Uniroyal Tyres was first founded under the name of the United States Rubber Company, way back in 1892. Since then, it has become a leading tyre manufacturer in the United States, supplying tyres for everyday driving as well as military vehicles and weapons equipment. While during WW2 the United States commissioned Uniroyal to produce ammunition, automotive demand outweighed this again by 1943 – with Uniroyal Tyres solidifying its market name as a mid-range brand for drivers.
The ownership of Uniroyal Tyres means that depending on where you are in the world, the brand and its products benefit from different levels of premium research, innovation, and exposure. Uniroyal sits under Michelin ownership across the United States and is owned by Continental AG across Europe and the rest of the world. Nevertheless, both are premium brands – and both ensure that Uniroyal models are built to last with superior durability and reliability.
But if Uniroyal Tyres are known for anything specific, it’s their wet grip – and the technology at play that ensures these tyres do not suffer from hydroplaning and a loss of traction. Here’s why Uniroyal Tyres are so good in wet weather.
Why Are Uniroyal Tyres So Good in Wet Weather?
UK drivers listen up, because this is a feature you will definitely want to know more about.
The wet grip capability of Uniroyal Tyres means, in short, that they run an extremely low risk of aquaplaning – thereby keeping drivers safe, with superior handling and steady control on the roads. The technology used by Uniroyal is called Shark Skin technology, which channels water away from the surface of the tyre to facilitate a clean grip across the entire tyre surface.
Some other aspects of the Uniroyal Tyre design, that make them so good when it comes to wet grip and adverse weather, include the reinforced sidewalls for extra strength and grip, the asymmetric tread pattern which maximises traction, and the deep treads which are notably effective when it comes to water channelling in wet weather.
Of course, all of these are modern innovations, and ensure that Uniroyal Tyres are well suited to challenging conditions today. But what many drivers don’t realise is that Uniroyal’s history is also steeped in wet grip and superior traction.
Uniroyal’s History of Superior Wet Grip Design
In the 1960s, Uniroyal developed what became known as a ‘rain tyre’, carefully constructed and very specifically designed to ensure that the driver could maintain excellent grip and handling precision even in heavy rain.
This was a revolutionary design trait and tyre feature in the 1960s, and is what solidified Uniroyal’s status as a leading wet weather tyre brand; a status and reputation that has never really left the brand.
What Are Some Other Top Features of Uniroyal Tyres?
Aside from being noted across the market for their wet grip and ability to handle adverse weather, Uniroyal Tyres are fuel efficient and support a comfortable driving experience – with low noise and a durable design that maintains optimum balance for as long as possible.
Because Uniroyal Tyres is positioned as a mid-range brand in terms of its pricing and place on the market, it tends to be a brand that exceeds expectations. The ownership under Michelin / Continental AG means that Uniroyal is exposed to leading research and development, while the continued innovation of its own technologies ensures the brand maintains its unique market position.
Other benefits noted by drivers include:
- Durability, with tread patterns and tread blocks that wear slowly but evenly
- Commitment to sustainability, as seen in the materials used and the construction of tyres
- The diverse and wide range of tyres, that aren’t just got wet weather driving but are also great for off-road and high-performance driving
