Tires, why choose them Wetproof (and how they are)

There are no more half seasons: a saying that is confirmed more and more true, year after year. And, like this, in late spring we find ourselves driving more and more often with pouring rain and asphalt situations and visibility that are less than optimal. Aware of the new course, even tire manufacturers have adapted by developing new concept products that allow us to travel in complete safety, in any weather condition. And, at a time when, after the forced immobility of the past few months, many will be driving towards seaside or mountain destinations, it is essential to check – before leaving and well in advance – the condition of the tires: in fact, tires are the main safety accessories of the vehicle, representing the connection between us and the road and, moreover, they have a decisive influence on driving comfort and safety.

When to change them
Finnish manufacturer Nokian Tires, for example, recommends a tread depth of no less than 4 millimeters for all tires. Of course, age also causes effects: the tread compound begins to harden over time. If the tires have been used for more than 6 years, their grip will be severely reduced even if they still have some residual tread.

Beware of aquaplaning
When it rains a lot and the road is covered with a film of water the risk of aquaplaning it is high, but a good tread greatly reduces this risk.

New tires are the best solution against this phenomenon which consists in the floating of a moving vehicle on a layer of water. A tread pattern with central grooves, which help water out, reduces the risk. According to technical tests, theaquaplaning starts at a speed of 76 km / h when the tread is worn (thickness less than 1.6mm), while with new tires the speed rises to 96 km / h.

Which type to choose
As we said, there are manufacturers who have developed specific compounds designed to minimize the problems resulting from bad weather. We tested – in normal but also difficult conditions – the new Nokian Wetproof.

How are they
The compound used for this model is of the new generation, it is called Aqua Hybrid and has advanced polymer types and improved silica structure to ensure wet grip and lower fuel costs.

In fact, the tire has always behaved well both when we found ourselves driving in the rain (but we didn’t have many doubts, since it is a “specialist” of difficult conditions) and on particularly sun-beaten roads.

The secret of balancing wet and dry properties is new concetto Dual Zone Safety. This means that the tread has been designed asymmetrically and is divided into two functional zones, to optimize traction and find the best balance between wet and dry properties. This technology also improve the durability and wear of the tires. Of course, however, with a few weeks of use we cannot judge its durability in the long term.

The first of the functional areas we were talking about is the Stability Zone, which we see on the outside of the tire and makes maneuvering easy and safe by offering good stability and handling properties, while the Wet Safety Zone inside it improves wet grip and aquaplaning resistance.

Looking at the tire closely, you can also see the longitudinal grooves that allow water to flow more easily, to the benefit of driving stability and safety in the wet.

A quality tire, in addition to being essential for safety, also affects driving comfort. During our test, the tire proved quiet and smooth, even on bumpy roads and at high speeds on the motorway. Noise is minimized thanks to the Silent Groove DesignThe surface design reminiscent of a golf ball controls the flow of air and prevents the tires from “howling”. Instead, the area on the side of the tire, Silent Sidewall technology, helps filter noise and vibrations from the road surface.

Another thing to consider when choosing the right tire is that – as in this case – models with reduced rolling resistance increase fuel efficiency: for a more economical and environmentally friendly ride.

For everyone
Our test was carried out with a small subcompact, but with a snappy petrol engine. But this type of tire is also suitable for electric and hybrid cars and a version dedicated to SUVs has been developed. The Nokian Powerproof SUV has a rugged construction for powerful SUVs, with Nokian Tires’ patented Aramid Sidewall technology.

The alternative
The Finnish manufacturer also offers a sports car tire, the Nokian Powerproof, for fans of fast and safe driving.

Finally, all-season tires – such as Nokian Seasonproof – are gaining popularity and, according to a recent survey, are chosen by more than half of European drivers. For those who don’t want to worry about changing tires at every change of season