Tire wet/shine/protectant
 

I'm looking for a tire protectant that is easy to apply (probably a foam or gel form that I won't get overspray with), protects the tire, and has a high gloss look to it. I read in another thread that Armor all tire foam is good all around but has more of a medium gloss. I'm looking for a high gloss that will POP when you see it.

blah, dont use armorall. :shakes head:

use this and this

(target sells ones that have a gray handle) these are by far the best applicators:

Carrand 92143 Cleanmates Tire Gel and Dressing Applicators : Amazon.com : Automotive

i spray into the foam applicator, then apply to the tire. i dont like really shiny so i use just enough to get the nice dark semi-gloss, but use more and you can get the glazed donut look.

Meguiar's Hot Shine High Gloss Tire Spray. 24 oz. : Amazon.com : Automotive

btw, you need a clean tire surface to get good application of dressing.

i use this or this to clean the sidewall real well to first remove release lube and the mounting lube tire stores use to mount the tires.

motor spray/nitro cleaner like this... there are others out there. spray into rag (not paper towels) and rub the surface gently till fresh rubber.

Amazon.com: HPI Racing 74116 Nitro Car Cleaner, CA Compliant: Toys & Games

Goof Off FG659 Heavy Duty Spot Remover and Degreaser, Trigger Spray 22-Ounce - Amazon.com

I tried this stuff and am very happy with it.

Adams Super VRT tire Dressing..
nice sleek shine, and protects..

Agree. This stuff is amazing, along with every other product they have. Does not sling off nor does it look super over the top glossy. Grab some All Purpose Cleaner and use on tires as you wash them for prep before the VRT.

Our Super VRT satisfies all of your requirements except for being super glossy.

That high gloss comes from silicone, which is inherently slippery. Slippery = sling all over your fenders/doors. Super VRT is water based and water repellent so it holds up to washing and weather. Also contains SPF35 as a sun protectant.

Our customers who seek a higher gloss shine than the Super VRT gives double up and give it s second coat after the first one dries. That will increase the gloss and likely get it looking more how you want it to.

Eagle One or Black Magic (GEL). Put on with tire foam applicator. Let sit for like 10 min. Wipe excess with terry cloth so there won’t be any over spray/sling. Lasts for days. Leaves your tires looking JET BLACK AND WET.

If it matters at all, you can get "pop" even with medium gloss products. At least for me, wheels/tires are the main thing that distinguish a car that has been washed with a car that has been WASHED. But it doesn't take all that much to get better than the former which always just leaves the tire looking dull and normal whether just washed or driven for 2 months without.

So really, anything should help.

I prefer medium to low gloss, to be honest, and it still looks good. It doesn't look all that amazing minutes after application or even all that great up close, but approach from a distance and you can tell some extra love was applied.

I'd strongly suggest going with a product like Adam's Super VRT or Zaino Z-16 over any silicone based gel.

The gels will look great while you're standing still (if you're into that wet look) but they're going to sling all over the sides of your car when you get moving. Complete nightmare.

I have a bottle of the VRT but did not try it yet. I have the Optimum on my Z that I applied over a month ago. No sling at all and it's water based, no VOX. I was a bit skeptical at first but I am impressed with the results. I'd be interested to compare the two perhaps next weekend I'll hit my Mazda with both and compare.

For the uninitiated. What does this stuff do other than make your tires look a bit better. Some people say protect, but from what? UV? Is it really an issue? Honestly curious not trying to put anyone out.

I'd venture a guess and say the vast majority use them for looks. It does make the tires pop in appearance but some don't like the gloss look. I like the gloss look on the tires but not at the expense of a greasy texture and sling. Some brands will help with protecting the rubber from UV rays similar to a sunblock for skin and hazing of trim pieces.

I use Black Magic Gel applied with supplied foam pad. Key is not to over apply and have it all over your rims and fenders. So far 1 1/2 weeks in and they are still shiny with just one application :)

ive not had much good luck with the thick gels due to slinging even if i used smaller amounts and rubbed it all in the best i can... it's hard to get an even application.

so this is why i use the thinner liquid i posted above as i can get a more even application.

i only need to spray a little bit (one trigger pull) onto the foam applicator to do the entire wheel. :)