Do sidewall styles affect performance or load?

No. Styles like RWL, OWL, and WW are cosmetic. Always verify size, load index, and speed rating separately.

Can I mount raised white letters facing inward?

Yes, most RWL/OWL tires can be mounted letters-in or letters-out—tell your installer which look you want.

BSW stands for Black Sidewall. Similar codes include BW, BLK, and BL—each indicates a plain black sidewall.

Are whitewall stripe widths standardized?

Widths vary by tire and size (e.g., 3/8, 3/4, 1.3, 2.5). Check the product listing for the exact stripe width.

How should I clean whitewalls or raised letters?

Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners and a soft brush; avoid harsh chemicals that can yellow or scuff the sidewall.

What is Sidewall Style?

Sidewall style describes the lettering or stripe design molded or applied to a tire’s sidewall—purely a cosmetic choice that does not change the tire’s size, load index, or speed rating. Use the code list below to interpret how a tire will look when mounted (you can often choose letters/stripe in or out during installation).

Measurements

How to read it: Most product listings include a short sidewall style code next to the size. For whitewalls, the stripe width (e.g., 3/8", 3/4", 1.3", 2.5") may be listed. Choose your preferred look, then confirm size and ratings as usual—try Compare Two Tire Sizes or shop tires by vehicle.

Common Sidewall Style Codes

Code	Description
WW / WSW	White Wall / White Sidewall
RWL	Raised White Letters
OWL	Outline White Letters
ROWL / ORWL	Raised Outline White Letters
ROW	Raised Outline White
RWW	Raised White Wall
RBL	Raised Black Letters
SBL / BSL	Serrated Black Letters
VSB	Vertical Serrated Blackwall
OBL	Outline Black Letters
ROBL	Raised Outline Black Letters
RED	Red Wall (Redline)
G/W	Gold & White Wall
G/S	Gold Stripe
DSB	Diagonal Serrated Band
BW / BSW / BLK / BL / Black	Black Sidewall
BKK	Black Sidewall (vendor variant)

Clearance Checks

No size change: Sidewall style does not alter section width or diameter. If you change tire size, verify with the Plus/Minus Sizing Calculator.
Letter orientation: RWL/OWL can face in or out at install time; confirm with your installer for the look you want.
Classic fitments: Wide whitewalls are popular on antiques; verify wheel and fender clearance like any other size change and browse Antique Tires.

Safety & Load Ratings

Cosmetic only: Sidewall style doesn’t affect load index or speed rating; always match or exceed your vehicle’s requirements.
Care: Use non-abrasive cleaners on whitewalls/raised letters to avoid discoloration; follow the tire maker’s care instructions.

Professional Fitment Advice

Want RWL muscle-car style, a thin OWL truck look, or period-correct whitewalls? We’ll help you choose the right appearance and the correct size and ratings for your vehicle. Start with Shop Tires by Vehicle or explore Shop Tires by Brand, then contact our Fitment Team with any questions.

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Reviewed by the Performance Plus Tire Fitment Team.