Ever wondered what makes Formula 1 tyres so unique? In this guide, we explore the five main types of F1 tyres — from soft to full wets — and explain how each performs in different track conditions. Learn how these high-speed tyres are engineered for grip, precision, and ultimate racing performance.
You won’t be surprised to learn that the tyres used in Formula 1 driving are not the same as the tyres used on an everyday SUV or runaround vehicle. Formula 1 driving, referred to from now on as F1 driving, exhibits different behaviours and responses, with speeds that quickly wear through tyres – meaning in a single race, tyres need to be changed at least once.
Most of us consider standard tyres under one umbrella, and F1 tyres under another one. But did you know that there are different types of F1 tyre for different conditions?
In this article, we’re breaking the F1 tyre market down into its different types – indicating which tyres are suitable for which conditions.
What’s Different About F1 Tyres?
When comparing F1 tyres to standard vehicle tyres, the biggest difference is in the design features and priorities.
When building F1 tyres, noise and comfort are not considered – and neither is longevity.
F1 tyres are built to last for less than single race and are 100% geared towards speed and driver response – navigating corners, complex tracks, and various road conditions.
Conversely, regular tyres for everyday vehicles are built to optimise comfort and safety on the road, as well as performance and response times.
The Different Types of F1 Tyre
There are five different types of F1 tyre used in Formula 1 racing at the time of writing in 2025.
These are:
- Soft tyres, the best tyre type for high performance when approaching corners, thanks to the maximum contact with the road
- Medium tyres, offer excellent grip which also lasting longer than soft tyres in terms of wear and tear
- Hard tyres, more durable than both soft and medium tyres, offer a stable performance (despite slightly slower speeds into the corners)
- Intermediate tyres, versatile tyres that offer great grip on dry or damp tracks
- Full wets, designed specifically for very wet conditions where the track has standing water on it, displacing water and maintaining high speeds
There used to be an additional specific corner of the market for grooved tyres, which made corners safer to navigate. However, owing to the reduced grip and contact patch between the tyre and the road surface, these tyres decreased driver speed as well – and so they were removed from the circuit in 2009.
Who Produces F1 Tyres?
At the time of writing, Pirelli is the official partner of tyres for Formula 1.
By using one manufacturer for all tyres, there remains a consistent standard across the board – ensuring all drivers are supplied with the highest performance, safest tyres for their vehicles.
There remains a high emphasis on testing and development, constantly improving tyres so that they are fit for purpose and deliver the able to perform in different conditions and on different surfaces.
Having said that, the design and build of the tyres in terms of specifics remains a closely guarded secret a Pirelli, to ensure the formula for industry-leading performance tyres does not get leaked to competitor brands.
Who Decides Which Tyres to Use For Each Event?
The decision of which tyres to use, from the tyre types listed and outlined above, comes down to each individual race team.
Using information about the track surface and quality, and the projected weather conditions, teams can determine which tyre compound will best suit their strategy.
NOTE: If a tyre fails on the track when the vehicle is not in the tyre change zone, the driver must retire from the race. So, it’s important to make the right decisions regarding tyre type, to ensure the vehicle can remain in the race for its duration.
