TYRE TREAD PATTERN GUIDE
The Complete NZ Guide to Directional, Symmetrical, Asymmetrical & Hybrid Patterns
Quick Facts You Need to Know
- Symmetrical (~60%): Mirror-image pattern — can rotate any direction, most flexible
- Asymmetrical (~30%): Different inner/outer zones — "OUTSIDE" marking must face outward
- Directional (~10%): V-shaped pattern — arrow must point direction of travel
- Hybrid (<1%): Asymmetrical + Directional combined — side AND direction specific
- WOF Rule: Same pattern type required on each axle (different front-to-rear is OK)
- Identification: Check sidewall for arrows or INSIDE/OUTSIDE markings
INTERACTIVE TOOLS
Use our interactive tools to check compatibility and identify patterns:
Interactive drag-and-drop tool to check if your tyre setup meets NZ WOF same-axle requirements. Get instant pass/fail results with explanations.
Check Your Axles →Can't read your tyre sidewall? Take a photo and our AI instantly identifies size, brand, pattern type, load index, and speed rating.
Scan Your Tyre →TREAD ANATOMY EXPLAINED
Before understanding patterns, learn the four key tread elements that all patterns use:
TREAD BLOCKS
Raised rubber segments that contact the road. Larger blocks = better dry grip and stability. Smaller blocks = better wet traction.
GROOVES
Deep channels running around or across the tyre. Channel water away from the contact patch to prevent hydroplaning.
RIBS
Continuous raised sections running circumferentially. Provide directional stability and consistent road contact.
SIPES
Thin slits cut into tread blocks. Create extra biting edges for improved grip on wet, icy, or slippery surfaces.
💡 Why Anatomy Matters
Different pattern types arrange these elements differently to optimise for specific conditions. Directional tyres point grooves toward the centre for water evacuation. Asymmetrical tyres use larger blocks on the outer shoulder for cornering grip.
THE FOUR TYRE PATTERN TYPES
Every tyre falls into one of four pattern categories. Understanding which type you have determines how tyres can be rotated, replaced, and mounted. For WOF compliance, tyres on the same axle must have the same pattern type.
SYMMETRICAL
Non-Directional / Multi-Directional
✓ ANY DIRECTIONLeft and right halves are mirror images. Tread blocks form continuous ribs. Can be mounted in any direction and rotated to any wheel position.
Identify: No sidewall markings for direction or orientation.
NZ Brands: Anchee AC808, Goodyear Assurance, Kumho Solus, Maxxis MA-P5, Hilo Green Plus
✓ Pros
- Full rotation flexibility
- Budget-friendly
- Quiet ride
- Long, even wear
- Easy replacement
✗ Cons
- Less wet grip
- Basic handling
- Not performance-oriented
ASYMMETRICAL
Dual-Zone / Inside-Outside Design
OUTSIDE MARKINGInner and outer halves have different patterns. Large outer blocks for dry cornering; smaller inner blocks with more sipes for wet grip.
Identify: Sidewall marked "OUTSIDE" or "THIS SIDE OUT" on one side, "INSIDE" on the other.
NZ Brands: Anchee AC818, Goodyear Eagle F1, Continental SportContact, Maxxis Victra
✓ Pros
- All-round performance
- Strong cornering
- Good wet/dry balance
- Can swap left-right
✗ Cons
- Must mount correctly
- Higher price
- Wrong mount = WOF fail
DIRECTIONAL
V-Pattern / Unidirectional
→ ROTATION ARROWFeatures a V-shaped or arrow pattern with lateral grooves pointing to the centre. Channels water outward for maximum hydroplaning resistance.
Identify: Arrow or "ROTATION" marking on sidewall showing required rolling direction.
NZ Brands: Comforser CF3000, Goodyear Eagle F1 GSD3, Michelin CrossClimate+
✓ Pros
- Excellent wet grip
- Hydroplaning resistance
- Great for NZ rain
- High-speed stability
✗ Cons
- Limited rotation
- Can't swap sides
- May wear faster
- Higher road noise
HYBRID
Asymmetrical + Directional Combined
RARE / SPECIALISTCombines both technologies: V-grooves offset from centre with different inner/outer zones. Most restrictive for mounting and rotation.
Identify: Has BOTH arrow marking AND inside/outside markings.
NZ Brands: Some ultra-high-performance tyres (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup, Pirelli P Zero Trofeo)
✓ Pros
- Maximum performance
- Best of both designs
- Track-day capable
✗ Cons
- Position-specific only
- No rotation possible
- Very expensive
- Rare availability
HOW TO IDENTIFY YOUR PATTERN
Check your tyre sidewall for these tell-tale signs. The markings are moulded into the rubber and visible on both inner and outer sides.
Arrow / Rotation?
Look for arrow symbol or "ROTATION" with direction indicator = DIRECTIONAL — mount with arrow pointing forward.
INSIDE / OUTSIDE?
Markings saying "OUTSIDE", "THIS SIDE OUT", or "INSIDE" = ASYMMETRICAL — OUTSIDE must face outward.
Neither?
No directional or inside/outside markings = SYMMETRICAL — can be mounted in any direction.
⚠️ Has BOTH Arrow AND Inside/Outside?
This is a hybrid (asymmetrical-directional) tyre. These are position-specific and can ONLY be used on one wheel position. They cannot be rotated without remounting. If you need to replace one, it must match exactly.
📷 Not Sure? Send Us a Photo!
Take a photo of your tyre sidewall and send it to our team. We'll identify your pattern type within minutes and recommend the best matching replacement.
SIDE-BY-SIDE COMPARISON
| Feature | Symmetrical | Asymmetrical | Directional | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wet Grip | ||||
| Dry Handling | ||||
| Tread Life | ||||
| Rotation Options | Any position ✓ | Any position ✓ | Same side only | Position-locked |
| Swap Left↔Right? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (needs remount) | ❌ No |
| Road Noise | Quiet | Quiet | Moderate | Loud |
| Price Range | 💲 Budget | 💲💲💲 Premium | 💲💲 Mid-Range | 💲💲💲💲 Specialist |
| Best For | Daily driving | All-round performance | Wet climates | Track days |
NZ WOF RULES & COMPLIANCE
🔑 The Key Rule (NZTA VIRM)
Tyres on the same axle must be of the same size, construction, and tread pattern type. Mixing pattern types on one axle = WOF fail.
Visual Examples: Pass vs Fail
✓ Rear: Both symmetrical
✓ Rear: Both asymmetrical
Different front-to-rear OK
✗ Rear: SYM + ASYM mixed
WOF FAIL
⚠️ Other WOF Mounting Failures
- ❌ Directional backwards — arrow not pointing direction of travel
- ❌ Asymmetrical inside-out — "INSIDE" marking facing outward
- ❌ Mixing radial + bias-ply — different construction types on same axle
- ❌ Different sizes on same axle — e.g., 205/55R16 + 215/60R16
🚨 Insurance Warning
Incorrectly fitted tyres may void your insurance in the event of an accident. Always verify sidewall markings before and after fitting.
CHECK YOUR AXLE COMPATIBILITY
Use our interactive tool to verify your tyre setup passes WOF requirements.
TYRE REPLACEMENT SCENARIOS
How to handle replacements based on how many tyres you need:
The new tyre must match the existing tyre on the same axle — same size, construction, and pattern type.
Replace both with matching tyres. New tyres go on rear axle for stability — move old fronts to rear if replacing fronts.
E.g., front-left and rear-right. Each new tyre must match its axle partner. May require two different tyres.
Complete flexibility to choose any pattern type. Consider your driving conditions and budget.
TYRE ROTATION BY PATTERN TYPE
Rotate every 8,000–10,000 km for even wear. Different patterns have different rotation options:
SYMMETRICAL
ASYMMETRICAL
DIRECTIONAL
💡 Why Rotate?
- Front tyres wear faster (steering + braking forces)
- Regular rotation extends tyre life by 20–30%
- Maintains even handling and grip across all corners
- Catches alignment issues early
TREAD WEAR DIAGNOSIS
Uneven wear patterns indicate specific problems. Here's what different wear looks like and what causes it:
CENTRE WEAR
Worn down the middle, edges still good
EDGE WEAR
Both edges worn, centre still good
ONE-SIDE WEAR
Inner OR outer edge worn excessively
CUPPING / SCALLOPING
Wavy, uneven patches across tread
The 20-Cent Coin Test
🪙 Quick Tread Check
Insert a NZ 20-cent coin into your tyre's main tread groove with the "20" facing you:
- Can see the full "20": Tread is below 2mm — replace soon
- Can see most of "20": Approaching minimum — monitor closely
- "20" is hidden: Tread is adequate (above 3mm)
Legal minimum: 1.5mm across the tread width. Our recommendation: Replace at 3mm for general driving, 4mm for wet-weather commuting.
BEST PATTERNS FOR NZ CONDITIONS
Recommendations based on where and how you drive:
🌧️ Wet Regions
Auckland, Wellington, West Coast, Fiordland — frequent rain and surface water
☀️ Dry Regions
Central Otago, Hawke's Bay, Marlborough — hot summers, less rain
🛣️ Highway Commuters
SH1 regulars, long-distance, consistent motorway speeds
🪨 Gravel & Rural
Farm tracks, chip-seal, back roads
🎯 Quick Decision Guide
- Budget + Maximum Flexibility: Symmetrical
- Wet Weather Priority: Directional
- All-Round Performance: Asymmetrical
- Track Days / Maximum Grip: Hybrid
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I mix pattern types on my car?
You can have different pattern types on different axles (e.g., directional front, symmetrical rear), but tyres on the same axle must match. Mixing on the same axle will fail WOF and compromise handling safety.
What happens if I mount a directional tyre backwards?
The V-shaped water channels won't function properly, dramatically reducing wet grip and increasing hydroplaning risk. You may also hear unusual road noise. This will fail WOF and could void insurance.
Are asymmetrical tyres better than directional?
Neither is universally "better." Directional excels in wet conditions with superior water evacuation. Asymmetrical offers balanced wet/dry performance with better dry cornering. Choose based on your typical driving conditions.
How do I know if my tyres are mounted correctly?
- Directional: Arrow points forward (direction of travel)
- Asymmetrical: "OUTSIDE" marking visible from outside the car
- Symmetrical: No specific orientation required
Can I put directional tyres on a spare wheel?
Yes, but the spare will only work correctly on one side of the car. If used on the "wrong" side in an emergency, drive cautiously at reduced speed and replace or remount as soon as possible.
Why are my tyres wearing unevenly?
Common causes: incorrect inflation, wheel misalignment, worn suspension, or not rotating regularly. With directional tyres, limited rotation options can accelerate uneven wear. Get alignment checked if you see unusual patterns.
Do pattern types affect fuel economy?
Minimally. Tread compound and inflation pressure have much greater impact. Symmetrical tyres may have slightly lower rolling resistance due to simpler design, but the difference is typically negligible.
Can I use the 20c coin test on any pattern type?
Yes. The 20-cent coin test works on all pattern types. Insert it into the main tread grooves — if you can see the full "20", you're approaching the legal minimum.
What if my tyre fitter puts asymmetrical tyres on wrong?
This is a fitting error and should be corrected immediately at no charge. Check your tyres after fitting — the "OUTSIDE" marking should be visible from outside the car on all four tyres.
Can I mix ZR and non-ZR tyres on the same axle?
Yes, "ZR" is a speed indicator, not a pattern type. As long as both tyres meet your vehicle's minimum speed rating and are the same size and pattern type, mixing ZR-marked with non-ZR is fine for WOF.
What is a hybrid (asymmetrical-directional) tyre?
A rare, specialist tyre combining both designs — it has V-grooves offset from centre AND different inner/outer zones. These are position-specific (can only go on one wheel) and cannot be rotated. Found on some high-performance and track tyres.
How long do different pattern types last?
Generally: Symmetrical = longest life (simpler pattern, even wear). Asymmetrical = good life with proper rotation. Directional = may wear slightly faster due to limited rotation options. Hybrid = shortest life (soft compounds, no rotation possible).
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