TireTalk

Canadian winters are unforgiving. Snow, ice, slush, and freezing rain demand maximum traction, and your tire tread depth plays a critical role in keeping you safe.

But how much tread is enough for another winter season? Let’s break it down clearly.

The Minimum vs. The Safe Recommendation

• Legal minimum tread depth: 2/32” (1.6 mm)
  This is the absolute minimum allowed by law — not suitable for winter driving.

• Recommended winter tread depth: 5/32” to 6/32” (4–5 mm)
  Below this range, winter tires lose their ability to grip snow and evacuate slush effectively.

Pro tip: If your winter tires are at 4/32” or less, it’s time to replace them before the first snowfall.

Why Tread Depth Matters More in Winter

Deeper tread allows your tires to:

• Bite into packed snow

• Channel slush away from the contact patch

• Maintain grip on icy surfaces

• Reduce stopping distance in cold conditions

Once tread wears down, even premium winter tires behave more like all-season tires — and that’s a risk you don’t want to take in a Canadian winter.

Easy Ways to Check Your Tread Depth

You don’t need special tools to get a quick idea:

1. The Coin Test (Canadian Edition)

• Insert a toonie into the tread with the bear facing down

• If you can see the silver ring → tread is too low for winter

2. Tread Depth Gauge

• Inexpensive, accurate, and worth owning

• Measure multiple spots across the tire for consistency

Should You Replace or Reuse Your Winter Tires?

Ask yourself:

• Are they below 5/32”?

• Are they older than 6 years?

• Do you notice uneven wear or cracking?

If you answered yes to any of these, replacing them now is safer — and often cheaper — than waiting until peak winter demand.

Get Winter-Ready with Tirewarehouse.ca

At Tirewarehouse.ca, we offer:

• Top-rated winter tires for Canadian conditions

• Competitive pricing and fast shipping

• Expert support to help you choose the right fit

Don’t wait until the first storm hits — check your tread today and drive into winter with confidence.