Seasoned off-roaders know that rough trails require aired down tires for the best traction possible. Even for soft roading, aired down tires offer maximum grip on a wide range of surfaces. Plus, it helps absorb bumps better than inflated tires and reduces the risk of punctures.
However, this chore might seem a little intimidating. Your tire experts at America's Tire are here to explain exactly how to air down your tires safely.
AIRING DOWN TIRES
Releasing air from your tires expands the tire’s contact patch, allowing for more surface contact and thus better traction. It also gives your tire more “plush” to play with impacts and resists punctures.
To air down your tires easily, you need:
Tire deflator (with or without a tire gauge)
Tire inflator (portable inflators or manual pumps)
Reliable Tire gauge (if not included with previous equipment)
How to air down your tires:
1. Check your initial tire pressure
This helps you decide how much to air down and what PSI to inflate to later.
2. Attach tire deflator
Open your tire valve, attach the deflator to the valve stem securely, and monitor your tire’s pressure as you deflate. Some deflators include a pressure reader.
3. Deflate your tire(s)
Ensure your tires are all at the same air pressure.
4. Re-check your tire pressure
Make sure your tires are the pressure you want.
Here’s some safety reminders when airing down:
Don’t deflate too much or you could unseat your tire bead and cause a blowout.
Always air up before driving on pavement/streets. Poor handling and increased tire wear can occur on improperly inflated tires driven on paved surfaces. The proper tire pressure is key to safety.
Use a trusted and accurate tire gauge.
HOW MUCH TO AIR DOWN TIRES FOR OFF-ROADING?
How much you should air down your tires depends on many factors, including:
Terrain
Tire construction: In general, radial tires can be aired down to lower PSI than bias-ply tires
Vehicle weight: heavier vehicles may require lower pressures
Wheel size: large sizes should be aired down less to prevent tire detachment from the rim
Speed: avoid excessive heat build up when driving higher speeds with a higher tire pressure
In general, you can follow the guidelines below based on terrain type for how much to air down when off-roading:
| Terrain Type | How much pressure to air down |
| Sand/loose gravel | 12-15 PSI |
| Rock | 15-20 PSI |
| Mud | 15-20 PSI, depending on depth and stickiness |
| Snow | 12-15 PSI |
Some trial and error will come into play. You can also ask more experienced off-roaders what they recommend for particular trails and obstacles.
Deflating too much can unseat your tires from the rim or increase the risk of damage from obstacles. Always inflate your tires as soon as possible after getting off the trail and before hitting the road.
If you have questions, we have answers! Give us a ring, drop in, or make an appointment to speak with our experts today. Buy and book online to save time in-store!
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