Nov. 1, 2019—Factors such as tread designs and rubber compounds make all tires not equal, per a report by CNET.
Winter tires have rubber compounds that are softer and developed to remain pliable in colder temperatures, while an all-season will firm up in cold weather. The design of the tread features taller blocks to better cut through slush and more sipes are molded into the tread blocks themselves, providing more biting edges and, thus, more grip.
Having the extra grip from winter tires in cold and slick conditions can prevent an accident. While the grip deficiencies of all-season tires can be masked well some all-wheel-drive and traction control systems, they don't help with braking or turning.
