“Low profile” describes an especially short sidewall height, or aspect ratio, on a tyre. That’s the amount of rubber between the outside edge of the wheel or rim and the road.
They also have larger tread blocks, a stiffer, wider apex and can be made from specialized compounds.
Upgrade to low profile tyres
An upgrade to a tyre with a lower profile size than the original will generally improve the vehicles steering response, handling characteristics and overall aesthetics of the vehicle.
Advantages of low profile tyres
There will be some people that buy low profile tyres purely because they like the look of them. From a driving point of view, the primary reason for doing so is for improved handling at speed. Because low profile tyres are wider, they provide better grip and responsiveness in cornering. The bigger rims that go with them also allow for bigger brakes. These allow you to stop faster, which is a plus.
Disadvantages of low profile tyres
If your vehicle has not been designed to run on low profile tyres in may be less stable when fitted with them. In any car with low profile tyres, you will most likely experience a ‘rougher’ drive than with traditional tyres and will feel the irregularities of the road surface. Sidewalls and the rims are also more likely to suffer damage.
If you buy them
Buy a full set. Never mix low profile tyres and regular tyres on the same vehicle. Always have your new tyres fitted correctly by a professional.
