There is a large number of tire manufacturing brands that offer different types of tires, however, a few stand prominent because of their unique innovations and technologies. Among the prominent ones, Goodyear and Hankook are very well-known to everyone as they offer tires to suit various drivers’ requirements. In this article, you will know more about these two huge tiremakers, comparing their backgrounds, performance, technology, prices, and more. Let’s start by introducing these tire brands.

Brand History

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Goodyear Tire was established in 1898, by Frank Seiberling in Akron, Ohio and has become one of the leading and best known tire makers in the world. Goodyear, being a company that has contributed to the development of many innovations in tire industry, has grown over the years. Currently its products are not only locally available, but also exported internationally especially for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and even airplanes.

From its humble beginnings, the company has laid its foundation on innovation and performance. The tires are well known for durability, performance, and versatility, making this brand first choice for not only daily driving but also the sports car driving.

Hankook Tire

Hankook was founded in Seoul, South Korea in 1941 under the name Chosun Tire Company. It then changed its name to Hankook Tire Manufacturing in 1968. Although Hankook is somewhat younger than Goodyear it has grown into a major player in the tire market, especially in the last few decades. Hankook has been able to establish a solid international market place due to the strategy that aims at achievement of new tire technology and reasonable price.

Currently, the company has opened its research and development sector where it can develop excellent tires that can compete with brands that have already developed high-performance tires. As of now, Hankook is providing OE tires to companies like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Ford among the numerous others.

Innovation and Technology

Goodyear

Goodyear has always been a leader in tire innovation, and its focus on technology is evident in their tires features. Let’s have a look at the technologies here. 

FuelMax Technology:

Goodyear’s FuelMax technology focuses on reducing rolling resistance without compromising the performance.

RunOnFlat:

Goodyear run flat system enables the car to be driven for 50 miles with the defective tire. This technology is really helpful in tire damage at far away places.

ActiveBraking:

Goodyear ActiveBraking system offers increased contact patch when brakes are applied, reducing the stopping distance.

Durawall Technology:

This feature reinforces the sidewalls, providing the tires with enhanced protection against punctures and cuts that are common in off road situations.

SoundComfort Technology:

This innovation creates a tire with a foam layer inside and cuts road noise by up to 50%.

Hankook

Hankook may not have the same kind of history as Goodyear but the company has progressed a lot in tire innovation. Key Hankook innovations include:

Aqua Driving Control:

This technology improves water clearing capability and wet performance besides ensuring that tires minimize the risk of hydroplaning while driving in the rain.

Run-Flat Technology:

Like Goodyear, Hankook also has run-flat tires so that vehicle can at least continue running for sometime after getting a flat. Hankook has introduced run-flat tyres that provide optimum ride comfort in an emergency.

Kontrol Technology:

This technology enhances safety, performance, comfort, and sustainability.

HRS-Technology:

Hankook’s High Resistance Siping (HRS) increases wet and dry traction and at the same time increases tire stiffness. This leads to better handling and enhanced fuel efficiency.

3D Kerf Technology:

This feature increases the number of edges with which the tread can bite into the snow or ice enhancing handling in winter.

Performance Comparison

Handling and Grip

Ride Comfort

Durability

Weather Performance

Pricing

Customer Reviews

Goodyear Customer Feedback

Consumers have high regard for the Goodyear brand since the company has a record of producing high quality and durable products. Common positive feedback includes:

High Performance: Several customers appreciate the handling and grip of Goodyear tires, specially in different weather conditions.

Longevity: Customers give long tread life as a reason to use them, which ultimately saves them money in the long run.

However, the users have pointed out that Goodyear prices are higher than other brands in the market.

Hankook Customer Feedback

Hankook has created a strong customer following as most are positive about the performance and worth of the brand. Notable points from reviews include:

Excellent Grip: Performance is covered often with a focus on wet performance and cornering capabilities of the hankook tires.

Comfortable Ride: Some customers find the best with the low noise and smooth ride they get from Hankook tires.

Few issues that are often mentioned involve treadwear sometimes; but this also depends on the type of car and driving conditions.

Final Words

The choice between the tire brands depends on individual decision. Goodyear products have a good track record for quality and performance. On the other hand, Hankook gives the same balance of quality and prices are reasonable as they provide similar value and better price.

Based on this, you need to take some measures into consideration when choosing your tires, depending on your driving needs and budget. Both Goodyear and Hankook have quality products that can help improve your driving experience.