Navigating the Trails: Your Guide to All-Terrain Tyres
Upgrading to a set of all terrain tyres (A/T) is something that many 4x4 and SUV owners turn to when it comes time to upgrade the capabilities of their rigs. What are AT tyres and why should you consider the same tyre upgrades?
All-terrain tyres are the versatile multitaskers of the tyre world, designed to perform well on various surfaces, from smooth highways to rugged off-road trails.
All terrain tyres balance on-road comfort with off-road traction. They are constructed to withstand tougher conditions than regular tyres, making them ideal for drivers who enjoy both city driving and weekend adventures in the wild.
Why Bother Upgrading Your Tyres?
As we mentioned, All Terrain tyres are often constructed to withstand tougher conditions, but what does that mean?
When compared to street and highway tyres, all terrain tyres are designed to hold up to more severe use, and are more puncture resistant, scrape and cut resistant and generally more durable. This is great for drivers who want to drive off road, around construction sites, over rocks and through soft terrain, where the likelihood of rocks, sticks, nails or other debris is much higher than normal.
Pros and Cons of All-Terrain Tyres
Every tyre will have benefits and compromises, even when comparing two tyres in the same category. When it comes to comparing All Terrain tyres to highway or commuting tyres that most cars come with from the factory, the differences can be plain to see:
Pros
- Versatility: Capable of handling a variety of terrains including sand, rocks, grass, dirt and sealed roads.
- Durability: Built to withstand tough conditions, avoid puncture damage and carry heavier loads.
- Safety: Provide better traction in off-road and slippery conditions with deeper tread depth and more aggressive tread patterns.
Cons
- Road Noise: The larger gaps in the tyre tread result in louder noise at higher speeds compared to regular tyres.
- Fuel Efficiency: May decrease due to their heavier build and aggressive tread pattern.
- Wear and Tear: Large, heavy tyres put more pressure on wheel bearings, steering and brake systems, potentially causing maintenance to require performing earlier than otherwise.
What All Terrain Should I Buy?
The All Terrain tyre segment is probably one of the most oversaturated tyre categories when it comes to choice. You can pick the latest and greatest from the biggest name brands, or you can try out something cheap and cheerful from a lesser known manufacturer, but what’s true for other tyres is true for All Terrain tyres, you get what you pay for.
Budget-friendly AT tyres often perform well in one or two areas, for example, a tyre might perform well off road, have a great tread depth but might be extremely loud, droning while driving on the highway, or might be nice and quiet, but wear out too quickly. Typically with more premium brands, you’ll find a much more well-rounded and capable tyre across all conditions and temperatures.
If you are in the mountains or in Tasmania, you might look for 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake rated tyres, or 3PMSF tyres. These tyres are designed to perform well in cold and icy conditions, where some other tyres will become hard and stiff, losing traction at temperatures of 7 degrees or less.
Lastly, ensure that the size tyre you choose is compatible with your vehicle. Oftentimes, upgrading to AT tyres is a gateway to further vehicle modifications such as suspension upgrades, new wheels, snorkels and more. Driving offroad is addictive, and lets you get out and explore more of what your local area has to offer!
Your Local Tyre Experts
Wherever you are, or whatever you drive, you’ll find a local Tyrepower store with staff that are friendly, knowledgeable and willing to help with great advice, a wide selection of products and great prices.
If you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle with a new set of tyres that meet your expectations, there’s only one place you can GET THE POWER. Visit Tyrepower.
