Off-roading vehicles must be fitted with the correct tyres, but it is important to understand how and why these tyres make a difference. We sent some questions to the experts at Goodyear, to help explain off-road tread patterns and their importance.
What is the tread width and why does it matter?
This refers to the distance between the two outer edges of the tyre’s tread design and is the part of the tyre that is in contact with the ground. Wider treads offer better traction in soft sand or mud, preventing the tyre from sinking in. Wider treads can provide a more significant contact patch with uneven terrain, improving grip and stability in off-road conditions. This allows for better control and handling when navigating obstacles. However, on firmer surfaces, a wider tread can lead to less responsive handling. Why does it matter? Most 4X4 enthusiasts reduce their pressure when going off-road as they want to get the maximum traction on the terrain they looking to tackle.
What is the tread depth and why does it matter?
Tread depth is the distance between the surface of a tyre tread (the part that makes contact with the road) and the bottom of the deepest grooves in the tread pattern. Deeper treads provide superior traction by biting into loose surfaces and channelling away mud and water. Shallower treads prioritize on-road performance and fuel efficiency. Why does it matter? For off-road driving, prioritize deeper treads for superior grip on loose surfaces. Wider & deeper tread designs can be beneficial in sand or mud but consider your driving habits. If you spend a significant amount of time on paved roads, a balance between width and depth might be ideal.
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What is the load rating, and why does it matter?
The load rating indicates the maximum weight a tyre can safely support. It’s crucial to choose tyres with a load rating exceeding your vehicle’s weight, especially when considering additional cargo or off-road gear. Why does it matter? Overloaded tyres can lead to blowouts, which can be dangerous and damage your vehicle. Choose tyres with a load rating that accommodates your vehicle’s weight and any additional load you might be carrying.
What is the difference between A/T, R/T and M/T tyres?
- All-Terrain (A/T): These are versatile tyres, offering a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. They typically have moderate tread depth and a balanced tread pattern for various terrains
- Rough/Rugged Terrain (R/T): A relatively new category, R/T tyres bridge the gap between A/T and M/T tyres. They offer more aggressive tread patterns than A/T tyres for enhanced off-road traction while maintaining reasonable on-road performance.
- Mud-Terrain (M/T): Designed for conquering extreme off-road conditions, M/T tyres boast the deepest and most aggressive tread patterns with large voids for optimal mud traction. However, this often comes at the expense of on-road noise and handling.
How and why do the sidewalls differ on A/T, M/T and R/T tyres?
Tyre sidewalls are the areas between the tread and the rim. They play a crucial role in protecting the tyre from punctures and impacts.
- A/T sidewalls: Typically less aggressive than their M/T counterparts, A/T sidewalls offer a balance between flexibility for on-road comfort and durability for light off-road use.
- R/T sidewalls: Similar to A/T sidewalls, R/T sidewalls often have a slightly more aggressive design and in some cases a slightly more robust sidewall, for some added protection against off-road hazards.
- M/T sidewalls: Built for the toughest terrains, M/T sidewalls are the most aggressive and robust. They often feature thicker rubber and deeper sidewall lugs for enhanced puncture resistance and protection against rock and debris.
