Winter tiresCanada
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Canada. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
170. Winter tires
Winter tires are tires designed to provide improved traction and braking performance in cold weather, snow and other winter conditions. Their tread pattern and rubber compound are designed to remain effective at lower temperatures and provide better grip than ordinary summer tires in appropriate winter conditions.
Winter tires can be identified by markings on the sidewall. The 3PMSF symbol, showing a snowflake inside a three-peaked mountain, indicates that the tire has met specified performance requirements for severe snow conditions.
Wikimedia.org • A7N8X • CC BY-SA
Are winter tyres compulsory everywhere?
No. Some countries require winter tyres during particular months or whenever winter conditions occur, while others have no general requirement. Drivers travelling abroad should check the rules of every country on their route.
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, tyre sidewall markings and sizing
🔗 michelin.co.uk • Michelin, winter tyres, conditions and markings
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Annex 6, tyres and pressures; national guidance example
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rules 228–231, snow and ice; national guidance example

Traffic rules
Canada