Whether you’re cruising under the sun or navigating through unexpected rain, the best tires for wet and dry conditions deliver balanced grip, safety, and confidence. These all-around performers excel in real-world driving—on dry highways, slick intersections, or wet freeway curves.
We tested and researched tires that offer superior performance rain or shine. Here are the top picks for 2025.
Why Wet and Dry Performance Matters
Most drivers don’t have the luxury of swapping tires between seasons. That’s why having a tire that excels in both dry and wet conditions is crucial. Key features to look for:
- Asymmetrical or directional tread designs for water evacuation and dry grip
- Silica-rich compounds for wet traction
- Stable sidewalls for crisp handling
- Sipes and grooves to channel away water and reduce hydroplaning
Top 5 Tires for Wet and Dry Conditions
1. Michelin CrossClimate2
Best Overall for Year-Round Wet and Dry Grip
A tire built to handle dry summer heat and sudden rain with confidence, the CrossClimate2 leads the pack for mixed-condition performance.
Pros:
- Outstanding wet and dry braking
- 3PMSF rated for light snow (extra bonus)
- Very quiet and comfortable
Cons:
- Expensive
- Slightly firm ride on rough roads
2. Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus
Best for Performance Driving in All Conditions
Designed for drivers who crave control, this tire brings sporty handling and dependable wet traction in one package.
Pros:
- Excellent cornering grip on dry pavement
- Fast water evacuation channels
- High-speed stability in rain
Cons:
- Can wear faster with aggressive driving
- Price is on the higher side
3. Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
Best for Spirited Daily Driving
Bridgestone’s UHP all-season tire handles both sunny days and rainstorms without missing a beat.
Pros:
- Firm sidewalls for precise handling
- Great wet traction at highway speeds
- Reliable stopping distance
Cons:
- Slight road noise on coarse pavement
- Not ideal for snow or ice
4. Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate
Best for Luxury and Comfort-Focused Performance
Goodyear’s answer to confident all-weather grip with refined comfort and quiet highway manners.
Pros:
- Confident wet grip even during heavy downpours
- Stable and composed at high speeds
- Quiet and smooth for a UHP tire
Cons:
- Moderate tread life (50,000 miles)
- Performance drops in cold climates
5. Falken Azenis FK460 A/S
Best Value UHP Tire for Wet and Dry
A surprise performer, the FK460 delivers real wet/dry performance at a wallet-friendly price point.
Pros:
- Solid dry traction and wet braking
- Affordable price for a UHP category
- Good tread life for spirited drivers
Cons:
- Not as refined or quiet as premium brands
- Ride can be harsh on poor roads
Wet and Dry Tire Comparison Table
| Tire Model | Dry Grip | Wet Grip | Comfort | Tread Life | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate2 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 60,000 mi | $$$$ | Daily use in all climates |
| Continental DWS 06 Plus | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | 50,000 mi | $$$$ | Sporty sedans & coupes |
| Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | 50,000 mi | $$$ | Performance daily drivers |
| Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | 50,000 mi | $$$ | Comfort-focused performance |
| Falken Azenis FK460 A/S | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | 45,000 mi | $$ | Affordable UHP performance |
FAQs
1. Are all-season tires good in both wet and dry conditions?
Yes, especially high-performance all-season tires. They’re engineered to provide grip in summer heat and rain, though some trade-offs in snow and ice performance may exist.
2. How can I tell if a tire is good in the rain?
Look for features like:
- Silica-infused tread
- Circumferential grooves
- 3D siping
- Reviews that highlight wet braking and hydroplane resistance
3. Should I rotate my tires more often in mixed conditions?
Yes. Frequent rotations (every 5,000–7,000 miles) ensure even wear, especially in climates with both dry heat and rain, where tread wear patterns can vary.
Final Thoughts
Driving in mixed conditions doesn’t mean compromising on grip or comfort. With the right set of tires, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—dry-road responsiveness and wet-road safety.
Whether you prioritize performance, comfort, or value, the five tires above are among the most reliable choices for wet and dry conditions in 2025.