Tyre profile matters. To a certain extent, it affects how our car handles. Drivers can choose between high or low profile models. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, but from the point of view of the traveller the most important question is: which tyre profile is best?
What does tyre profile mean and how does it affect the way a car handles?
Tyre profile - what is it?
Many drivers, usually faced with a purchasing dilemma, wonder what the profile of a tyre is. In simple terms, it is the percentage of the cross-sectional height of a tyre compared to its width. A conventional distinction is made between high profile and low profile tyres.
For many automotive lovers, it is important to determine specific tyre dimensions. This is why questions such as "45 tyre profile - how many cm is it?" often appear on the web. The answer is simple, although we cannot give a universal answer. The value depends directly on the width.
Example:
For the 195/60 R15 model, the side height will be 60% of the 195 millimetre width, that is 117 mm. This is the high profile.
For the 215/35 R18 model, the side height will be 35% of the 215 millimetre width, that is 75.25 mm. This is a low profile.
In general, if the sidewall height is 50% or less of the sidewall width, we refer to a low profile; if the value is higher, we refer to a high profile. In other words, "low-profile" models are those whose sidewall height is small in relation to its cross-section width. As original equipment (OE), they are most often used on mid-range and top-of-the-range cars, especially on models that are described by their manufacturers as sporty or high-performance.
What do tyre profiles affect?
The correlation between tyre width and height is extremely important. There are at least two important reasons for this. The first is for appearance: a low profile tyre (e.g. 195/45 R16) will have a completely different visual appearance than a high profile tyre (e.g. 195/75 R16). This difference, in combination with an appropriately selected alloy wheel, can completely change the appearance of the car.
It should be stressed that this parameter really affects the handling and performance of the car, especially on models with extreme characteristics. Tyre profile 60 vs. 55 - such a difference does not make a big difference, but the change from a high to a very low profile is really noticeable "behind the wheel" (e.g. from 75 to 40).
Which tyre profile should I choose?
One of the main issues we consider when looking for new tyres is the correlation between tyre profile and driving comfort. Indeed, tyre size has a huge impact on the quality of the journey. Enthusiasts of each version are able to put forward a number of positive aspects of their chosen solution. When considering which tyre profile is right for your car, it is worth knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each option. It will then become much easier to make the right decision.
The height of the tyre profile translates into the appearance of the entire car.
Many drivers whose vehicles were originally fitted with standard high profile tyres choose to change and fit low profile tyres. These models have become a real trend in recent years. They are particularly sought after by those who want to emphasise the unique character of their car. Why do so many drivers dream about them?
They look much more attractive, grip the road well and provide better handling in corners. But a striking, fashionable appearance is not everything. Drivers notice a reduction in oversteer or good traction at higher speeds. The powerful cars drive noticeably smoother, and in the sports models, acceleration is noticeably more dynamic. In addition, users notice that braking is more effective in dry road conditions. At the same time, the possibility of fitting larger brake discs is an advantage for many motorists.
The list of positives looks encouraging. It is important to remember that every tyre is a kind of compromise. Advantages in some areas come with weaknesses in others. Low profile tyres have much poorer suppression of potholes and bumps, which can be uncomfortable to drive. They can also be much noisier than high profile models. Another problem is the lack of adequate protection against mechanical damage. The rim will not be adequately protected in this case and any contact with a large pothole or kerb may end up damaging it. Protective rim flanges help, but not all tyre manufacturers use sufficiently large protective elements.
The city is the domain of high profiles
High profile tyres are somewhat in opposition to this solution. They are characterised by the predominance of rubber elements and an unexposed rim. The high percentage of height to width ratio of the tyre cross-section mainly protects the rim and provides good damping of unevenness. For this reason, they are best suited to chaotic urban driving. Their advocates point to a number of additional advantages. First and foremost, they are much more durable, which protects them directly against mechanical damage. It should be emphasised that in the event of an extreme situation - a tyre blowout - the danger is reduced. They perform better on rainy days, as they effectively protect against aquaplaning. If driving on polluted roads, they will undoubtedly stand out for their shorter braking distance than the "slimmed down" versions. They generate significantly less noise, which increases driving comfort. They are also undoubtedly a more economical option. The tyres are less expensive and at the same time provide better vibration and shock absorption, which translates directly into slower suspension wear.
Tyre profile - what should I pay attention to?
A high profile is good protection against potholes, ruts and kerbs, at the expense of a striking appearance and high-speed performance. The different tyre profiles have their strengths and weaknesses. Many drivers wonder which tyre profile will be the best. It is difficult to give a definite answer. No doubt it all depends on individual preferences. There are a number of factors to consider when making a decision and then consider what will work best for you.
It is very often argued that a high profile in a tyre is a better choice. Proponents of this thesis argue their position with a simplification: Some roads are in poor condition. In fact, you will still find many places where the road surface is covered with potholes and ruts. There, driving on a low profile will be uncomfortable and even not recommended. When faced with a purchasing dilemma, it is worth considering what your most frequented areas are like. It may turn out that we mostly choose good or very good quality streets and, consequently, even a 45 tyre profile will work perfectly.
A higher tyre profile proves to be a safer choice in winter.
Further factors to consider are the model of car you drive and your driving style. Those who drive dynamically, sportily and mainly on motorways or high-speed roads, can safely opt for a low profile. On the other hand, if you drive a lot in town or on routes with very poor road conditions, you should look for a higher profile tyre.
Although we are seeing snow later than even a dozen years ago, and precipitation is generally less intense, drivers need to consider seasonality when thinking about tyre choice. For standard, fairly universal sizes, the height of the tyre is not so important. The season should not condition any change. However, this does not mean that both types will perform equally well for 12 months. What tyre profile for winter? In winter, "high profile" tyres are definitely better to drive on. They can withstand more "road inconveniences" without damage. In addition, the autumn and winter weather rarely allows you to enjoy full performance, so the benefits of low profile tyres are reduced to a minimum. The situation is different in summer. Repaired roads, good visibility and much better weather make it possible to enjoy the car's capabilities on summer tyres. For fast driving and dynamic cornering, sport tyres with a lower profile are ideal.