Types of Tires: How to Choose the Right Set for Your Drive
Tire shopping is easier when you match tire type to your vehicle, climate, and driving style. Use this guide to quickly narrow your options, then tell us about your vehicle and zip code so we can recommend tires that fit and perform the way you need.
Best overall: All-season tires with strong wet traction and hydroplaning resistance for rain-soaked roads.
Variable temps or late-season snow: All-weather tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating for reliable cold and slush performance. They outperform all-seasons in wintery conditions but are not a substitute for dedicated winter tires in true winter.
Mostly warm highways: Touring all-seasons for quiet comfort and long tread life.
Performance driving in warm climates: Summer tires for maximum dry/wet grip; avoid when temperatures are consistently below 45°F.
Four-season areas with cold winters
Use winter tires when temps are consistently 45°F or below—even without snow.
Daily family driving and highway comfort: Touring all-season tires for quiet rides, stability, and long tread life.
Variable winters or occasional snow: All-weather tires with 3PMSF for better winter braking and traction than standard all-seasons.
True winter (consistent 45°F or below): Switch to dedicated winter tires for cold, snow, and ice confidence.
Weekend gravel or forest roads: All-terrain tires available in CUV-friendly sizes for light off-road use.
Fitment varies by model year and trim. For the best match and warranty coverage, use our fit tool. Shop tires that fit your Rogue or get recommendations with Treadwell.
AWD vehicles (traction, climate, and typical U.S. roads)
Mixed climates and everyday traction: Quality all-season or touring tires with strong wet braking and hydroplaning resistance.
Unpredictable winters: All-weather tires (3PMSF) for better cold and snow traction without a seasonal swap.
Severe winter or mountain driving: Dedicated winter tires; consider studded options where legal.
Warm-weather performance AWD (sport sedans/coupes): Summer or performance tires for grip and braking in heat; avoid use near/below 45°F.
Light trails or rough roads: All-terrain for durability and off-pavement traction.
AWD care tips:
- Replace in sets of four and keep tread depths closely matched to protect the drivetrain.
- Rotate regularly (follow owner’s manual; typically every 5,000–7,500 miles).
- Match load index and speed rating to your vehicle’s OE specs.
Most drivers: Touring all-season for quiet comfort, wet braking, and long life.
Frequent spring downpours: Look for all-seasons with strong wet traction; consider all-weather if you encounter occasional snow/ice or early-morning freezes.
East TN or higher elevations with winter bursts: All-weather tires for a one-set solution; upgrade to winter tires if you regularly drive in freezing temps.
Outdoor trips to the Smokies and gravel roads: All-terrain with on-road manners and added durability.
Oregon
Willamette Valley and Coast (wet winters, mild snow, dry summers):
Primary choice: All-weather tires with 3PMSF for rain, cold snaps, and occasional snow.
Alternate: Quality all-season if you rarely see freezing temps; prioritize wet braking and hydroplaning resistance.
Cascades and mountain passes:
Winter tires for snow and ice; consider studded where seasonally permitted. Check local laws for stud use.
Central and Eastern Oregon (high desert: hot summers, cold/snowy winters):
Two-set approach: Summer or all-season for warm months plus winter tires for cold season; or choose all-weather if you prefer a single set.
Forest roads and recreation:
All-terrain or select rugged-terrain options; some A/T models carry 3PMSF for enhanced winter traction.
Tire type overview (what each does best)
All-season tires: Balanced, year-round road manners in moderate climates.
All-weather tires: All-season versatility plus 3PMSF winter capability; a strong one-set option for variable winters.
Touring tires: Quiet, comfortable highway driving with long tread life.
Summer tires: Maximum warm-weather grip and braking; not for near-freezing conditions.
Performance tires: Sharper handling and higher speed ratings for sporty vehicles.
Winter tires: Cold, snow, and ice traction; designed for temps below 45°F.
Studded winter tires: Extra ice grip; check local regulations.
All-terrain tires: On-road comfort plus off-road capability for trucks/SUVs and some crossovers.
Mud-terrain tires: Extreme off-road traction; louder and stiffer on pavement.
Run-flat tires: Drive up to ~50 miles at up to ~50 mph after a puncture to reach service.
How to choose and next steps
Consider:
- Vehicle type and OE specs (size, load index, speed rating)
- Climate and temperature swings (below/above 45°F)
- Road mix (highway, city, rain, snow, gravel)
- Driving style (comfort, efficiency, performance, off-road)
- Towing/hauling needs (check load ratings)
Get matched recommendations based on your vehicle, driving, and location. Find tires that fit with Treadwell.