Topic: Downsizing Width for Winters?

[si]

I'm looking to get winters for an Acura TL, stock rim size is  235/45-17 on 17x8 rims.


I have a spare set of 16" x 6.5"  rims that I want to put winter tires on - so I'm looking at either 215/55-16 or maybe 225/55-16 size to maintain similar diameters.  Which would be better between those two tires?   

Everyone says that narrower tires will help cut through snow (I do notice the stock 235s float a bit), but are you sacrificing significant bare road / ice traction by cutting down the width?

[Nathan@1010tires]

I'm looking to get winters for an Acura TL, stock rim size is  235/45-17 on 17x8 rims.


I have a spare set of 16" x 6.5"  rims that I want to put winter tires on - so I'm looking at either 215/55-16 or maybe 225/55-16 size to maintain similar diameters.  Which would be better between those two tires?   

Everyone says that narrower tires will help cut through snow (I do notice the stock 235s float a bit), but are you sacrificing significant bare road / ice traction by cutting down the width?

No, not at all. The smaller tire has more weight per square inch on the ground, which helps with ice traction as well. A wider tire helps with cornering/lateral grip, and dry braking/accellerating. You don't get real aggressive with those areas in winter... At least most people don't.

215/55R16 would be the ideal size. If you have to compromise, use a 205/60R16.

[Marko]

Would a wider tire brake better than a narrower one on ice or light snow?