The snow tire season is almost upon us and with such a wide array of models to choose from, it can be hard to decide what’s right for you. Some tires offer unequivocal performance, but high prices make them less accessible. Is it possible to find a good tire that won’t break the bank? The answer is a resounding yes, and it’s with this in mind that we’ll be testing the Cooper Weather-Master WSC, a tire designed specifically for pickups and SUVs.
Cooper Tires may not be the best known tire company out there, but it has been plying its trade for over a century and is very active on the Chinese market. In fact, Cooper Tires is among the the largest tire manufacturer in the world and it has been trying to get more of a foothold in the Canadian market by offering a winter tire lineup dedicated to providing good quality for money.
What makes a good winter tire for a pickup or SUV?
According to Scott Jamieson, Director of Product Management for North America at Cooper Tires, light truck and full size SUV winter tires do differ in design from passenger and crossover vehicle winter tires, but it is important to note that often consumers will not need to make those distinctions when shopping for tires.” Since the vehicle type and its required dimensions automatically determine which type of tire will suit you best.
Available in multiple sizes, the Weather-Master WSC has high silica content, which enhances performance in the most extreme conditions. Its tread design includes Snow-Groove technology that literally imprisons snow between the block patterns since, according to the folks at Cooper Tires, snow-on-snow traction is superior to that of rubber on snow.
The tire is also designed for maximum output in deep snow, but you can also add studs to enhance its capabilities if you frequently have to deal with icy conditions.
Price reflects quality
Scott Jamieson argues that price does not always reflect tire quality and it’s important to do your homework and get all the facts. Be sure that the tires are appropriate for your needs and the road conditions you usually face. Always invest in quality.
As with clothing or shoes, a low-end tire will wear faster and have to be replaced sooner. However, you can find tires that are every bit as capable without having to overpay because of the brand name. Cooper Tires has managed to remain competitive by improving certain technologies, like including new polymers, resins and oil in the tire manufacturing process, and increasing efficiency while keeping costs down.
With the arrival of the snow, we’ll have the chance to confirm the manufacturer’s claims by putting the Weather-Master WSC to the test.
