Finding the best tires for rainy conditions can mean the difference between good handling and tricky driving in unpredictable weather. Factors such as tread pattern and rubber compound can affect the way tires perform in wet conditions, so it’s important to compare tire types if you plan on driving in mostly rainy weather. Compare the tradeoffs of an all-season tire with the benefits of a seasonal summer tire meant specifically for dry and wet conditions. A summer tire with the right rubber and tread can provide optimal grip in the rain to help you stay safe and in control. We used recommendations from Car and Driver and Tire Rack for this list.
If you’re debating replacing your current tires, tread depth is one of the most important factors in wet-weather handling. OEM tire manufacturers have begun to recommend replacement at 3/32-inches rather than 2/32-inches. The sooner you replace your tires, the better they’ll handle in the rain.
What Are the Best Tires for the Rain?
The best tires for rain usually feature a combination of a warm-weather rubber compound and a tread that moves water away from the tire to maximize contact with the road. To keep your wet-weather tires performing their best, it’s also important to periodically rotate them according to the recommended schedule and replace when necessary. There is no specific category for rain tires as there is for snow tires, so consider the ways different tire types might handle wet conditions. Ultimately, the best tire is one that suits the driving environment and is in prime condition without excessive wear.
Types of Tires for Rainy Roads
Different types of tires perform differently in the rain, and understanding these features can help you choose the right tire for your own rainy driving excursions. Here’s what you should know about different tire types in the rain:
- All-season tires. This type of tire is meant to handle a variety of road conditions, from rain to heat to snow. Although they aren’t necessarily engineered specifically for one type of weather, such as rain, all-season tires are generally a functional option for commuters who drive in a range of environmental conditions. Look at wet-braking scores when researching all-season tires to get a sense for how they’ll perform in the rain.
- High-performance tires. These tires, sometimes categorized with summer tires, are engineered to perform best in typical conditions, other than the cold and snow, with good grip and handling. Some high-performance tires might do well in rainy conditions depending on their composition and tread pattern, which can differ from one model to the next. Consider how quickly a high-performance tire regains traction when deciding if this is the right option for you.
- Winter tires. Winter tires, or snow tires, are specifically made to handle well on the snow and ice. Some modern winter tire models work well in the rain, so consider this option if you are likely to be driving in both snow and rain. Look for hydroplaning resistance and traction when evaluating possible winter tire options for use in the rain.
- All-terrain tires. This tire type is meant to provide optimal traction in rugged conditions. Finding an all-terrain tire that works well in the rain can be a good way to prepare for unpredictable conditions on your next adventure.
How To Choose Tires for Wet Conditions
When you’re looking for a wet-weather tire, consider these factors:
- Wet-weather frequency. If you drive in wet weather frequently, finding a tire that performs well in the rain might be more of a priority than if you only occasionally drive in rainy conditions. Think about the general climate where you do most of your driving before choosing a tire for rain.
- Vehicle type. The type of vehicle you drive will affect your choice of wet-weather tire as well. A sports car naturally performs differently in the rain than a truck, for example, and requires different tires in general, and the handling patterns of different vehicles might impact your choice of wet-weather tire as well.
- Driving style. Your driving style and habits can help determine the type of tire that’s right for you. If you usually drive under regular conditions, for example, an all-season tire might work well enough in the rain to suit your needs. Drivers who clock more hours behind the wheel and under challenging conditions might need a more specialized tire for their driving patterns, especially in the rain.
- Rubber composition. Think about how the rubber compound of a particular tire might affect its performance in the rain when purchasing your next set of tires. Different tire materials can impact the way the tire interacts with rain on the road, so be sure to ask about rubber compound before your purchase.
- Tread pattern. Look for a tread pattern that will send water away from your tire. This will help increase the amount of tire surface in contact with the road to increase traction and grip. Examine the tread pattern of the tires you plan on buying and compare them to make sure you choose the right tire for your circumstances.
- Budget. It’s possible to find a good wet-weather tire at most price points, though it’s possible that higher-quality tires might cost a little more. If you can only afford one new set of tires, consider all-seasons to get you through more varied conditions than an exclusively summer or winter tire.
How to Replace and Install Tires for the Rain
Disclaimer: The guidelines in this article are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner’s manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.
Once you find the best tire for rain for your situation, the next step is to get them mounted and installed. Think about whether you’ll need rims or if you want to have your new tires mounted on your existing rims. You might choose to keep an extra set of rims on hand so you can handle future tire changes yourself, if your budget allows for it.
Depending on your level of comfort with the process, you might have your tire dealer replace your tires for you, or you might handle this process yourself by safely lifting the vehicle, removing the old tires, and replacing them with your new ones. Always follow best practices in automotive-repair safety when working on your vehicle.
Where To Buy the Best Tires to Use in the Rain
Make sure to verify the correct tire size for your vehicle.
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Source: www.caranddriver.com