Performance tires are made of a softer rubber compound that maximizes
traction during aggressive driving. They are designed to dissipate heat more
effectively, since more heat is generated from aggressive or high-speed driving.
Also, at high speeds centrifugal force tries to throw the tire apart. To overcome
this force, there is a nylon overlay in the tire’s belt. When the nylon heats up
from the friction of driving, it shrinks. This action pulls the belt package tighter
together and, ultimately, keeps the tire from coming apart.
Light Truck Tires
The design of light truck tires allows them to work effectively under heavy
loads, as well as to operate in heavy-duty environments such as construction
work sites and off-road conditions.
The tread design of light truck tires varies. They can have a highway tread for
over-the-road work or aggressive lug patterns that provide maximum traction in
rough terrain.
The rubber compound in light truck tires is hard, which makes them more
durable. Steel or tough plies are woven into the carcass, providing a tough body
that resists breakage on impact and punctures from projectiles.