Welcome to your comprehensive resource on whitewall tires. Whether you're restoring a classic car, adding vintage flair to a modern vehicle, or simply curious about these iconic tires, we've got you covered with expert insights and practical information.
Whitewall tires feature a distinctive white band on the sidewall that contrasts with the black tread. This design element was once standard on most vehicles but has evolved into a symbol of classic automotive style. The white band can vary in width from narrow pinstripes to broad bands measuring several inches wide.
The unique appearance comes from a layer of white rubber compound that's either built into the tire during manufacturing or added as a separate layer during the vulcanization process. Today's whitewalls maintain this timeless appeal while incorporating modern tire technology for safety and performance.
The story of whitewall tires begins in the early 1900s, though not as a deliberate style choice. Early tires were naturally white or grayish due to the zinc oxide used in the rubber compound. As tire manufacturers discovered that adding carbon black improved durability and wear resistance, tires turned black.
By the 1910s, manufacturers began creating tires with white sidewalls and black treads, establishing the whitewall style. During the 1930s through the 1950s, whitewalls reached peak popularity, becoming a status symbol adorning luxury vehicles and symbolizing automotive elegance.
The 1960s saw a gradual decline in whitewall width, with narrow-band "pinstripe" whitewalls becoming more common. By the 1980s, whitewall tires had largely disappeared from new vehicles, transitioning into a specialty item for classic car enthusiasts and custom builds.
Today, whitewalls enjoy a renaissance among collectors, customizers, and drivers seeking to add distinctive character to their vehicles.
Wide Whitewalls: Measuring 2-3 inches in width, these traditional whitewalls were popular from the 1930s through the 1950s. They create a bold, classic look perfect for vintage restorations.
Medium Whitewalls: Approximately 1-2 inches wide, medium whitewalls became common in the late 1950s and early 1960s as styles began to change.
Pinstripe Whitewalls: These narrow bands (typically 3/8 to 1 inch) were standard in the 1960s and 1970s, offering a more subtle aesthetic that works well on both classic and modern vehicles.
Bias-Ply Whitewalls: Traditional construction matching original equipment on vintage cars. These provide authentic period-correct appearance but offer less performance than modern radials.
Radial Whitewalls: Modern tire construction with whitewall styling. These combine classic aesthetics with contemporary performance, making them ideal for drivers who use their classic vehicles regularly.
Custom Whitewalls: Aftermarket modifications where white rubber is added to existing black tires. These allow for custom widths and unique designs.
American Classic specializes in authentically styled whitewall tires that capture the true essence of America's automotive golden age. Their meticulous attention to period-correct details—from tread patterns to sidewall markings—makes them the preferred choice for museum-quality restorations and concours events where historical accuracy is paramount.
What distinguishes American Classic is their commitment to traditional manufacturing methods combined with select modern improvements for safety and longevity. Their premium bias-ply whitewalls deliver the distinctive ride character of vintage tires while incorporating improved rubber compounds that resist cracking and age-related deterioration. For enthusiasts seeking the most authentic driving experience in their classic American automobiles, American Classic delivers uncompromising period correctness with reliable performance.
Autobahn offers a sophisticated European approach to whitewall tires, focusing on precision engineering and premium materials. Their whitewall series combines classic styling with German-engineered performance, making them an excellent choice for luxury vehicles and European classics seeking to maintain authentic aesthetics without compromising handling.
These premium radials feature enhanced sidewall construction, superior wet grip, and reduced road noise compared to traditional whitewalls. Autobahn's meticulous manufacturing process ensures consistent whitewall appearance with exceptional durability against yellowing and staining. Their approach appeals to discerning enthusiasts who demand both visual distinction and uncompromised performance.
With a heritage dating back to 1870, BFGoodrich brings considerable expertise to their whitewall offerings. Their Silvertown Radial series merges vintage styling with contemporary engineering, providing improved handling and comfort compared to original equipment tires.
BFGoodrich whitewalls are particularly popular for 1950s-1970s American classics where period-correct appearance matters, but improved handling is desired. Their radial construction offers better stability, traction, and fuel economy than bias-ply alternatives.
Coker Tire Company stands as the industry leader in reproduction vintage tires. Their extensive catalog includes authentic whitewalls for nearly every classic American and European vehicle from the 1920s through the 1970s. Coker's commitment to period-correct details makes them the go-to choice for serious collectors and concours-quality restorations.
What sets Coker apart is their dedication to reproducing original tread patterns and sidewall markings while incorporating modern materials for improved safety. Their premium whitewalls range from authentic bias-ply designs to radial tires with vintage aesthetics.
Diamondback specializes in custom-built whitewall tires created through a unique vulcanization process. Unlike mass-produced options, Diamondback can add whitewalls to virtually any modern performance tire, allowing enthusiasts to combine classic style with top-tier performance capabilities.
Their bespoke approach enables custom width options, dual whitewalls, colored whitewalls, and even lettering—perfect for show cars and unique builds. Though commanding premium prices, Diamondback offers unmatched customization for those seeking one-of-a-kind whitewall applications.
Firestone's vintage-style whitewalls pay homage to the company's illustrious automotive history. Their wide whitewall options recreate the luxury appearance that adorned premium vehicles during America's automotive golden age. For authentic restorations of vehicles from the 1930s through 1960s, Firestone delivers period-correct styling with recognizable branding.
Beyond aesthetics, Firestone offers modern construction techniques that enhance durability and safety compared to original specifications. Their bias-look radial technology provides the appearance of vintage tires with improved handling characteristics.
Kontio Tyre brings Scandinavian precision and durability to the whitewall tire market. Known for their exceptional cold-weather performance, Kontio's whitewall offerings stand out for their unique combination of vintage styling and all-season capability. These tires excel in challenging conditions where other whitewalls might compromise grip and stability.
The company's innovative rubber compounds maintain flexibility even at lower temperatures, while their specialized white sidewall formulation resists browning and discoloration in harsh environments. Kontio's whitewalls have gained popularity among classic car enthusiasts in northern regions who refuse to store their vehicles during winter months. For drivers seeking the distinctive appearance of whitewalls with uncompromised performance in diverse weather conditions, Kontio Tyre delivers Scandinavian engineering excellence wrapped in timeless American-inspired style.
Michelin brings its legendary French engineering excellence and innovation to the whitewall tire segment. Drawing on over a century of tire manufacturing expertise, Michelin's whitewall offerings blend timeless elegance with industry-leading technology. Their premium whitewall tires feature the company's signature longevity, precise handling, and exceptional ride comfort that discerning drivers have come to expect from the brand.
What sets Michelin whitewalls apart is their advanced silica-enhanced compound technology that maintains the brilliant white appearance while delivering superior resistance to weathering and aging. For classic European luxury vehicles and high-end American classics, Michelin whitewalls provide an authentic period look without sacrificing the performance benefits of modern tire design. Though commanding a premium price point, Michelin whitewalls offer exceptional value through extended tread life and reduced long-term maintenance—making them the preferred choice for collectors who regularly drive their investment-grade vehicles.
Universal Whitewall Tires has established itself as a versatile, accessible option in the specialty tire market. Focusing on broad compatibility across vehicle types and eras, Universal offers one of the most comprehensive size ranges available—making them an excellent solution for uncommon or difficult-to-source applications. Their consumer-friendly approach emphasizes value without compromising on the authentic whitewall appearance that enthusiasts demand.
What distinguishes Universal is their innovative "adaptive sidewall" technology that resists browning and maintains a crisp white appearance even under challenging conditions. Their manufacturing process incorporates UV-resistant compounds throughout the white rubber layer, not just on the surface. For practical classic car owners, restoration shops handling multiple projects, and everyday drivers adding vintage flair to modern vehicles, Universal provides reliable performance with period-correct styling at a price point that makes whitewall elegance accessible to a wider audience of automotive enthusiasts.
When shopping for whitewall tires, several factors should influence your purchase decision:
For classic car restorations, period correctness matters. Research the original tire specifications for your vehicle's make, model, and year. Authentic reproductions will enhance your vehicle's value and appearance at shows and exhibitions.
For custom builds and modified vehicles, you have more creative freedom. Consider how different whitewall widths complement your vehicle's lines and overall aesthetic.
Will your vehicle be a garage-kept showpiece or a regular driver? For show cars, authentic bias-ply whitewalls provide the most correct appearance. For vehicles driven regularly, radial whitewalls offer better handling, longer tread life, and improved safety.
Consider your typical driving conditions—highway, city streets, or a mix. Modern radial whitewalls perform significantly better in wet conditions and at highway speeds.
Whitewall tires typically command a premium over standard black tires. Premium reproduction whitewalls from manufacturers like Coker can cost two to three times more than standard tires of similar size. However, mid-range options from brands like Hankook offer a more budget-friendly entry point.
Factor in additional maintenance costs—whitewalls require regular cleaning and special care to maintain their appearance. Budget-friendly options might save money upfront but could discolor more quickly or require more frequent replacement.
Vintage vehicles often used tire sizes that differ from modern standards. When purchasing whitewalls, you'll need to navigate both period-correct sizing and modern equivalents. Many manufacturers provide conversion charts to help match original specifications with available options.
Check load ratings and speed ratings to ensure the tires can safely handle your vehicle's weight and performance capabilities. Never compromise safety for appearance—choose whitewalls that meet or exceed your vehicle's requirements.
The distinctive charm of whitewalls isn't limited to vintage vehicles. Today's drivers increasingly add these classic tires to contemporary cars, creating unique custom looks that stand out from the crowd.
Certain modern vehicle styles naturally complement whitewall tires:
Retro-inspired models like the Fiat 500, MINI Cooper, and Volkswagen Beetle enhance their nostalgic design language with whitewalls.
Luxury sedans, particularly those with chrome accents and classic proportions, gain a distinctive upscale appearance with narrow whitewall tires.
Custom lowriders and hot rods built on newer platforms often feature whitewalls as part of their modified aesthetic.
Cruiser motorcycles from Harley-Davidson, Indian, and similar brands frequently use whitewalls to complement their heritage-inspired designs.
For contemporary vehicles, look to manufacturers that produce whitewalls in current sizes and load ratings:
Hankook's Optimo H724 series offers whitewall styling in popular modern sizes with all-season performance.
Diamondback can create custom whitewalls using top-performing modern tires as their base, allowing you to maintain performance while adding classic style.
Several specialty manufacturers now offer "portawall" inserts—white rubber rings that fit between the wheel and tire—as a removable alternative to permanent whitewalls.
When adding whitewalls to modern vehicles, consider these performance factors:
Choose radial construction for contemporary driving conditions. Modern radial whitewalls provide handling characteristics similar to standard black tires.
Verify speed ratings appropriate for your vehicle. Many reproduction whitewalls have lower speed ratings than high-performance modern tires.
Consider seasonal appropriateness—most whitewalls are all-season or summer tires. If you drive in winter conditions, you may need seasonal tire changes.
The distinctive white sidewalls require special attention to maintain their bright appearance and prevent discoloration. Follow these expert tips to keep your whitewalls looking their best:
Clean whitewalls every 1-2 weeks using specialized whitewall cleaner or a mild soap solution. Avoid harsh cleaners containing bleach or solvents that can damage the rubber compound.
Use soft-bristled brushes designed for tires rather than abrasive scrubbing pads. Gentle agitation removes surface dirt without scratching the white rubber.
For stubborn stains, specialized whitewall cleaning products contain safe bleaching agents that brighten without damaging the rubber. Follow product instructions carefully and rinse thoroughly.
Apply UV protectant specifically formulated for tires to prevent yellowing and cracking of the white rubber. Reapply every 2-4 weeks depending on sun exposure.
When storing vehicles for extended periods, use tire covers to shield whitewalls from dust and UV damage. Alternatively, clean thoroughly and apply protectant before storage.
Keep tires properly inflated—underinflation can cause excessive sidewall flexing that leads to dirt embedding in the white rubber.
Be cautious when parking near curbs to prevent scuffing the white portion of the tire. Curb damage is particularly visible on whitewalls and challenging to repair.
When having tires mounted or balanced, request that technicians use care to avoid tire machine marks on the white rubber. Specify that no tire shine or petroleum-based dressings be applied, as these can cause staining.
Rotate tires regularly according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations to ensure even wear and consistent appearance across all whitewalls.
While firmly rooted in automotive history, whitewall tires continue to evolve. Current trends and innovations suggest a bright future for these classic tires:
Modern materials science has improved white rubber compounds, creating more stain-resistant and durable whitewalls that maintain their bright appearance longer than vintage originals.
Advanced manufacturing techniques allow for precise white inlays and more consistent quality. Computer-controlled vulcanization ensures uniform appearance and reliable bonding between the white and black rubber compounds.
Several manufacturers now offer whitewall tires with contemporary performance features like improved wet traction, lower rolling resistance, and all-season capability.
Custom color sidewalls beyond traditional white are gaining popularity. Red, blue, and even multi-colored sidewalls offer new creative possibilities for vehicle customization.
The restomod movement—combining vintage style with modern performance—has created increased demand for whitewalls that look period-correct but perform like contemporary tires.
Eco-friendly whitewall options using sustainable rubber compounds are beginning to enter the market, appealing to environmentally conscious classic car enthusiasts.
Whitewalls continue to symbolize America's automotive golden age and remain instantly recognizable icons of mid-century style. Their enduring appeal transcends generations.
The growing popularity of car culture on social media has introduced whitewalls to younger enthusiasts discovering vintage automotive aesthetics for the first time.
As electric vehicles become mainstream, some custom EV builds incorporate whitewalls as a nostalgic counterpoint to cutting-edge technology—blending automotive past and future.
Whitewall tires are tires with a band of white rubber on the sidewall, creating a distinctive two-tone appearance. Originally a standard feature on many vehicles from the 1910s through the 1970s, they're now primarily used on classic cars, custom vehicles, and certain luxury models.
Yes, whitewall tires typically cost more than standard black tires due to their specialized manufacturing process, limited production quantities, and their status as specialty items. Premium brands like Coker and Diamondback command higher prices due to their authentic designs and quality materials.
Yes, whitewall tires can be installed on most modern cars as long as you match the correct tire size and load ratings. Many manufacturers like Hankook and BFGoodrich now offer whitewalls in contemporary sizes. However, the aesthetic may not complement all modern vehicle designs.
Clean whitewalls with specialized whitewall cleaner or a mild soap solution and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals that can yellow the white rubber. Regular cleaning prevents staining and discoloration. Apply a UV protectant specifically designed for tires to prevent cracking and maintain the bright white appearance.
Modern whitewall tires from reputable manufacturers like Firestone or BFGoodrich offer performance comparable to their all-black counterparts. The white sidewall is primarily aesthetic and doesn't impact tire functionality, though vintage-style reproduction whitewalls may have different handling characteristics than modern tire designs.
Whitewall tires are available through specialty tire retailers, classic car parts suppliers, and some high-end tire shops. Online retailers like Coker Tire, Summit Racing, and Tire Rack offer extensive selections. For custom whitewalls, companies like Diamondback can convert modern performance tires to whitewalls.
The tread life of whitewall tires varies by manufacturer and usage. Premium radial whitewalls typically last 40,000-50,000 miles under normal driving conditions. The white portion may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance to maintain appearance. Store vehicles with whitewalls properly to prevent sidewall cracking and discoloration.
Yes, companies like Diamondback specialize in converting standard black tires to whitewalls through a process called "white-capping" or "portawalls." This allows you to add white sidewalls to high-performance or specialty tires that don't come with whitewall options from the factory.
Whitewall tires represent more than just a design choice—they're a connection to automotive heritage and an expression of distinctive style. From their origins in the early days of motoring to their continued presence on both classic and contemporary vehicles, whitewalls have maintained their appeal through changing automotive trends.
Whether you're restoring a vintage automobile to its original glory, adding a touch of nostalgia to a modern vehicle, or creating a unique custom build, whitewall tires offer that perfect finishing touch that makes a statement. With today's technology providing improved durability, performance, and customization options, these iconic tires continue to evolve while honoring their storied past. See the Full Line up of Whitewall Tires.
As you consider whitewalls for your vehicle, remember that the perfect choice balances authenticity, performance needs, and personal style. The right whitewall tires don't just complement your vehicle—they transform it, creating a distinctive presence that stands out in today's automotive landscape.
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the world of whitewall tires and helps you make informed decisions for your next tire purchase. For personalized recommendations tailored to your specific vehicle and needs, don't hesitate to contact our tire experts.
