Unfortunately, it seems like wet weather is now an all year-round occurrence, so it’s becoming more and more important to make sure that your tyres have the ability to cope with the increases in the wet stuff! When it comes to driving in wet weather, having the right tyres is crucial for safety and performance. In this blog, we’ll explore the best tyres designed to handle rainy conditions, ensuring you maintain control and confidence on the road.
Which Tyres Come Out On Top?
- Uniroyal RainSport 5 Tyre
- Falken Azenis FK520 Tyre
- Continental SportContact 7 Tyre
- Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 Tyre
- Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Tyre
What Makes A Wet Weather Tyre?
All tyres you see out on the road have tread patterns that help keep you on the black stuff when it gets wet. Grooves, channels and sipes allow the water to be dispersed and give the tyre the best chance at gripping the tarmac, but not all tyres are made equal when it comes to giving you the right grip in these conditions.
The very best rain tyres use a combination of key elements to produce the best grip in the worst of driving conditions. This can be using more silica in their compounds; optimising tread patterns to contain deep grooves and sipes to expel that water away quickly and keep you stable.
All tyres are measured according to the EU Tyre Label, which was introduced back in 2012 as a way to help consumers understand the difference in performance levels for each tyre depending on the conditions. Rated from A-E, it is a clear way to understand the benefits of each tyre so the consumer can make an informed decision based on their needs and budgets.
Whilst the difference between an A and B rating might not seem much on a label, in real terms it could mean an extra 3-6m on your braking distance which is quite considerable.
What to Consider When Buying Wet Weather Tyres
Traction & Grip
For wet weather driving, traction and grip are paramount. Tyres designed for wet conditions typically feature deeper grooves and advanced tread patterns to channel water away from the tyre’s surface, preventing hydroplaning. High-silica compounds are commonly used to enhance the rubber’s flexibility, maintaining grip on slippery surfaces.
Handling & Stability
Handling and stability in wet weather are influenced by the tyre’s tread design and sidewall construction. Asymmetric tread patterns can provide better handling characteristics, ensuring stability during sharp turns and quick manoeuvres. Reinforced sidewalls can also help maintain the tyre’s shape and enhance stability.
Braking Performance
Braking performance is critical for safety in wet conditions. Look for tyres with strong braking capabilities, which often feature siping—small slits in the tread that increase the tyre’s biting edges. These sipes improve grip and shorten braking distances on wet roads, providing more control and safety.
Wear & Longevity
Wet weather tyres should offer durability and long-lasting performance. The rubber compound and tread design play crucial roles in determining a tyre’s lifespan. High-quality compounds resist wear better, and tread patterns that evenly distribute pressure help prevent premature wear.
Comfort & Noise
Comfort and noise levels are important considerations for daily driving. Wet weather tyres should balance performance with comfort, providing a smooth ride without excessive road noise. Tyres with optimised tread patterns and advanced rubber compounds can achieve this balance, ensuring a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
Safety
Safety is the ultimate goal when choosing wet weather tyres. Features like reinforced sidewalls, advanced tread patterns, and high-performance compounds all contribute to a safer driving experience. Prioritise tyres that have been rigorously tested and proven to perform well in wet conditions.
The Best for 2024
Now you know what to look for in a wet weather tyre, let’s delve into our top choices for 2024!
1. Uniroyal RainSport 5 Tyre
The Uniroyal RainSport 5 is specifically designed for wet weather performance. Its innovative tread pattern and Shark Skin Technology effectively channel water away from the tyre’s surface, reducing the risk of aquaplaning, ensuring you remain in control even in the most challenging conditions. It’s a fantastic option for those who have modified their cars and want to take them on track too! If you’ve increased the performance of your car, you need tyres that can match it, especially in the wet.
The RainSport 5 essentially cuts through water, ensuring the rubber stays in contact with the tarmac for maximum grip. Increases in power, boost and torque can demand a lot from tyres in the dry, let alone the wet so get ones you can trust so you can corner with confidence. Additionally, this tyre provides a comfortable and quiet ride, making it a great all-rounder for both wet and dry conditions.”
Handling & Stability
The Uniroyal RainSport 5 excels in wet handling due to its ‘Shark Skin’ technology, which helps disperse water quickly. This ensures better grip and stability even during sharp turns and sudden manoeuvres.
Braking Performance
Featuring a high-silica compound, the RainSport 5 offers excellent braking performance on wet roads, providing shorter stopping distances and enhanced control.
Wear & Longevity
This tyre’s softer compound might lead to slightly faster wear compared to others, but it balances this with superior wet performance as well as lasting 15% longer than it’s predecessor.
Comfort & Noise
Designed for comfort, the RainSport 5 provides a quiet ride with reduced road noise, making it ideal for daily driving.
Safety
Safety is a strong point for the RainSport 5, thanks to its advanced tread design that minimises aquaplaning risks and maintains excellent road contact
EU Tyre Label Rating: A
Find our best price on the Uniroyal RainSport 5


2. Falken Azenis FK520 Tyre
The Falken Azenis FK520 is a high-performance tyre that excels in wet weather. Its advanced tread design and silica-enriched compound provide exceptional grip and braking performance on wet surfaces. The FK520 also features Adaptive Constant Pressure technology, which ensures even pressure distribution across the tyre for improved stability and handling. Whether you’re navigating through heavy rain or damp roads, the Falken Azenis FK520 delivers reliable performance and safety.
Handling & Stability
The Falken Azenis FK520 offers impressive handling and stability in wet conditions due to its asymmetric tread pattern and reinforced sidewalls, ensuring reliable performance during quick manoeuvres.
Braking Performance
The advanced rubber compound of the FK520 enhances wet braking performance, providing shorter stopping distances and better control in rainy conditions.
Wear & Longevity
While offering strong performance, the FK520 also boasts a reasonable wear rate, making it a durable choice for frequent drivers.
Comfort & Noise
This tyre provides a smooth and quiet ride, balancing performance with comfort, suitable for both wet and dry conditions.
Safety
The FK520 is designed with safety in mind, featuring advanced tread and compound technologies that ensure reliable performance and reduced aquaplaning risks.
EU Tyre Label Rating: A
Find our best price on the Falken Azenis FK520 Tyre


3. Continental SportContact 7 Tyre
Continental is known for producing high-quality tyres, and the SportContact 7 is no exception. This tyre is engineered for superior wet weather performance, with an optimised tread pattern that enhances water evacuation and reduces the risk of aquaplaning. The SportContact 7 also features Black Chili Compound, which adapts to various road conditions to provide excellent grip and braking performance. For drivers seeking a premium tyre that performs well in all conditions, the Continental SportContact 7 is an excellent choice.
Handling & Stability
The SportContact 7 is engineered for high performance, offering exceptional handling and stability in wet conditions. Its innovative tread pattern and high-silica compound ensure excellent grip.
Braking Performance
This tyre excels in wet braking performance, providing superior stopping power and control, making it a top choice for wet weather driving.
Wear & Longevity
Continental’s focus on durability ensures that the SportContact 7 offers long-lasting performance, even with its high-performance design.
Comfort & Noise
While prioritising performance, the SportContact 7 also offers a comfortable ride, though it may produce slightly more road noise on dry surfaces.
Safety
Safety is a key feature of the SportContact 7, with its advanced tread design and materials providing enhanced grip and reducing aquaplaning risks.
EU Tyre Label Rating: A
Find our best price on the Continental SportContact 7 Tyre


4. Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 Tyre
The Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 is designed for drivers who demand sporty performance and safety in wet conditions. Its asymmetric tread design and high-grip silica compound offer outstanding wet traction and responsive handling. The V701 also incorporates Yokohama’s Nano Blend Compound, which enhances wet weather performance and extends tyre life. Whether you’re driving on wet highways or navigating through city streets, the Advan Fleva V701 provides a confident and dynamic driving experience.
Handling & Stability
The Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 provides excellent handling and stability in wet conditions, thanks to its asymmetric tread design and advanced silica compound.
Braking Performance
This tyre delivers strong braking performance in wet conditions, ensuring shorter stopping distances and reliable control.
Wear & Longevity
The Advan Fleva V701 offers a good balance of performance and durability, making it a reliable choice for drivers who need a tyre that lasts.
Comfort & Noise
Designed for comfort, this tyre offers a quiet and smooth ride, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Safety
Safety is a priority for the Advan Fleva V701, with its advanced tread design providing excellent wet grip and reducing the risk of aquaplaning.
EU Tyre Label Rating: A
Find our best price on the Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 Tyre


5. Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Tyre
Michelin’s Pilot Sport 5 is a premium tyre that offers exceptional wet weather performance. The tyre’s Dual Sport Tread Design and Dynamic Response Technology ensure optimal water dispersion and excellent grip on wet surfaces. The Pilot Sport 5 also boasts Michelin’s EverGrip Technology, which maintains superior performance throughout the tyre’s lifespan. For drivers who want the best in safety, performance, and longevity, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is an outstanding choice.
Handling & Stability
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is renowned for its outstanding handling and stability in both wet and dry conditions. Its high-performance tread design ensures maximum road contact and grip.
Braking Performance
Featuring exceptional wet braking capabilities, the Pilot Sport 5 provides shorter stopping distances and enhanced safety in rainy conditions.
Wear & Longevity
Michelin’s focus on durability ensures that the Pilot Sport 5 offers long-lasting performance, making it a cost-effective choice over time.
Comfort & Noise
While delivering high performance, this tyre also offers a comfortable and quiet ride, ensuring a premium driving experience.
Safety
Safety is a key feature of the Pilot Sport 5, with its advanced tread and compound technologies ensuring reliable performance and reduced aquaplaning risks.
EU Tyre Label Rating: A
Find our best price on the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Tyre


In Summary
Choosing the right tyres for wet weather is essential for maintaining safety and performance on the road. The Uniroyal RainSport 5, Falken Azenis FK520, Continental SportContact 7, Yokohama Advan Fleva V701, and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 are all excellent options that provide superior wet traction, handling, and braking performance.
*All information in this blog is based on a 225/40/18 tyre size.
For more information on these tyres and to make a purchase, visit Demon Tweeks today. Stay safe and enjoy the ride!
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