Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes offer some of the most diverse and unpredictable driving conditions in the country. From scorching summers to icy winters and everything in between, selecting the right tires is essential for safe and efficient driving.
At Franklynn Automotive, we’ve helped countless drivers navigate the challenges of Colorado’s varied terrain by equipping their vehicles with the right set of tires. In this guide, we’ll cover the factors to consider when choosing tires, the best options for year-round performance, and maintenance tips to keep your tires in top shape.
Understanding Colorado’s Driving Conditions
Before diving into tire options, it’s crucial to understand the conditions you’ll be driving in throughout the year. Colorado’s roads can present:
- Hot and dry summers that cause excessive tire wear.
- Rainy autumns with slick and wet roads.
- Snowy and icy winters, particularly in the mountains.
- Mud and gravel roads for those who venture off-road.
Since Colorado requires tires to handle all these conditions, choosing the right set can be tricky.
Types of Tires and Their Benefits
- All-Season Tires: A Balanced Choice
All-season tires are designed to provide adequate performance in dry, wet, and light snow conditions. They offer a long tread life, good fuel efficiency, and year-round usability.
- ✅ Best for: City and highway drivers who don’t face extreme winter conditions regularly.
- ❌ Limitations: Not ideal for deep snow, ice, or off-road driving.
- All-Terrain (A/T) Tires: For City and Off-Road Use
All-terrain tires are built for both pavement and off-road conditions, making them an excellent choice for Colorado’s adventurous drivers. They have a more aggressive tread pattern for improved grip on loose surfaces like dirt and gravel.
- ✅ Best for: Drivers who switch between highways and off-road trails.
- ❌ Limitations: Slightly noisier and less fuel-efficient than all-season tires.
- Winter (Snow) Tires: The Best for Harsh Winters
Colorado winters can be harsh, especially in the mountains. Winter tires use a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in freezing temperatures, providing a superior grip on snow and ice.
- ✅ Best for: Mountain and frequent winter travelers.
- ❌ Limitations: They wear out quickly in warm weather and should only be used in winter months.
- Performance Tires: Enhanced Grip for Dry Roads
Performance tires are designed for maximum traction, cornering, and braking performance on dry and wet roads. They are often used on sports cars but can be an option for those prioritizing handling over longevity.
- ✅ Best for: Drivers in urban areas looking for improved performance in summer conditions.
- ❌ Limitations: Poor winter performance and shorter lifespan.
- Studded Tires: Maximum Ice Grip
Studded tires feature metal studs embedded in the tread to dig into icy roads for better traction. These are particularly useful for mountain drivers dealing with icy switchbacks.
- ✅ Best for: Mountain regions with frequent icy conditions.
- ❌ Limitations: Restricted in some areas due to road damage concerns.
Colorado’s Laws and Requirements for Tires
Since Colorado experiences extreme weather, there are specific laws in place to ensure drivers have the proper tires during winter months.
Colorado’s Traction Law (Code 15)
From September 1 to May 31, when Colorado’s Traction Law is active, drivers must have:
- Tires with at least 3/16″ tread depth
- Mud and Snow (M+S) rated tires or winter tires
- All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) if using standard tires
Colorado’s Chain Law (Code 16)
During severe winter storms, commercial vehicles and some passenger vehicles may be required to use tire chains or alternative traction devices.
Ignoring these regulations can result in hefty fines, and more importantly, create unsafe driving conditions.
How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Driving Needs
Now that you know the different tire types and Colorado’s legal requirements, let’s help you choose the best tires based on your driving habits.
- Do You Primarily Drive in the City or Highway?
- If you commute to Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs, all-season tires are a great choice.
- If you frequently drive in snow but stay in lower elevations, all-weather tires provide better year-round performance.
- Do You Travel to the Mountains in Winter?
- If you drive to Aspen, Vail, or Breckenridge, investing in dedicated winter tires is a smart move.
- If you have an AWD/4WD vehicle, all-terrain tires with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating (3PMSF) may suffice.
- Do You Drive Off-Road?
- If you enjoy trail driving, camping, or backcountry roads, all-terrain tires offer the durability and traction needed.
- Mud-terrain tires may be a better option if you frequently navigate extreme off-road conditions.
- Do You Need Maximum Performance?
- If you prioritize handling, acceleration, and braking performance on dry roads, summer or performance tires will enhance your driving experience.
How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Driving Needs
Once you’ve chosen the right tires, keeping them well-maintained ensures safety and longevity.
- Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, while hot weather increases it. Check your tire pressure at least once a month to maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
- Rotate Tires Every 5,000-7,000 Miles
Rotating your tires ensures even wear, prolonging their lifespan. This is especially important for AWD and 4WD vehicles.
- Monitor Tread Depth
Use the penny test to check if your tires need replacing:
- Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down.
- If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.
For winter driving, a minimum of 3/16″ tread depth is required in Colorado.
- Get an Alignment Check
If your vehicle pulls to one side or your tires wear unevenly, a wheel alignment can improve handling and extend tire life.
- Switch to Winter Tires at the Right Time
Install winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 45°F. Remove them in spring to prevent premature wear.
Franklynn Automotive: Your Tire Experts in Colorado
At Franklynn Automotive, we understand that choosing the right tires for Colorado’s unpredictable weather can be overwhelming. Our experts are here to:
- Help you select the best tires for your driving needs
- Ensure your tires meet Colorado’s winter traction laws
- Provide tire rotations, alignments, and inspections for longevity and safety
If you need new tires or a winter tire consultation, schedule an appointment with us today! 📞 (303) 730-4137.
Franklynn Automotive – Keeping You Safe on Colorado’s Roads, Year-Round!
