Winter Tyres In Italy

Chillout

Chillout

Community Member
Sep 10, 2007
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Mantova, Italy
In the area that I live in italy is is obligatory to either have winter tyres fitted to your car or you must carry the correct size snow chains from the 1st November - End of April each year.

I have noticed that a good percentage of people take the winter tyre option as I guess it's safer and less hassle when winter weather sets in.

Do you have winter tyres fitted to your car or do you just carry the chains?
 
In the area I live in (close to Milan), the winter tyres are only mandatory if there's snow or ice or, anyway, snow tyre weather. They usually put a sign right where you exit the city, or in certain areas.

I never bothered changing tyres until this year, because, whenever the weather was bad, I just didn't drive.. But this year I had visitors (my relatives) and had to choose between staying indoors (and only see the 4 walls instead of going places and actually visit Italy) and get winter tires.

So, I got myself 4 snow tyres, at a very reasonable price :D and decided to just put them on the car and drive everywhere with the winter tyres, until - I don't know - April? Or whenever the weather warms up.
 
I opted just for the chains as I don’t really go into the mountains during the winter time and if it does snow I’ll try to use the car as little as possible.

BTW, I am pretty sure the law is from 15 November to 15 March each year but it is only in selected areas. (or regions)

I do have the chains in the boot of my car but have never needed to use them.
 
I can imagine winter tyres would be easier, since chains have to be removed when there is no snow. So, it would be an ongoing job through out winter if you were to use chains. I think it all depends on what part if Italy you live in.
 
I never actually knew that they could enforce the use of winter tyres anywhere so that's news to me for a start.

While snow chains are probably more effective, I'd also probably just go with the winter tyre aswell to be honest as its easier and more convenient all round.
 
Snow chains are only effective when there is a large amount of snow. To be honest, they are very quick at cleaning the roads in my area that I have never needed to use them. It’s important to understand that if you drive with chains on when there is a small amount of snow this can actually do more damage than good.
 
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As you say it depends on the thickness of the snow, but even where I am and we very rarely get deep snow I still think it's best to have them just in case.

While round here in winter the main roads are often cleared, the side roads aren't even touched and can be treacherous.
 
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