Winter tire minus sizing refers to a common strategy used to choose the safest winter tires for your vehicle. A set of tires with a smaller diameter and narrower width, compared to a vehicle’s Original Equipment (OE) specifications, can improving your performance in snowy and icy road conditions.
In recent years, OE specifications have become larger and wider for aesthetics or increased performance over the past few years. Unfortunately, these packages are not ideal for winter driving which puts you or your families safety at risk. If you’re likely to drive your vehicle in the winter, you’ll want a proper set of tires and wheels, with sizing that considerers the deep snowy conditions found when commuting in rural Canadian communities or cities like Ottawa.
Simply put, minus sizing just means using smaller wheels with narrow, higher profile tires. By doing so, you get a better grip on the road in deep snow. Additionally, higher profile tires with a smaller diameter, feature taller sidewalls to aid in resisting damage associated with winter road hazards.
There best part, a minus sized winter wheel and tire package, usually costs less than a package made to your vehicle’s OE specifications.
Why Does Winter Tire Minus Sizing Work?
Let’s get into the science of the strategy and discuss common reasons as to why minus sizing works.
- Improved road traction in deep snow: Narrower tires exert more pressure per square inch on the surface of the road; allowing them to cut through snow and slush more effectively, improving grip and reducing the possibility of hydroplaning.
- Better stability while driving on ice: A smaller contact patch increases traction between your tires and icy surfaces by concentrating the tire’s weight more efficiently.
- Room for installing snow chains: Minus sizing can open up the space within the wheel wells, making it easier to fit snow chains.
How Does Winter Tire Minus Sizing Work?
- Step 1: Locating Your Vehicle’s Tire Size
If you don’t already know it, locate the size of your current tires. Typically, the sizing information is displayed on the sidewall of your tires, as a series of numbers, for example 225/65R17. - Step 2: Adjusting Diameter and Width
Choose a tire size with a smaller diameter and narrower width, being sure to maintain the correct load index and aspect ratio, this will ensure compatibility with your wheels. - Step 3: Use Proper Wheels
Smaller tires may require a different size of wheel. This needs to be selected carefully, in order to properly fit your car’s brake system and other components. Consult with a reliable tire shop to avoid any serious complications or incompatibilities.
Benefits of Winter Tire Minus Sizing
- Potential ($) savings compared to OE options
- Improved road traction in deep snow
- Improved safety while winter driving
Considerations for Winter Tire Minus Sizing
- Compatibility: Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual or trustworthy professionals to ensure the recommended sizes align with your car’s specifications.
- Performance Trade-offs: Even though minus sizing can improve snow and ice performance, smaller tires may slightly reduce handling and stability on dry roads.
- Intended vehicle Usage: Ultimately, minus sizing is about safety. If your lifestyle requires heavy vehicle usage or long distance commutes in the winter weather, winter tire minus sizing is a great option.
Example Of Minus Sizing
This diagram shows an example of winter tire minus sizing.
As you can see, a vehicle specified at 225/45R17 can safely use a 205/55R16 winter tires, in some cases a 195/65R15 winter tire; as determined by the size of your vehicle’s braking system.
To find out what your minus sizing options are for your vehicle please contact us.
Key Takeaways
- Minus sizing is the safest option for driving in Canadian winter conditions, where freezing temperatures, icy roads and heavy snowfalls are expected.
- Consulting with trained tire professionals at Goldwing Autocare, is the best way to choose the right size for your vehicle and enjoy safer, more efficient winter driving.
Looking for minus sizing tire options?
If you’re looking for a set of winter tires, stop by our showroom or give us a call. Our expert can show you which options are available for your vehicle. We’ll walk you through the comparisons between OE specific and minus-sized winter wheel and tire packages, helping you decide on what works best for you, your vehicle, and your wallet.
