What Are The Different Types Of Tires
One of the more confusing issues that confront vehicle owners in choosing a newset of tires for their car, truck or SUV is knowing which type of tire will work out the best for their needs. With all the different types of tires it’s easy to quickly get lost in the process. So, what are your options and what style of tire is best for your vehicle? Here’s a quick look at the different styles that should give you a better understanding.
Standard All-Season Tires
All-season tires are the most common type of tire sold today. They are designed toprovide good all-weather traction year round. The ride is comfortable and tread life is generally in the 60,000-100,000 mile range for most models. Traction and handling are adequate for most needs. While most do adecent job during the winter, keep in mind that an all-season tire is not a winter tire. Deep snow and ice traction is no where near that of a dedicated snow tire.
High Performance All-Season Tires
This style of all-season tire provides more handling/cornering performance than standard all weather tires. In most cases they will sport an attractive tread design and still maintain excellent all-season driving performance. The one drawback with a higher performing tire like this is that tread life tends to be a bit shorter than it is with standard models. Ultra-high performance all-season tires take things a notch higher with handling and cornering grip, but it comes at the expense of slightly lower wet road traction.
Touring Tires
Touring tires are a very popular choice for those wanting a much smoother and comfortable ride to go with longer tread wear. Handling and traction are good, and in some cases you’ll find ultra-high performance touring tires that compare to high performance summer tires.
Performance Summer Tires
A step up in traction and handling on wet or dry pavement for owners of sport coupes and sedans. They feature a tread compound that is designed for use in warm weather. This type of tire is not meant to be driven in winter weather conditions.
Ultra High Performance Summer Tires
This style of low-profile tire is built for high speeds, optimal steering response and good dry and wet traction. The tread compound used in these tires is designed to last longer than maximum performance tires. Generally speaking you can expect around 25,000-35,000 miles out of the tread. The trade-off is that they do not grip the corners as well as max performance tires will. (For many drivers the effects are not that noticeable)
Maximum Performance Summer Tires
Maximum performance and extreme high performance tires are the ultimate in street and light track driving. They are built for some of the most sophisticated sports cars and luxury sedans and provide the best in traction and handling on wet or dry road surfaces. The trade-off with this style of tire is the treadlife. Expect to get around 15,000-25,000 miles out of the tread depending on how hard you push your vehicle. Needless to say, you generally will not see these tires come with a mileage tread warranty for obvious reasons.
All Terrain Tires
A step up from standard SUV/light truck tires are all-terrain tires. They feature an aggressive tread design with a more open tread pattern that provides added grip and traction for off-road driving. You will notice the space between the lugs is larger in order for the tire to clear out the mud, snow and gravel and give you improved traction. The thing to keep in mind with this style of tire is that while you will experience far better off-road performance, it comes at the expense of ride comfort. The ride will be a bit rougher and road noise will increase in most cases.
Winter Tires
As their name suggests, winter tires are designed to be driven in climates that see a great deal of snow, ice, freezing rain and slush. They are specially designed to provide you with the handling and traction you need to safely get to your destination. The tread compound on this style of tire is made to stay pliable even in the coldest of winter weather conditions, something you won’t find in an all-season tire. In addition, with advancements in tire technology you can now find high performance winter tires that provide high speed handling and grip and are available in “V” speed ratings. This type of tire is designed for high performance and luxury vehicles.
Once you know the type of tire that fits your overall needs the next step is finding the best tire for your particular vehicle. Check out our Tire Reviews to find your best option and where to get it for the lowest price.