asymmetrical tread

The tread of a tire which has different shapes/patterns and sizes of grooves in the same tire. Often they are divided into three distinct patterns: The outside shoulder, the center zone, and the inside shoulder. The outside shoulder tread will have larger shoulder elements with very few sipes to provide increased cornering stability. The center tread zone enhances steering control. The inside shoulder tread zone provides additional traction because the shape of the tread elements, sipes and larger shoulder slots help disperse water and slush. Obviously these tires must be mounted only one way so that the outside pattern is actually on the outside of the wheel