.

In general, asymmetric winter tires have become a solution that allows you to combine several requirements. They are not ideal in each individual parameter, but they create a balance thanks to which the driver feels confident regardless of the situation on the road. If you consider that our winters are unpredictable and the surface can change several times during one day, this option looks really justified.

Eurokoleso - proven asymmetric winter tires from Europe

In the Eurokoleso store you can buy used asymmetric winter tires from the most famous manufacturers. All models are checked for tightness, tread residue and absence of deformations. We offer options for passenger cars, crossovers and commercial vehicles. Our customers have the opportunity to buy modern technology at an affordable price and be confident in their safety on winter roads.