Last Updated on August 9, 2025
How to Choose the Best Tires for Your State’s Climate – Top Picks
When shopping for a new set of tires for the upcoming summer season, there are several essential things to consider. The first is always the type of vehicle you drive, your driving habits, mileage, and usage. You’ll want a tire that can withstand everything you put it through and be a safe, dependable partner in your daily adventures. However, the second most important aspect is climate. Of course, winter tires are out of the question since they are not recommended for warm weather and lack the grip and braking capabilities of proper summer or all-season tires.
For dry and hot areas like Arizona, the choice is pretty straightforward—summer tires. However, the decision isn’t as simple for other areas of the U.S. Some regions experience variable weather and frequent rain, where drivers can benefit from other tire types. So, let’s explore how to choose tires for different weather conditions and help you decide based on your location.
Southwest Regions of the USA
If you live in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, or Southern California, choosing tires for the summer season is clear. These areas are known for hot, dry weather, with minimal rainfall and high average temperatures. So, summer tires are the best option. Of course, you can opt for all-season tires, but summer tires will provide the best handling and braking capabilities in these conditions.
Pacific Northwest
With lower average temperatures and wet, rainy, and mild summers, the northern part of the West Coast requires a different approach. Drivers from Northern California, Washington, or Oregon know that while summer tires perform well on dry roads, a good set of all-season tires may be the better choice. With deeper grooves and wider tread channels, all-season tires handle wet conditions and variable weather more effectively.
Northern States
Known for snowy winters and icy conditions, the northern U.S. also has mild summers with unstable weather. This means that drivers in Maine, Vermont, New York, Michigan, and Minnesota—as well as mountain states like Colorado, Utah, Montana, and Idaho—are better off with a capable set of all-season tires due to the varied and ever-changing weather. Summers in these regions are cooler, and temperatures can fluctuate significantly. With all-season tires, you’re prepared for anything.
Midwest
The Midwest is known for its continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. This means summer tires are a solid option if you value performance, handling, and braking power. However, if you’re looking for longer usability and live in states like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, or Wisconsin, a good set of all-season tires can also be a smart solution.
Southeast Parts of The USA
If you live in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, or Louisiana, you’re accustomed to hot, humid weather year-round, along with occasional thunderstorms or hurricanes. Winter tires are rare in these areas, with summer and all-season tires dominating the market. So what’s the best choice for summer conditions? If you’re aiming for top performance, go with summer tires. While all-season tires are usable, the consistently warm climate favors summer-specific rubber.
Gulf Coast States
This region includes Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Alabama—known for hot, humid summers and rare snowfall in winter. This makes summer tires the top choice, with all-season options as a close second. Long, hot summers (with occasional rain) make summer tires ideal for performance. However, a quality set of all-season tires will still serve most drivers well.
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- 45-day return policy
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We’re your go-to source for affordable, high-quality, and long-lasting tires—especially for summer driving.
Conclusion
As you can see, regional weather conditions are critical when buying a fresh set of tires for your vehicle. Regardless of where you live, you must factor in your local climate to choose the best tires for your location and driving habits.
