Regular tires are designed with tread to keep a car stable and safe in different road conditions. ... Otherwise, water will come between the tire and road surface, causing the driver to lose traction and hydroplane. The tread patterns of a tire are designed to displace water so that the tire and the road maintain contact.

Why do tires have tread?

The inner tire tread is responsible for water displacement and protection against aquaplaning (hydroplaning). The outer tire tread has rigid tread blocks for higher lateral stiffness, which provides high grip when cornering and driving on dry surfaces, and quieter interior noise.

Does tire tread really matter?

Tire tread does matter because it provides your vehicle with firm grips on the road, allowing you to remain balanced and upright on its surface while you drive. Balding tires or those with poor tread have reduced grips, which means your car's performance in harsh weather or on icy streets may be less than ideal.