Choosing 4x4 tyres
4x4 tyres cover quite a broad area but they can be quickly separated into three subcategories: road tyres, all terrain tyres and off-road tyres.
Road tyres, for example, are usually shown with H/T and S/T markings, as well as asymmetric treads. The design focuses on on-road driving (80%) rather than all terrain (20%).
As for 4x4 all-terrain tyres, these have a 50/50 mix of road and all-terrain features, usually marked with ATR, AT2, A/T or All Terrain labels.
The last type is for off-road tyres, which favour all-terrain (80%) features over on-road driving (20). These are marked by the likes of MTR or M/T in their descriptions.
When it comes to winter tyres for 4x4 vehicles, there are no subcategories, as every winter tyre is a road tyre by design. Yet this wide range ensures drivers can always pick a tyre that relates to the type of terrain they drive through the most. These all terrain tyres, for instance, feature better grip and handling on uneven surfaces, such as woods and fields.
Yet these products still offer reliable safety on both smooth roads and other forms of terrain, making them the best choice for drivers that encounter different kinds of terrain. As an additional feature, these tyres come with a rim protection system to prevent damage, as well as an inner steel belting in the tyre construction. This process also includes a tougher sidewall to help lift heavier loads, which is important for SUV cars.
Despite these features, these 4x4 tyres still focus on providing excellent driving comfort, with low noise and vibrations. Some products also come with additional sipes and a harder compound, which enables summer tyres to survive in tougher environments, such as providing good grip on wet roads.
Finally, it should be noted that 4x4 tyres can not be fitted to non 4x4 cars, because they are built differently and have a unique construction. If fitted to a passenger car, they will offer a harder drive and will be much louder.