The short answer is no (we’ll explain why). Despite the hype surrounding silicone coated and hydrophobic wiper blades, their actual performance and longevity leave much to be desired. We’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about silicone wiper blades lately, so we wanted to provide more detailed information to help you make an informed decision for your vehicle.
At first glance, silicone wiper blades may seem appealing due to their claim of improved performance in wet weather, but upon closer examination, they tend to fall short in terms of durability, long-term performance, and overall value. Here at Wipers Direct, we prefer and recommend natural rubber wiper blades because they are better suited for Australian weather conditions and perform consistently across all seasons.
Silicone Wiper Blades Explained
So, what exactly are silicone wiper blades? Essentially, they are similar to regular natural rubber wiper blades, but with one key difference: the rubber is coated in silicone instead of Teflon or graphite. The silicone coating is designed to create a hydrophobic layer on your windshield, causing water to bead and blow off as you drive.
Theoretically, this sounds great, especially if you frequently drive in rainy conditions. However, while the water-repelling properties of silicone blades can improve visibility in the short term, the long-term benefits are minimal. Silicone wiper blades may look impressive out of the box, but their performance and durability quickly diminish with regular use.
The Benefits of Silicone Wiper Blades
While silicone wiper blades do have some advantages, particularly in terms of short-term performance, these benefits are often exaggerated. When brand new, they perform reasonably well in both light and heavy rain. The silicone coating helps repel water and creates a smoother wiping action, which initially promotes clear visibility.
Some of the claimed benefits include:
- Water beading: Silicone wiper blades promote water beading on the windshield, making it easier for water to blow off at high speeds.
- Smooth operation: Silicone blades can create less friction, resulting in a quieter wipe—at least at first.
- Hydrophobic properties: The silicone layer can reduce the need to use wipers at high speeds, as the wind pushes off much of the water.
However, these benefits are often short lived. As the silicone coating breaks down over time, the performance quickly deteriorates.
The Downfall of Silicone Wiper Blades
Despite the initial appeal, silicone wiper blades have several significant drawbacks. These disadvantages are why natural rubber wiper blades, like those offered by Wipers Direct, are still the preferred choice for most drivers and manufacturers. Here’s why silicone wipers fall short:
Silicone Wiper Blades Are Not Durable
One of the main claims surrounding silicone wiper blades is that they last longer than traditional wipers. However, this is misleading. The reality is that the silicone material itself is not more durable than natural rubber. In fact, the silicone rubber deteriorates faster under most driving conditions.
Many retailers suggest that silicone blades last longer because they don’t need to be used as frequently in wet conditions due to their water-repelling properties. However, the actual blade material breaks down quickly. Once the silicone coating starts to wear off, the blades become less effective, leading to squeaking, chattering, and streaking much sooner than traditional natural rubber wiper blades.
Silicone Wiper Blades Deteriorate in Hot Climates
Silicone is particularly susceptible to degradation in hot weather, which makes it a poor choice for countries like Australia. High temperatures cause the silicone to break down, leading to poor performance and a shorter lifespan. Natural rubber wiper blades, particularly those infused with graphite or Teflon, handle both hot and cold conditions better, making them a more reliable option for year-round performance.
Hazing on the Windshield
Another common issue with silicone wiper blades is the hazing effect they can leave on your windshield. As the silicone coating wears down, it can leave a grimy residue that creates a cloudy haze on the glass. This can make visibility even worse and may require professional cleaning or polishing to remove. This is one of the major reasons why many drivers steer clear of silicone wipers.
Hard to Find in the Market
Due to their poor durability and performance issues, silicone wiper blades are not widely available. Most major wiper manufacturers avoid producing them, and they’re difficult to find in auto parts stores. Customers typically prefer natural rubber wiper blades for their reliability, longevity, and performance in diverse weather conditions.
Natural Rubber Wiper Blades: A Better Choice
At Wipers Direct, we stick with tried-and-true Teflon infused natural rubber wiper blades. Our blades are designed for durability and performance, no matter the weather conditions. We use Teflon infused rubber, which provides a smooth, streak-free wipe and extends the life of the blades.
Here’s why Teflon infused natural rubber wiper blades are a better choice:
- Longevity: Unlike silicone blades, natural rubber blades are built to last, even in extreme weather conditions.
- Durability: Teflon coatings protect the rubber from degradation, ensuring consistent performance over time.
- Smooth, Quiet Operation: Our blades provide a quieter wipe without the squeaking and chattering often associated with silicone alternatives.
- Easy Availability: Natural rubber wipers are widely available, and most manufacturers recommend them for their reliability.
Conclusion: Stick with Natural Rubber Wiper Blades
While silicone wiper blades may seem like an innovative product, the reality is that they don’t live up to the hype. Their poor durability, susceptibility to hot climates, and potential for creating a hazy windshield make them a less reliable choice for most drivers. In contrast, natural rubber wiper blades, especially those offered by Wipers Direct, are more durable, reliable, and better suited to handle all weather conditions.
If you’re looking for wiper blades that perform well in rain, snow, and heat, and that will last longer than gimmicky silicone alternatives, we highly recommend sticking with natural rubber wipers. Visit Wipers Direct to find the best fit for your vehicle today, and enjoy a smooth, quiet, and streak-free driving experience.
For more information on choosing the right wiper blades, check out our Best Wiper Blades of 2023 guide or contact our customer support team for personalised recommendations.
Update: View our best wipers of 2024 guide here.
