At first glance, trying to understand the different tyre types can be a tad overwhelming. But, whether you’re a seasoned driver or a newbie to the roads, knowing the types of tyres and their treads can make a world of difference to your driving experience.
If you’re looking to buy new tyres or want to understand more about what different tyre types mean, we’ve got you covered. Read on for everything you need to know about the types of tyres available.
Understanding the different tyre types is key if you want to be a confident driver and make the right decisions for your vehicle.
1. Safety
All tyres are designed with a different condition or purpose in mind. Because of this, using the wrong type of tyre could lead to issues on the road. For example, summer tyres used in winter conditions can lead to reduced grip and increased stopping distances, which can be dangerous when the weather is very wet, and the roads are icy. Understanding the type of tyres you have on your car and ensuring they are right for the driving conditions will improve your driving experience and your confidence on the roads.
2. Performance
If you get your choice of tyres right, you can enhance your vehicle’s handling, braking and overall performance. For example, high-performance tyres offer better grip and responsiveness. Whilst not essential for everyday journeys, these kinds of tyres are requirements for sports cars and high-speed driving (not something we’d encourage!).
3. Fuel efficiency
It may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to tyre choice, but tyres do affect your car’s fuel consumption. Tyres with lower rolling resistance can improve fuel efficiency, which will save you money in the long run. Understanding which tyres offer better fuel economy can help you make cost-effective choices.
4. Longevity
Using the appropriate tyres for the driving conditions can extend their lifespan. For example, all-season tyres might wear out faster in extreme conditions compared to tyres specifically designed for those conditions. This means fewer replacements and better value for your money.
5. Comfort
Different tyres provide different levels of comfort. Touring tyres, for example, are designed for a smooth and quiet ride, making long journeys more pleasant. Understanding tyre types helps you choose ones that match your comfort preferences.
Now you know why understanding the different tyre types is important, here’s our breakdown of five of the main tyre types:
Summer tyres
Summer tyres are designed for warmer weather conditions. They perform brilliantly on dry and wet roads but aren’t suitable for cold or snowy conditions.
Key features:
- Tread pattern: Shallower treads for better contact with the road.
- Rubber compound: Softer rubber for improved grip in warm temperatures.
- Performance: Superior handling and braking in dry and wet conditions.
For more information, check out our in-depth guide on summer tyres.
Winter tyres
Winter tyres, also known as snow tyres, are specifically designed for cold weather conditions. They provide superior traction on snow and ice, ensuring safety during winter months.
Key features:
- Tread pattern: Deeper treads with sipes to grip snow and ice.
- Rubber compound: Softer rubber that remains flexible in low temperatures.
- Performance: Excellent braking and handling on snow and icy roads.
For more information, check out our in-depth guide on winter tyres.
All-season tyres
All-season tyres are constructed to perform well in a variety of conditions, from dry roads to light snow. They offer a balanced performance throughout the year, making them a popular choice for many drivers.
Key features:
- Tread pattern: Moderate tread depth for versatility in different conditions.
- Rubber compound: Balanced rubber composition for varied temperatures.
- Performance: Good traction in wet and dry conditions, and acceptable performance in light snow.
For more information, check out our in-depth guide on all-season tyres.
4x4 tyres
4x4 tyres, also known as off-road tyres, are designed for vehicles that frequently venture off the beaten track. These tyres are built to handle rough terrains like mud, sand and rocks, providing excellent traction and durability.
Key features:
- Tread pattern: Aggressive and deep treads to grip uneven surfaces.
- Durability: Reinforced sidewalls to resist punctures and damage.
- Performance: Enhanced traction in off-road conditions but may be noisier on highways.
Run-flat tyres
Run-flat tyres are designed to keep you moving even after a pesky puncture. While you can’t continue to use them indefinitely, they do allow you to drive for a limited distance at a reduced speed, giving you time to reach a safe location or a garage.
Key Features:
- Safety: Can drive up to 50 miles at 50mph after a puncture.
- Convenience: No need to change the tyre immediately after a puncture.
- Construction: Stiffer sidewalls to support the vehicle’s weight when deflated.
For more information, check out our in-depth guide on run-flat tyres.
When selecting tyres, consider the following factors:
- Climate: Choose tyres that match the weather conditions you drive in most frequently.
- Driving habits: Consider your driving style and the type of roads you usually travel on.
- Vehicle type: Ensure the tyres are suitable for your vehicle’s specifications.
How many types of tyres are there?
There are lots of different tyre types out there but, in this article, we cover five of the most common types we think you should know about: winter tyres, summer tyres, all-season tyres, 4x4 tyres and run-flat tyres.
How do I know what type of tyre I have?
All tyres have markings on the sidewall that tell you what the type of tyre is.
How long should tyres last?
This will depend on how much mileage you cover. For front tyres, it is expected they will last for at least 20,000 miles. For someone who drives around 10,000 miles per year, this means the tyres should last two years. If you only drive 4,000 miles per year, the expectation would be that they should last around five years. Rear tyres should last longer than this, with the general recommendation being that rear tyres should last around 40,000 miles.
How often should you check your tyres?
We recommend you check your tyre pressure at least once a month, but they will be thoroughly checked by a professional every year when you get your MOT.
As you can see, understanding the different tyre types is essential for a safe and comfortable driving experience. If you have more questions about maintaining your car and staying safe on the roads, head over to our blog where we have more guides on topics such as how to clean an engine bay and what all the dashboard symbols mean.
