The Best Wet Weather Tyres
Best Tyres for Wet Weather Driving: How to Stay Safe in the Rain
Wet weather can significantly reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distances, making tyre condition especially important when driving in rain. The best tyres for wet weather combine strong wet grip with a tread pattern designed to efficiently disperse water from the road surface.
In this guide, we'll explore how rain affects your tyres, what to look for when choosing wet-weather tyres, how to check your tyres using the ACT method and our recommended tyres for different budgets.
How does wet weather affect driving?
Rain can make roads more hazardous by reducing the amount of grip between your tyres and the road surface. Heavy rain can also create standing water, increasing the risk of aquaplaning.
Some of the main challenges of driving in wet weather include:
- Longer stopping distances.
- Reduced visibility due to heavy rain or fog.
- Slippery roads and slick surfaces, reducing tyre traction.
- Additional hazards such as potholes or flooding.
However, driving in the rain doesn't have to feel dangerous. While you can't control the weather, you can make sure your tyres are safe and suitable for the conditions you're driving in.
What makes a tyre good for wet weather?
When choosing tyres for driving in the rain, there are a few things to consider.
1. Wet grip rating
The tyre label includes a wet grip rating from A to E, with A representing the shortest wet braking distance and E the longest. A higher wet grip rating can therefore be a relevant factor when choosing tyres for wet-weather driving.
2. Tread pattern
Your tyres' tread helps to move water away from the area where the tyre meets the road to help the tread maintain contact and retain grip.
3. Tread depth
Tread depth is also important when driving in wet conditions. The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference.
However, it's strongly recommended to replace your tyres when their tread depth drops below 3mm.
The best tyres for wet weather
If you're looking for new tyres for wet-weather driving, we've asked our tyre experts to recommend some options across different price ranges.
Best budget tyre for wet weather
Designed for all-weather performance, the Autogreen Sport Chaser SC2 is an affordable option for everyday driving, offering a balance of grip, handling and performance for tyres looking for a budget tyre.
Best mid-range tyres for wet weather
The Avon ZV7 has an A-rated wet grip classification, making it an option to consider if wet braking performance is a priority, particularly during warmer temperatures. Its tread pattern is designed to help disperse water from the contact area, supporting grip and handling in wet conditions.
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.
Best premium tyres for wet weather
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.
Tyre performance can vary depending on tyre size, vehicle, road condition and other factors. Always check the tyre label and manufacturer's specifications for the specific tyre you're considering.
How to check your tyres before driving in wet weather
Before heading out in heavy rain, it's worth taking a few minutes to check your tyres. We recommend using the ACT method to remember the three key checks:
A - 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.
You can use a tyre pressure gauge to inflate your tyres to the recommended level.
C - Condition
Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts that could compromise your tyre's performance. If you spot any warning signs, you can book a Free Tyre Check, or have any repairs carried out with a Tyre Puncture Repair.
T - 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.
What is aquaplaning?
Aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning, happens when water builds up between your tyres and the road faster than the tread can disperse it. This can cause your tyres to lose contact with the road, making the vehicle less responsive to steering, braking and acceleration.
Aquaplaning is more likely during or after heavy rainfall, particularly where there is standing water on the road.
What does aquaplaning feel like?
If your vehicle begins to aquaplane, you may notice:
- The steering suddenly feels lighter or less responsive.
- Your vehicle feels as though it's drifting.
- The car becomes less responsive to steering or braking.
What should you do if your car aquaplanes?
If your steering becomes unresponsive in wet conditions, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. Avoid sudden braking or steering movements and allow your tyres time to regain contact with the road.
How to drive safely in heavy rain
Driving in heavy rain can be daunting, especially during a sudden downpour, and requires extra caution, but your tyres aren't the only thing to consider. Here are a few simple tips you can follow to stay safer in heavy rain:
1. Drive slower than usual to allow for greater reaction time.
2. Increase your distance between your vehicle and the car in front.
3. Use low-beam headlights to maintain visibility without causing glare.
4. Drive smoothly and avoid sudden acceleration or braking to maintain proper traction.
5. Inspect your tyres' condition, pressure and tread.
Shop wet-weather tyres
Wet roads don't have to mean unsafe journeys. Choosing tyres with good wet-weather performance and regularly checking their pressure, condition and tread can help you stay prepared for changing road conditions.
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.
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