The technology behind high-performance tires allows them to perform reliably in various conditions. This includes features like tread patterns and rubber compounds that provide versatility for both wet and dry spring roads.
When choosing tires, there should be a balance between the performance we love with other features, like durability. It’s not necessarily a trade-off you have to make. By following these tips and recommendations, you can have it all: maximise performance and extend the lifespan of your tires.
The science behind high-performance tires
The materials
To create durable tires, natural rubber is mixed with other materials. Natural rubber is stretchy, but alone it is susceptible to temperature and atmospheric oxidation. That’s why it’s blended with synthetic rubber.
This material augments the properties of the natural rubber. Sulphur is added to create crosslinks between isoprene polymers which improves the natural rubber’s resistance to temperature and atmospheric oxidation effects.
Then, carbon black powder is used to reinforce the rubber and help it withstand friction and abrasions. Finally, silica is mixed in to increase the tire lifespan. It does this by reducing wear from friction. In winter tires, silica also promotes flexibility which allows high-performance tires to properly grip the road with various terrains.
The treads
High-performance tires have tread patterns that both increase traction on the road and also move obstacles out of the way, such as dirt, sludge, rocks, and water. All-weather tires have wider and deeper grooves for better traction in various weather conditions. This translates to a short stopping distance.
Depending on the tire, some will have edges that increase the contact area on the road. Various tread design patterns can be employed to grip the road and adhere to minute imperfections.
The sipes
Sipes are slits designed to improve handling when driving straight, accelerating, braking, and when taking corners. Sipes are designed using computers to develop patterns that take snow and slush and push it out of the way.
Performance in various conditions
High-performance tires perform well on wet roads, dry roads, and in light snow. While all-weather tires aren’t always ideal for heavy snow and consistent deep-freeze temperatures, they’re adept at handling many weather conditions. They’re a good choice for drivers who want adaptability, because they can drive to work in the morning, through the mud for an evening adventure, and across lengthy highways on the weekend all with the same durable tires.
Maximising tire lifespan
High-performance tires are made to last but there are ways to ensure they last as long as possible while retaining their integrity. Use the following tips to maintain your tires:
- Recognize signs of wear. Look for scrapes, bulges, punctures, over and under-inflation, and warping.
- Ensure tires are always properly inflated.
- Have your tires inspected, aligned, and balanced twice a year so they wear evenly and working as a unit.
Other maintenance tips
Occasionally, before entering your vehicle, check for any damage (especially if you’ve been parked in a parking lot), check that the vehicle isn’t leaking any fluids, and that all doors (hood, trunk, and fuel door included) are closed. If you’re carrying a load or trailing it behind you, ensure it’s properly secured.
Then check that mirrors, cameras, and windows are clear and clean. Wipe away ice, dirt, or snow that would affect lighting, steering, and visibility.
Once you’re in the vehicle, ensure every viewpoint is clear and that your headlights are functioning, including your brake lights. If you can, address any lights on the dashboard (if there are any), and if you can’t address them right away, make an appointment to do so. And just as any exterior loads are secure, so too should interior objects be.
Keep an eye out for unusual sounds and smells. These are indicators that something needs to be addressed within the vehicle. Brakes could sound squeaky or produce a grinding sound. Steering could feel clunky or create vibrations. These things should be inspected immediately.
If you’re going on a long drive, there are additional items to check. Make sure your windshield washer fluid is filled, that you have enough oil, and you have your owner’s manual in the car in case you need to locate anything. If you take your car to a mechanic for tire balancing or alignment, for an oil change, or for whatever reason, use one of those visits to have the vehicle inspected for any notable issues.
Winter-specific maintenance
Winter has its own challenges. When the vehicle and its high-performance tires are properly maintained, winter driving should remain safe, reliable, and comfortable. Here’s how:
- Carry emergency supplies. This includes water, food, warm clothing, flashlights, backup batteries, blankets, and a first-aid kit. If the vehicle fails somewhere, you’ll be able to stay warm.
- Use all-weather vehicles year-round, or winter tires if you live in a particularly snowy location. The right tires will plough through the terrain you encounter.
- Not only should you ensure your fluids are filled, but carry extra in your car. Windshield washer fluid can run out quickly in snow storms or when the vehicle in front of you is kicking up mud and slush.
Year-round tire solutions with Sailun
The “right” tire depends on driving habits, local weather conditions, and vehicle purpose, so if one style doesn’t seem right to you, look at another. At Sailun, we’re transparent with what each tire offers, what its ratings are in terms of performance, and what it’s best suited for.
But there are options to accommodate all drivers throughout the year from heavy, regional truck drivers to simple passenger vehicles. Check out our tires today.