This may be a dumb question but I'm an idiot so bear with me. Would the size of the tire make a difference in snow or would just the type of tire play a factor.

I went off road twice today because my tires just slid, with ABS, no traction with just a dusting on the ground. I have 20s on now, just wondering if I should put my stock tires on for the winter or buy new tires for the 20s. Thanks.

 

I think that the wider the tire, the less effective it's going to be in snow. Also depends on the tread pattern. I've got the stock tires on factory 20s and did very well last year in snow. Also being in 4WD makes a big difference but it doesn't help you stop any better.

 

hi there, yes, larger tires are less effective on ice, wet or snow, in north italy, i live near alps, all the winter i go with snow tires, i never use snow chain, only if required by law, as in switzerland, snow just damege the car

always happy with snow tires, not large possibly

ciao

 

Yes, a skinnier tire will do better in the snow/ice, because there is much more contact pressure (weight of truck is pushing down on a smaller contact patch of tire) so will get better traction versus a wider tire. Now, you also have to factor in a lot of other variables: rubber compound (hard vs soft), siping, tread pattern, etc...a tighter tread pattern with lots of siping is preferred in the snow (just look at any dedicated snow tires and you'll see!). The snow will pack into the tread and stick to the snow on the road better. As for stopping, besides using snow chains, there just isn't any magic other than taking your time and coming to a stop slowly.

If you're having that much trouble, I'd highly suggest looking into some snow rated tires, they really do make a huge difference!

Now, for off roading in deep snow, a wider tire is preferred, in order to give you more flotation to stay on top and not sink in, but I don't think you are talking about that!