Tire Parts

Bead
The bead is made of high-strength steel wire covered with rubber, which makes the tire and the rim closely form the wheel.

Belt
The steel ribbon bundle surrounds the tire for one week to enhance strength and provide stability, and is made of a steel wire woven sheet composed of rubber-coated steel wire. Aramid cords are sometimes added to add extra strength, puncture resistance and durability.

Ply
The ply is the skeleton of a tire composed of fibers, usually made of fiber strands that are woven together that are covered with rubber. This will make your tires flexible. The ply, also known as the carcass ply, is placed directly on the innerliner of the tire from which the strength of the tire is provided.

Side wall
This is the area from the bead that extends to the thicker rubber of the tread and provides lateral stability of the tire. Here you will find all the information on tire manufacturing.

Sipe and groove
The tread blocks are separated by deep grooves, which will allow your tires to drain water, snow and mud. The sipe is a small groove engraved on the tread block that provides additional grip, which is especially important on tires made for snow and ice.

Shoulder
The slightly sloping edge portion of the tread and the sidewall joint portion of your tire. Its pattern and structure play an important role in your steering control.

Tread
This is the part of your tire that is in contact with the road. The tread provides both cushioning and grip, and its pattern and formula determine most of the important performance characteristics of your tire.