We spent 24 hours on research, videography, and editing, to review the top options for this wiki. When it comes to car detailing, few materials can deliver the head-turning gleam of properly glazed rubber. Whether you’re hoping to see a customer drive off the lot or are pulling out of your garage, the best way to make tires shine is with one of these dressings, which come in water- and solvent-based formulas, as well as high-gloss and satin varieties. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to support our work.
10. Mother’s Back-to-Black
As the name implies, Mother’s Back-to-Black does a fantastic job of returning worn and oxidized surfaces to showroom condition. Unlike many others, it won’t produce a blinding glare, but rather an understated and classy satin sheen.
- Especially easy to apply
- The bottle itself sometimes fails
- Attracts considerable dust and grit
| Brand | Mothers |
|---|---|
| Model | 06924 |
| Weight | 1.8 pounds |
| Rating | 3.8 / 5.0 |
9. Armor All Extreme
No list would be complete without the highly recognizable Armor All Extreme, a silicone-based gel that leaves a deep, glassy veneer on a well-cleaned show car. It takes a little bit of care to spread evenly, but it should stay flashy for at least a week.
- Among the easiest to put on
- One of the cheapest there is
- Somewhat vulnerable to moisture
| Brand | Armor All |
|---|---|
| Model | 77960 |
| Weight | 1.3 pounds |
| Rating | 4.1 / 5.0 |
8. Duragloss 321
The multifunctional Duragloss 321 makes a wide range of interior and exterior components look brand new again with just a few quick sprays. It’s water-based, so instead of possibly drying things out, it confers an extra layer of UV and weather protection.
- Helps repel dust and dirt
- Free of volatile organic compounds
- Not a high-gloss coating
| Brand | Duragloss |
|---|---|
| Model | 321 |
| Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Rating | 3.6 / 5.0 |
7. Griot’s Garage
Many hot rod enthusiasts swear by Griot’s Garage, and this specially formulated variety will stay beautiful for longer than much of the competition. It’s particularly versatile, because you can customize the level of gloss by using from 1 to 3 separate coats.
- Can withstand a rainstorm or two
- Thick and drip-free consistency
- Not the shiniest choice
| Brand | Griot’s Garage |
|---|---|
| Model | 11044 |
| Weight | 16 ounces |
| Rating | 4.0 / 5.0 |
6. Black Magic
The key to Black Magic is its simplicity, as you need only to cover the tire once with foam, then walk away and let it do the rest. It’s a one-step solution that dissolves stubborn grime and dirt first, before adhering itself for several days or more.
- Doesn’t need wiping or polishing
- Less expensive than most
- Usually requires two coats
| Brand | Black Magic |
|---|---|
| Model | 80002220 |
| Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Rating | 4.1 / 5.0 |
5. Meguiar’s Endurance
A common favorite of independent mechanics, Meguiar’s Endurance lends a very wet appearance to properly cleaned and dried surfaces. With just a few light strokes, it makes any rubber show-quality, although its solvent-based recipe may corrode older materials.
- A little bit goes a long way
- Dries in about 30 minutes
- Prone to slinging if overused
| Brand | Meguiar’s |
|---|---|
| Model | G7516 |
| Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Rating | 4.3 / 5.0 |
4. Griot’s Black Shine
Griot’s Black Shine is the premier offering from a much-relied-upon detailing supplier, and it’s one of the few aerosol products that’s worth checking out. Just one or two coats will result in a finish that’s about as shiny as they come.
- Doesn’t streak or run
- Goes on smooth and even
- Made of a solvent-based blend
| Brand | Griot’s Garage |
|---|---|
| Model | 10938 |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Rating | 4.0 / 5.0 |
3. Opti-Bond Gel
Opti-Bond Gel provides a reasonable brightness level for those who don’t want gaudy, reflective rubber. Because it’s made without harmful distillates or volatile organic compounds, it won’t break down polymers, like some common choices do.
- Popular among professional detailers
- Lasts longer than comparable blends
- Also great for interior pieces
| Brand | OPT |
|---|---|
| Model | OB2008C |
| Weight | 9.6 ounces |
| Rating | 4.9 / 5.0 |
2. Renew Protect Gloz
While most compounds call for a fresh coat every few weeks or sooner, Renew Protect Gloz boasts an unrivaled 1- to 2-year lifespan. It keeps your vehicle’s shoes looking sharp the entire time, and it works just as well on any plastic or vinyl parts, too.
- Leaves a grease-free non-slip finish
- Exceptional dry rot prevention
- Myriad uses outside of the shop
| Brand | Renew Protect |
|---|---|
| Model | FBA_002016 Gloz 8oz |
| Weight | 10.9 ounces |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5.0 |
1. Tire Kicker
Tire Kicker is a high-gloss coating that’s effective not only on rubber, but any dark-colored polymer, including trim and engine components. It’s remarkably easy to apply, and when it dries, you might have the glossiest sidewalls on the road.
- Gel consistency in a spray bottle
- End result looks better than new
- Completely safe water-based formula
| Brand | Chemical Guys |
|---|---|
| Model | TVD11316 |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Rating | 4.5 / 5.0 |