Driving in Snow
All-seasons aren't actually made for this. Here's what is.
The Cold Truth About Rubber
"All-season" sounds like it works everywhere. But here's the thing:
All-season tires are made of a rubber compound designed for warm and mild weather. When temperatures drop below about 45°F, that rubber starts getting hard.
Hard rubber = less grip. By the time you're at freezing temps, an all-season tire is basically a hockey puck trying to grip ice.
The Temperature Problem
Here's when your all-seasons stop working like they should:
Winter tires use a different recipe:
They're made with softer compounds that stay flexible in cold weather. Plus they have more siping (those tiny slits in the tread) that bite into snow and ice.
The Snowflake Symbol Explained
You'll see two symbols on winter-capable tires. Know the difference:
This means the tire was actually tested in snow and passed. It's the real deal - meets specific traction standards in snow.
This just means the tread pattern looks like it might work in mud or snow. No actual testing required. Most all-seasons have this.
Snow Grip Comparison
How different tires perform when the temperature drops:
Colorado's Chain Law (I-70)
On I-70 between Morrison and Dotsero, Colorado has a tiered chain law that activates during bad weather:
You need either snow tires, tires with M+S rating, or chains/alternative traction device. 2WD vehicles with all-seasons should have chains available.
Commercial vehicles and vehicles without adequate tires must chain up.
Everyone needs chains, no exceptions. This is serious weather.
Fines start at $130 and go up to $650 if you block traffic. Not worth it.
Shopping for Snow Tires?
Here's what to look for:
Snow Driving Safety in Colorado
Colorado's winter weather presents unique challenges for drivers. From sudden snow squalls on I-70 to black ice on neighborhood streets, having the right tires and knowledge can mean the difference between a safe trip and a dangerous situation. Snow driving in the Denver metro area requires preparation, the right equipment, and understanding how your vehicle handles in winter conditions.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) implements the Traction Law on I-70 and other mountain highways during winter storms. Vehicles without adequate snow tires, M+S rated tires, or chains can be turned away or fined. Understanding these requirements before heading to the mountains helps you avoid delays and stay legal on Colorado roads.
Winter Tires vs All-Weather Tires
All-weather tires (different from all-season) are designed to handle year-round conditions including snow. They carry the 3-peak mountain snowflake symbol and offer a compromise between dedicated winter tires and summer performance. For Colorado drivers who want one set of tires for the whole year, all-weather tires are often a good choice. However, dedicated winter tires still outperform all-weather tires in severe snow and ice conditions, making them the best choice for frequent mountain drivers or those who face heavy snow regularly.
Eisenhower Tunnel and Loveland Pass
The Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel sits at 11,158 feet elevation and is one of the most heavily traveled mountain passes in Colorado. During winter storms, traffic can back up for miles as CDOT implements chain laws and clears accidents. Loveland Pass (US-6), the alternative route when the tunnel closes, climbs to 11,990 feet and requires extreme caution in winter conditions. Winter tires with the snowflake symbol are strongly recommended for both routes from November through April.
Denver Metro Snow Driving
Even in Denver, winter storms can drop significant snow quickly. While Denver's main roads are typically plowed within hours, residential streets and parking lots can remain snow-covered for days. Areas like the Denver Tech Center, Cherry Creek, and Capitol Hill see different microclimates—Tech Center tends to get more ice accumulation, while neighborhoods closer to downtown often see faster melting. Having appropriate tires helps you navigate these conditions safely regardless of which part of town you're in.
Essential Snow Driving Tips
- Increase following distance to 8-10 seconds on snow-covered roads
- Brake gently and early—sudden braking causes skids
- Use lower gears for better traction when going uphill
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freezing
- Clear all snow from your vehicle before driving, including the roof
- Keep an emergency kit with blankets, flashlight, and snacks
When to Get Winter Tires in Denver
The best time to install winter tires in the Denver area is late October to early November, before the first major snowstorm. Tire shops get extremely busy after the first big snow, so planning ahead ensures you're not waiting in long lines or dealing with limited inventory. Winter tires should be removed in late March or April once temperatures consistently stay above 45°F. Running winter tires in warm weather accelerates tread wear and reduces their lifespan.