Topic: Larger or smaller winter tire sizes

[converser]

I just moved to southern colorado and I drive a VW passat. I need winter tires because I travel on mountain roads with passes and varying conditions although I it is often just dry pavement. It is late to be buying tires and the pickings are slim. A dealer has Toyo Observers but not in my size--195/65/15. He has 190s and 205s. He says there is no problem. Whatever is closest will do fine. Any thoughts?

[HeliDriver]

I think you may have misunderstood the dealer about the "190s". AFAIK, there is no such size.

Your dealer is probably suggesting 205/60R15s. These would work fine, although compared to 195/65R15s, they should perform slightly better on dry pavement and slightly worse in snow and slush. Not a huge difference though, and worlds better than no winter tires at all, IMO.

[multipath]

I'm surprised you're having difficulty finding that size, I think it's fairly common.  Have you tried a few other tire dealers in the area (or even tirerack, seeing as you live in the USA)?