When buying new tires, there are always many different options. Making a decision can be overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Here we will talk about the attributes of both directional and asymmetrical tires.
DIRECTIONAL TIRES
Directional Tires have a specified direction of rotation. These tires feature arrows on the sidewall indicating the direction they should rotate. Directional tires are characterized by having a directional tread design, that is, a tread pattern designed to perform its best when rotating in one specific direction. Non-directional tires have a tread pattern that is designed to perform equally well regardless of the tires' rotational direction. This tread design should resemble the shape of a "V". These tires are designed to be installed in a specific way. In this cases, look to the sidewall for instructions regarding the tire’s correct position. There, you will find directions for the tire’s correct mounting and installation. This is shown in the diagram below:
BENEFITS OF DIRECTIONAL TIRES
Directional tires have superior hydroplaning resistance versus non directional tires. This is because their directional tread pattern is designed to channel water away from the center of the tire. Directional tires offer slightly better handling than non-directional tires. When a designer knows that a tire will only be rotating one way, they can engineer the tread pattern for maximum grip and stability when the tire is rolling in that direction. Many automotive enthusiasts are drawn to directional tires for aesthetic reasons. Directional tires have a more aggressive looking tread design when compared to non-directional tires. Non-directional tires win the tread wear comparison. Non directional tires can be rotated (swapped) to different sides of the vehicle, extending their life, and making uneven tread wear easier to correct. However, directional tires can only be rotated front to back on the same side of the car.
ASYMMETRICAL TIRES
Asymmetrical Tires have different patterns on the outside and inside halves of the tread. They will have the word “outside” labeled on the side of the tire that should face outward.
BENEFITS OF ASYMMETRICAL TIRES
Asymmetrical tires are designed with vehicle performance in mind and are commonly found on sports cars. Asymmetrical tires have large blocks of tread on the outside to increase cornering stability and narrower blocks of tread along the inside of the tire to aid winter or wet weather driving. These tires have a tendency to last longer than directional tires. While directional can only be rotated front to back, asymmetrical has the ability to be rotated in a crossed pattern. this can help prevent feathering and excessive wear. When replacing a vehicle's tires, never mix symmetrical and asymmetrical tires on the same vehicle. Mixing these two types of tires may cause the vehicle's handling to become unstable, particularly in wet weather.
In conclusion, both these tires have their benefits in their own ways. It all really depends on what you are looking for in a tire.
