Now we're on the same page

AFAIK the reason some tires only use the special rubber to a certain tread depth is to allow the all season compound underneath to act as a bolster and improve steering feel by removing some of the "squishiness" from the tire. I tried a set of Hakkas out and thought they were amazing in the snow, the best I've ever driven. But I couldn't get past the way they felt in the dry.

It all boils down to choosing the best tire for how you're likely to use the car, I suppose.

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Jonathan

2011 Mazda2
2000 E320 4Matic Wagon
1994 C280 (retired)

The dual-compound is a bit of a cheat in my opinion. Many OE tires are like that, quiet and soft ride when you test-drive, get through that little bit of soft rubber and you're on marbles. Ex: Michelin Symmetry.

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Gone to the dark side

- Jeff