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Everything You Need to Know About All-Terrain Tyres

Vehicle on gravel track with all-terrain tyres

All-terrain tyres are ideal for anyone who wants to get the most out of their 4WD or SUV vehicle. They are intended to work on almost any surface, which gives you confidence when driving on tarmac or rough terrain. For those who prefer to get the best of both worlds out of their car, these are the best tyres to go for.

At Tyrepower, we get that choosing the right tyres can be a bit confusing. But don’t worry, we’re here to simplify things for you. Here’s a straightforward guide to break down the basics and help you feel confident when making your choice.

What Makes All-Terrain Tyres Unique?

All-terrain tyres are exactly what their name suggests: they can tackle a variety of terrains. With a stronger sidewall and a more aggressive tread pattern than a highway tyre, these tyres are built to be tougher. They are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from mud and gravel to wet and snowy roads. Unlike mud tyres, they’re still comfortable enough for everyday use on paved roads. They really are the “best of both worlds” when it comes to versatility and performance.

Why Choose All-Terrain Tyres?

If your driving habits include a bit of everything—city commutes, off-road trails, beach drives—then all-terrain tyres could be exactly what you’re looking for. They’re designed for about 60% on-road and 40% off-road use. With this, they’re perfect for people who want strong and dependable tyres, but don’t want to compromise too much on comfort and road noise. In short, they’re ideal for anyone who likes to tackle a mix of terrains and road conditions. Sound like you? Then all-terrain tyres might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Features to Consider

Choosing all-terrain tyres can be tricky because they’re not all the same. Here’s what to look out for:

Tread Pattern

An open tread pattern grips better on surfaces like mud and gravel. It also gives better traction on loose surfaces and helps clear debris while driving.

Sidewall Strength

Stronger sidewalls offer enhanced protection from punctures and damage on rocky or rugged roads. This added strength also makes the tyre rigid when loaded and gives better stability and control.

Tread Compound

The rubber in all-terrain tyres is more durable than that in highway tyres, helping them last longer, even on rough surfaces like gravel or rocks.

Noise Levels

In general, all-terrain tyres are slightly noisier when compared to a highway tyre, but many manufacturers already offer their products with noise-reducing features. This makes them a better choice for daily use if you want to balance comfort and performance.

Wet, Icy, and Snowy Conditions

Some all-terrain tyres are built for wet, icy, or snowy conditions. If you live in a place with frequent rain or snow, check for these features to ensure better safety and performance.

Close up of a car with all-terrain tyres

How to Pick the Right All-Terrain Tyres

When choosing all-terrain tyres, think about how and where you drive. Are you using your 4WD mostly on highways, or do you love exploring off-road tracks every chance you get? If your off-road excursions are limited, you might want to go for a tyre that’s less aggressive. But if you’re taking on challenging terrain regularly, look for tyres with deeper treads and additional sidewall protection.

It's also essential to consider the typical weather conditions you’ll be driving in. If you often encounter wet, muddy, or snowy conditions, look for tyres designed to handle these environments. You also need to think of your vehicle type and how much weight you will be moving or transporting. If you frequently move equipment and gear or tow, make sure the tyres can take the additional weight.

Do not forget to look at the car owner’s manual, or you could consult with one of our specialists at Tyrepower. We will assist you in selecting the right tyres that can endure all the challenges you put them to.

Tips for Maintaining All-Terrain Tyres

A little care can go a long way to ensuring that your all-terrain tyres last longer. Follow these simple steps to keep them in top condition:

  • Check your tyre pressure, as this changes when driving off-road and back to the tarmac, or vice versa. Low pressure leads to faster wear and poor handling.
  • It is recommended that you swap the positions of your tyres every 10,000 km. This will ensure that they wear evenly and last longer.
  • After you are out of off-road terrain, check your tyres for any debris. Clearing these off keeps them in good shape and also makes them wear uniformly.
  • Remember to balance and align your tyres. This ensures a good ride and prevents uneven tyre wear.

Visit Your Local Tyrepower Store!

Are you planning to upgrade your vehicle and looking for all-terrain tyres? Come and see us at Tyrepower today! We have a range of reliable products, such as Falken, BFGoodrich, Cooper, and many more. If you are not sure which tyres you need, our team will be glad to assist you in choosing the right tyres for you and your budget.

Please feel free to contact us, visit the store, or browse our website to purchase your next set of all-terrain tyres. See you soon, and happy driving!

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