Summer tyres – driver’s guide
With the arrival of warmer months, the right choice of tyres becomes a key element to ensure safety and driving comfort. Summer tyres play a fundamental role in optimising the grip, handling and fuel efficiency of the vehicle in higher temperatures. Using winter or all-season tyres that are designed for colder temperatures can lead to poor performance and increased risk on the road when the temperature rises. This guide aims to provide drivers with comprehensive information about summer tyres, including their definition, characteristics, key parameters, tread types, care rules, legal aspects, brand comparison and the optimal time to change them.
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What are Summer Tyres? Definition and Characteristics
Summer tyres are specialist tyres designed to work effectively at temperatures above 7 degrees Celsius . This temperature limit is crucial because it affects the properties of the rubber compound from which the tyres are made, as well as their year of manufacture.
Differences between summer, winter and all-season tyres
The main difference between summer and winter tyres is the range of temperatures in which they function optimally. Winter tyres are designed for use in temperatures below 7°C. They are characterised by a soft rubber compound that retains flexibility even in cold weather, and a deeper tread with numerous sipes for better grip on snow and ice. Summer tires, on the other hand, use a harder compound that provides stability and optimal traction on dry and wet roads in warmer conditions. Their tread is shallower and has fewer sipes, which contributes to more efficient water evacuation and a larger contact area with the road.
All-season tyres are a compromise between summer and winter tyres. They combine some of the characteristics of both types, but do not achieve as high performance as seasonal tyres in their dedicated conditions. All-season tyres have M+S markings and the 3PMSF symbol (snowflake on a mountain background), just like winter tyres. The number of sipes in an all-season tire is lower than in a winter tire, which is a certain concession for better behavior in summer .
The main difference between these types of tyres lies in the temperature at which their rubber compound maintains optimal elasticity and grip. Summer tires are optimized for heat, while winter tires work best in the cold. All-season tires try to find a happy medium, but in extreme summer or winter conditions, their performance may be lower than dedicated tires. The tread pattern also reflects this purpose: summer tires have a design that maximizes road contact and water drainage, while winter tires are designed to “bite” into snow and ice .
The table below compares the key features of summer, winter and all-season tyres:
| Feature | Summer tyres | Winter tyres | All-season tires are an alternative for those who do not want to regularly change to summer and winter tires. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber compound | Harder, less natural rubber | Softer, more natural rubber and silica are the features that should characterize new sets of summer tires. | A compromise between hard and soft |
| Tread pattern | Shallower, fewer sipes, wider blocks | Deep, numerous sipes and grooves are the features that should characterize summer tyres chosen for driving in warm conditions. | A combination of summer and winter features, often in the shape of a herringbone |
| Optimal temperature | Above 7°C | Below 7°C | Wide range, but not optimal in extremes |
| Marks | No specific summer markings | 3PMSF (Snowflake), M+S | 3PMSF, M+S |
| Main Purpose | Maximum grip on dry and wet roads | Grip on snow and ice is crucial, so you should consider buying winter tyres when the season is approaching. | Moderate conditions all year round |
| Advantages | Good grip in summer, lower rolling resistance mean that you will find tires that are ideal for everyday driving. | Very good grip in winter | Convenient to use all year round, no need to replace |
| The disadvantages of cheap summer tyres can include poorer quality materials and lower performance in difficult conditions. | Poor grip at low temperatures | Faster wear and worse grip in summer | Lower performance in extreme conditions |
Composition of the rubber compound and construction of summer tyres
Summer tires are characterized by a specially developed, harder rubber compound that contains less natural rubber and more silica . This composition ensures optimal grip on hot asphalt and reduces tyre wear at high temperatures . The design of summer tyres is optimised for low rolling resistance, which translates into lower fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions.
Compared to winter tires, summer tires have fewer grooves and wider tread blocks . This design increases the contact area between the tyre and the road, which is crucial for better grip on dry surfaces . At the same time, special tread ribs and circumferential grooves effectively drain water from under the tyre, minimising the risk of aquaplaning when driving in the rain .
The specific composition of materials in the rubber compound is precisely selected to ensure optimal grip and durability over a specific temperature range. Using summer tires outside this range, especially in cold weather, negatively affects their performance and safety . The design of summer tyres is a compromise between maximising dry grip by increasing the contact patch and providing sufficient wet grip by effectively draining water .
Key Parameters of Summer Tyres and Their Importance
Each summer tyre has a number of markings that inform about its key parameters. Understanding these markings is essential to choosing the right tyres that will ensure safety and driving comfort, as well as enable you to make the right tyre purchase.
Tyre size: How to read the markings and choose the right size
The size of the tyre is usually marked on its sidewall in the form of a sequence of numbers and letters, for example 205/55 R16, which is important when buying tyres in our store. tags. The first number (205) is the tyre’s tread width in millimetres, measured between its outer walls. The second number (55) is the so-called tyre profile, i.e. the percentage ratio of the height of the tyre’s sidewall to its width. The letter “R” indicates the radial construction of the tyre, which is now standard in passenger cars. The last number (16) is the diameter of the rim in inches for which the tire is designed.
It is extremely important to choose a tire size that is in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. This information can be found in the car’s owner’s manual, on a sticker on the driver’s door pillar and sometimes on the inside of the fuel filler flap. Using the wrong size tyres can negatively affect handling, braking performance and safety systems such as ABS and ESP. In addition, incorrect tyre size can cause mistaken speedometer readings.
Each element of the tyre size designation provides important information about its dimensions and construction, which directly affects its compatibility and behaviour on a specific vehicle . Understanding this code allows drivers to make informed choices, ensuring optimal safety and performance for their vehicles.
Speed rating: Safe driving with the appropriate index
The speed rating is a letter on the sidewall of the tire that tells you the maximum speed at which the tire can safely carry the maximum load determined by the load index. For example, the “T” index means a maximum speed of 190 km/h, “H” – 210 km/h, “V” – 240 km/h, “W” – 270 km/h, and “Y” – 300 km/h, which is important when buying summer tyres. .
It is crucial to use tires with a speed rating equal to or higher than that recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. The required speed rating can be found in the car’s owner’s manual or on the rating plate. Using tyres with a lower speed rating can lead to damage or even tearing at higher speeds, which is a serious safety risk, so timing tyre changes is crucial.
In some cases, such as winter tires, it is permissible to use tires with a slightly lower speed rating than the homologated one, but under certain conditions, such as placing a speed limit sticker in a visible place. However, this is usually not recommended for summer tyres. The speed rating is an essential safety parameter that should not be underestimated, as it reflects the structural strength of the tyre at high speeds .
Load index: How to choose tyres for your vehicle’s load
The load index is a number on the sidewall of the tire that determines the maximum load that a single tire can safely carry at the maximum allowable pressure . Each number corresponds to a specific mass in kilograms. For example, index 91 means a maximum load of 615 kg, 94 – 670 kg, and 98 – 750 kg .
Choosing tyres with a load index equal to or higher than the vehicle’s requirements is crucial for safety and to prevent tyre damage. You can find information about the required load index in your car’s owner’s manual or on the rating plate, which is important when choosing tyre models. Overloading tyres by using tyres with too low a load index can lead to premature wear and, in extreme cases, even to sudden bursting, especially at high speeds or over long distances.
For vans and light trucks, additional markings such as “XL” (Extra Load) or “C” (Commercial) are often used, which indicate a higher permissible load capacity of the tyre . The load index ensures that the tyres are able to safely support the weight of the vehicle with its passengers and cargo, and the use of tyres with an insufficient load index poses a serious safety risk.
The importance of parameters for safety and driving comfort
The correct tyre size ensures proper handling, braking performance and the correct operation of vehicle safety systems such as ABS and ESP . Improper parameters can negatively affect these key aspects of driving. Selecting a speed and load rating in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations ensures that the tyres can safely cope with the vehicle’s performance and its ability to carry a load . This is especially important in demanding driving conditions, such as driving fast on the highway or when the vehicle is fully loaded, so it is worth replacing the tyres with those that are better suited for these situations. Using tyres with the right parameters also contributes to a more comfortable ride by providing proper cushioning and reducing the risk of vibration or uneven wear .
All three parameters – size, speed index and load index – are interrelated and must be considered together to ensure optimal safety, performance and comfort. Deviations from the manufacturer’s recommendations in any of these areas can have negative consequences .
The following tables show examples of speed indices and the corresponding maximum speeds, as well as common load indices and the corresponding maximum loads:
| Speed Index | Maximum Speed (km/h) |
|---|---|
| T | 190 |
| H | 210 |
| V | 240 |
| In | 270 |
| Y | 300 |
| Load Index | Maximum Load (kg) |
|---|---|
| 88 | 560 – this is the right value for a new set of tires. |
| 91 | 615 |
| 94 | 670 |
| 98 | 750 |
Types of Summer Tire Treads and Their Impact on Grip
The tread pattern of a summer tyre is crucial for its grip on different types of surfaces. There are three main types of treads: symmetrical, asymmetric and directional.
Symmetrical tread
The symmetrical tread pattern is characterized by an identical pattern along the entire width of the tire . This design ensures even wear and allows for versatile tire rotation. Symmetrical treads are often found on smaller and more economical vehicles, as they usually offer lower rolling resistance and reduced noise levels. They are ideal for everyday driving, where fuel efficiency and comfort are a priority. Tires with symmetrical tread can be mounted in any direction, making them easy to install . While symmetrical treads offer wear and efficiency benefits, they may not provide as high levels of grip in demanding wet or dry conditions as other types of treads .
Asymmetric tread
The asymmetric tread has different patterns on the inside and outside of the tire. The exterior usually has larger blocks that improve dry grip and cornering stability. The inner side usually has more grooves and sipes, which improves water evacuation and improves grip on wet surfaces. Tyres with asymmetric tread must be installed correctly, according to the “Inside” and “Outside” markings on the sidewall. They offer a good balance of performance on both dry and wet roads, making them a popular choice for a wide range of vehicles, including those who want to choose economy class summer tyres . . The dual design of the asymmetric treads allows for optimized performance in a variety of road conditions, providing a versatile solution for many drivers.
Directional tread
The directional tread is characterized by a V-shaped or arrow-shaped pattern designed to efficiently drain water from under the tire . It is perfect for wet surfaces and offers very good resistance to aquaplaning. Tyres with directional tread must be mounted in the direction indicated by the arrow or the “Rotation” marking on the sidewall . They are often found in high-performance vehicles and winter tires due to their excellent water and slush drainage properties. Sometimes they can be a bit louder than other types of treads, especially cheap summer tires that may not offer as much comfort. tags. The specialized directional tread pattern prioritizes wet performance, making them an ideal choice for regions with frequent rainfall .
Effect of tread depth on dry and wet grip
New summer tires usually have a tread depth of about 8 mm . The minimum permissible tread depth in Poland and Europe is 1.6 mm . Driving with tread below this limit is illegal and dangerous. Experts recommend replacing summer tires when the tread depth reaches 3 mm to ensure optimal wet grip and safety .
Deeper tread grooves are necessary to drain water away from the tyre’s contact surface with the road, which significantly reduces the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads . As the tread depth decreases, the tyre’s ability to evacuate water decreases, increasing the risk of loss of control. On dry roads, slightly worn tires with a larger contact patch can sometimes offer better grip than brand-new tires, but this advantage disappears as the tread wears further.
Maintaining the right tread depth is crucial for safety, especially in wet conditions, as it directly affects the tyre’s ability to grip the road and prevent aquaplaning . Although very little wear can improve dry grip, the overall safety benefits of keeping tread depth above the recommended replacement threshold far outweigh this marginal benefit .
The table below illustrates the effect of tread depth on wet braking distances (hypothetical data based on ):
| Tread Depth (mm) | Braking Distance of 80 km/h on Wet Roads (m) |
|---|---|
| 8 (New) | 26 |
| 6 | 28 |
| 4 | 31 |
| 2 (below recommended) | 35 |
| 1.6 (Legal Limit) | 40 |
Proper Care of Summer Tires – Longevity and Safety
Regular care of summer tires is essential not only for their longevity, but above all for ensuring driving safety.
Tyre pressure check
Tire pressure should be checked at least once a month and before any long trip, preferably when the tires are cold . The recommended pressure for your vehicle can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s door pillar, inside the fuel filler flap, in the glove compartment or in the car’s owner’s manual. You should maintain the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer as it is specific to the model and size of the tires, which is important when you want to buy 205 mm tires. Under-inflated tyres can lead to excessive wear on the tyre’s shoulders, increased risk of damage, reduced fuel efficiency and impaired handling . On the other hand, over-inflated tires can cause wear on the center of the tread, harder driving and reduced grip . Regularly checking your tyre pressure is a simple but extremely important maintenance activity that significantly affects safety, tyre life and fuel consumption.
Tire rotation
Tyre rotation is recommended to be done every 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres or during seasonal tyre changes to ensure even wear . Different rotation patterns are used depending on the type of drive (front, rear, all-wheel) and the type of tread (directional, non-directional). The correct rotation pattern can be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or for advice from a tyre specialist. Uneven tire wear can lead to reduced traction, increased noise, and shorter tire life. Consistent tire rotation helps distribute wear evenly across all tires, maximizing tire life and maintaining balanced driving characteristics.
Proper storage of summer tyres in the off-season
Before storing summer tires after the season, they should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water to remove dirt, brake dust, and salt . Tyres should be stored in a cool, dry and dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures (ideally between -5°C and 25°C). Avoid storing tires near chemicals, solvents, oils, or sources of ozone, such as electric motors or welding machines . Tires with rims should be stored horizontally (on top of each other or suspended) and tires without rims vertically, rotating them monthly to prevent deformation . It is worth using tire bags or covers to protect them from dust, moisture, and UV radiation. Proper off-season storage is essential to maintain the integrity of the rubber compound and prevent damage or deformation, which ensures that your tires remain safe and perform optimally when used again.
Summer Tyre Regulations in Poland and Europe
Knowledge of the legal regulations regarding summer tires is important for every driver, both in Poland and when traveling in Europe.
Current regulations in Poland
In Poland, there is no specific legal obligation to change to summer tires by a certain date . However, according to the general rules of the road, the tires on the vehicle must be adapted to the prevailing weather conditions. Using summer tyres in winter conditions such as snow or ice can be considered a violation of road safety regulations. The minimum permissible tread depth for all tyres, including summer tyres, is 1.6 mm in Poland. Driving with tyres with a tread below this limit is illegal and may result in a fine and confiscation of the vehicle registration certificate. In Poland, there are no specific penalties for using summer tires in winter or winter tires in summer, but such practices are dangerous and can have insurance consequences in the event of an accident . Despite the lack of specific regulations for summer tyres, drivers in Poland have a responsibility to ensure that their tyres are suitable for the weather conditions, and the use of worn or unsuitable tyres can lead to legal consequences under general safety regulations.
Summer tyre regulations in selected European countries
In many European countries, there are specific regulations for the use of winter tires during certain periods or under certain conditions (e.g. Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Finland – these are countries where tire manufacturers offer a variety of models. These regulations often specify specific dates or require winter tires when the roads are covered with snow or ice. Regulations directly mandating the use of summer tyres are less common, but the general rule of thumb for weather-appropriate tyres applies throughout Europe . The minimum required tread depth for summer tyres (typically 1.6 mm) is standard in most European countries. Some countries may have specific laws regarding the use of studded tires, often prohibiting their use during the summer months. Although direct mandates for summer tires are rare in Europe, common winter tire regulations indirectly enforce the use of summer tires during warmer periods for optimal safety and legal compliance. The uniform minimum tread depth requirement of 1.6 mm for summer tyres in Europe underlines its importance as a fundamental safety standard.
Comparison of popular summer tyre brands
Choosing the right brand of summer tires can be difficult due to the wide range available on the market. Summer tyres can basically be divided into three price categories: budget, medium and premium.
Budget summer tyres
Popular brands of budget summer tyres in Poland include, among others, Debica (Presto UHP 2, Road Performance), Kormoran (Road Performance, Ultra High Performance), Imperial (Ecodriver 5), Firemax (FM601), Goodride (ZuperEco Z-107, RP28) and Kelly (HP). These tires are characterized by an attractive price, which makes them accessible to many drivers . Their performance can vary, and some models perform surprisingly well in tests, especially on dry surfaces . However, wet grip and noise levels can be inferior compared to brands in the higher price ranges. Budget tyres are a cost-effective solution for drivers who value affordability, but it’s worth checking the tests and reviews of specific models carefully, as their performance can vary greatly in this category .
Mid-range summer tyres
Among the mid-range summer tyres, brands such as Uniroyal (RainSport 5), Kleber (Dynaxer HP4), Nexen (N’Blue HD Plus, N’Fera Primus), Hankook (Ventus Prime 4), Falken (Ziex ZE 310 Ecorun), Toyo (Proxes Comfort), Kumho (Ecsta HS52, Ecowing ES31), Barum (Bravuris 5HM), Semperit (Speed-Life 3), Fulda (EcoControl HP2), Giti (GitiSynergy H2) and BFGoodrich (Advantage) are popular in Poland. These tires offer a good balance between price and performance, often providing a noticeable improvement over budget tires in areas such as wet grip and handling . Many mid-range brands are among the larger premium manufacturers, which translates into access to common technologies and design solutions. Mid-range tyres are a sensible choice for drivers looking for a significant improvement in performance without the cost of premium tyres, often offering an attractive combination of value and quality .
Premium summer tyres
The most popular brands of premium summer tyres include Continental (PremiumContact 7, SportContact 7, PremiumContact 6, PremiumContact 5), Michelin (Primacy 4+, Pilot Sport 5, Pilot Sport 4 SUV, Primacy 4), Goodyear (Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, EfficientGrip Performance 2, Eagle F1 SuperSport), Bridgestone (Turanza 6, Potenza Sport, Turanza T005), Pirelli (Cinturato P7, P Zero), Nokian Tyres (Wetproof 1, Powerproof 1), Yokohama (Advan Sport V107) and Dunlop (Sport Maxx RT2, Sport BluResponse). Premium brands are known for offering the highest level of performance in all areas, including dry and wet grip, handling, braking, and often comfort and low noise levels. They often use the latest technological innovations and advanced rubber compounds . Premium tires typically come at a higher price compared to budget and mid-range options. Premium tires are the best choice for drivers who demand the highest possible performance and safety, often investing in these brands for peace of mind and a unique driving experience.
The table below shows the general advantages and disadvantages of the different categories of summer tyres:
| Price category | Advantages | Disadvantages | Examples of brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budgetary | Affordable price | Possible compromises in performance | Dębica, Kormoran, Imperial, Firemax, Goodride, Kelly |
| Average | Good balance of price and performance | Higher price than budget | Uniroyal, Kleber, Nexen, Hankook, Falken, Toyo, Kumho, Barum, Semperit, Fulda, Giti, BFGoodrich |
| Premium | Superior performance and technology | Highest Price | Continental, Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, Pirelli, Nokian Tyres, Yokohama, Dunlop |
When to Change to Summer Tires in Poland? Optimal Time
The general recommendation to change winter tires to summer tires in Poland is when the average daily air temperature remains above 7 degrees Celsius . This usually falls at the turn of March and April . However, it is worth monitoring local weather forecasts, as temperatures, especially in early spring, can be variable . Night and morning temperatures should also be taken into account; if they still frequently drop below 7°C, it may be wise to wait to replace them. In Poland, there is no legal obligation to change tyres by a certain date, so the decision is mainly based on safety considerations and performance optimisation. Driving with winter tyres at temperatures above 7°C leads to faster wear, reduced grip, longer braking distances and higher fuel consumption. The 7°C threshold provides a reliable indication, but the optimal time to switch to summer tyres in Poland depends on a combination of persistent daily temperatures above this value, monitoring local weather forecasts for possible cold weather returns, and taking into account individual driving habits and location .
Frequently Asked Questions and Myths About Summer Tyres
There are many questions and myths surrounding summer tyres that are worth clearing up so that drivers can make informed decisions.
Myth: Summer tires should be replaced as soon as the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius. Fact: Winter tyres only start to show a clear advantage in grip at temperatures closer to freezing.
Myth: Driving in winter on summer tires with deep tread is safe. Fact: The rubber compound in summer tyres hardens significantly below 7 degrees Celsius, losing grip regardless of tread depth, so it is important to change tyres in a timely manner. .
Question: How long do summer tires last? It depends on your driving style, mileage, maintenance (pressure, rotation) and storage . In general, 5 years or up to 50,000 kilometers are typical guidelines .
Question: What is the ideal tread depth for summer tires? Experts recommend replacing at 3 mm, much earlier than the legal limit of 1.6 mm .
Question: Are summer tires louder than winter tires? Typically, summer tires are designed to be quieter than winter tires, which often have a more aggressive tread pattern for grip on snow and ice. However, noise levels can vary depending on the specific models and categories of tires (budget, premium).
Question: Can I drive on winter tires in summer? Although it is not prohibited by law in France, it is not recommended due to reduced grip, longer braking distances, faster wear and increased fuel consumption.
Many common beliefs about summer tyres, especially in the context of winter conditions, are often misconceptions. Relying on facts and expert advice is crucial for safe driving . Although the lifespan of summer tires varies, regular maintenance and timely replacement based on tread depth and age are essential to maintain optimal performance and safety . Using winter tires in summer is a trade-off that negatively affects safety and economy, highlighting the importance of seasonal tire replacement to avoid unnecessary expenses on cheap summer tires. .
Summary
Summer tyres are a key part of any vehicle’s equipment during the warmer months, providing optimal grip, handling and safety on dry and wet roads. Choosing the right summer tyres, taking into account their size, speed and load rating, as well as the type of tread, is crucial to achieve the best results. Regular pressure checks, tire rotation, and proper off-season storage all contribute to longevity and driveability, which is especially important when you want to find the best tires for your vehicle. Keeping in mind the legal regulations and being aware of the most common myths and questions related to summer tyres allows drivers to make informed decisions that translate into safe and comfortable driving throughout the summer season.
