Choosing summer tires for cars - TOP-10 best models

“How to choose summer tires for a car” - every car enthusiast asks this question, since it is a very important component for ensuring the comfort and safety of the driver and passengers. That is why it is important to choose a tire with the optimal balance of traction quality and durability, and of course, not to forget about the price. We have selected 10 summer rubber models that are the best for 2021.

How to choose summer tires for a car?

So, spring has come, and it's time to think about switching from winter tires to summer tires. Which model is the best for your particular vehicle? How do tires differ from each other? We will answer these questions below.

What is the difference between summer and winter tires?

Summer tires made of a special rubber compound that can withstand high temperature and speed conditions. Unlike winter ones, they are tougher and keep good contact with hot asphalt. At temperatures below freezing, the summer tire will instantly harden, and contact with the road is greatly reduced. Therefore, when driving on such a tire in subzero temperatures, there is a high probability of skidding.

Winter tires are made of a softer rubber compound, so in the summer heat it will soften very quickly and wear out quickly. But in subzero temperatures, such a tire will provide perfect grip due to its good elasticity. In addition to the rubber compound, the manufacturer also equips winter tires with high tread, studs and Velcro for a more confident ride. Do not forget about all season tires... They do not need to be changed depending on the temperature outside the window, however, they do not provide the sufficient handling and comfort level, unlike seasonal tires.

What tire size do you need?

First, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or driver's doorway lettering to find the recommended tire sizes for your vehicle. The label will look something like this:205/55 R16 91V, where

• 205 - width (mm)
• 55 - profile height (%)
• R16 - radial design and rim diameter (inches)
• 91V - load index and speed index

In addition, the summer rubber manufacturer specifies the maximum load and pressure requirements, country of manufacture, model, brand, and so on.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for sizing, otherwise you will not only impair handling, but the new wheels are likely to cling to the wheel arches.

Choosing a tread pattern

Modern tires are designed for weather conditions, road conditions, and so on. Depending on this, there are 3 main types of tread patterns:

Directional tread pattern

Due to the symmetrically directed pattern in the direction of movement and the optimal depth of the grooves, water is quickly and efficiently removed from the contact patch. The directional protector is a great option for those who live in regions with frequent rainfall.

Important! On the sidewall of the tire, an arrow indicates the direction of installation. Be sure to follow the instructions, otherwise this will lead to rapid wear and deterioration of adhesion properties.

Non-directional (symmetrical) tread pattern

The advantage of this type is that tires with a non-directional tread pattern can be installed in any way (from one side of the car to the other). This rubber shows the best grip characteristics on asphalt and light off-road. Another plus is the budget price.

Despite the obvious advantages, this type of pattern also has its drawbacks: handling in rainy and snowy weather is much worse compared to a directional pattern; worse indicator of resistance to aquaplaning.

Asymmetrical tread pattern

The most modern and versatile type of tread pattern that provides excellent handling under various road conditions.However, due to the use of modern technologies in production, the price of such a tire will be quite high.

TOP 10 best summer tires of 2021

This rating will allow you to quickly and correctly choose the right tires for your car. We studied the highest quality, quiet and reliable models with a diameter of 14/15/16/17/18, sorted them by popularity and carefully studied customer reviews.

1 Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 — best tire of the year

The Continental ContiPremiumContact 5 is one of the most popular summer rubber models today. First introduced in 2012, the ContiPremiumContact 5 quickly earned the trust of customers for high performance and maximum comfort in all weather conditions. Unlike its predecessor (ContiPremiumContact 2), the updated model has 15% less braking distance, 8% less rolling resistance, 12% longer service life and 5% less tire noise.

This bus has taken part in many tests from well-known magazines and online publications. So, for example, in 2015 ContiPremiumContact 5 won the comparative test according to the Russian magazine "Za Rulem".

2 Nokian Nordman SZ - excellent value for money

The second place in our rating is taken by the Finnish model Nokian Nordman SZ. The features of this tire are stable grip and extended service life. The tire is designed for high speed driving. The use of the unique technology "Silent Groove Design" allowed to achieve significant noise reduction thanks to the slots in the shoulder area of ​​the tire. Tire size from 16 to 19 inches, load index 92-101, maximum speed index is presented in two versions: V (up to 240 km / h) and W (up to 270 km / h). Using a unique

Buyers like this model's good handling and low noise levels. More than 71% of users recommend Nokian Nordman SZ tires for purchase.

3 Yokohama BluEarth-A AE-50 - "orange" tires

The BluEarth tire series has been designed with the environment in mind. In the manufacture of the rubber compound, natural ingredients were used, including orange oil and rubber. The updated rubber compound has improved wear resistance, improved fuel economy and, consequently, reduced carbon dioxide emissions.

Buyers do not like the low noise level of the tires. More than 55% of users recommend this tire for purchase.

4 MICHELIN Energy XM2 - a panacea for off-road

This model of summer tires is made using modern technologies, thanks to which it was possible to significantly increase the efficiency of braking, traction and saving gasoline.

MICHELIN Energy XM2 uses the unique IronflexTM technology (special design of the sidewall + carcass threads made of a stronger material), which protects the sidewall from complete resolution or the appearance of a hernia. Engineers have also equipped the Energy XM2 with a wide drainage system that improves traction and reduces the likelihood of aquaplaning. In addition, MICHELIN rubber differs from competitors in its extended service life and low rolling resistance.

5 Bridgestone Turanza T001 - the best of the Japanese

Bridgestone has long been a leader in the automotive wheel market.Their products are popular in countries around the world. This is not surprising, because their tires are synonymous with durability and excellent quality.

The Bridgestone Turanza T001 is a premium comfort tire that unleashes its full performance on long journeys or high-speed journeys. Due to the unique shape of the grooves and their large number, the developers of Turanza T001 managed to significantly reduce extraneous noise and vibrations. The long service life of this model is associated with the use of polymers in the rubber compound. The special tread pattern improves traction on dry and wet surfaces.

6 Nokian Hakka Green 2 - for family cars

The Nokian Hakka Green 2 is a low cost, improved performance tire ideal for Class B and C family cars. Compared to its predecessor, this rubber is 15% more wear resistant, has improved grip and reduced fuel consumption.

The main changes concerned the sidewall, which was equipped with a special rubber compound using Silent Sidewall Technology. This has significantly increased comfort by reducing vibration levels. Also, there was an improved design on the tread blocks, which improves the outflow of water from the contact patch and prevents aquaplaning. Rapeseed and pine oil, particles of soot, which increase mileage, were added to the rubber mixture.

7 MICHELIN Primacy 3 - uncompromising grip

According to the manufacturer, this model provides uncompromising grip on dry and wet asphalt on the roads of our country. This was achieved due to the smoothed edges of the tread blocks and special self-locking sipes. Due to this, the braking distance is also reduced (on wet asphalt by 1.5 m, and on dry by 2 m).

Also, the grip was improved due to the improved rubber compound. The addition of three elastomers not only significantly improved roadholding, but also increased wear resistance and fuel efficiency.

8 Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance - great option for wet roads

Another very good option to change your car into is Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance. These tires perform especially well on wet surfaces, although they also look good on dry asphalt. The features of this model are a high level of grip on the road of category A, reduced fuel consumption by reducing the level of energy dissipation of the tire, and the presence of active braking system ActiveBraking.

Buyers rate this model as follows: noise - 3.8, durability - 3.7, handling - 4.1, strength - 3.4. You can read reviews from real users below.

9 Nokian Hakka Blue SUV - champion of wet roads

Our ranking has already included the Green model from the "color" line of crossover tires from the manufacturer Nokian. While the green tire is focused on fuel economy, the Nokian Hakka Blue SUV shows improved performance on wet asphalt.

Of the features, it is worth noting the addition of aramid fiber to the rubber compound, which significantly increases the strength and wear resistance of the tire, as well as the unique Dry Touch 2 sipes, which effectively drain water from the contact patch.

10 Pirelli Cinturato P7 - for a wide range of vehicles

Pirelli Cinturato P7 is a universal tire for comfort class cars and station wagons. To improve braking and grip performance, handling and economy, the manufacturer has made a number of fundamental changes. First, the optimized pattern with the correct block spacing ensures a more comfortable driving experience. Secondly, a modern hybrid material is used, thanks to which the tire wears out evenly in all places.

What are the best summer tires to choose in 2021?

Many car enthusiasts do not give due importance to the choice of summer tires. But it will depend on them how comfortable and safe your car will drive. In this article, we described in detail why you shouldn't neglect tire changes, and also ranked the top 10 models according to customer reviews of 2021. We hope our article helped you make the right choice. Enjoy the shopping!