First snow means time for snow tires

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Campaign season is over, and from the looks of the first snowfall today the winter season isn't far off.

Most of the state, including all of western Massachusetts saw the first flurries fall Wednesday. The snow didn't accumulate much, but we know it won't be long before it looks more like this outside. And that reality sent long lines to Town Fair Tire.

“I've been here a long time and it seems like its the same thing every single year,” said Guy Habrat, manager of Town Fair Tire in West Springfield.

They came to switch out their all-season tires for snow tires, which have treads that grip the road in snow. All-season tires do okay in the winter, but their purpose is to handle all types of conditions; a jack of all trades, but master of none.

But investing in snow tires isn't doubling your expense, it's reducing wear on the tires you already have. Plus making you more prepared for driving in our New England winters.

The snow tires take the traction ability in the winter time one notch up for the customer. It gives that extra bite in the road, and in the snow, ice, slush.  It has different rubber compounds to withstand the real cold temperatures,” Habrat said.

One Westfield man told 22News his wife has used snow tires for three winters now, and she sees a big difference in snowy and icy conditions.

“She has a small car. It’s light. The regular highway tires were slipping and sliding so we decided to come down and put snow tires on, get something that grips a little better,” said Bill Collins.

And once your snow tires safely get you through the winter, it'll be time to switch them up again come spring. Many drivers will prefer All season tires, which have a smoother ride than than snow models.