Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S Review: Ultimate All-Season Performers

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is an all-season tire designed to provide reliable performance and traction in a variety of weather conditions. Falken, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Rubber Industries, has engineered this tire to cater to drivers seeking a balance between year-round drivability, comfort, and affordability.

Marketed as a touring all-season tire, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is tailored for sedans, coupes, minivans, and small crossovers. Its versatile tread compound and advanced silica-based compound technology enable it to adapt to varying temperatures, ensuring consistent grip and handling across different seasons.

Whether navigating through light snow, heavy rain, or dry pavement, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S aims to deliver a confident and stable driving experience. Its symmetric tread pattern and optimized siping design work together to enhance traction, cornering stability, and braking performance, making it a suitable choice for daily commuters and family vehicles.

Don’t know the correct size tire to purchase? Start here!

Tire Specifications and Features

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is an all-season tire designed for passenger cars, crossovers, and SUVs. It is available in a wide range of sizes, from 15-inch to 20-inch rim diameters, catering to various vehicle types. The tire boasts impressive load ratings, with some sizes capable of handling heavy loads up to 1,356 lbs per tire.

In terms of speed ratings, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is available in T, H, and V speed ratings, ensuring reliable performance at different speed thresholds. The T-rated tires are suitable for speeds up to 118 mph, while the H-rated tires can handle up to 130 mph, and the V-rated tires can reach speeds of up to 149 mph.

The tread design of the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is a standout feature. It incorporates Falken’s signature 3D Canyon Sipe Technology, which helps enhance traction on wet and slippery surfaces. The tread pattern also features a solid center rib for improved stability and responsive handling, while the four wide circumferential grooves effectively evacuate water, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.

Additionally, the tire features Falken’s Silica Tread Compound, which promotes even wear and increased tread life. The compound also enhances grip and braking performance on both dry and wet surfaces, ensuring reliable handling in various weather conditions.

Performance in Different Conditions

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tire is designed to provide reliable all-season performance across a wide range of driving conditions. On dry roads, the tire’s advanced tread compound and optimized siping ensure excellent grip and responsive handling. The asymmetric tread pattern enhances cornering stability, allowing for confident maneuvering around tight turns and curves.

When the roads become wet, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S shines with its advanced water evacuation capabilities. The deep, circumferential grooves efficiently channel water away from the tire’s contact patch, minimizing the risk of hydroplaning and ensuring reliable traction. The tire’s siping and tread design also contribute to improved braking performance on wet surfaces, providing drivers with a sense of control and security.

While not primarily designed for extreme winter conditions, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S performs admirably in light snow and slush. The tire’s all-season compound maintains flexibility at lower temperatures, preventing excessive stiffening and ensuring a decent level of grip. The tread pattern’s biting edges and sipes help provide traction on snowy roads, making it a suitable choice for milder winter driving conditions.

In terms of ride comfort, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S strikes a balanced compromise between performance and comfort. The tire’s internal construction and advanced cushion technology work together to absorb road imperfections and minimize vibrations, resulting in a smooth and comfortable ride. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, passengers can expect a refined and enjoyable driving experience.

Durability and Treadwear

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires are designed to provide exceptional durability and long-lasting treadwear. With their advanced silica-reinforced tread compound and optimized tread pattern, these tires offer impressive resistance against wear and tear, even under demanding driving conditions.

One of the standout features of the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is its expected tread life. Falken has engineered these tires to deliver an extended treadwear lifespan, ensuring that you can enjoy their performance for many miles to come. The tread design incorporates strategically placed sipes and grooves that promote even wear distribution, reducing the risk of premature tread degradation.

In addition to their impressive treadwear, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires also boast exceptional resistance to damage. The reinforced construction and robust materials used in their manufacturing help protect against punctures, cuts, and other potential hazards encountered on the road. This durability not only enhances safety but also contributes to the overall longevity of the tires.

Furthermore, Falken backs the ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires with a comprehensive warranty package. The treadwear warranty provides coverage for a specified mileage, giving you peace of mind and confidence in the product’s quality. Should any issues arise during the warranty period, Falken’s customer support team is available to assist you and ensure a hassle-free experience.

Noise and Comfort Levels

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires offer a remarkably quiet and comfortable driving experience, even on rougher road surfaces. Their advanced tread design and construction minimize road noise, resulting in a serene cabin environment. You’ll enjoy peaceful rides, free from the intrusive hum often associated with other all-season tires.

Additionally, these tires excel in providing a smooth and well-cushioned ride quality. Their optimized rubber compound and internal structure effectively absorb road imperfections, minimizing vibrations and harshness transmitted to the cabin. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S delivers a refined and comfortable journey.

Falken’s commitment to noise reduction and ride quality is evident in every mile driven on these tires. You can enjoy your favorite music or conversations without the distraction of excessive road noise, while the plush ride ensures fatigue-free travels, even on extended trips.

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires are designed with fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness in mind. The low rolling resistance compound used in these tires helps reduce the amount of energy required to keep them rolling, resulting in improved fuel economy. This not only saves you money at the gas pump but also contributes to lowering your vehicle’s carbon footprint.

One of the key factors influencing a tire’s rolling resistance is its tread pattern. The ZIEX ZE960 A/S features an optimized tread design that minimizes the deformation of the tire as it rolls, reducing the energy lost to heat and friction. Additionally, the tire’s lightweight construction further enhances its fuel efficiency capabilities.

Falken’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond just fuel savings. The ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires are manufactured using eco-friendly materials and processes, minimizing their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The company also adheres to strict environmental regulations and standards, ensuring that these tires are produced in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Overall, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires offer an excellent balance between performance and eco-friendliness, making them an attractive choice for environmentally conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on safety or handling.

Pricing and Value for Money

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tire offers an excellent value proposition for its price point. Compared to premium all-season tires from major brands, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is more affordable while still delivering impressive performance and durability.

When considering the cost of a full set of tires, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S can save you hundreds of dollars compared to top-tier options from brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, or Continental. However, it’s important to note that the exact pricing can vary based on tire size and your location.

Despite its lower price tag, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. It boasts advanced tread compound and design features that provide reliable traction, handling, and braking on both dry and wet surfaces. Additionally, the tire’s reinforced construction and optimized tread pattern contribute to its impressive durability and extended treadwear.

Overall, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S offers an outstanding bang for your buck. It delivers a well-rounded performance that rivals more expensive alternatives, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious drivers who refuse to compromise on safety and reliability.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires are designed for optimal performance and longevity, but proper installation and maintenance practices are crucial to ensure their maximum potential. It’s recommended to have these tires installed by a professional technician who can properly balance and align them for your specific vehicle. Proper installation ensures even treadwear and prevents premature tire degradation.

Tire rotation is an essential aspect of maintenance for the ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires. Falken recommends rotating these tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or as specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Regular rotation helps distribute wear evenly across all four tires, prolonging their lifespan and ensuring consistent performance.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is also vital for these all-season tires. Underinflated tires can cause excessive wear on the outer shoulders, while overinflation can lead to premature wear in the center of the tread. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle and driving conditions.

To ensure optimal treadlife and performance, it’s essential to have your wheel alignment checked periodically. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven and accelerated treadwear, compromising the tire’s handling and traction capabilities. Falken recommends having your alignment checked at least once a year or whenever you notice uneven treadwear patterns.

Finally, regular inspections and proper tire care can help extend the life of your Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires. Check for any cuts, bulges, or other visible damage, and have any issues addressed promptly. Avoid driving on excessively worn tires, as this can compromise your safety and vehicle control. With proper installation, rotation, and maintenance, these all-season tires can provide reliable performance and a comfortable driving experience for many miles.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on numerous customer reviews and feedback, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires have received mostly positive ratings from real-world users. Many drivers have praised the tires for their impressive performance in various weather conditions, including wet and light snow. The tires’ ability to provide reliable traction and handling on both dry and slippery roads has been a common point of praise.

However, some customers have expressed concerns about the tires’ treadwear and durability, stating that they may not last as long as expected, especially under heavy usage or aggressive driving conditions. Additionally, a few users have mentioned that the tires can produce noticeable road noise, particularly on rougher surfaces.

Overall, the majority of customers seem satisfied with their purchase of the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S tires. They appreciate the tires’ versatility, grip, and value for money. While there are some complaints about treadwear and noise levels, most users acknowledge that these issues are common among all-season tires and do not significantly detract from the overall performance and satisfaction with the product.

Comparison with Competing Tires

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is a formidable contender in the crowded all-season tire market, offering a well-rounded performance that compares favorably with other popular models. When pitted against rivals like the Michelin Defender T+H, Continental TrueContact Tour, and Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus, the ZE960 A/S holds its own in various aspects.

In terms of dry and wet traction, the ZE960 A/S delivers reliable grip and responsive handling, on par with the Michelin Defender T+H and slightly edging out the Continental TrueContact Tour. However, the Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus may have a slight advantage in wet conditions due to its advanced silica-based tread compound.

When it comes to winter performance, the ZE960 A/S performs admirably for an all-season tire, providing decent traction on light snow and ice. However, dedicated winter tires like the Bridgestone Blizzak or Michelin X-Ice still outperform it in extreme cold and snowy conditions.

Regarding ride comfort and noise levels, the ZE960 A/S strikes a good balance, offering a smooth and quiet ride comparable to the Michelin Defender T+H and Continental TrueContact Tour. The Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus may have a slight edge in terms of noise reduction due to its advanced tread design.

In the realm of treadwear and durability, the ZE960 A/S boasts impressive longevity, with many users reporting excellent tread life. It competes closely with the Continental TrueContact Tour and Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus in this regard, while the Michelin Defender T+H may have a slight advantage due to its longer tread life warranty.

When it comes to pricing, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S offers a compelling value proposition, often costing less than its premium competitors while delivering comparable performance. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking a high-quality all-season tire without breaking the bank.

Pros and Cons Summary

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is an impressive all-season tire that offers a well-rounded performance across various driving conditions. Here are some of its key advantages and drawbacks:

Pros:

• Excellent traction and grip on dry and wet roads, thanks to the advanced tread compound and pattern design.
• Reliable handling and cornering stability, providing a confident driving experience.
• Impressive braking performance, even on slippery surfaces.
• Comfortable and quiet ride, with effective noise reduction technology.
• Decent treadwear and durability, ensuring a reasonable lifespan for the tire.
• Affordable pricing compared to some premium all-season tire options.

Cons:

• Performance in deep snow or icy conditions is not as exceptional as dedicated winter tires.
• Treadlife may not be as long as some competing tires in the same category.
• Limited size options, which may not suit all vehicle models and configurations.
• Fuel efficiency could be slightly better, although it’s not a major drawback.
• Availability and accessibility may vary depending on the region and retailer.

Overall, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is a solid choice for drivers seeking a reliable and well-rounded all-season tire that delivers a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

The Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is an impressive all-season tire that delivers reliable performance across a wide range of conditions. Its advanced tread design and high-quality construction ensure excellent traction on both dry and wet surfaces, while also providing a comfortable and quiet ride.

For drivers seeking a well-rounded tire that can handle the challenges of varying weather conditions, the ZIEX ZE960 A/S is an excellent choice. Its ability to maintain grip and stability in rain, snow, and even light off-road scenarios makes it a versatile option for daily commuting or occasional adventure.

Moreover, the tire’s long-lasting tread life and fuel-efficient design contribute to its overall value proposition, potentially saving you money in the long run through reduced maintenance costs and improved fuel economy.

If you prioritize safety, performance, and value, the Falken ZIEX ZE960 A/S is a highly recommended option in the all-season tire market. Its well-balanced characteristics and consistent performance make it a reliable choice for a wide range of vehicles and driving styles.