12 Best Run Flat Tires

Flat tire woes on a deserted highway or a rainy night? Imagine a world where your tires don’t give up on you—no matter what.

The best run-flat tire based on overall performance is the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP. These tires offer balanced performance across various conditions, ensuring ride comfort and long-lasting tread wear.

In this article, we’ll delve deep into the world of run-flat tires, comparing top brands across various performance metrics like wet weather grip, dry condition stability, winter resilience, ride comfort, and tread durability.

Best All-Season Run Flat Tires

Best Overall Tire: Based on average scores, the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP emerges as the top-performing tire with an overall score of 8.5. Its balanced performance across various conditions and focus on both ride comfort and tread wear make it a premier choice in the run-flat tire market.

Best in Wet Weather: The Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus takes the lead in wet weather performance with a commendable score of 9.0. This tire is an excellent choice for drivers who frequently traverse rainy environments, ensuring safety and grip on slick roads.

Best in Dry Weather: The Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus and Continental ProContact RX SSR both shine in dry conditions, each boasting a score of 9.2. These tires offer outstanding traction and stability for daily commutes and long drives alike in clear conditions.

Best in Winter Weather: Leading the way in winter conditions is the Continental ProContact GX SSR with a score of 7.6. This tire demonstrates adaptability and reliability when faced with snow, sleet, or icy roads, providing added confidence to drivers during colder months.

Best in Ride Comfort: For those prioritizing a smooth and comfortable ride, the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP stands out with a score of 8.5. Its design ensures minimized road noise and disturbances, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Best in Tread Wear (Durability): The Continental ProContact RX SSR scores the highest in tread wear with a rating of 8.9, indicating a longer lifespan and reduced frequency of replacements. It’s an optimal choice for those who prioritize longevity in their tire selections.

Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The MICHELIN Primacy MXM4 tire offers comprehensive satisfaction for the discerning car owner, boasting efficient wet braking, sharp handling, and superior ride comfort for all-season safety.

Notably, it ensures reliable braking and precise control on wet surfaces and offers a quiet, smooth driving experience. Preferred by premium car manufacturers, it comes with the Michelin Promise Plan, including a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, roadside assistance, and a mileage warranty up to 55,000 miles.

The tire’s tread compound has a sunflower oil additive, enhancing traction in colder climates, benefiting braking and performance in wet conditions, and improving snow performance. Its design prioritizes longevity, with the MaxTouch Construction ensuring even road contact, thereby extending tire life and providing all-season grip.

The MICHELIN Primacy MXM4 is recognized for upholding the rigorous standards of top-tier luxury car brands, promising a tranquil ride in every season.

Review

The Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP stands out as one of the premier choices for those looking for a reliable run-flat tire. With an overall average score of 8.5, it’s evident that it excels in various conditions.

Wet weather is a challenge for any tire, but the Primacy MXM4 ZP faces this challenge with confidence, scoring a commendable 8.8. This indicates that the tire offers excellent grip and stability, even on wet surfaces, giving drivers peace of mind during rainy conditions. In dry conditions, the tire performs even better, earning a score of 9.1. This showcases its ability to provide consistent traction and ensure a smooth drive on clear days.

Winter weather performance is vital for many drivers, and while it doesn’t top the chart in this category, it still posts a respectable score of 7.3. While it might not be the first choice for heavy snow regions, for light to moderate winter conditions, it should fare reasonably well.

Ride comfort is a significant factor when choosing tires, and the MXM4 ZP doesn’t disappoint, securing a score of 8.5. This means that the tire not only performs well in varying weather conditions but also ensures a comfortable ride, reducing road noise and vibrations.

When it comes to tread wear, this Michelin tire also holds its ground with a score of 8.6. A high tread wear rating translates to longer intervals between tire changes, thus providing value for money in the long run.

In summary, the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP is a top-performing run-flat tire that is well-suited for a variety of conditions. Its high scores across the board make it a trustworthy choice for those prioritizing performance, comfort, and durability.

Pros

• Exceptional performance in dry weather.
• Great handling during wet conditions.
• Above-average ride comfort.
• Durable tread life.

Cons

• Slightly lower winter weather performance compared to some other models.

Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The DriveGuard Plus by Bridgestone is a Grand Touring All-Season tire crafted for sedans, coupes, CUVs, and SUVs. It merges luxury with the reliability of run-flat capabilities, ensuring enhanced traction throughout the year, even in light snow.

Designed for TPMS-equipped vehicles, the DriveGuard Plus incorporates Bridgestone’s advanced run-flat technology, which guarantees continued mobility for up to 50 miles at speeds up to 50 mph after a puncture. This feature ensures that vehicles with or without factory-fitted run-flat tires can confidently replace their tires with the DriveGuard Plus for enhanced peace of mind.

The tire boasts a durable, all-season compound that molds into an asymmetric pattern. Outboard shoulder blocks enhance stability during cornering and braking, while the inboard section prioritizes grip in adverse weather. Its design includes zero-degree draft angle grooves and open shoulder slots to resist hydroplaning. Additionally, full-depth elements ensure consistent traction on slippery roads and during snowy conditions throughout the tire’s lifespan.

In terms of construction, the DriveGuard Plus uses twin steel belts with a nylon cap ply atop a sturdy two-ply polyester casing. The sidewalls are reinforced to support the vehicle after a puncture results in air loss. Furthermore, Bridgestone’s Cooling Fin Design mitigates heat during zero-pressure operation, allowing the tire to reduce some of the rigidity typically found in traditional run-flat designs, enhancing overall comfort.

Review

Navigating the realm of run-flat tires, the Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus emerges as a top-tier contender, boasting an impressive overall average score of 8.2. This tire is clearly designed to provide a harmonious balance of performance and comfort across varying driving conditions.

In wet weather situations, where hydroplaning risks and reduced grip can be concerns, the DriveGuard Plus proves its worth with a stellar score of 9.0. Such a high rating suggests that this tire can offer drivers a sense of security when driving through rain-soaked roads. Dry conditions further highlight the tire’s capabilities, as it achieved a robust score of 9.2. This underscores its consistent and dependable performance, ensuring that drivers can expect a smooth and safe drive on sunny days.

However, when it comes to winter conditions, the DriveGuard Plus has room for improvement, registering a score of 6.7. While it might serve adequately in mild winter scenarios, those in areas with severe snow and ice might want to consider more specialized options.

Comfort is not compromised with the DriveGuard Plus, as it secured a score of 8.0 in ride comfort. This suggests that passengers and drivers alike can anticipate a smooth journey with minimized road disturbances and vibrations.

On the longevity front, the tire offers a reasonable lifespan with a tread wear rating of 8.0. This indicates a decent duration before replacements become necessary, contributing to long-term cost savings.

In conclusion, the Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus is an excellent run-flat tire choice, especially for those who frequently drive in wet or dry conditions. While it may not be the ultimate winter tire, its performance in other categories ensures a reliable and comfortable driving experience.

Pros

• Top-notch performance in both wet and dry conditions.
• Good ride comfort.
• Decent tread durability.

Cons

• Winter weather performance could be improved.

Continental ProContact GX SSR

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The Continental ProContact GX is an all-season tire tailored for high-performance coupes and sedans, perfect for boosting sporty rides. It prioritizes both performance and a serene, comfortable journey while emphasizing fuel efficiency. This tire is a chosen OE (Original Equipment) for luxury performance cars such as the Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Subaru Forester, and Jaguar XE 35T.

For additional safety, certain sizes incorporate run-flat technology, letting drivers continue for 50 miles at 50mph even with a punctured tire. Designed with a versatile tread pattern, it offers dependable grip on both wet and dry terrains. Its four deep grooves are adept at preventing hydroplaning, ensuring a confident drive during rain.

Suitable for a wide range of cars, the ProContact GX can be fitted to vehicles such as the Audi A4, Ford Crown Victoria, and Toyota Sienna, available for 17” to 19” wheel sizes. Continental supports this tire with their Total Confidence Plan and provides a mileage warranty covering up to 80,000 miles.

Review

The Continental ProContact GX SSR is a noteworthy contender in this review, achieving a well-rounded average score of 8.1. Its performance metrics reveal a tire that confidently bridges the gap between diverse weather conditions and driving comfort.

For drivers who frequently encounter wet roads, the ProContact GX SSR offers reassurance with an impressive score of 8.8. This demonstrates the tire’s capability to maintain firm road grip and minimize hydroplaning risks, ensuring a safer drive during rainy spells. When the roads dry up, this tire continues to shine with a strong score of 9.0, guaranteeing consistent traction and handling, making it a reliable companion for everyday commutes.

In colder climes, the tire stands its ground with a winter weather rating of 7.6. While it may not be the best-in-class for icy or heavy snow conditions, it will undoubtedly perform commendably during milder winter scenarios, offering reasonable traction and stability.

Comfort hasn’t been overlooked by Continental, as the ProContact GX SSR boasts a ride comfort score of 8.2. This means drivers and passengers can expect a relatively smooth and noise-reduced ride, allowing for more enjoyable journeys irrespective of the distance.

However, one potential area of concern might be its tread wear, which, at 7.1, is a tad lower than some of its competitors. This suggests that while the tire will offer good durability, those looking for extended intervals between tire replacements might want to factor this into their decision.

To sum it up, the Continental ProContact GX SSR presents itself as a strong choice for those seeking a balance between wet and dry performance, as well as ride comfort. While tread wear could be better, its overall attributes make it a commendable option in the run-flat tire market.

Pros

• Strong performance in wet conditions.
• Good handling in dry weather.
• Solid winter weather adaptability.

Cons

• Slightly below-average tread life.
• Ride comfort isn’t the best in its class.

Bridgestone DriveGuard

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The DriveGuard by Bridgestone is a Grand Touring All-Season run-flat tire designed for drivers seeking a safe replacement for non-run-flat tires, as well as those wanting a more durable and comfortable alternative to their vehicle’s Original Equipment run-flat tires.

Boasting Bridgestone’s innovative run-flat technology, the DriveGuard offers nearly the same level of comfort as traditional tires, yet it can travel up to 50 miles at speeds of up to 50 mph after a puncture results in total air loss. This feature ensures drivers aren’t stranded, especially in remote areas, on busy highways, or in adverse weather conditions due to a flat tire.

The DriveGuard promises all-year-round adaptability with dependable handling, grip, and control on both wet and dry surfaces, including light snow conditions. Its design incorporates a silica-enhanced all-season tread compound in an asymmetric pattern, ensuring reliable handling, corner stability, and prolonged wear. For added safety, the tire channels water through circumferential and cross grooves to prevent hydroplaning, while specially designed sipes enhance traction on wet and snowy roads.

Internally, DriveGuard is fortified with twin steel belts wrapped in nylon, atop a rayon cord casing. Reinforced sidewalls ensure the tire can support the vehicle temporarily after a puncture. Bridgestone also integrates its NanoPro-Tech Sidewall rubber compound into the tire, paired with an advanced Cooling Fin Design, optimizing run-flat performance without compromising much on ride comfort.

Review

The world of run-flat tires has many formidable contenders, and the Bridgestone DriveGuard is no exception. With an overall average score of 7.7, it carves a niche for itself by delivering reliable performance across varied conditions.

Starting with wet weather performance, the DriveGuard brings a dependable grip to the table, scoring 8.3. This suggests that it offers adequate safety and stability when roads are slick and rainy, allowing drivers to navigate with confidence. When faced with dry terrains, the tire puts forth a respectable performance, securing a score of 8.7. This underlines its capacity to offer reliable traction and control in standard driving conditions, making it a versatile choice for various climates.

However, its ability in winter conditions is a tad limited, as indicated by its score of 6.3. While it may suffice for mild winter environments, those residing in regions prone to heavy snowfall and icy conditions might want to look for more specialized options.

Comfort is an essential aspect of any driving experience, and the DriveGuard doesn’t fall short. With a score of 7.8 in ride comfort, it suggests that the tire effectively reduces road disturbances, ensuring a relatively smooth journey.

When considering longevity, the tire’s tread wear rating of 7.5 shows that it offers a decent lifespan. Though it might not be the longest-lasting option available, it ensures that drivers can go considerable distances before thinking of a replacement.

In summary, the Bridgestone DriveGuard is a solid choice in the realm of run-flat tires. While it might not be the top performer in extreme conditions, its balanced attributes across wet and dry terrains, coupled with decent comfort, make it a worthwhile consideration for many drivers.

Pros

• Decent handling in both wet and dry conditions.
• Acceptable ride comfort.
• Fair tread durability.

Cons

• Winter weather performance is slightly lacking.
• Not the best in any specific category.

Continental ProContact RX SSR

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Description

The ProContact RX SSR by Continental stands out as an all-season tire, meticulously crafted for coupes and luxury performance sedans. It promises an enhanced grip and handling in both dry and wet conditions, ensuring a seamless blend of performance with a quiet and comfortable driving experience.

Specifically designed for year-round use, it’s an ideal choice for drivers who prefer not to switch their tires with changing seasons. The unique tread design plays a pivotal role, enhancing traction and refining steering responsiveness.

Additionally, a computer-optimized design effectively dampens road noises, offering passengers a tranquil journey. Notably, the tire’s low rolling resistance serves as an eco-friendly feature, optimizing fuel consumption and allowing drivers to maximize their miles per gallon. An invaluable safety feature is

Continental’s Self-Sustaining RunFlat technology. This innovation proves its mettle during unexpected punctures or pressure losses, granting drivers the capability to continue their journey for up to 50 miles at speeds not exceeding 50 mph, ensuring they reach a safe location for tire replacement.

Moreover, the tire is backed by Continental’s comprehensive Total Confidence Plan, which includes a spectrum of benefits from Road Hazard and Limited Warranty to Flat Tire Roadside Assistance and Mileage Warranty, although certain conditions apply.

Review

In the expansive spectrum of run-flat tires, the Continental ProContact RX SSR distinguishes itself as a solid performer. With an overall average score of 7.5, it’s evident that the tire strikes a balance between varied conditions and the demands of the everyday driver.

When it comes to wet weather, the ProContact RX SSR posts a score of 7.6, showcasing its capability to handle slippery and moist road conditions. This score is indicative of a tire that, while not the top performer in its class, offers decent protection against hydroplaning and maintains grip when it matters most. On the drier side of things, the tire truly stands out, boasting an impressive rating of 9.2. Such a high score in dry conditions underscores its excellent traction and stability, providing drivers with peace of mind on those clear, sunny drives.

However, where winter weather is concerned, the tire presents a potential weak spot with a score of 4.2. This rating suggests that it may not be the best fit for regions known for their heavy snowfalls and icy roads. Instead, it’s more apt for milder winter environments or regions where winter conditions are infrequent.

Ride comfort is an area where the ProContact RX SSR holds its own, recording a score of 7.5. This means drivers and passengers can expect a reasonably comfortable journey, with minimized road disturbances and a fairly smooth drive. In terms of tread wear, the tire impresses with a strong score of 8.9, hinting at a longer lifespan and fewer trips to the tire shop for replacements.

In conclusion, the Continental ProContact RX SSR is a commendable option in the run-flat tire market. Its stellar performance in dry conditions, combined with good ride comfort and tread wear, make it a solid choice, although those in harsher winter regions might want to consider alternatives.

Pros

• Excellent performance in dry conditions.
• Durable tread life.

Cons

• Subpar winter weather handling.
• Below-average ride comfort.
• Wet weather performance could be better.

Continental ProContact TX SSR

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Description

The ProContact TX is an all-season luxury touring tire that merges high performance with a serene, comfortable drive, boasting impressive mileage and robust braking capabilities.

With its state-of-the-art silica compound, this tire excels in fuel efficiency by significantly lowering rolling resistance, resulting in commendable gas mileage. Its intricate multidirectional tread design not only ensures superior grip but also effectively minimizes road noise, ensuring both optimal traction and a peaceful ride.

This tire stands out for enhancing steering accuracy and dry condition performance, striking a harmonious balance between comfort and all-season touring prowess.

An exceptional feature is its Self-Supporting Runflat (SSR) technology. This entails a reinforced sidewall design that prevents the tire’s interior from being squeezed between the road and the rim or from descending into the rim well if there’s a loss of air. This technology provides drivers with the assurance of continuing their journey for up to 50 miles at a maximum speed of 50 mph, though this may vary based on road conditions and vehicle load.

Review

Delving deeper into the run-flat tire sector, the Continental ProContact TX SSR makes its presence felt. Garnering an overall average score of 7.5, this tire presents itself as a reliable choice for those prioritizing a balanced performance.

For those unpredictable rain showers, the ProContact TX SSR achieves a wet weather score of 8.1. This suggests that the tire holds its own during those rainy drives, providing the driver with ample grip and reduced hydroplaning risks. Transitioning to dry roads, it secures a respectable score of 8.4. Such a rating signifies that the tire ensures stable handling and consistent traction, ideal for everyday drives.

Winter weather, however, is where this tire reveals its limitations. With a rating of 7.2, while it isn’t at the bottom of the pack, it might not be the go-to choice for those facing intense winter scenarios. Yet, for lighter snowfalls and colder temperatures, it should perform adequately.

Ensuring a pleasant drive, the ProContact TX SSR offers a ride comfort score of 7.3. This implies that passengers and drivers will experience a relatively smooth ride with fewer disturbances from bumpy roads or other inconsistencies. On the longevity front, the tire’s tread wear rating of 6.3 paints a picture of a tire with a decent lifespan, though there might be others in the market offering extended durations between replacements.

Summing it up, the Continental ProContact TX SSR emerges as a balanced option for those in the market for run-flat tires. Its consistent performance in wet and dry conditions, combined with satisfactory comfort levels, makes it a viable choice for many. However, potential buyers might want to weigh its winter performance and tread wear against their specific needs.

Pros

• Consistent performance in both wet and dry conditions.
• Fair winter weather performance.

Cons

• Tread life is below average.
• Ride comfort isn’t outstanding.

Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat

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Description

The Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat by Pirelli is a Grand Touring All-Season tire suitable for sports coupes, sedans, and small Crossover vehicles. Equipped with Pirelli’s advanced Self-Supporting Run Flat Technology, these tires can continue to function for up to 50 miles at 50 mph even after a puncture results in total air pressure loss. This offers drivers enhanced safety and convenience. Designed for varied American weather conditions, it assures all-season traction, even in light snow.

This tire is a testament to Pirelli’s Green Performance philosophy, balancing driving pleasure, safety, performance, and environmental responsibility. This is emphasized by Pirelli’s Ecoimpact icons on the tire sidewalls, which signify energy efficiency, clean air contribution, reduced noise, and durability.

The tire boasts a low rolling resistance tread compound, enriched with advanced polymers, which boosts grip on both wet and dry surfaces while promoting fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. Its asymmetric tread design ensures even wear, comfort, and decreased noise. The tire’s structure supports enhanced grip, hydroplaning resistance, wet traction, and snow traction, thanks to its design elements like a robust outboard shoulder and multiple circumferential channels.

Its build features twin steel belts for added strength, reinforced by a polyester cord body. Pirelli’s unique manufacturing process, supported by their MIRS robotic system, guarantees the consistent application of sidewall reinforcements, enabling the tire’s distinctive run-flat capabilities.

Review

Pirelli, a brand synonymous with performance and innovation, brings to the table the Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat. With an average score of 7.5, this tire is a commendable entrant in the realm of run-flat tires, embodying a mix of efficiency and reliability.

Navigating through wet terrains, the Cinturato P7 flaunts a score of 8.2. This indicates a tire that has been designed to tackle rain-soaked roads effectively, ensuring a decent grip and reducing the risks associated with hydroplaning. When the skies clear up and the roads are dry, it performs respectably, earning a score of 8.6, a testament to its consistent traction and steady handling.

However, as winter descends, this tire’s rating of 6.3 suggests a moderate performance. While it’s not ideally tailored for extreme snowy conditions, it should be apt for lighter snow and colder days, ensuring a reasonable grip and stability.

The journey isn’t just about grip and weather adaptability; it’s also about the overall ride experience. With a ride comfort rating of 7.4, the Cinturato P7 ensures that drivers and passengers experience a relatively undisturbed and smooth journey, making it a good choice for those who prioritize comfort on the road. In the durability department, the tire’s tread wear score of 6.8 indicates a decent lifespan, ensuring that one can expect a fair amount of mileage before contemplating a replacement.

In summary, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Run Flat emerges as a well-rounded tire, adept at managing both wet and dry conditions with reasonable comfort. While it may not be the top choice for harsh winter landscapes, its overall features and performance make it a worthy consideration for those exploring run-flat tire options.

Pros

• Respectable wet and dry performance.
• Decent ride comfort.

Cons

• Tread wear is on the lower side.
• Winter weather handling is not optimal.

Bridgestone Turanza EL450 RFT

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Description

The Bridgestone Turanza EL450 RFT is an all-season touring tire suitable for passenger vehicles and SUVs. It offers excellent traction across all weather conditions, thanks to its durable all-season compound and detailed tread design. This design ensures flexibility in varying temperatures, enhanced grip, and resistance to hydroplaning due to its four circumferential grooves.

The tire’s asymmetric ribbed tread ensures superior high-speed control, improving steering responsiveness and driving stability. This tread design, combined with the shoulder block placement, ensures better cornering and shorter braking distances, thereby heightening driving safety.

One of the standout features of this tire is its run-flat capability. If the tire loses air pressure, it can still function for 50 miles at speeds up to 50 mph, allowing drivers to reach a safe location for repair or replacement. However, it’s essential to note that run-flat tires shouldn’t be mixed with regular tires on the same vehicle due to their unique structure.

Another advantage of the Turanza EL450 RFT is its durability at high speeds. Its tread design and heat-resistant compound prevent heat build-up, ensuring the tire retains its shape and performs optimally even under high-speed stress.

Lastly, this tire promises a comfortable and quiet ride. The combination of its tread design and variable pitch placement effectively reduces road noise, ensuring a serene driving environment for passengers.

Review

Stepping into the competitive world of run-flat tires, Bridgestone’s Turanza EL450 RFT marks its territory with noteworthy attributes. With an average score of 7.3, this tire confidently sits in the mid-tier range, offering a combination of durability and dependable performance.

In the realm of wet weather driving, the Turanza EL450 RFT achieves a rating of 7.4. This suggests that while it isn’t the top performer in torrential conditions, it offers a fairly reliable grip, ensuring safety during those sudden downpours. Transitioning to sunnier days, its dry weather rating of 8.3 signifies a tire that can maintain a consistent grip and provide stable handling, proving its versatility across varying road conditions.

Winter performance is crucial, especially for those residing in snow-prone regions. The Turanza EL450 RFT posts a score of 6.1 in this category. This implies that while it may manage lighter snowfalls and colder temperatures, those in severe winter conditions might seek a more specialized tire.

Comfort is never to be compromised, and this tire doesn’t lag too far behind, offering a ride comfort rating of 7.6. This indicates that drivers can expect a relatively smooth and pleasant drive, with minimal road noise and vibrations. Delving into the tire’s lifespan, its tread wear score of 7.1 paints a picture of a decently durable product, ensuring a good run before the need for replacement arises.

In conclusion, the Bridgestone Turanza EL450 RFT presents itself as a balanced tire choice. While it may not be the standout performer in any single category, its consistent scores across various conditions make it a reasonable option for those seeking a mix of comfort, performance, and durability in their run-flat tires.

Pros

• Stable dry weather performance.
• Reasonable ride comfort.

Cons

• Wet weather handling is slightly below average.
• Winter performance isn’t the best.
• Average tread life.

Hankook Optimo H426B HRS

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Description

The Hankook Optimo H426 tire is revered for its smooth ride, excellent grip, and impressive fuel efficiency. Widely preferred by automakers, this all-season touring tire boasts a unique tread pattern that ensures enhanced traction in dry, wet, and even mildly snowy conditions.

Its design, reinforced by two broad steel belts, guarantees superior steering and cornering on diverse road surfaces. Computer-aided design has equipped the tire with circumferential grooves and a diamond-shaped block that effectively counteracts hydroplaning by shedding standing water.

Furthermore, the tire’s diamond block design ensures optimal handling in both wet and dry conditions. For durability and quietness, it has a rib type shoulder block that promotes even tire wear and diminishes road noise. With the added support of two wide steel belts and a high stiffness bead filler, drivers can enjoy precise and confident cornering.

Review

Hankook, a name renowned for bringing innovation and technology to the forefront of tire manufacturing, presents the Optimo H426B HRS. Holding an overall average score of 7.1, this tire offers a blend of functionalities suitable for the discerning motorist.

Starting off with its wet weather capabilities, the Optimo H426B HRS posts a score of 6.0. While this suggests it might not be the foremost choice for those consistently driving in rainy locales, it provides a basic level of grip necessary for occasional rain showers. On dry terrains, the tire impresses more with a commendable rating of 8.2, which emphasizes its ability to offer consistent traction and a stable ride during regular driving conditions.

Venturing into winter territories, this tire showcases a score of 4.8. It’s evident that it’s not tailored for heavy snow or icy conditions, but for mild winter scenarios or sporadic snowfalls, it might fare decently.

A smooth and comfortable drive is paramount, and with a ride comfort score of 7.8, the Optimo H426B HRS ensures that journeys are relatively undisturbed, minimizing road noise and disturbances. As for longevity, the tread wear score of 7.9 is quite promising. It indicates that the tire is built to last, potentially offering drivers extended durations before replacements become necessary.

To wrap it up, the Hankook Optimo H426B HRS makes its mark as a versatile tire, especially shining in dry conditions and ride comfort. However, potential buyers might want to gauge its wet and winter performance against their local climates and driving needs before making a choice.

Pros

• Decent dry weather handling.
• Acceptable ride comfort.
• Fair tread durability.

Cons

• Wet weather performance is below par.
• Winter weather performance is suboptimal.

Continental ContiProContact SSR

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Description

The ContiProContact SSR by Continental is a Grand Touring All-Season run-flat tire, designed to offer extended mobility during a complete air loss from a puncture. Aiming to combine aesthetics, low noise, and the benefit of prolonged mobility with all-season traction, it is capable of operating in light snow.

If a flat occurs, the tire’s reinforced sidewall allows drivers to continue at speeds up to 50 mph for approximately 50 miles, based on road and vehicle conditions. Its symmetric notched-rib tread design ensures constant road contact, enhancing steering and handling, while its broad circumferential grooves boost hydroplaning resistance and wet traction.

The ContiProContact SSR’s design employs PROactive Edge Technology, embedding over 800 arched edges in each tire for improved stormy-weather traction and reduced road noise.

Internally, twin steel belts fortified by spirally wrapped nylon support tread uniformity and high-speed durability, while the robust sidewalls protect against potential pinching between the road and rim during deflation.

Review

The Continental ContiProContact SSR offers itself as a noteworthy option in the bustling world of run-flat tires. Achieving an overall average score of 6.9, this tire aims to strike a balance between performance and durability, ensuring safety without compromising on comfort.

When faced with wet conditions, the ContiProContact SSR achieves a score of 7.4, suggesting that it provides a satisfactory level of grip during rainy drives. This ensures that the driver can navigate through wet terrains with a reasonable level of confidence. On the drier side of things, its score of 8.3 is commendable, reflecting the tire’s ability to offer consistent traction and handle well in regular driving scenarios.

Yet, winter driving emerges as a potential weak point for this tire, with a score of 5.6. This suggests that while it might be suitable for occasional snowfalls or colder conditions, it may not be the best fit for areas with intense winter weather, requiring more specialized tires.

In terms of ride comfort, the ContiProContact SSR records a score of 6.5. This means that while the tire provides a basic level of comfort, there might be room for improvement to further enhance the overall driving experience. Durability, an aspect often prioritized by motorists, is represented by a tread wear score of 6.5. This implies a decent lifespan, though there might be other options in the market with a more extended duration between tire changes.

In summation, the Continental ContiProContact SSR positions itself as a reliable choice for drivers seeking decent performance across varied conditions. Its strong points in dry weather and reasonable wet performance make it a candidate worth considering, but potential buyers should weigh its comfort and winter capabilities against their personal requirements.

Pros

• Stable performance in dry conditions.
• Fair wet weather handling.

Cons

• Ride comfort and tread life are below average.
• Winter weather handling could be better.

Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS RFT

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The Bridgestone Potenza RE97 A/S is an all-season performance tire tailored for sports and performance vehicles, suitable for models like the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Chrysler 300. Ranging in sizes from 17”-20”, this tire offers numerous benefits.

As a run-flat tire, it allows drivers to continue for 50 miles at 50mph after complete air loss. It boasts an optimized footprint for even wear and consistent handling, and a fine-tuned tread pattern ensures responsive steering.

The tire’s advanced shoulder stiffness enhances cornering capabilities, while its unique compound maximizes grip during braking and cornering. The tread polymer technology prolongs wear, and its optimized casing boosts fuel efficiency, providing cost savings.

Furthermore, Bridgestone backs this tire with a 90-Day Buy & Try Guarantee.

Review

Bridgestone, a titan in the tire industry, introduces the Potenza RE97AS RFT as a component of its run-flat tire lineup. Boasting an overall average score of 6.3, this tire caters to the segment that values safety, all while acknowledging some limitations.

On the wet performance front, the Potenza RE97AS RFT notches up a score of 7.2. This reflects its competence in handling occasional downpours, although it might not be the top choice for consistently wet environments. When roads are dry and the sun is shining, this tire demonstrates a decent capability, evidenced by its score of 8.0. This suggests that drivers can rely on it for stable traction and handling during everyday commutes.

However, one can’t overlook its winter weather rating of 5.7. While this isn’t the lowest in its category, it does indicate a moderate performance in colder conditions. Those residing in areas prone to heavy snowfall or icy roads might want to explore more specialized winter options.

Ride comfort is an aspect where this tire seems to fall slightly short, with a score of 6.3. This might mean a bit more road noise or a firmer ride than some of its competitors. Additionally, the tread wear score of 4.5 is somewhat concerning for those prioritizing longevity in their tire choices, suggesting a shorter lifespan compared to other tires in its class.

In conclusion, the Bridgestone Potenza RE97AS RFT offers itself as a viable choice for those who prioritize dry performance and are willing to compromise slightly on comfort and longevity. Potential buyers should weigh its strengths and limitations against their specific driving needs and conditions.

Pros

• Good performance in dry conditions.
• Reasonable wet weather handling.

Cons

• Below-average ride comfort.
• Tread wear is notably less durable.
• Winter performance isn’t the best.

Goodyear Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat

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Key Performance Metrics

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Description

The Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat by Goodyear is a Grand Touring All-Season tire tailored for European sedans and crossovers. It utilizes Goodyear’s RunOnFlat technology, offering temporary mobility after total air pressure loss.

These tires ensure all-season traction, including in light snow. They feature a symmetric tread design that’s computer-optimized for a quieter ride. Broad channels enhance wet traction, while sipes improve snow grip.

Internally, they have twin steel belts, sometimes reinforced by nylon, for strength and high-speed durability. Their reinforced sidewalls can support the vehicle’s weight even after a total loss of air.

Review

Goodyear, a brand synonymous with heritage and innovation in the tire industry, offers the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat. With an overall average score of 6.2, this tire is positioned in the run-flat segment, meeting the needs of those who prioritize essential functionalities and safety features.

In wet conditions, the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat garners a score of 6.8, indicating that it provides an adequate grip on wet roads. For dry terrains, the tire boasts a score of 7.4, suggesting its ability to offer consistent performance and navigate daily driving situations competently.

When evaluating winter capabilities, it achieves a rating of 4.9. This score reflects potential challenges when faced with severe snowy or icy conditions. For regions experiencing milder winters, it might be a fit, but for intense winter climates, a more specialized tire could be more suitable.

Comfort remains a focal point for many drivers. With a ride comfort rating of 5.9, the Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat offers a baseline driving experience. As for durability, the tread wear score of 5.9 implies a reasonable lifespan, though there might be other alternatives in the market that offer extended durability.

In summary, the Goodyear Eagle LS-2 RunOnFlat emerges as a balanced tire choice within the run-flat category. Its commendable performance in dry conditions, combined with its acceptable wet weather capabilities, solidify its place in the market. Potential buyers should consider its winter and comfort metrics when deciding if it aligns with their specific driving requirements.

Pros

• Fair performance in dry conditions.
• Adequate wet weather handling.

Cons

• Winter weather handling is suboptimal.
• Ride comfort and tread life are both below average.

Types Of Run Flat Tires

As run-flat tires have evolved, the methods of dealing with punctured tires and maintaining tire pressure have as well.

Let’s briefly review the different types of run-flat tires and explain the pros and cons of each type.

Self-Sealing

The simplest and arguably best run-flat tires are the self-sealing run flat. Self-sealing tires have a lot of benefits, but they aren’t a perfect solution for everyone.

Self-sealing run-flat tires perform like conventional tires in almost every way. They are constructed essentially the same as traditional radial tires with the exception of the addition of an extra layer built into the inner layer of the tire that will seal around an object that punctures the tire.

They will also seal a hole left by an object that is pulled out of a tire that is as large as 3/16″. Tires with punctures much larger than this can not be repaired whether they are run flats or not.

The self-sealing materials used in these tires form a permanent patch in the puncture automatically and require no repair. They will also not lose any meaningful amount of air pressure when punctured. The seal forms almost instantly.

Usually, the driver will not even be aware that there has been a puncture. They will continue driving blissfully unaware there was ever an incident. The patch will continue to hold and no action needs to be taken by the owner.

If there is a foreign object still embedded in the tire, like a screw or nail, it can safely be removed and the tire will seal back around the puncture immediately.

The one downside to this type of run-flat tire is that it is unable to deal with larger punctures. Anything large than 3/16″ will not be able to properly seal the hole and will still leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Pros

• Automatically seals punctures up to 3/16″
• Tire construction is identical to conventional radial tires and performs the same

Cons

• Can’t run flat with zero pressure
• Will fail to seal punctures larger than 3/16″ and fail, leaving you stranded

Self-Supporting

Self-supporting run-flat tires are what most people think of when they think of a run-flat tire. These are tires that have stiffer sidewalls that are reinforced to allow the tire to support the weight of the car or truck without the help of air pressure.

These tires are capable of being driven on without air in them for up to 50 miles at a speed no greater than 50 miles per hour. This means that when your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) detects a significant drop in pressure, you will need to immediately find a safe place where you can then deal with the problem.

You will need to pay close attention to the TPMS indicator since run-flat tires can be difficult to “feel” when flat tires occur. You will want to check the individual pressures of each tire to determine if the tire is simply low or completely flat. This is especially true if you’re driving at highway speeds.

Not all TPMS systems are capable of detecting the actual tire pressure and may only be able to alert you to a pressure inconsistency in one of the tires. If this is your situation, you will need to pay special attention to this warning and check the pressures of your tires manually every time this type of TPMS warns you of a problem.

Self-supporting run-flat tires are known for their harsh ride quality due to their very stiff sidewall design. This can be quite uncomfortable, especially with low-profile tires and vehicles with stiffer suspensions.

It should also be noted that a conventional tire or self-sealing run flat will be lighter than heavier run-flat tires with self-supporting sidewalls.

Pros

• Can run-flat with zero pressure
• Can provide 50 miles of range at up to 50 miles per hour

Cons

• Harsh ride quality
• Heavier than a conventional tire or self-sealing run-flat tires

Auxiliary-Supported

Auxiliary-supported run-flat tires are similar to having a tire within a tire. Inside the tire is a support ring that is mounted to the wheel. It is structurally supportive and allows you to continue driving until you can reach a safe location.

It works a lot like self-supporting run-flat tires with the exception that you won’t have the harsh ride quality associated with the stiffer sidewall.

Unfortunately, auxiliary-supported tires have a few significant downsides that have prevented their acceptance in the marketplace. Expense is the largest issue. They require a specially-designed wheel to allow the mounting of the inner support ring. They also have never achieved significant volume production to allow replacement costs to come down.

Michelin had an auxiliary-supported run-flat design known as PAX which they have discontinued due to vehicle manufacturers not being willing to back the design and help Michelin bring it into mainstream acceptance.

Pros

• A run-flat design that eliminates the harsh ride quality of traditional self-supporting sidewall run flats

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires a unique wheel designed to support this system
• Not widely available

Tires generally fall into one of three main categories – All-Season, Summer, and Winter.

Within these are typically performance or touring tires. Performance tires prioritize traction in dry and wet conditions but tend to have shorter life spans. Grand touring tires prioritize comfort and noise in exchange for extreme performance.

It’s important to distinguish between the type of tire design and as well as the type of run-flat design to understand which one will be best for you and your needs.

Let’s take a closer look.

Review Process

It’s nearly impossible to collect every available tire on the market and measure their performance under the exact same conditions. UTQG attempts to do this but it’s an old methodology and needs updating, but it still provides some valuable insight.

A better metric for measuring tire performance is a large sample of customer feedback specifically answering questions about individual performance characteristics.

With a large enough pool of customer comments and grades, a reasonably accurate ranking can be made for how well you will find a tire to work for you in a given situation.

Third-party customer feedback is compiled and averaged across multiple performance metrics and averaged to provide an overall score and each tire is ranked based on these criteria.

Customer feedback is broken down into the following:

• Wet Traction
• Dry Traction
• Comfort
• Treadwear

In this case, the tires were also ranked specifically on customer feedback regarding snow performance.

Unfortunately, not every tire has the sales volume to collect a sizable enough database of feedback from real-world customers. This means you won’t find lesser-known brands and shorter-run models in our reviews.

However, when manufacturers that may not be household names hit a home run, the tire will become popular and eventually rise to the attention of enough customers that enough data will be collected to allow for a reasonable ranking of it versus the competition.

Over time this article will be updated and as new designs come to the market that pushes the performance envelope further and set a new bar, you’ll find them here.

Resources

Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires

• What are run flat tires? – Tire Rack
• Self sealing tires: A marketing spin or do they really work? – TiresVote.com

Final Thoughts

After thorough evaluation, certain tires rise above the rest in distinct categories. The Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP reigns supreme as the best overall, excelling in ride comfort and delivering a balanced performance throughout varying conditions.

When faced with wet or rainy conditions, drivers would be wise to consider the Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus, while those driving predominantly in dry climates can confidently opt for either the Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus or Continental ProContact RX SSR.

As winter approaches, the Continental ProContact GX SSR showcases itself as the dependable option, ready to tackle snow-laden roads. And for those concerned about longevity and maximizing their investment, the Continental ProContact RX SSR’s impressive tread wear rating underscores its durability.

While each of these tires possess its unique strengths, these recommendations serve as a roadmap for those seeking the best in run-flat tire performance across various categories.