The Best Wet Weather Tyres
April is here, bringing with it its famous showers, and with the UK seeing more rainfall than ever, it's crucial to ensure your tyres are up to the challenge. With wet roads increasing stopping distances and the risk of aquaplaning, your tyres play a vital role in keeping you safe. Here's everything you need to know about staying in control when the rain starts pouring.
Why wet weather matters for your tyres
Rainy conditions make driving more hazardous, with wet roads reducing traction and increasing the likelihood of skidding. In fact, according to Highways England, you're 30 time more likely to be seriously injured in the rain than in snow. But while we can't control the weather, we can prepare for it, and that starts with choosing the right tyres.
The best tyres for rainy roads
Not all tyres are created equal when it comes to wet conditions. If you're often on the road during rainy conditions, consider investing in tyres specifically designed for wet weather performance. We've asked our tyre experts to recommend the best tyres, no matter your budget!
Budget
Designed for all-weather performance, the Autogreen Sport Chaser SC2 provides excellent grip and stability on wet roads. With shorter braking distances and reliable handling in the rain, it’s a budget tyre that punches above its price tag.
Mid-Range
The Avon ZV7 offers outstanding wet weather performance with deep circumferential grooves that quickly disperse water and reduce aquaplaning risk. It’s engineered to deliver top-tier grip and braking responsiveness even in the heaviest downpours.
Sailun Atrezzo ZSR2 - Wet Grip: A
Built with circumferential grooves and a high-performance tread formula, the Sailun Atrezzo ZSR2 offers confident handling and traction in wet conditions. Its precise wet braking makes it a standout option at an affordable price point.
Premium
Michelin Primacy 5 - Wet Grip: A
Engineered with Michelin’s EverGrip and EverTread technologies, the Primacy 5 delivers outstanding wet braking from the first mile to the last. With a next-gen tread pattern that efficiently evacuates water and a top-rated EU wet grip score, it offers safe, confident driving even in heavy rain.
Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 - Wet Grip: A
Awarded the highest EU rating for wet braking, the Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 ensures maximum safety on rain-soaked roads. Its innovative tread pattern and advanced polymer blend give you reliable stopping power in even the harshest wet conditions.
Checking your tyres with ACT
When was the last time you checked your tyres? With wet weather increasing risks, a quick inspection can make all the difference. We recommend using the ACT method, not only will it help you keep your tyres safe, it's also easy to remember.
Air Pressure - Underinflated or overinflated tyres can impact grip, so be sure to check your recommended pressure which is usually found inside your car door frame.
Condition - Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts that could compromise your tyre's performance.
Tread Depth - The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but we recommend replacing your tyres when tread depth falls below 3mm for the best grip in wet weather conditions.
How do you know if you're aquaplaning
Aquaplaning happens when your tyres lose contact with the road due to excess water, causing a sudden loss of control. Here are some of the warning signs to look out for:
Lighter Steering
Increased engine noise
The car drifting or sliding
If you feel your car beginning to aquaplane, don't panic! Ease off the accelerator, keep the steering wheel straight, and allow your tyres to regain contact with the road.
How to drive in heavy rain
Driving in heavy rain can be daunting, especially during a sudden downpour, and requires extra caution. Here are a few simple tips you can follow to stay safe:
- Slow down - Stopping distances double in wet conditions, so reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
- Avoid sudden braking - Smooth and gradual braking allows you to maintain traction.
- Check your tyres regularly - Well-maintained tyres significantly reduce the risk of skidding or aquaplaning.
Need new tyres? We've got you covered!
April's wet roads don't have to mean unsafe journeys. At National Tyres, we offer a wide range of wet-weather ready tyres from trusted brands like Pirelli, Michelin, Avon and more, all at competitive prices. Plus, we provide flexible finance options to make safety affordable for everyone.
If you're unsure about your tyres being wet-weather ready, book a free tyre check at your local branch today!
Not sure which car tyres you want? We stock the UK's largest range of car tyres at the lowest prices. You can search, buy and book a fitting online or contact your nearest store. All car tyres come with free fitting as standard at one of our 250 stores. If you're searching for wet weather tyres for your car, van or 4x4, don't worry - we're here to help.
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