How do rain and wet roads affect tyre performance?
Rain and wet roads are a common occurrence here in the UK, and driving in these conditions requires your full attention to stay safe.
One part of your car hugely affected by wet conditions is your tyres. They’re the only point of contact between your car and the road, and their ability to keep a good grip is critical for safe driving.
In this article, we will discuss how rain and wet roads affect tyre performance.
Tyre treads and wet roads
Tyres are designed to displace water on the road surface, allowing for as much contact between the tyre and the road as possible. This is thanks to the tyre tread pattern, which is designed to channel water away from the contact patch between the tyre and the road. The grooves in the tread pattern are angled to allow water to flow outwards, preventing it from building up under the tyre and reducing traction.
However, as the amount of water on the road increases, it becomes more difficult for the tyre tread to displace water effectively.
At a certain depth, the tyre tread can no longer channel water away, and the tyre begins to ride on top of the water, losing contact with the road. This is known as aquaplaning or hydroplaning, and it can be a dangerous situation for drivers.
To prevent aquaplaning, it's vital you maintain the correct tyre pressure and have a safe amount of tread.
Driving style and wet roads
It's important to adjust your driving style to the conditions when driving on wet roads. This means slowing down, leaving more room between you and the car in front, and avoiding any sudden braking or changes in direction. Abrupt movements can cause the tyre tread to lose contact with the road, resulting in skidding or a loss of control.
Rain and wet roads can significantly affect tyre performance, and it's essential to be aware of these conditions when driving.
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure, ensuring sufficient tread depth, and adjusting your driving style can all help to improve tyre performance in wet conditions. We'd also recommend that you regularly inspect your tyres, especially before long journeys.
Ultimately, staying aware of the road conditions and taking appropriate precautions when driving can help to keep your journeys safe and comfortable.
Buy wet weather tyres online
Car tyres are generally broken down into three different categories: summer tyres, winter tyres and all season tyres. If you're looking for tyres specifically suited to wet roads, then all season tyres will be the best 'wet weather tyres' available.
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All-season tyres are the perfect blend of summer and winter tyres, and offer excellent resistance to aquaplaning on wet road surfaces.
All season tyres
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