3 Main Tyre Types Explained

If you have high quality wheels and tyres, it makes it easier to navigate your life, both literally and figuratively. Learn more about tyres.

3 Main Tyre Types Explained

17 April 2023
 Categories: , Blog


When it's time to replace your tyres you'll need to take a number of factors into consideration, such as your budget, the driving conditions you're most likely to be exposed to and how you use your vehicle. You'll want to compare a few suitable tyre models while taking their fuel efficiency rating and road handling information into account. There are three main tyre types that are commonly available, and understanding the differences between the types can ensure you select tyres that are right for your car, lifestyle and expected driving conditions.

Read on to learn more about the main types of tyres.

1. Summer Tyres

Summer tyres perform optimally when the temperature never dips to freezing. Despite their name, they can be used year-round in favourable temperatures. These tyres tend to offer great road grip, even on wet roads, as they are designed to have a reduced number of tread block patterns. This design feature also tends to make summer tyres quieter than other types of tyres, and if fuel economy is a top priority for you, the soft rubber compounds used to make these tyres deliver favourable fuel economy.

2. Winter Tyres

When you think of winter tyres you may think of snow tyres, but snowy driving conditions are not a prerequisite for having winter tyres put on your car. These tyres have a greater number of tread block patterns than summer tyres, and this gives them superior road handling capabilities in below-freezing temperatures. Winter tyres can be used on wet or dry roads, and the tread patterns are designed to thrust water off the tyres when driving in wet conditions, so these tyres can provide great traction when driving on wet roads and this improves your stopping distances.

3. Run Flat Tyres

Run flat tyres allow you to keep driving for a short distance when you get a puncture. This can prevent you from becoming stranded at the side of a road, as you can drive straight to a garage and have the tyre replaced. These tyres can't be repaired, so any puncture would require a new tyre. They share some of the design features of summer tyres, but they also have reinforced sidewalls, which is what allows you to keep control of your car when a puncture occurs.

If you're not sure of the best tyre type for your driving needs, contact your local tyre shop for advice.