The sun is out and temperatures in Red Deer are holding consistently above 7 degrees Celsius. That is the threshold tire and safety experts point to as the sign to swap off your winter tires and get your summer tires in Red Deer installed. At Gearhead Auto, we make this seasonal change straightforward, whether you need new tires, a simple swap, or a place to store your winters while you enjoy the season. Here is what you need to know to drive confidently all summer long.
Why You Should Not Run Winter Tires in the Summer
Winter tires are engineered to stay soft and grippy in cold temperatures. Once the mercury climbs above 7 degrees, that same soft rubber compound works against you. It wears down significantly faster on warm pavement, reduces your braking performance, and makes your vehicle feel sluggish and imprecise in corners. The Alberta Motor Association notes that using the right tires for the right season is one of the most impactful safety decisions a driver can make. Keeping winters on through summer is not a money-saving move. You are burning through an expensive set of tires and compromising your safety at the same time.
All-Season vs. Summer Tires
This is one of the most common questions we get at Gearhead. All-season tires are the practical middle ground. They handle a broad range of conditions reasonably well, which makes them a popular choice for drivers who want simplicity. Summer tires, on the other hand, are built to maximize dry and wet warm-weather performance. They use a harder, stickier rubber compound that grips warm pavement far better than an all-season can. If you put a lot of kilometres on your vehicle in warmer months and want sharper handling and shorter stopping distances, a dedicated summer tire is the better investment.
What Are the Best Summer Tires?
There is no single answer, because the best tire depends on your vehicle and driving style. That said, there are consistently well-regarded brands that mechanics trust and carry. Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Pirelli, and Goodyear all produce strong summer tire lineups that cover everything from fuel-efficient commuter options to high-performance sport choices. When you book a tire appointment at Gearhead, our team will help you match the right tire to your vehicle, your budget, and how you drive.
Get Your Summer Tires and Store Your Winters With Us in Red Deer
One thing that trips people up every season is storage. Winter tires take up real space, and improper storage shortens their life. Gearhead offers tire and wheel storage so your off-season set is professionally kept until you need it again. No scrambling for garage space, no tires degrading in a hot shed all summer. It is one less thing to think about.
The Tire and Rubber Association of Canada recommends storing tires in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and sources of ozone. Our storage service takes care of all of that for you.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you are still rolling on winters, now is the time to act. The roads are warm, and every kilometre you drive on winter tires in this heat is unnecessary wear. Call Gearhead Auto today to get your summer tires sorted and your winters stored, or request an appointment online! Our team is ready to get you in and get you back on the road fast.
