> but I guess you get into problems with it being ice and snow that you're testing
If it's not actively snowing for a few days roads get clear by thawing during day because of salt/cars being hot/sun shining.
The "summer tyres get too hard in the cold" idea could very well come from places where the typical winter is at least < -5°C. It's not uncommon in central/eastern/northern europe for temperatures to be < -10°C for extended periods of time.