Nokian announces “extreme durability” Rockproof line

Nokian Tyres has announced a new line of “extreme durability” professional off-road tires to be released in North America and Europe in early 2017.

Nokian is promising the new tire, called Rockproof, will offer optimal performance in quarries, forests and mining areas.

“This sturdy new tire is a tireless workhorse with a thoroughbred mining compound that can handle even unexpected impacts during demanding off-road use,” the company said in a statement.

“The tire seamlessly combines the special durability of heavy machine tires with the comfort of passenger car tires.”

Developed together with Nokian Heavy Tyres, Rockproof features a new cut-resistant hybrid tread compound and an aggressive tread pattern. Combined, they are designed to provide “excellent resistance in rough off-road conditions.”

Field tested and ready to roll

Nokian has been putting Rockproof to the test in the field for the past few months. Logging operator Tom Brain of Dyer Logging put the tires on his Ford F-350 4x4 and tried them out in the Canadian Rockies of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The terrain there comprises mostly shot rock.

“Nokian Rockproof tires have outlasted all the other brands we’ve had on our truck,” Brain said.

“We’ve put on roughly 31,000 miles and more than half of that is on gravel. What we found is that these tires have stood up better than anything we’ve had on the last two trucks, by far.”

A bit about Rockproof

Nokian says the optimized tread block support provides more precise handling and stability.

“Two different side angles and the staggered support on the block sides ensure that the tire’s tread blocks remain firm and that the groove bottoms will not be damaged even during rougher driving,” the manufacturer said. “The reinforced upper part of the sidewall provides additional protection against puncture and cut damage caused by sharp rocks.

“The stone ejectors at the groove bottoms of this sturdy new tire prevent sharp and jagged stones from attaching to the tread surface and penetrating the tire structure. The stone ejectors improve the tire’s service life and offer additional protection by preventing tire body damage, especially on uneven terrain.”

The tires also have a tougher sidewall, offering more durability and protection for demanding driving conditions. The sidewall structure contains aramid fiber. The fiber reinforces the sidewall, making it more resistant to impacts and cuts that could otherwise easily damage it.

Sizing and specifications

The speed rating of this new tire is Q (up to 99 mph) and the size selection in Europe covers 8 sizes and in North America 13 sizes. Tire sizes in Europe range from LT225/75 R16 up to LT315/70 R17. New Nokian Rockproof will be available to consumers in early 2017.

Sizes available in North America

LT245/75 R 16 LT245/70 R 17

LT225/75 R 16 LT245/75 R 17

LT285/75 R 16 LT235/80 R 17

LT265/75 R 16 LT275/65 R 18

LT315/70 R 17 LT275/70 R 18

LT285/70 R 17 LT275/65 R 20

LT265/70 R 17

For more information about Rockproof, visit the Nokian website.

Tagged: Professional Off-Road

Nokian announces “extreme durability” Rockproof line