Whitewall Tires — Expert Fitment, Authentic Style
Want period-correct looks without sacrificing safety? Our whitewall lineup blends classic sidewall styling with modern construction. From narrow pin-stripe to wide whitewalls, we’ll match width, size, load index, and construction to your vehicle and goals—show, cruise, or daily.
A Brief History of Whitewall Tires
Whitewalls have evolved with tire technology and design trends over more than a century. Here’s the quick timeline:
- Early 1900s: Tires were naturally light/white (zinc oxide in rubber). As carbon black was adopted to strengthen tread, makers paired black treads with white sidewalls.
- 1930s–1940s: Wide whitewalls (?2–3") became a luxury marker on American sedans and coupes.
- 1950s–1960s: Narrower “pin-stripe” whitewalls (?3/8–3/4") matched sleeker styling and higher-speed highways.
- 1970s–1990s: Radials and low-profile designs reduced whitewall popularity; raised white letters took the spotlight on performance models.
- Today: Whitewalls remain essential for authentic restorations and a tasteful retro touch on modern builds.
Who Whitewalls Are For
- Classic restorations: Era-correct wide whitewalls for 1930s–40s; narrow stripes for 1950s–60s.
- Hot rods & customs: Radial or bias-ply options to suit stance and ride priorities.
- Modern retro looks: Narrow stripe whitewalls add subtle vintage flair to contemporary vehicles.
Fitment & Safety (We Verify Before Shipping)
- Exact sizing: Overall diameter, section width, and wheel width/offset for fender and suspension clearance.
- Radial vs. bias-ply: Radials for highway composure; bias-ply for period-correct appearance on show vehicles.
- Load & speed ratings: Meet or exceed your door-placard requirements for safe, legal road use.
- Whitewall width & orientation: Consistent stripe width left/right; correct outboard mounting and protection during install.
- Tubes & wheels (vintage): We confirm tube-type needs, bead seat, and liner use on classic rims.
Care & Maintenance (Pro Tips)
- Clean with pH-neutral soap or a dedicated whitewall cleaner and a soft brush—rinse and dry with microfiber.
- Avoid harsh solvents, petroleum dressings, and abrasive pads that can stain or scratch the white rubber.
- If brown “blooming” appears, use a non-abrasive whitewall cleaner and gentle agitation.
- Store away from UV/ozone; keep pressures to placard to minimize edge scuffing.
Transparent Pros & Cons
- Pros: Iconic aesthetics, show value, and modern radial options for real-world drivability.
- Considerations: Shows dirt sooner than blackwalls; fewer size choices; requires mindful cleaning.
Reviewed by the Performance Plus Tire Fitment Team • Updated August 19, 2025
FAQs: Whitewall Tires
What whitewall width should I choose?
Wide (?2–3") suits many 1930s–40s cars; narrow (?3/8–3/4") became common in the 1950s–60s. Pick by era, wheel diameter, and the look you want.
Are whitewalls available as radials and bias-ply?
Yes. Radials deliver better highway stability and braking; bias-ply offers period-correct appearance and sidewall shape for shows.
Do whitewalls change performance?
Modern whitewalls meet the same safety standards as blackwalls in the same spec. Performance depends on size, construction, and rating—not the stripe.
How do I prevent yellowing/browning?
Wash with pH-neutral cleaner, avoid petroleum dressings/harsh chemicals, and clean residue promptly. Use products formulated for white rubber.
Can you mount whitewalls without scuffing the stripe?
Yes—our installers use whitewall-safe procedures and protective covers, then inspect stripe uniformity before shipping.
Will these fit my wheels?
We verify size, load/speed rating, wheel width/offset, and any tube/liner requirements for your exact year/make/model.