As the winter weather threatens to unleash its icy fury this weekend, many are bracing themselves for the impending snow and preparing their winter gear. But what about your trusty car? Have you given any thought to swapping out your regular tires for snow tires?

The local tire shops have been buzzing with activity as customers flock to get their cars winter-ready. For some, this means bidding adieu to their all-season tires in favor of snow tires. But what exactly sets snow tires apart from their regular counterparts?

According to Mike Lapite, the service manager at City Tire in Springfield, the tread pattern is the key differentiator. Snow tires are specifically designed to prevent snow from getting stuck inside the tread, offering superior traction in comparison to all-season tires.

With an impending storm on the horizon, residents of western Massachusetts may be mulling over the decision to switch their tires. Lapite advises that the choice ultimately depends on your location. Those residing in higher elevations with heavy snowfall would benefit from snow tires, while those in the lower valley might view it as an optional upgrade.

The kind of vehicle you drive also plays a significant role in the decision-making process. Front-wheel drive and two-wheel drive vehicles stand to gain more traction from snow tires, as opposed to all-wheel drive vehicles, which already provide better stability on slippery roads.

For those seeking maximum traction, Lapite suggests considering studded snow tires, particularly for areas with persistent snow and ice.

As for timing, Lapite recommends having snow tires fitted from November through April to maximize their effectiveness.

So, as the first snow of the season looms, it appears that the decision to switch to snow tires depends on where you live and the type of vehicle you drive. While it may not be a necessity for everyone, it’s certainly something to contemplate as you gear up for the winter months.