Can You Use Summer Tyres in Winter? A UK Driver’s Guide

As temperatures drop and winter weather comes in, many drivers in the UK start to wonder if they can keep using summer tyres during the colder months. While summer tyres are designed for warmer, drier conditions, they may not provide the same grip, safety, or performance when temperatures fall. In this blog, we explore what makes summer tyres different, how they perform in winter conditions, and whether switching to winter or all-season tyres might be a better choice. 

What Are Summer Tyres? 

Summer tyres are made from a rubber compound designed to offer optimal grip and performance in warmer weather, typically above 7°C. Their tread pattern is tailored to deliver excellent traction on dry and wet roads, with less rolling resistance, meaning better fuel economy and improved handling in the summer months. However, these same characteristics make them less effective in cold conditions. 

Why Are Summer Tyres Unsuitable for Winter? 

You shouldn’t use summer tyres in winter in the UK because summer tyres begin to lose effectiveness when the temperature drops below 7°C. The rubber compound becomes harder and less flexible, resulting in reduced grip. This increases the risk of skidding on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads. 

Key drawbacks of using summer tyres in winter: 

• Longer braking distances 

• Poor handling on ice or snow 

• Less effective water dispersion, increasing aquaplaning risk 

• Decreased fuel efficiency in very cold conditions 

Are Summer Tyres Illegal to Use in Winter? 

In the UK, it’s not illegal to use summer tyres during the winter months. However, drivers are expected to make sure that their vehicle is roadworthy and safe in all weather conditions. If your summer tyres lead to an accident because they underperform on icy roads, it could affect your insurance claim or lead to penalties or a potential fine of up to £2,500 per tyre if deemed unsafe.. 

Are All-Season Tyres a Good Alternative? 

Yes. All-season tyres are designed to offer a balance between summer and winter tyre performance. They are ideal for UK drivers who experience moderate winters but don’t want the hassle of switching tyres twice a year. 

Benefits of all-season tyres include: 

• Better traction in temperatures below 7°C compared to summer tyres 

• Suitable for light snow and frost 

• Cost-effective for year-round use 

However, they still won’t perform as well as dedicated winter tyres in extreme snowy or icy conditions. 

When Should You Switch to Winter Tyres? 

If you live in an area with regular snow or freezing temperatures, winter tyres are the safest option. Winter tyres have deeper treads and softer rubber compounds that remain flexible in sub-zero temperatures, providing superior grip and shorter braking distances. 

You should consider switching to winter tyres when: 

• Average daily temperatures drop below 7°C 

• Snow, slush, or ice are expected frequently 

• You live in a rural area with limited road gritting 

What’s the Difference Between Summer, Winter and All-Season Tyres? 

Tyre Type	Temperature Suitability	Performance in Snow/Ice	Fuel Efficiency	Tread Life
Summer	Best above 7°C	Poor	High	Good
Winter	Best below 7°C	Excellent	Moderate	Moderate
All-Season	Year-round use	Moderate	Moderate	Good

 

How Winter Conditions Affect Tyre Performance 

Winter weather changes how tyres grip and respond on the road. When temperatures drop below 7°C, the rubber in summer tyres becomes hard and less flexible, which reduces traction and makes braking distances longer. Snow and ice create slippery surfaces, and summer tyres don’t have the deep grooves or sipes needed to grip properly, so they slide more easily. 

Cold weather also lowers tyre pressure, which affects stability and increases wear. Wet winter roads raise the risk of aquaplaning, especially if tread depth is low. Winter tyres are designed to stay flexible in the cold and have tread patterns that improve grip on snow, ice and slush, while all-season tyres offer a balanced option for milder winters. 

 

Tyre Labelling and UK Legal Requirements 

In the UK, all tyres sold must carry an EU tyre label, which helps consumers understand three key performance areas: 

• Wet Grip – Indicates how well the tyre performs in wet conditions, graded from A (best) to E (worst). This is especially important during the colder months when roads are more likely to be damp or icy. 

• Fuel Efficiency – Rated from A (most efficient) to E (least efficient), this score reflects the tyre’s rolling resistance. Poorer-performing tyres can increase fuel consumption, particularly if they're used outside their optimal temperature range. 

• Noise Levels – This rating measures the external noise the tyre makes while driving, displayed in decibels and with one to three black waves. Fewer waves mean a quieter tyre. 

 

Where to Buy Seasonal Tyres Online 

If you’re thinking of switching tyres for winter or want to explore all‑season options, Merityre makes it easy. Browse our full range of seasonal tyres on our website to find summer, winter, and all‑season tyres suited to your vehicle and driving conditions. Once you’ve found the right set, you can buy and book your fitting online.  

Buy our tyres online here 

FAQs 

Can I use summer tyres all year round in the UK? 

Yes, but it’s not advisable if temperatures regularly drop below 7°C in your area. While legal, summer tyres can underperform in winter conditions, reducing grip and increasing stopping distances. 

Are winter tyres noisy or uncomfortable? 

Winter tyres can be slightly noisier due to their deeper tread patterns, but many modern options are designed for comfort and low road noise. 

How do I know when to change tyres for the season? 

Keep an eye on the weather forecast. When the average temperature consistently drops below 7°C, it’s time to consider switching to winter or all-season tyres.