There are many different types of car tires. Which one you choose will depend on factors such as the make of car, your driving style, where you live, the time of year, and how your car is used.
For example, if you spend a large part of your workday driving on highways, you’ll need a durable tire that doesn’t make a lot of noise. If you live in the countryside, a tire that provides better grip on muddy roads would be more suitable.
This article identifies five different types of car tires and highlights some of the differences between them:
1) Standard/all season tire
Your car probably came from the factory with all-season tires. It is an average tire that is suitable for use throughout the year. It works equally well in the wet and dry.
The tread block pattern is designed not to be noisy when used on standard roads, but allows adequate water dispersion for grip in wet conditions.
The rubber used is a harder compound to extend the life of the tire. This can include handling and cornering, but for most drivers it is not noticeable.
2) Performance tire
Also known as summer tires, high-performance tires are designed to provide excellent grip in the dry. It is often used in fast cars or for a driver whose style requires more driving performance. They can be used throughout the year if you live in a region with a hot climate and little rainfall.
A soft rubber compound is used which reduces tire life but provides better grip.
It is important that car tires are kept in excellent condition. Driving in the wet is quite difficult with these tyres, but if there is any sign of wear, it is practically impossible to get good grip.
3) Winter tire
Winter car tires are designed to cope with bad weather and tough driving conditions that the winter season brings. They can handle snow and ice. Winter tires may have small metal studs embedded in the tread for extra grip in extreme conditions.
The tread block pattern on winter car tires is larger and more pronounced than on standard tires. This improves grip, but also increases tire running noise.
These tires cannot be used all year round because in dry conditions they wear out extremely quickly and damage the road surface.
4) All terrain tire
All-terrain tires provide good grip on loose surfaces like dirt and sand. Often used by off-road vehicles, they can be used on standard roads but are very noisy.
Like the winter tire, the tread block pattern is large to improve grip. The tire’s sidewalls are stiffer to cope with uneven surfaces and unexpected bumps.
Mud tires are an extreme type of off-road tire designed for use in mud and dirt. They have very large tread block patterns that are only suitable for driving on that type of terrain.
5) Run Flat Tires
Run flat tires are a relatively new concept, but are now becoming more common on new cars. They are designed to minimize the loss of handling that occurs after a puncture.
The car tire can run without air to allow the vehicle to continue to be driven. However, this is only suitable for a short distance and at low speed, until the tire can be changed safely.
For more advice, consult a car tire specialist who will give you unbiased advice on the best tires for your vehicle.
