Tire tread grips the road, and tread design affects factors such as road noise, performance in various driving conditions, and speed. Consider these common tread patterns the next time you’re shopping for new tires.

What Are the Differences Between Tire Tread Patterns?

1. Symmetrical

The symmetrical tread is the most common and is characterized by continuous grooves and independent blocks across the tire. Both halves of the tire feature the same pattern. This tread delivers a quiet and smooth drive and is long-lasting. Symmetrical patterns are usually found on non-high-performance passenger cars.

2. Asymmetrical

This tread is known for combining a variety of patterns, and one side features a different design than the other. The righter, outer edge of the tire, has large blocks while smaller blocks are on the inside left. This high-performance pattern allows for maximum grip on wet and dry roads. It prevents hydroplaning and excellent handling in all driving conditions. 

3. Directional

The directional tread consists of lateral voids and arrows that all point down. This pattern displaces water from the tire to avoid hydroplaning, and it can only rotate in one direction. Their design provides easy handling at high speeds and on water, snow, and mud. However, they can only be rotated front to back on the side of the vehicle on which they originate.

4. Asymmetrical/Directional

Asymmetric and directional patterns combine the two tread designs to create offset V-shaped tread grooves. In general, they are rotated the same as directional tires, but they can’t be rotated if the front and rear axles require different tire sizes. This tread is excellent for most weather and driving conditions.

Drivers will find a wide selection of new tires with different tread patterns at Phil’s Tire Shop in St. Louis, MO. This local tire store has equipped drivers with used and new tires in a variety of top brands for almost 30 years, and their experienced technicians specialize in tore rotations and repairs. Call (314) 544-3181 to request an appointment today. Visit them online and like them on Facebook to learn more about their deals.