Tires are indispensable to your car – they are the all-important elements that make movement on any terrain possible. By controlling your speed, acceleration, and turning abilities, as well as providing stability in hazardous conditions such as skidding or sliding, tires undeniably play a crucial role when it comes to driving safely and efficiently.
If you’re looking for a new set of tires, you may be wondering which brands are the best. There are many different brands on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the 16 best tire brands on the market today. We’ll talk about what makes each brand unique and why they are so popular among drivers. Read out to learn more!
1: Michelin
Michelin is a world-renowned tire manufacturer that has been pushing the boundaries of tire design and automotive technology since 1889. It all started when Charles Terront won Paris to Brest to Paris cycling race in 1891 with a set of Michelin tires, which were the first ever replaceable pneumatic rubber tires. Ever since then, Michelin has continuously tested its tire designs in some of the most grueling endurance races around the world.
In addition to its focus on performance braking and handling, Michelin also pioneered many groundbreaking innovations such as radial tires, metal-cased tires for long haul truckers, and even an aircraft factory during World War I. In fact, they were even responsible for supplying the tires for the first car to reach 100 kilometers per hour in 1889.
And when it comes to luxury cars, Michelin is a go-to option for drivers who want nothing but the best performance from their vehicles. From BMWs to KW coilovers and HRE 3-piece wheels, Michelin’s products are always up for the task and can provide superior grip no matter what terrain or weather conditions you may find yourself in.
From its beginnings in 1889 all the way up to today’s technologically advanced designs, Michelin has remained at the forefront of automotive development and tire innovation – something that speaks volumes about this iconic brand’s commitment to safety and quality over everything else.
Best Michelin tires
When it comes to Michelin tires, here’s a list of the most remarkable options in their respective categories:
Best Summer Tires
- Pilot Sport 4S
- Pilot Super Sport
Best All-Season Tires
- Pilot Sport All Season 4
- CrossClimate2
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- X-Ice Xi3
- Pilot Alpin PA4
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Defender LTX M/S
- CrossClimate SUV
2: Continental
Founded in 1871, Continental AG is one of the oldest tire companies in the world. It has a long history of producing tires for both passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as aircraft. Over the years, Continental has developed several innovative tire designs with features that help improve traction, fuel efficiency, and safety in all kinds of driving conditions.
One of their most famous tire designs is the grooved tire which was first introduced in the 1890s and revolutionized automobile tires ever since. Unlike earlier designs that used smooth surfaces, grooves allowed for improved grip on wet roads by improving water displacement and providing better handling when driving over mud or gravel.
Today, grooved tires are an integral part of tire design with various patterns being used to suit different types of terrain. For instance, paddle tires feature wide grooves that can provide greater traction on sand and mud while snow tires often come with “sipes” – thin slits cut into the tread – that offer superior grip on ice and other slippery surfaces.
Fast-forward to 2021, and Continental AG has become a corporate juggernaut, now separated into five main divisions: Chassis and Safety, Powertrain, Interior Design, Tires Manufacturing & Supply Chain Management Solutions. It’s simply amazing how far this company has come from its
Best Continental Tires
If you’re looking for a quality and reliable tire, look no further than these Continental tires:
Best Summer Tires
- ExtremeContact Sport
- ContiSportContact 5
Best All-Season Tires
- ExtremeContact DWS 06
- PureContact LS
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- VikingContact 7
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- TerrainContact A/T (Editor’s Choice!)
- CrossContact LX25
3: General
Founded in 1915 by William Francis O’Neil, General Tires is an American tire manufacturer that has been providing quality tires for over a century. What began as a Firestone franchise has grown into a globally recognized brand, offering tires to customers across the world. General Tires has been at the forefront of cutting-edge technology since its inception, having collaborated with Aerojet in the 1930s to develop rockets for plane takeoff assist.
Today, General Tires remains one of the most popular tire brands due to its excellent performance and quality construction. The General Grabber AT2s are one of the best-known models of this brand and have proven themselves time and again on various vehicles such as Nissan Hardbody 4x4s and Toyota Sequoias. With impressive traction in both icy and snowy conditions, as well as superior off-road performance, they offer an unbeatable driving experience while remaining relatively quiet on highways compared to other all-terrain tires.
The robust construction and superior materials used in creating these tires make them some of the most reliable and cost-effective products available on the market today. Furthermore, their longevity ensures users get maximum value for money, making them perfect for long-distance drives or frequent off-roading adventures. By providing a quality product that offers superior performance without compromising on comfort or fuel efficiency, General Tires continues to remain at the top of the tire manufacturing industry even after over 100 years in service.
Best General Tires
Have a look at these tire recommendations from General:
Best Summer Tires
- G-MAX RS
Best All-Season Tires
- G-MAX AS-05
- AltiMAX RT43
Best Winter Tires
- AltiMAX Arctic 12
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Grabber A/TX
- Grabber X3
4: Bridgestone
Bridgestone is an internationally-renowned car and truck parts manufacturer, founded in 1931 by Shojiro Ishibashi. The company was named after Ishibashi’s surname, which contains the Japanese characters for “stone” and “bridge” respectively. Bridgestone currently holds the title as the second largest tire manufacturer in the world, only behind France’s Michelin.
During World War II, much of Bridgestone’s production was forced to be used for wartime efforts, while their headquarters was destroyed during an Allied bombing raid – leaving them in a state of uncertainty. Miraculously though, they managed to rebuild their business from scratch, starting off by producing powered bicycles which eventually evolved into the Bridgestone Motorcycle Corporation. In order to remain competitive with other motorcycle brands like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Honda; Bridgestone decided to focus solely on tire production instead of motorbikes.
In the 1950s, Bridgestone introduced a new innovation in tires called “rayon corded” reinforcement that increased the durability and strength of the tires compared to rubber alone. This addition helped cement Bridgestone as a leader among its competitors in terms of tire quality and consumer satisfaction. The company continues to be committed to researching and developing innovative solutions for its customers worldwide – becoming one of the most successful car tire businesses around today!
Best Bridgestone Tires
In addition to their renowned Blizzak winter tires, Bridgestone offers a variety of other products that boast superior quality:
Best Summer Tires
- Potenza S-04 Pole Position
- Potenza RE-71R
Best All-Season Tires
- Turanza QuietTrack
- Potenza RE980AS
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- Blizzak WS90
- Blizzak LM32
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Dueler H/L Alenza Plus
- Dueler A/T Revo 3
5: Yokohama
Yokohama Tire Co. is a renowned tire manufacturer with a history of over a century of expertise. Founded in 1917 as a joint venture between the Yokohama Cable Manufacturing company and B.F. Goodrich, the company has made its presence known all around the world, sometimes known as Advan. With its involvement in professional motorsports, it is evident that Yokohama knows how to make quality tires – they are even the official tire supplier for the IMSA GT3 CUP, World Touring Car Championship, and American Le Man’s series!
Yokohama’s attention to detail and precision is ever-present in their manufacturing process. They have taken steps to reduce petroleum usage and make it easier to recycle their tires when they reach the end of their life cycle. Even more impressive is that Yokohama was one of the first companies to incorporate nanotechnology into their tire formation methods! For those who prioritize sustainability and environmental impact, you can rest assured knowing that Yokohama takes great care in this regard: since 2007, they have planted 500,000 trees annually in order to compensate for their pollution output.
In addition to these measures, Yokohama invests significantly in research and development (R&D) initiatives related to tire technology so that their products are constantly on the cutting edge of innovation. This constant effort towards improvement allows them to remain competitive amidst stiff competition from other leading brands without sacrificing quality or performance for price competitiveness. As such, many consumers look towards Yokohama as an affordable yet reliable option when selecting new tires for their cars or trucks.
Best Yokohama Tires
Check out Yokohama’s tire recommendations below to ensure the best driving experience.
Best Summer Tires
- ADVAN Neova AD08 R
- ADVAN Sport
Best All-Season Tires
- AVID Ascend GT
- AVID Touring-S
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- iceGUARD iG52c
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Parada Spec-X
- Geolandar A/T G015
6: Pirelli
Pirelli is a world-renowned manufacturer of tires, with more than 140 years of experience in the field. Established by Giovanni Battista Pirelli in 1872, the company started out making rubber compounds and creating automobiles, trucks, bikes, and racing tires. Throughout the years, Pirelli has been closely linked to motorsport events such as Formula One World Championship and Grand-AM Rolex sportscar series.
In addition to its involvement in motorsport events, Pirelli is also well known for producing high-performance tires for everyday cars. Its flagship product is called the P Zero tire which has become a popular choice among exotic supercars due to its exceptional performance on dry surfaces.
However, although these tires offer great traction when driving in perfect conditions they lack the ability to grip when it gets wet or snowy. In such cases, the vehicle can quickly lose control leading to unfortunate accidents. This is why many experts recommend opting for specialized winter or all-weather tires if you live in climates where rain or snowfall might occur during certain months of the year.
Ultimately, Pirelli’s long history and extensive experience have made it one of the leading manufacturers of automobile tires throughout the world. From luxury sports cars to everyday vehicles, customers can find reliable products that provide excellent performance and safety features on any terrain or condition.
Best Pirelli Tires
When you daily drive any performance car, Cinturato P7 All Season Plus is the way to go! In all fairness, with this flame-spitting Italian tire maker, a wide array of options are available:
Best Summer Tires
- P Zero Nero GT
Best All-Season Tires
- Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II
- P Zero All Season Plus
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- Winter Sottozero 3
- Winter Sottozero Serie II
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Scorpion Zero All Season Plus
- Scorpion All Terrain Plus
7: Dunlop
Dunlop is a tire manufacturer which was founded by John Boyd Dunlop in Dublin, Ireland in the late 1800s. It is renowned for its superior quality tires that are used on cars, planes, bicycles, motorcycles, and a host of other vehicles. In addition to this, it has the distinction of being associated with one of the most revolutionary inventions in automotive engineering – the pneumatic tire. This invention led to Dunlop becoming an internationally renowned brand name and made it a household name soon after.
In the late twentieth century, Goodyear Tire Corporation acquired Dunlop and then consented to share its manufacturing and distribution practices with Sumitomo Tires. As of today, part of Dunlop has been taken away by Continental Tyres India while Sumitomo and Goodyear are still using its services. The fact that Trustworthiness comes hand-in-hand with the Dunlop name speaks volumes about its reliability and quality.
Another interesting aspect related to Dunlop is Fort Dunlop which was a tire manufacturer in the United Kingdom and produced specialized vintage motorcycle and touring tires from 1880 until 2014. It operated under the same name for over a century, providing evidence of its solidity as well as standing as an example of how long-lasting companies used to be crafted many years ago when things were still manufactured with extra care.
Best Dunlop Tires
Here are some Dunlop Tire suggestions we recommend for you to consider:
Best Summer Tires
- Direzza DZ102
- SP Sport Maxx
Best All-Season Tires
- Signature HP
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- SP Winter Sport 4D
- SP Winter Sport 3D
8: Goodyear
Goodyear is a tire manufacturer that has been around for over a century, founded in 1898 by Frank Seiberling. It is one of the top four tire companies in the world and produces tires for planes, bikes, motorcycles, cars, and heavy machinery. Its name was inspired by Charles Goodyear, who invented vulcanized rubber. In the modern day, Goodyear remains one of the most recognizable brands in the world due to its blimps are often seen flying around during sporting events within the United States.
In 1979, Goodyear changed their manufacturing process to include Radial Tires. This helped to make their tires even more durable which translates into safer driving and better performance. This innovation kept expanding with releases such as Recharge Tire Concept which uses AI to determine what kind of material is released depending on your type of driving conditions; whether you drive mostly on highways or through canyons.
If it’s highway driving then no extra material would be released allowing for less wear and tear on your car which means better efficiency for you. On the other hand, if you’re frequently doing canyon driving with quick stops, turns and accelerations then sticky material would be released from the capsules improving the performance of your tire significantly.
Goodyear makes sure that they stay at the forefront of innovation when it comes to tire production by constantly researching and making updates when necessary – all while keeping its customers safe on the road whenever they are behind the wheel!
Best Goodyear Tires
Step ahead of the game with Goodyear tires! We highly recommend these ones – take a look:
Best Summer Tires
- Eagle F1 Supercar 3
- Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2
Best All-Season Tires
- Assurance WeatherReady
- Assurance MaxLife
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- Ultra Grip Ice WRT
- Ultra Grip Winter
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Wrangler MT/R
9: Firestone
Firestone is a tire company that has been around since 1900 when it was founded by Harvey Firestone. From its inception, they’ve established an impressive history of success. For example, they were the original tire supplier for the Ford Motor Company and provided solid rubber side wire tires for fire engines. This early success pushed Firestone to expand its operations in South Los Angeles. In fact, this area eventually became one of the biggest tire markets in the world!
In 1978 there was some controversy involving General Motors and Standard Oil when it was discovered that Firestone had been dismantling streetcars and converting them into buses. Despite this setback, the company continued to grow and eventually sold to Bridgestone Corporation which now acts as its parent company.
Today, Firestone offers a wide variety of tires ranging from highway terrain to winter/snow styles. Regardless of vehicle type or season, Firestone provides reliable products with long-lasting performance backed by great warranties. Not only do they offer driving safety benefits but also fuel efficiency and increased life expectancy for your tires due to consistent tread designs. Their slogan “Whatever you drive, drive a Firestone” emphasizes that no matter what you are driving you should be rolling around on their rubber!
Best Firestone Tires
Firestone is the thrilling official tire supplier for the IndyCar Series in America – so what better place to look when you need reliable tires? Here are some of Firestone’s excellent options:
Best Summer Tires
- Firehawk Indy 500
Best All-Season Tires
- WeatherGrip
Best Winter/Snow Tires
- Winterforce 2
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Destination M/T2
- Destination A/T2
10: BF Goodrich
Founded in 1870, BF Goodrich is one of the most iconic tire companies to have originated from Akron, Ohio. It was the first brand to be supplied by Ford Motor Corporation on the Model A in 1903, a car that went on to become an American classic. In order to demonstrate the company’s commitment to reliability and quality, it provided tires for the first car to traverse the United States coast-to-coast. This incredible feat of determination and ingenuity continues to inspire car aficionados today.
The mid-1900s saw BF Goodrich innovate further, releasing their first rubber-wound golf ball and producing pressurized space suits as well as pioneering the use of synthetic rubber. The company also made history by developing the first tubeless tire which relied solely on the air pressure inside the tire cavity to maintain its shape while rolling down roads. The invention was so successful that it revolutionized automobile transportation and paved the way for more advanced automotive technologies.
In 1967, BF Goodrich released its first-ever run-flat tire which enabled vehicles to keep running even when they had lost all air pressure in one or more tires. Thanks to this fantastic innovation, drivers were able to drive for miles without changing tires and thus ensured greater safety and performance on long trips across America.
BF Goodrich has long been known for its commitment to creating reliable products of exceptional quality – something that can be seen through its century worth of innovations within the automotive industry. Their continuous dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions is a testament not only to their own excellence but also serves as a reminder that great things are possible if we never give up in our pursuit of progress.
Best BF Goodrich Tires
If you’re looking for reliable tires, the trailblazing innovators at BF Goodrich have got just what you need – take a look!
Best Summer Tires
- g-Force Sport COMP-2
- g-Force COMP-2 A/S
Best All-Season Tires
- Advantage T/A
- Radial T/A
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- All-Terrain T/A KO2
- Advantage T/A Sport LT
11: Cooper Tires
Cooper Tires is an American company that was established in Akron, Ohio as a spinoff of the original “Master Tire and Rubber” business. Their specialty lies in producing quality tires for both on-road and off-road vehicles, and their reputation was further solidified by their participation in various motorsports events since the 1950s. Additionally, during World War II, Cooper Tires supplied the Allied forces with boat rubber, floatation devices, and various types of camouflage products – for which they were even awarded an “E” honor by the United States government at the conclusion of the war.
Cooper Tires’ most popular products include the Discoverer series of tires, which are often used by overlanders and other off-roaders. This particular tire range has developed a strong following among frequent travelers due to its excellent performance on different terrains. Furthermore, Cooper Tires is set to be acquired by Goodyear Tire Corporation this year in 2021; however, despite this acquisition, Cooper intends to remain true to its roots.
Best Cooper Tires
Take a look at these Cooper tires that we highly suggest:
Best All-Season Tires
- Zeon RS3-G1
- CS5 Ultra Touring
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Discoverer AT3 4S
- Evolution H/T
12: Falken
Falken Tires is a brand that has been renowned for its high-performance tires since its inception in 1983. Initially, the company was an offshoot of the Japanese OHTSU tire brand but has since developed into a reliable and successful entity in its own right. With their focus on motorsport and strong performance at the limits of racing, Falken Tires has gained a reputation amongst car enthusiasts as a reliable and effective tire brand. One driver who embodies this reputation is James Deane from Ireland, who is a Formula Drift championship winner on multiple occasions.
Not only have Falken Tires adorned racetracks around the world, but they have also been featured prominently on some of the most well-known cars – such as the Toyota AW11 MR2, Ford Mustang, Pontiac Solstice, and Nissan 240sx – thanks to their iconic teal and blue livery. By focusing on motorsport technology and design principles, Falken Tires applies invaluable lessons to road-going tires designed for consumer use. This knowledge allows them to provide customers with great value products with exceptional performance standards in mind.
Moreover, Falken Tires also take advantage of its racing expertise when it comes to everyday consumer tires as well. With years of experience perfecting high-performance tires across different environments, these technologies are then translated into consumer grade designs that offer excellent handling capabilities under all circumstances. Whether you’re taking part in competitive driving or just looking for an upgraded set of wheels for your daily commute – Falken’s impressive range of products is sure to please even the most discerning consumers.
Best Falken Tires
Here are some worth considering options:
Best Summer Tires
- Azenis FK510
- Azenis RT615K+
Best All-Season Tires
- Sincera SN250A A/S
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Wildpeak A/T Trail
13: Hankook
Hankook is a major player in the automotive industry, known for producing reliable and high-quality tires. The South Korean giant, established in 1941, produces over one hundred million tires every year worldwide, making them one of the most renowned tire makers in the world. Their involvement in motorsports is especially notable – they are strongly associated with some of the biggest endurance racing events such as the Scottish Rally Championship, Deutsche Touring Car Championship, and Formula Drift.
The brand’s connection to drifting has been recognized by long-time fans of this sport: many recognize the iconic orange and blue livery of Chris Forsberg’s 370z which has been competing in North American courses for more than ten years. Owning Hankook tires signifies a driver’s commitment to performance and speed; they guarantee top-tier cornering grip and stability while drifting around tight corners.
Equally as important as their partnership with motorsports is their commitment to safety and quality control. Hankook invests heavily in researching new tire technologies to ensure that drivers have access to secure yet cutting-edge tires so that they can take on roads with confidence. Every product is tested rigorously before it leaves the factory floor, ensuring that each customer receives an optimal set of tires for their particular vehicle needs.
Best Hankook Tires
Here are some good Hankook tires to consider:
Best Performance/Summer Tires
- Ventus V12 EVO2
Best All-Season Tires
- Kinergy 4S2
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Dynapro AT-M
- Ventus ST RH06
14: Toyo
Founded in 1945, Toyo Tires is a globally recognized brand with distributors around the world. From its early days of providing reliable, durable tires; Toyo has been at the forefront of providing quality tires for various applications.
Toyo’s commitment to dynamic fitment and custom offsets for aftermarket tires has made them a top choice among automotive enthusiasts, especially during the 21st century’s tuning explosion. During this time, they released their Proxes T1s performance tires – which received an outstanding grade “A” wet condition rating; delivering superior grip and handling in unfavorable weather conditions.
Toyo has also become synonymous with off-road performance since numerous wins on TOYO tires have occurred in races such as WRC (World Rally Championship) and Baja 1000. Their Open Country A/T III tires are engineered with improved road manners making them a great choice for tackling extreme terrain, yet still offering a reliable ride on normal roads. With their long history of offering quality products that exceed expectations; it’s no surprise why Toyo Tires continues to be one of the most trusted names in the automotive industry today.
Best Toyo Tires
We suggest you consider the options below for your convenience:
Best Summer Tires
- Proxes R1R
Best All-Season Tires
- A20
- Proxes A18
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Open Country A/T III
- Open Country M/T
15: Kumho
Kumho Tire Co., the second-largest tire manufacturer in Korea, has a long and esteemed history in the industry. Founded in 1960, they have been producing around 100 million tires every year and are consistently ranked among the top 10 tire manufacturers globally. They’ve earned their reputation as an elite brand with their successful involvement in BMW touring car championships and the production of high-performance Ecsta tires that cater to sporty passenger vehicles.
However, Kumho was also involved in a controversy when it was alleged that they had used recycled rubber as raw materials for the tires; this resulted in premature rupture of the sidewalls, although these claims were never proven true. The Chinese government levied hefty fines on Kumho for this incident, regardless of whether or not it actually took place.
Kumho is passionate about protecting the environment, and actively works toward this goal by continuously striving to create eco-friendly products and processes. This commitment to environmental protection has made them one of the leading proponents of sustainable practices within their industry. They have also committed themselves to reduce global warming through efficient use of resources and continually investing in research and development related to environmental issues.
Best Kumho Tires
Discover the remarkable Kumho tires, renowned for their quality and exported to countries around the world. Take a look today!
Best Summer Tires
- Ecsta PS31
Best All-Season Tires
- Ecsta PA51
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Crugen HT51
- Crugen HP71
16: Sumitomo
Established in 1905, Sumitomo Rubber Industries made a significant investment in Dunlop Tires and was able to acquire it fully in 1963. The company was then renamed Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. In 1997, the brand created a joint venture with Goodyear tires which included producing and selling products under the Dunlop brand.
Sumitomo tires are renowned for their superior design and technology, which is why many enthusiasts purchase them over other brands. This is because they are designed on the nanoscale, meaning they have greater longevity than some other tires on the market.
The company has been manufacturing tires for over 100 years and this experience has enabled them to consistently create reliable and high-quality products that many motorists trusts. Their cutting-edge technology also allows them to produce innovative designs tailored to specific car models or driving situations.
Sumitomo products are tested extensively before being released onto the market, ensuring optimum performance when used in different conditions. The testing process involves checking for wear resistance, wet braking performance, and handling stability amongst other elements – meaning customers can be certain of getting a well-made tire that will last for many miles ahead.
Overall, Sumitomo tires offer motorists excellent value for money due to their durability and reliable performance in all weather conditions. With such a history of success behind them, there’s no doubt they will remain one of the top choices of tire manufacturers worldwide for many years to come.
Best Sumitomo Tires
Below are a few recommendations from Sumitomo for you:
Best Summer Tires
- HTR Z5
Best All-Season Tires
- HTR A/S P02
Best Truck/SUV Tires
- Encounter HT
- Encounter AT
What Are the Best Tires for Your Vehicle?
When choosing which tires to buy, you must consider the type of car and terrain you’ll be driving on, as well as your own driving habits. The ideal set of tires should possess a specific combination of temperature resistance, vehicle compatibility, and traction that is tailored to those conditions. Don’t settle for anything less than optimal performance from your tires – pick ones that match all the criteria perfectly!
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the various tire types available.
Passenger Tires
Passenger tires are engineered specifically for personal vehicles such as hatchbacks, sedans, coupes, and crossovers. These tires are designed for everyday road use and have been constructed with treads that provide better traction in wet and dry conditions. They also feature a longer life expectancy, reinforced sidewalls, and improved braking performance.
To help you choose the right tire for your vehicle, we’ve compiled a list of specialized passenger tires below.
Summer
Summer tires are designed for better performance in dry and hot conditions. They feature a soft rubber compound that offers superior traction on dry roads, but can quickly wear down on wet surfaces.
All-Season
All-season tires are made for year-round use and feature a combination of soft and hard rubber compounds that provide good performance in both wet and dry conditions. They also provide better fuel economy compared to summer tires.
Performance
Performance tires are suitable for sports cars, luxury sedans, and off-road vehicles. They offer increased handling, braking, and cornering performance due to their thicker tread blocks and wider contact patch.
Track and competition
Track and competition tires are specifically made for vehicles that race on a track. They feature an increased contact patch, reinforced sidewalls, and a softer rubber compound for better grip on the track.
Touring
Touring tires are designed for long-distance comfort and stability. They feature reinforced sidewalls, improved traction on wet roads, and better fuel economy compared to performance tires.
No matter which type of tire you choose, make sure it is compatible with your vehicle’s size and weight requirements. You can usually find this information in the owner’s manual. Additionally, be sure to check the tread wear rating and traction ratings for your chosen tires as these will give you an indication of their quality and performance levels.
Truck/SUV Tires
Truck/SUV tires are designed to increase the hauling and towing capabilities of larger vehicles such as pickups, SUVs, and vans. They feature thicker treads, reinforced sidewalls, and increased traction in wet or dry conditions.
All-Terrain
All-terrain tires are designed for light off-roading with vehicles such as jeeps and SUVs. They feature a combination of soft and hard rubber compounds that provide good performance in muddy, rocky, and wet conditions.
Mud Terrain
Mud terrain tires are designed for heavy off-roading with larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs. They feature large tread blocks that provide excellent traction in deep mud, sand, and snow.
Highway
Highway tires provide increased durability and long-lasting performance due to their reinforced sidewalls and deep treads. They also feature improved fuel efficiency and traction on wet roads.
If you’re an avid off-roader, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain and Hankook Dynapro tires are two of your best options. Their tread designs offer exceptional stability and durability for even the toughest terrains. However, it should be noted that while both tires provide a great ride, only the BFGoodrich is designed to handle heavy commercial truck loads; if you own one of these vehicles then this model is recommended as your preferred tire choice.
Specialty Tires
Specialty tires are designed for unique applications such as snowmobiles, ATVs, and golf carts. They feature specific tread designs that provide superior traction in wet, icy, or snowy conditions.
Snow tires
Snow tires are specifically designed for winter driving with vehicles such as cars, SUVs, and pickups. They feature wide grooves that provide increased traction in wet and icy conditions, allowing for better acceleration, braking, and cornering performance.
ATV/UTV tires
ATV/UTV tires are designed to increase the performance of all-terrain vehicles. They feature a reinforced tread pattern that offers superior traction in muddy or rough terrain.
Golf cart tires
Golf cart tires are designed for increased stability and comfort on the golf course. They feature a low-profile design with deep grooves that provide good traction in wet conditions, allowing for enhanced maneuverability.
When choosing specialty tires, be sure to research the size and load ratings of your chosen tires as these will determine their performance level. Additionally, check the manufacturer’s warranty policies to ensure you are getting a quality product that is built to last.
Original Equipment vs. Replacement: Which Are the Best Tires?
When it comes to tires, many drivers are faced with the decision of purchasing original equipment (OE) or replacement tires. The choice between these two options can be difficult and depends on a variety of factors, such as budget, performance expectations, and durability. To help make this decision easier for drivers, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option.
Original Equipment (OE) Tires
When it comes to OE tires, they are often factory-fitted to the vehicle when it is purchased. This can be beneficial because they are designed to suit the exact specifications and performance requirements of that particular make and model. OE tires also come with a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty, which can provide peace of mind should anything go wrong.
On the other hand, OE tires tend to be more expensive than their replacement counterparts. In addition, they may not always offer the same level of performance or durability as aftermarket brands.
Replacement Tires
While more affordable than their OE counterparts, replacement tires are not necessarily inferior in terms of quality. Many aftermarket brands have their own unique design and construction that can provide improved performance in specific areas such as cornering or grip.
However, when purchasing a set of replacement tires you may not be provided with the same level of protection offered by an OE manufacturer’s warranty. As a result, it is important to do your research and ensure that the tires you purchase are of good quality and fit for purpose.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual driver to decide which option is best suited for their application. If you are looking for an affordable tire replacement, then aftermarket brands may be the best option. However, if you prioritize performance and safety then OE tires may be the better choice. Regardless of your decision, it is important to always maintain good tire care in order to ensure maximum safety on the road.
What Does a Tire Warranty Cover?
Most tire models come with two types of tire warranties: a limited warranty and a mileage warranty. A limited warranty protects you against any defective workmanship, and most manufacturers offer this coverage for the life of the tire. The tire’s life is measured by how long it takes for the tread to wear down to 2/32 of an inch, which happens roughly every six years.
A mileage warranty – also called a tread-life warranty – is an estimate of how long the tire’s tread will last. Mileage warranties can vary greatly not only between manufacturers but also between tire types. For example, all-season tires have longer mileage warranties than performance tires because of what they’re meant to do: drive commuter routes versus drive around racetracks.
What Does a Tire Warranty Cover?
Many tire models come with two types of warranties for buyers to choose from: a limited warranty and a mileage warranty. The limited warranty is designed to protect drivers in the event that any workmanship related to the tire was found to be defective. This coverage typically lasts for the entire lifespan of the tire, which is determined by when the tread has worn down to 2/32 of an inch, usually around every six years.
The mileage warranty, also known as a tread-life warranty, provides buyers with an estimate of how long the tire’s tread will last. This type of coverage can vary greatly between manufacturers and types of tires; for instance, all-season tires tend to have longer mileage warranties than performance tires as they are designed for more everyday driving rather than racing.
How Are Tires Graded?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has set up Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) standards for most tires not intended for winter use – to evaluate their treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance capabilities. With this grading system in place, tire buyers can make more informed decisions when selecting new tires for their vehicles.
The NHTSA outlines the grading criteria and tire manufacturers or independent entities are responsible for conducting the assessments. Scores can differ vastly from brand to brand, so it would be wise to approach UTQG scores with a healthy amount of caution.
Here’s how UTQG ratings are calculated:
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a numerical rating that indicates how well the tire will wear compared to other tires within the same tire class. The higher the number, the more durable and longer-lasting the tire will be. For example, a treadwear grade of 200 means that this particular tire should last twice as long as a tire with a treadwear grade of 100 under similar driving conditions.
Traction
This rating measures how well a tire can stop on wet pavement. The higher the grade, the better the tire will perform in wet conditions. Traction ratings are broken up into AA (the highest), A, B, and C levels, with AA being the best.
Temperature
This rating indicates how well a tire resists heat build-up while driving at high speeds. It’s expressed as an A, B, and C scale with A (the highest) being the best rating.
Understanding UTQG ratings can help you make an informed decision when purchasing tires for your vehicle. However, these ratings should only be used as a guide – not as a definitive measure of tire quality.
How to Read a Tire?
To make the best selection for your vehicle, pay attention to the printed treadwear, traction, and temperature grades shown on your tire’s sidewall. While this list is not comprehensive, you may also find a few other labels that can help guide your decision-making process.
This guide dives into the labels found on standard passenger vehicle tires and provides a comprehensive overview of what each means.
R
The “R” stands for “Radial,” which refers to the construction of the tire. Radial tires are made with layers of polyester cords and steel belts that run at a 90-degree angle across the tread.
M+S
This acronym stands for “Mud and Snow,” and indicates that the tire is suited to light off-road driving.
Load Index
The load index is a numerical code that indicates the tire’s maximum load-bearing capacity. The greater the number, the more weight a tire can efficiently carry.
Speed rating
The speed rating for a tire indicates its maximum speed capacity when correctly inflated and under optimal conditions. Speed ratings range from L to Y, with M being the most common rating for spare tires as they are not built to take on high speeds. Meanwhile, passenger and light truck tires usually carry R, S, or T ratings.
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio is the height of the tire’s sidewall expressed as a percentage of its width. For example, if the tire has an aspect ratio of 70, it means that the sidewall is 70% as tall as the tire’s width. A lower aspect ratio indicates a shorter sidewall, and thus a firmer ride.
These are just a few of the labels and acronyms you may find printed on your tire’s sidewall. Knowing what these mean can help you make an informed decision when selecting a tire for your vehicle. With this information, you can ensure that the tires you purchase are right for the terrain and conditions you will be driving in, while also meeting the load-bearing and speed requirements of your specific vehicle.
How to Maintain the Best Tires?
Staying on top of tire maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that your car is operating at its peak performance. Proper care and maintenance will also help extend the life of your tires, so it’s well worth considering how best to take care of them. Here are a few tips for maintaining the best tires:
Check tire pressure regularly
It’s important to check your tires for the correct air pressure on a regular basis. Under-inflated tires can cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your tires, so it’s essential that you use a reliable gauge to check them. It is also important to remember that different cars often require different types of tires and pressures, so it’s best to consult with your car manufacturer for the correct tire pressure.
Inspect tire treads regularly
Another important step when it comes to maintaining your tires is to inspect the treads regularly. Ensure that the treads are even across all four tires, as an uneven surface can cause excessive wear on one side of the tire, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Also be sure to check for signs of wear and tear such as cracks, bulges, or other types of damage that could indicate that your tires need to be replaced soon.
Rotate your tires regularly
Regularly rotating your tires is another important step towards ensuring their longevity. You should aim to rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or once a year. This will help ensure that all four tires wear evenly, reducing the likelihood of needing to replace them soon.
Consider switching up your driving habits
Your driving style can also have an impact on tire longevity. If you are a frequent driver who tends to brake hard and accelerate quickly, you may need to switch up your driving habits. Additionally, avoiding potholes and other obstacles on the road can help reduce the amount of wear and tear your tires experience.
Have your tires professionally serviced
Finally, it’s always a good idea to have your tires professionally serviced at least once a year. This will help you identify any potential issues and allow a certified technician to make adjustments in order to optimize your tire performance.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your tires are maintained properly and last longer. Remember, properly maintained tires translate into better car performance, improved fuel economy, and greater safety on the road. So be sure to follow these tips for the best tires possible.
