Best Tires for Road Trips & Long-Distance Driving

Best Tires for New Drivers in 2025

New drivers face a multitude of challenges when they first hit the road, from mastering the rules of the road to developing safe driving habits. One critical aspect of safe driving that's often overlooked is choosing the right tires for your vehicle.

Selecting the best tires as a new driver can be overwhelming, given the wide variety of brands, types, and sizes available on the market. However, making an informed decision is crucial, as tires directly impact your vehicle's safety, performance, and comfort.

In this article, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the best tires for new drivers, focusing on key features to look for and important considerations to keep in mind. By the end, you'll be equipped with the knowledge needed to make a confident and informed tire purchase.

What are the Best Tires for New Drivers?

When shopping for tires as a new driver, prioritize models that offer excellent all-season traction, providing reliable performance in various weather conditions—including wet roads and light snow.

1. Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus is a top-tier, ultra-high-performance all-season tire engineered for passenger cars, CUVs, and SUVs. It delivers precise handling on both wet and dry roads, along with shorter braking distances. Built with Continental’s SPORTPLUS+ technology, it offers enhanced grip, especially on slippery surfaces. The tire also comes with a 50,000-mile limited tread life warranty and is supported by Continental’s Total Confidence Plan, making it a standout option for drivers.

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus received an impressive SimpleScore rating of 9.4 out of 10. Starting at $134.99 per tire, it is available in tire sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches and delivers exceptional performance in Handling (9.8), Traction (9.8), and longevity (8.9).

Get Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus tires at the best deals for your vehicle here

2. Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus

The Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus is an all-season tire designed for coupes, sedans, and minivans, offering improved fuel efficiency along with a quiet and comfortable ride. Featuring a special tread compound and innovative design, these tires minimize rolling resistance for a smoother driving experience. Backed by a 70,000-mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty, it’s an excellent choice for your vehicle.

The Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus is available for tire sizes ranging from 15 to 18 inches and earned an impressive SimpleScore rating of 8.8 out of 10, reflecting its outstanding features and performance. It excels in longevity with a score of 9.4, followed by 8.8 in handling and 8.7 in traction with a starting price of $129.96 per tire.

Get Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus tires at the best deals for your vehicle here

3. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2

The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 is an all-weather tire designed for passenger vehicles like sedans, coupes, CUVs, and SUVs, providing enhanced year-round traction. This tire holds a Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, making it suitable for moderate to extreme winter conditions. It also comes with a 60,000-mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty and features Goodyear’s AquaTread design for improved grip.

In addition to these benefits, the tire uses a rubber compound infused with soybean oil for better flexibility and traction in subfreezing temperatures. With all these advanced features, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 earned an impressive average SimpleScore rating of 9.1 out of 10 with scores of 9.1 in traction and handling and 9.2 in longevity. Available in tire sizes 16 to 22 inches, the tire costs at least $177.99 per tire.

Get Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here

4. Firestone Destination LE3

The Firestone Destination LE3 is an all-season tire designed for CUVs, SUVs, and light trucks. Equipped with Firestone's Hydro-Grip Technology, the Destination LE3 effectively channels water to reduce the risk of hydroplaning and improve wet performance. Its full-depth 3D sipes provide enhanced snow traction, ensuring reliable performance throughout the tire's lifespan. The tire also features TractionTech Technology, which minimizes uneven wear and promotes uniform wear for longer service life. For added visual appeal, the Destination LE3 offers optional outlined white lettering and a black sidewall.

Offering improved safety in both rain and snow over its predecessor, the LE2, the Destination LE3 is backed by a 70,000-mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty. Plus, with Firestone's 90-day Buy & Try Guarantee, you can return or exchange the tire for a full refund if you're not satisfied. With an 8.6 SimpleScore, the Firestone Destination LE3 delivers reliable handling (8.3), traction (8.3), and longevity (9.4) year-round. Starting at $151.99 per tire, the Destination LE3 is available in different tire sizes ranging from 15 to 22 inches.

Get Firestone Destination LE3 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here

5. Yokohama Avid Ascend GT

The Yokohama Avid Ascend GT is an all-season tire designed for performance cars, sedans, CUVs, SUVs, and minivans. Built for enhanced safety and control, it delivers shorter braking distances in rain and snow thanks to its advanced rubber compound. The TriBlend rubber compound further enhances wet traction for confident driving in various conditions.

Backed by a 65,000-mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty for non-staggered fitments and front-position tires in staggered fitments, and a 32,500-mile warranty for rear-position tires in staggered fitments, this tire is designed for durability.

With its balanced performance and innovative design, the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT earns an 8.5 SimpleScore, making it a solid choice for year-round driving. With scores of 8.7 in handling, 8.6 in longevity, and 8.3 in traction, the Avid Ascend GT is available in tire sizes ranging from 15 to 20 inches with a starting price of $111.99 per tire.

Get Yokohama Avid Ascend GT tires at the best deals for your vehicle here

Key Tire Features New Drivers Should Look For

These are some key factors a new driver should look for:

Traction and Handling

For new drivers, selecting tires that ensure reliable traction and responsive handling is essential to maintaining control on the road. Opt for tires that offer strong grip in both dry and wet conditions, enhancing stability during sudden stops and turns. Consider models with advanced tread designs that channel water away, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and boosting confidence in wet weather.

Durability and Tread Life

Prioritizing tires with robust construction and long-lasting materials is important for minimizing frequent replacements. Choose models that come with solid construction, ensuring they withstand the wear and tear of daily driving. Look for options that include comprehensive treadwear warranties, which provide added assurance and demonstrate the manufacturer's confidence in their product's longevity.

Comfort and Noise

New drivers should seek out tires engineered to offer a quiet, comfortable ride, which can significantly enhance the driving experience. Tires that dampen road noise contribute to a more serene cabin atmosphere, reducing driver fatigue over long distances. Select models that are praised for maintaining comfort throughout their lifespan, ensuring a smooth ride even as the miles add up.

Choosing the Right Tire Size and Type

Identifying the correct tire size is a foundational step in maintaining your vehicle's integrity and performance. Consult the vehicle's owner's manual or check the label found on the driver’s side door frame for the specified tire dimensions. This ensures the tires will accommodate the vehicle’s load requirements and fit seamlessly without compromising handling.

Maintaining the factory-recommended tire size and speed rating is vital for preserving the vehicle's design characteristics, including its handling and fuel economy. Tires that adhere to these specifications contribute to optimal stopping power and maneuverability, enhancing overall safety. Straying from these guidelines can lead to misalignment and inaccurate speed readings, potentially affecting driving dynamics.

Your local climate and prevailing weather patterns are crucial in determining the appropriate tire type. In areas with moderate temperatures, all-season tires typically provide sufficient year-round performance, balancing grip and ride comfort. For regions experiencing severe winter conditions, winter tires offer specialized traction designed for snow and ice. Utilize digital resources and platforms to explore tire options tailored to your vehicle and specific environmental conditions, ensuring a well-informed purchase decision.

Importance of Proper Tire Maintenance

Regular tire maintenance ensures your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, while also extending the life of your tires. Consistent upkeep can enhance fuel efficiency, improve ride comfort, and minimize the risk of tire-related mishaps.

Monthly Pressure Checks

Proper tire inflation is fundamental to maintaining vehicle safety and performance. Tires that lack adequate air pressure can suffer from increased friction, resulting in higher fuel consumption and potential overheating. Meanwhile, excess pressure can make tires vulnerable to impact damage. To avoid these pitfalls, measure your tire pressure monthly and before embarking on long journeys. Use a trustworthy gauge to make sure the pressure aligns with the manufacturer's specifications found in your vehicle's manual or on the driver's side door placard.

Tire Rotation and Inspection

Regular tire rotations, conducted every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, are vital for equalizing treadwear across all tires. Discrepancies in wear patterns can arise from factors like vehicle load and driving conditions, potentially affecting stability and grip. Routine rotations help distribute wear evenly, preserving traction and extending tire lifespan. Alongside rotations, conduct visual checks for any signs of damage, uneven wear, or lodged objects. Addressing these issues early prevents further complications and ensures a smoother, safer driving experience.

Monitoring Tread Depth

Keeping track of tread depth is crucial for maintaining adequate traction, especially during wet weather conditions. When tread depth approaches 4/32", it's time to consider replacing the tires to maintain reliable grip and handling. Regular inspections of your tread depth can alert you to the need for replacements, ensuring your vehicle remains prepared for various road conditions.

When to Replace Tires on Your First Vehicle

Knowing when to swap out your vehicle's tires is crucial for maintaining peak performance and safety. Tires naturally wear down over time, and recognizing the signs that indicate the need for replacement can prevent unexpected issues. One key factor is tread condition—once the tread becomes shallow and approaches the minimum legal limit, it’s time to start planning for new tires. For wet or snowy climates, more tread is necessary for optimal traction.

Look for tire wear indicators that are embedded within the tread design. These indicators become visible as the tire surface wears down, serving as an alert that the tire is nearing the end of its useful life. Regular checks for these indicators help ensure that tires are replaced before they become a safety risk, thereby maintaining the integrity and reliability of your vehicle on the road.

Additionally, consider the age of the tires even if visible wear seems minimal. Rubber compounds can degrade over time, leading to potential safety issues. If your tires are several years old, it's wise to have them evaluated for potential replacement. Be attentive to any unusual sensations like vibration or pulling while driving, as these can signal underlying tire or alignment problems that may necessitate immediate inspection and possible tire replacement.

Navigating the Tire Buying Process

Start your tire purchasing journey by leveraging digital tools that cater to your vehicle's specific requirements and driving conditions. These platforms offer tailored advice, simplifying the selection process by narrowing down options that align with your driving style and budget. Armed with this information, you can confidently choose tires that meet your needs.

Additionally, explore customer feedback and professional evaluations to gain insights into tire performance and reliability. Reviews provide firsthand accounts of how tires perform in real-world scenarios, while expert tests offer technical assessments of features like grip, noise levels, and longevity. This combination of perspectives will help you make a well-rounded decision.

When planning your budget, account for the full range of expenses beyond just the purchase price. Installation services, disposal of old tires, and optional protection plans can affect your overall cost. By evaluating these factors along with the tire's expected lifespan, you'll be better equipped to choose a cost-effective solution that ensures long-term satisfaction.

As you embark on your journey as a new driver, remember that investing in the right tires is a critical step in ensuring your safety and comfort on the road. We're here to help you navigate the tire buying process with ease, offering expert guidance and a wide selection of top-quality tires to suit your unique needs. When you're ready to make a purchase, shop for tires online with SimpleTire and discover the best deals, backed by our commitment to your satisfaction.