Many motorists often ask the question: which windshield wiper blades are best? Before choosing a specific wiper option, it is worth understanding the criteria by which modern brushes differ, which manufacturers are the most popular in our country, and what to look for when choosing.

1 Frame and frameless wiper blades

All car wipers differ in their design features, this is something you should pay attention to first. In second place is the manufacturer, reviews, testing and testing results. According to their design, windshield wiper blades are:

• framed and frameless,
• hybrid wipers,
• winter and summer,
• heated,
• for cleaning the rear window.

Frame wipers are currently considered obsolete, but there are many car enthusiasts who prefer this type of wiper. As a rule, such brushes are equipped with a metal body (frame) in which the mount is built-in. The fastening is something like a regular hook, but recently you can find frame wipers on cars with removable fasteners.

The practicality of such brushes is modern conditions operation is practically zero. They fit tightly to the glass and have low performance aerodynamic drag, often produce a characteristic noise (especially at high speeds). In winter, the frame is filled with water, which freezes at sub-zero temperatures, and removing the ice can be quite difficult. But despite this, such wipers can do an excellent job of cleaning the glass surface. Some experts even recommend the use of frame wipers for certain car models. Today, such windshield wiper blades are used on VAZ classics, old foreign cars and some modern cars.

Frameless wiper blades are the most common option among modern car enthusiasts. They are easy to manufacture and reliable in operation. Such wipers are sometimes simply called rubber or flat. The design is based on a metal plate, which is completely covered with rubber or caoutchouc; in the center there is a convenient, replaceable mount (varies depending on the manufacturer). Among the advantages of frame brushes– high aerodynamic capabilities, absence of noise even at high speeds and ease of cleaning during winter operation.

2 Other types of wiper blades

Hybrid brushes can be found on Japanese-made cars. Some experts claim that this type is the most effective to use. The body of the part is thought out to the smallest detail, and during long-term use, the rubber itself often fails, rather than the structural elements. It is based on a classic frame wiper, tightly closed with rubber or plastic. Among the advantages of hybrids are a high degree of adherence to the windshield, complete absence of noise and maximum ease of cleaning.

There are also winter wipers, which are frame options tightly covered with a rubber casing. They are easy to clear of snow and ice, but in practice they are very noisy and cumbersome. High windage and low aerodynamics contribute to the fact that already at car speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour, winter brushes begin to creak unpleasantly. In winter, you can choose frameless ones. Several wires are built into the design, which heat the metal base, which transfers heat to the elastic band. It is worth noting that this is a really effective option in harsh winter conditions. The selection of heated brushes is carried out depending on the car model, mounting method and the possibility of installing a control module (if there is an automatic sensor trigger function).

As for wipers for cleaning the rear window, their design (mainly the mounting) differs from the front ones, so they must be selected separately. There are special rear wiper kits that also come in frame, frameless or hybrid versions.

Everyone decides which ones are best for their car, taking into account design features, price and other factors. Is there some more original parts. As a rule, these are the same sets of windshield wipers, for example, Bosch or Denso with the car logo. Their price is unreasonably high, since their design is no different from ordinary kits from the same manufacturers.

3 Review and testing of popular brush sets

When testing, the following indicators are checked first:

• ergonomics (fastening, design, marking, appearance etc.),
• wear resistance (tested on a special stand and in practical conditions),
• heat resistance and resistance to UV rays (tested at temperatures up to 75 degrees and with constant exposure to sunlight for 150 hours),
• quality of work in real conditions (testing work on the windshield different models auto).

An important factor when choosing is the price. As practice has shown, expensive brushes from well-known and, according to experts, best brands may be inferior to models from manufacturers of average popularity and the optimal price category.

Champion (Belgium)

Frameless brushes from a European manufacturer. The kit does not include instructions in Russian. There are six adapters for levers of various designs. The brushes have a simple and convenient fixation, but there is a noticeable tendency to crush, this is especially evident in practice when the brush is installed on a car after bench tests. The cleaning performance is above average, so they can be recommended for installation on middle-class cars. The advantages also include relatively low price: 350–600 rubles per piece in various stores.

Denso Wiper (South Korea)

Hybrid car windshield wiper blades from a Korean manufacturer, which are gaining popularity in our country. Based on the results of practical tests, Denso brushes showed excellent performance. The kit includes detailed instructions in Russian. Fixing on the lever is convenient, no difficulties arise. As for the performance of the brushes on the stand, over time, stripes appeared in the upper part, and when testing for temperature resistance, the cleaning of the lower part deteriorated slightly. However, no crushing or separation was observed. Considering the low cost (up to 450 rubles per piece) and ease of installation, as well as thoughtful design, brushes can be chosen for cars of all brands with a similar type of fastener.

Bosch (Germany)

The presented model of brushes is the most optimal in terms of price-quality ratio. The design is hybrid, the package includes three adapters for pin type mounts (popular on Audi cars, VW, Seat, etc.). There are no detailed installation instructions included in the kit, but the process is unlikely to cause any difficulties even for the average car enthusiast. Price 1200–1400 rubles per set. Build quality and performance on the diagnostic stand and in living conditions almost perfect.

Valeo (France)

The most expensive wiper blades of all the options considered. The price exceeds 2500 rubles per set. But the package includes adapters for popular versions of lever mounts and clear instructions. They have better climatic resistance and resistance to UV rays. Crushing and separation are completely absent, the aerodynamic indicator is also in first place among the presented models. The wipers are ideal as originals for French-made cars (Renault, Citroen).

Trico Vision (USA)

Frameless wipers famous brand. They belong to the middle price category (650–700 rubles). The instructions are not clear even English language, there are no necessary adapters for popular mounts. Removal is made difficult by a non-standard mechanism (the fastening lever must be pulled up and not squeezed out). Normal resistance to temperature, effective cleaning of glass according to the size of the brush. During testing, the rubber band came off; therefore, upon purchase, the wipers would have to be changed after just a few thousand kilometers.

Today, you can employ any national... excuse me, construction as a janitor: there are framed, frameless, hybrid... Their work is hard, after a year fatigue takes its toll - a replacement is needed. Fresh recruits tend to perform better. And advertising of new products does not hesitate to castigate those design elements that were presented as cutting-edge just yesterday: they say, how did they even go with it?

So which “janitor crew” should you prefer? Newfangled hybrid or familiar frameless? Bosch or Denso? More expensive or cheaper? As a result, we decided to hold a professional skills competition. The Ulyanovsk Automobile Plant volunteered to help us: it has a couple of stands for life tests brushes - you can drive them for at least a year. But we limited the test period to four months: this roughly corresponds to a year’s mileage on a live car.

Each pair of wipers was bought in triplicate - just like in Gaidaev’s comedy. The first - on the stand, the second - in the heat chamber, the third - on the car for comparison: it was and is now.

WHAT WE CHECKED

In the old days, a janitor was the name given to the owner of an inn; he had much more responsibilities than waving a broom. There are also many requirements for modern wipers, so we decided to check the following parameters:

• ergonomics (packaging, labeling, design, appearance, fastening on a leash);
• wear resistance on the stand (analogous to a year's mileage on a real car);
• resistance to UV radiation (100 hours);
• heat resistance (at +65 and -45 ° C);
• quality of glass cleaning real car after laboratory tests.

HOW WERE THE RESULTS EVALUATED

Technical indicators were assessed by a group of experts on a 5-point scale; these assessments were recorded in the test report. Ratings for the price/quality ratio were also given on a 5-point scale: according to the principle “more is better.” The calculation method is simple: dividing the cost of each product by the number of points scored, the best attitude was given a score of 5 points, and the worst - 1 point. The rest received proportional intermediate grades. Thus, an “excellent” student could ideally receive 5 points for both technical results and optimal pricing policy. The same applies to the outsider, who in both cases was threatened with one.

Change brushes at least once a year!

The competition turned out to be democratic: long and short, America and Eurasia were represented. Prices range from 300 to 910 rubles per piece. We were pleased that we did not notice the overwhelming superiority of one design over the other. From an engineer’s point of view, everything is logical: advertising is advertising, but there is no need to lose your head. Frankly, only the overseas “Tights” couldn’t handle it: tearing off the tape is almost like hitting glass with a shovel. But the malfunction is not directly related to the type of design: a specific technology clearly failed.

It is curious that “Anko”, “Champion” and “Tights”, even being new, did not receive the maximum rating. Bench tests reduced the cleaning quality of all products, albeit to varying degrees. This reinforces the need for an annual “changing of the guard” on the windshield. Competitors are located in alphabetical order. The best value for money is the German Heiner Hybrid; Denso, Valeo and Vin scored the maximum points. Our choice ultimately fell on the Korean Denso: low price, text in Russian, excellent scores and... And, whatever one may say, the most modern design. You can't escape fashion.

Anco Contour, Mexico

Approximate price, rub.: 910

Type; length, mm: frameless; 500

General impression: average

3,8

1,00

Installation information is given in the insert (without the Russian version). Can be installed on a pin-type lever; an adapter for a flat lever is included. Fixing on a leash (as well as eating) is simple and straightforward. But the fit of the brush was not ideal, neither in the original state, nor even more so after the marathon on the stand. Ultraviolet and climate also added a little negativity: an uncleaned strip appeared in the center of the glass. The price is the highest.

Bosch Aerotwin, China

Approximate price, rub.: 570

Type; length, mm: frameless; 530

General impression: very good

Test rating: 4,35

Rating for price/quality ratio: 3,53

The packaging is nice, but I’m in no hurry to part with the wiper, trying to cut my finger with the sharp edge. Information about car models and installation locations is detailed, but Russian is not used. Fixation and removal are very convenient. After the bench tests, they began to mess around in the center and on top. The ultraviolet was tolerated calmly, but the climate slightly worsened the cleaning in the middle part. Crushing in all modes is absent as a class. The price is average.

Champion, Belgium

Approximate price, rub.: 355

Type; length, mm: frameless; 350

General impression: mediocre

Test rating: 4,20

Rating for price/quality ratio: 4,63

There are no questions about the packaging, if you forgive the inattention to Russian-speaking customers. Included are six adapters for various designs levers. Fixation on the lever is understandable, but difficult. Brushes, even new ones, are prone to chipping. At the same time, they get their hands very dirty (either soot or Silicone Grease- the instructions are silent). The only brush that, after the camera and stand, improved cleaning: perhaps that very dirty layer was erased? The ultraviolet came back with incomplete adhesion and a new attack of crushing. The price is quite low.

BEST WIPER BLADES: CHOICE OF ZR

Denso Wiper Blade, Korea

Approximate price, rub.: 330

Type; length, mm: hybrid; 350

General impression: excellent

Test rating: 4,50

Rating for price/quality ratio: 4,88

Hurray, there is detailed information in Russian! The packaging is convenient, fixing and tightening does not create any difficulties. “Runs” on the stand created minor stripes on the windshield along the length of the brush, and the temperature chamber slightly worsened the cleaning in the upper part, but no crushing or anything else occurred. The price is one of the lowest.

Heyner Hybrid, Germany

Approximate price, rub.: 300

Type; length, mm: hybrid; 500

General impression: very good

Test rating: 4,40

Rating for price/quality ratio: 5.00 (best)

The complaint about the packaging is standard: where is the Russian language? Everything else is good. The set includes two adapters for mounting on pin-type levers. Fixation on the lever is understandable, although difficult. Staying on the stand resulted in small stripes under the middle and upper parts of the brush, and the climate chamber added a small stripe at the bottom. Ultraviolet light did not cause any harm. The price is the lowest.

Trico Innovision, USA

Approximate price, rub.: 490

Type; length, mm: frameless; 510

General impression: bad

Test rating: 3,40

Rating for price/quality ratio: 3,22

The packaging is convenient, but there is no connection to car models (as well as the Russian text). There are small installation instructions. The fixation on the lever is convenient, but removal is difficult due to the non-standard mechanism (you do not need to press on the lever, but pull it). The initial fit was not perfect, and after the stand the picture was supplemented with two stripes - in the middle and upper parts. Not only that, but the rubber band came off! The brush withstood the climate well, but the effect of the UV lamp turned out to be detrimental: stripes appeared along the entire length. The price is average.

Valeo Silencio, France

Approximate price, rub.: 910

Type; length, mm: frameless; 530

General impression: excellent

Test rating: 4,50

Rating for price/quality ratio: 1,86

The information on the packaging is comprehensive, if you close your eyes to the absence of Cyrillic. Attaching and removing the leash is simple and straightforward. When the brushes move at any speed, there is no crushing effect. After the stand, small stripes are left on the glass along the entire width of the brush. The products did not react at all to climate control and ultraviolet radiation. The only thing I wasn't happy about was the high cost.

Ween Shimo, EU

Approximate price, rub.: 365

Type; length, mm: frameless; 350

General impression: excellent

Test rating: 4,50

Rating for price/quality ratio: 4,70

You highlight it right away detailed information in Russian indicating car models and installation locations. Convenient packaging, three adapters. Installing and removing the wiper is easy. Staying at the stand did not affect the initial abilities in any way: crushing and other negative things were not noticed. The ultraviolet “tanning” also did not cause any harm, and only the temperature effect slightly worsened the cleaning in the upper part. When checking the heat resistance, softening of the rubber tape was detected. The price is reasonable.

FROM FRAME TO HYBRID

The design of brushes has not undergone any major changes over the past century. Hopes for various types of blowers, nanocoatings and other tricks melt away before the simplicity and effectiveness of conventional mechanical cleaning. Therefore, the main efforts of developers are spent on battles with a variable radius of curvature and other innovations.

The most famous brushes are frame brushes: a kind of set of rocker arms and elastic plates plus a rubber band. Rubber was constantly replaced by other materials. The companies used synthetic and partially synthetic rubber, used a graphite coating on the blade, a three-component composition of the belts, etc. As for the rocker arms, the number of which began to grow before our eyes, they decided to get rid of them altogether by using a frameless design. A spring steel element inside the rubber band improved the pressure against the glass and gave hope that the brush would not freeze in the cold. As usual, a step back was soon taken: so-called hybrid wiper blades appeared, which were supposed to combine the advantages of their ancestors.

The hybrid brush design is completely hidden in the body, which prevents water from freezing in the joints.

In any case, you should only use brushes recommended for this car model.

The highest quality cleaning 3 The quietest 4 High wear resistance 5

Based on the rules traffic, the driver should not operate the vehicle with the windshield wiper not working. This requirement is especially relevant in winter time when the wiper blades are subject to high temperature and physical stress, and traffic safety depends on their normal operation, since poor (limited) visibility of the road can cause an accident.

This review presents the best car windshield wiper blades that can be purchased on the domestic markets. For the convenience of the reader, the models are divided into typical categories. The rating position was formed on the basis of the parameters of this product, as well as the opinions and statements of owners who left reviews online about their experience in using a particular brand of wipers.

Best Frame Wiper Blades

We begin the review with representatives of the oldest type – frame brushes. These models are made in the form of a system of rocker arms and hinges on which the brush blade is fixed. This type is used on the vast majority of old cars, so for owners of “old cars” the choice is obvious. When choosing, you should pay attention to the materials from which the moving elements are made. Although the metal is durable, in the conditions of our roads it quickly rusts and loses its elasticity. Plastic is preferable in this regard, although it can also fail severe frosts.

5 MTF light Classic U-Hook

Optimal ratio of quality and price
Country: South Korea
Average price: 270 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4

One of the most popular frame wiper blades combines high quality and low cost. The design of the wiper has an asymmetrical design, thanks to which the oncoming flow of wind presses the blade against the glass as tightly as possible, providing a better degree of cleaning. A kind of frame-spoiler is especially effective in winter, when the wipers face a high load, brushing away snow or clearing melting ice from the car's windshield.

Owners using this product on an ongoing basis, note high performance characteristics MTF light Classic. The reviews left positively evaluate the quiet operation of the windshield wiper. The rubber does not make any squeaks at all, even when moving on dry glass. Made from wear-resistant automotive rubber, the composition of which is a personal development of the company, the brush will last a long time and will ensure reliable removal of dirt, both in the summer and winter months.

4 Mui-Champ

The most effective clamp on glass
Country: Japan
Average price: 700 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

The windshield wiper blade Mui-Champ 022 550 mm/22D is a frame type product and, due to the presence of a hook fastening, is suitable for most car brands. The frame of this model is made of high quality steel 1.2 mm, followed by galvanizing and painting to ensure brushes better stability to aggressive influence environment. The working blade, made of a natural rubber mixture using graphite impregnation technology, minimizes vibration and slippage.

The design of the metal rocker arms provided in Mui-Champ wipers ensures maximum pressure of the rubber blade to the surface at six points, which guarantees better cleaning of the car windshield.

3 Heyner Exclusive Graphite

Best price
Country: Germany
Average price: 320 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Our rating opens up very interesting representative framers. The first and very important feature It is possible to purchase an adapter for any leash, which means you can use the model on almost any car. The second feature is a replaceable rubber band. On the one hand, it’s convenient - you don’t need to buy an assembled unit, and this saves a lot of money. On the other hand, the brush may simply freeze to the glass, while the metal base will make a passage and scratch the glass. And Exclusive Graphit does not clean the best.

However, versatility low cost and replaceable tape make this offer one of the best on the market. The only thing that owners don’t like about all of the above is the sliding of the rubber protector when the wipers move. In their reviews, users note that at high intensity. operation of the windshield wiper, the blade rubber may slip from the guides. This is especially pronounced in winter, when frame wipers are subject to excessive loads.

2 Champion Aerovantage

The most reliable
Country: Hungary
Average price: 375 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Champion's products are used by domestic motorists deserved popularity. The Aerovantage series includes a huge number of models of different lengths and with all possible types of fastening, so choosing a brush for your car will not be difficult. Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages. The main thing is that the quality of glass cleaning is not the best. You can also complain about the massiveness of the structure, which can lead to loosening of the hinges.

However, many owners who have chosen frame Champion Aerovantage for their car consider this “disadvantage” to be a huge advantage. Judging by the reviews, in winter these massive wipers cope better than others with snow and melted ice. And even if a windshield wiper requires more than one pass to provide a clear view, due to its reliability, Aerovantage frame blades have every right to be among best models our rating. In winter, this quality comes in handy.

Comparison of the three main types of windshield wiper blades: frame, frameless and hybrid.

	pros	Minuses
Frame	Most common They have excellent rigidity and adhere well to the glass. Plastic parts are not subject to corrosion	- Metal models are susceptible to corrosion and freeze more often If the rocker arms are made of cheap plastic, play quickly appears and cleaning efficiency is significantly reduced.
Frameless	Relatively high resistance to icing Fewer moving parts, which means higher reliability Have less distortion when moving on glass They are quieter than frame ones	Not universal, which means you can only purchase and use brushes designed for your car
Hybrid	Compact as frameless models Have excellent rigidity Better aerodynamics High reliability and service life Good fit to glass	- High price

1 Bosch Twin

Better cleaning
A country:
Average price: 620 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Bosch is a leader in many areas of our lives. Their products also did not disappoint in the field of automotive windshield wiper blades. Due to the narrow and rigid blade, this model copes well with intense stains on glass. It knocks off fine dirt and ice, not to mention regular rain. But it is worth considering that Bosch Twin also has one significant drawback - relatively rapid wear. Yes, due to its rigidity, the brush copes well with dirt, but it also erases much faster than its softer competitors. Thus, we have an excellent “framework” for those who are ready to change their wipers 2-3 times a year to ensure excellent visibility.

At the same time, the high strength of the wiper's cleaning protector does not harm the windshield or rear windows at all, and in winter makes this wiper one of the most effective among frame blades. In their reviews, owners point out one particular feature of operation - if the washer nozzle moistens the entire surface of the glass where the rubber band passes (good spraying), then the cleaning is ideal, and even heavy dirt can be removed in one pass, and this significantly increases the service life.

Best Frameless Wiper Blades

Frameless brushes – more modern type windshield wipers. The engineers tried to get rid of the system of rocker arms and hinges in favor of pre-curved plates, between which the brush blade is clamped. This option has greater reliability and better aerodynamics. In addition, lower weight puts less stress on the drives, which means they will last a little longer. But it is worth considering that frameless wipers are created specifically for each specific car model. So, be careful - not all participants in our rating will be suitable for your car.

5 Artway

Best price
Country: China
Average price: 260 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.0

Owners who have chosen Artway frameless wipers are completely satisfied not only with their characteristics, but also at an affordable price. Thanks to the use of stainless spring steel in the clamping mechanism, the rubber ridge fits tightly to the windshield of the car, ensuring effective removal of water, dirt, snow and melting ice. And this despite the rather low weight of the frameless wiper.

In winter, Teflon treatment (the rubber protector has a protective layer applied on top) gives the wiper a good competitive advantage with similar models of windshield wipers. Availability of adapters for different types fasteners ensure the applicability of these brushes in almost all brands of cars, maximizing the target audience. Maintaining elasticity during deep freezing (up to -40 °C) is also strong point these budget wipers.

4 ClimAir

The most durable
Country: Germany
Average price: 900 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4

This company has been in the automotive accessories business for almost 50 years, and its frameless windshield wiper blades deserve special attention. The rubber component is made of natural rubber and impregnated with graphite using a special technology. They perform their functions perfectly, do not creak and can withstand temperatures from -40 °C to 80 °C without losing their performance characteristics. Before complete replacement Wipers can make almost 1.5 million strokes across the windshield, effectively removing dirt and sediment.

Owners consider their choice in favor of ClimAir wipers to be the right and rational decision. The ability to replace a rubber band in a frameless blade not only significantly increases the service life of the wipers, but also saves the user money - a high-quality rubber band for a windshield wiper will cost disproportionately higher. Reviews also note the excellent aerodynamics of the wiper, due to which it is better pressed against the glass by the oncoming air flow. Impregnation of the tread, in contrast to external spraying, allows you to maintain the declared properties longer, despite the gradual erasure of the working edge of the gum.

3 Valeo Silencio X.TRM

High reliability
Country: France
Average price: 930 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4

Valeo wipers can hardly be called outsiders. Yes, the quality of cleaning is far from ideal. Yes, they cost as much as an airplane. But they last for years! Neither ultraviolet light nor temperature changes have a noticeable effect on the quality of cleaning. The only thing that can force a car owner to replace them is banal abrasion of the tape, but no one is immune from this. Also worth noting as an advantage is the clever shape of the brush, due to which water is expelled faster at a higher speed - this will be extremely useful for those who often travel outside the city.

For timely replacement, the owner can install a special sensor sticker on the windshield, which will gradually change its color under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. The critical condition of the wiper rubbers occurs when the indicator turns bright yellow, which indicates the need for replacement. In their reviews, owners consider the presence of a sensor to be a clear advantage. Timely installation of new blades during high-speed driving will eliminate poor performance of the windshield wiper, which will always provide the driver with excellent visibility on the highway.

2 Bosch Aerotwin

The highest quality cleaning
A country: Germany (manufactured in China)
Average price: 660 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

At first glance, Bosch brushes are simply perfect. Firstly, they are suitable for a huge number of cars, even without the use of adapters. Secondly, they have the best glass cleaning performance. This is due to the excellent clamping force and the proprietary composition of the rubber band, which copes well with dried mud in the summer and does not freeze in the winter. Finally, Aerotwin wipers are simply quiet, which is also important. And everything would be fine, but after 5-6 months the quality of cleaning drops significantly, which means you will have to change the consumables very often.

Despite their moderate service life, Bosch Aerotwin wipers are in steady demand, especially from owners of cars such as Skoda SuperB, Kia Ceed, Touran, Volkswagen Caddy and some other brands, as they are ideally suited to the parameters of the windshield of these cars. For this reason, frameless wipers spend their resources more economically, which, judging by reviews from owners, increases the duration of their effective use.

1 Denso WB-Flat Blade

Country: France
Average price: 1690 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

It is not for nothing that these frameless brushes from Denso are in the top positions in the tests of popular automobile magazines. The first thing that catches your eye is the presence of a large number of adapters in the kit, due to which you can install the WB-Flat Blade on many cars. The wipers can also be praised for their excellent clamping force, provided by their aerodynamic shape, and excellent cleaning quality. The model can handle even dry mud without any problems. Finally, it is worth noting the non-freezing frame, which is very useful for use in winter conditions.

Consumers who have chosen Denso WB-Flat Blade wipers for their car are satisfied with their functionality. Many reviews note the confidently good quality of work, as well as the decent durability of these wipers. Rubber band frameless brush It is quite resistant not only to abrasion, but also has sufficient strength to adequately withstand the loads of winter use.

Best Hybrid Wiper Blades

Finally, we get to the most modern windshield wiper blades. Hybrid type– this is something in between frame and frameless brushes. They have a system of rocker arms and hinges, which provides them with an excellent fit to the surface, on top of which there is a plastic casing that reduces friction with the incoming air. Thus, engineers were able to combine the advantages of two older technologies. Of course, the cost is slightly higher, but this disadvantage is more than compensated for by a longer service life.

5 Goodyear Hybrid

Protection against counterfeiting. High build quality
Country: USA
Average price: 620 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Goodyear Hybrid windshield wipers can only be installed on left-hand drive vehicles and are designed for windshield wipers with the HOOK blade mount type. The design is made in full accordance with hybrid models - the frame part is hidden in an aerodynamic casing, which, moreover, gives the car a more stylish appearance. The metalized body is very reliable and resistant to stress, and protects the rubber protector well from damage. At the same time, the build quality of Goodyear Hybrid wipers can easily be called one of the best on the market. It should also be noted that there is protection against counterfeiting - windshield wipers are among the few models in which it is implemented at the proper level.

As for the work itself, it causes practically no complaints from the owners. Thanks to the graphite coating on the working blade of the tape, the wipers operate silently, without skipping, and demonstrate effective cleaning even on a dry windshield. In winter, the brushes do an excellent job of removing snow and melting ice, while they are practically silent and do not freeze, losing the mobility of the frame part.

4 MTF-Light Hybrid U-Hook

High wear resistance
Country: South Korea
Average price: 540 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

The South Korean manufacturer, ranking 5th in the world in the production of car windshield wiper blades, created the MTF-Light Hybrid U-Hook at the request of car assembly concerns. Of course, some of the products end up on the aftermarket. Compliance with Russian operating conditions makes these wipers quite popular among our owners of various cars. The brushes can be installed on almost any brand - the U-Hook mount using an adapter can be universal.

The high abrasion resistance of the gum provides a unique component composition that allows the brush to remain soft, despite the frost. Owner reviews especially often point to excellent performance during the winter months. The rubber wiper protector is evenly pressed by the frame mechanism and does not make any extraneous sounds when sliding across the glass. Hidden in an elegant casing, it is reliably protected from precipitation and always remains mobile in winter conditions, providing the driver with excellent visibility.

3 Trico NeoForm

The quietest
A country: USA (made in Mexico)
Average price: 560 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Opens rating hybrid brushes windshield wipers model from Mexico. It’s worth saying right away that the representative of the New World does not cope with pollution in the best way. Yes, the cleaning is uniform, but not perfect. Small irritating streaks remain here and there. Thus, natural rubber coated with graphite only adds cost, not quality.

In this case, the brushes do not come out of budget segment to the “highest echelon”, which makes us, as buyers, happy. A symmetrical spoiler (suitable for installation on right-hand drive cars) of the windshield wiper tightly presses the rubber band at speed. Trico NeoForm has proven itself in harsh conditions winter operation. Despite the ice and snow, the wipers clean as well as in the warm months. Judging by the reviews, many consider the only significant drawback to be the inability to rotate the rubber element - the protector is glued into the frame and cannot be replaced.

2 Denso Wiper Blades

The highest quality cleaning
Country: France
Average price: 760 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The Denso brush again occupies a leading position. The disadvantages of the model include only the relatively high cost, while the equipment, information in Russian and convenient installation bring pleasure even before you start using it. The quality of cleaning, by the way, is at a very decent level. Streaks appear only after prolonged use under conditions of constant temperature changes. Overall, a great model if you are willing to put up with the high cost.

Moreover, the cost is quite justified, and some owners in their reviews refer to them as wipers with a fair price. The presence of a spoiler guarantees excellent brush pressure on the track, and the rocker frame ensures uniform distribution of forces. At the same time, the mechanism is reliably hidden from external factors such as snow and water, which means that in winter the elastic band will be pressed as evenly and efficiently as in summer.

1 Heyner Hybrid Graphite

The best ratio of price and quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 530 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

It is difficult to call glass perfectly clean after cleaning with these brushes. The center is always cleaned well, but the periphery, when seriously dirty, clearly receives little attention. However, Hybrid Graphit is an excellent choice because it costs even less than other frame brushes, while offering a universal mount suitable for most cars and better cleaning quality.

But it is not only affordable cost and versatility that has brought Heyner Hybrid Graphit to the position of leader in the hybrid brush category. Judging by reviews from owners, the excellent aerodynamics of the body enhances the pressure of the rubber protector against the glass, improving the removal of sediment and dirt at speed. A waterproof casing ensures the wipers operate in winter, and the graphite coating of the wiper blade makes them one of the quietest blades.

The best windshield wiper blades for winter

For winter operation, special frame-type windshield wipers have been created. Their working surface is protected by a special cover. Thanks to this design, it is possible to prevent the formation of ice at the contact point. The main disadvantage of winter brushes is vibration at high speed due to high aerodynamic resistance.

5 OSAWA SW

The most reliable
A country: Japan (made in China)
Average price: 750 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Some of the best wipers for winter from the Japanese manufacturer OSAWA do an excellent job in the most extreme weather conditions. The brushes are in covers, so the frame clamping mechanism does not get clogged and remains mobile. The rubber tread ends simply in a tapered blade rather than a herringbone pattern. Because of this feature, windshield wipers do not retain water and therefore do not freeze to the glass. As a result, there is no need to pull the leashes when parking for a long time.

The wipers work quietly, without squeaks or skips, maintaining their softness in any frost. Owners who use OSAWA SW in winter were unable to point out any shortcomings in their reviews. The standard attachment to HOOK leashes using adapters becomes universal, so in Russia there are practically no cars on which these windshield wipers cannot be installed.

4 AVS Winter Line

Buyer's choice
A country: USA (manufactured in China)
Average price: 370 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

An excellent winter blade with a protective rubber cover will ensure high-quality operation of the windshield wipers in snowfalls or blizzards. The metal frame skeleton does not become clogged with snow and melting ice, thanks to which it always remains operational in the most difficult moments of winter. The wipers work perfectly - the uniform pressure of the rubber flange ensures reliable removal of precipitation and dirt from the windshield, without leaving streaks or streaks. The quality of cleaning is in many ways similar to more expensive analogues, which is why AVS Winter Line has a serious competitive advantage - wipers are in stable demand on the domestic market.

As for installation, thanks to the included adapters, the wipers are suitable for installation, with rare exceptions, on almost any car. In the reviews of the owners there is not the slightest complaint about the operation of the brushes. They are quiet, last a long time and do an excellent job. The only thing some users point out is the rubber coating on the blade, which wears out the fastest during operation. If you use a graphite-impregnated protector, the service life of the wipers would be much longer.

3 SKYWAY

The most affordable price
Country: China
Average price: 350 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

You can buy it at the best price winter brush SKYWAY windshield wiper standard. To protect against freezing, the manufacturer has developed a special rubber composition, which contains graphite and silicon oxide. The wiper frame is protected by a special casing from moisture and dirt. Therefore, in any frost, the brush evenly adheres to the windshield. Cleaning is easy thanks to good glide. The graphite surface also improves the aerodynamic properties of the wiper, so there is no loud noise and vibration. Thanks to high technology and quality control, the manufacturer managed to create a durable material.

Domestic car owners in their reviews indicate the real properties of SKYWAY standard winter brushes. The advantages include low price, nice design, protected frame. The brushes cannot be called durable; they cope with their task only for 1 season.

2 Airline AWB-W-550

The best domestic brush for winter
Country Russia
Average price: 530 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

High-quality windshield wipers Airline AWB-W-550 are made in our country. The frame-type brush has excellent aerodynamic properties; it excellently removes dirt and snow at low temperatures. One of the reasons for the good cleaning properties is the use of artificial rubber, created by innovative technology anti-age When creating the material, ozone is used, and the surface of the rubber band is covered with a layer of graphite. The result is not only low friction, but also silent operation. The wiper can be used all year round, while maintaining long term services.

User reviews note the resistance of Airline AWB-W-550 brushes to frost, high-quality cleaning of the windshield from dirt and ice. Among the disadvantages, car owners highlight the deterioration in cleaning ability after a season of operation.

1 ALCA Winter

Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 590 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8

The German ALCA Winter windshield wiper blade has an affordable price. This winter model is based on a frame wiper. Distinctive feature brushes is to maintain the softness of the working surface at a strong drop in temperature. Structurally, this was achieved by creating a special rubber band profile. A new formula was also used in the manufacture of rubber. The presence of a waterproof cover prevents frostbite of frame parts. It was possible to increase the wear resistance of the working part by coating the tape with nano-graphite. To increase their service life, winter wipers must be replaced with summer models with the arrival of spring.

Domestic car owners write in reviews about such advantages of ALCA Winter wipers as accessibility, lack of icing, and good cleaning ability. The disadvantages of car enthusiasts include the unattractive appearance when installed on ordinary cars.

How to choose wipers

When choosing windshield wiper blades, you should not only pay attention to the design, but also to other characteristics.

• One of the most important parameters is the length of the wiper. It is best to buy wipers of the length recommended by the manufacturer. This primarily applies to cars with two windshield blades. However, it has become popular among motorists to select different-sized models. Yes, on selected models Mitsubishi can see wipers with a length of 350 and 650 mm. Owners Daewoo Lanos Instead of two brushes with a length of 475 mm, models of sizes 450 and 500 mm are installed. It is important that the wipers do not touch each other during operation.
• When replacing windshield wiper blades, it is worth taking a look at the mounting. The most popular option remains a hook, but there are side pins, buttons, bayonets, etc. Usually, a set of adapters is included with new brushes.
• Before purchasing, you should carry out an external inspection of the frame. There should be no chips or burrs on metal elements, and no cracks on plastic.
• As for the appearance of the rubber band, you should not place special emphasis on the color of the material. Some manufacturers add graphite, which makes the rubber black. Others add silicone to the composition, so the working surface becomes light.
• Some car enthusiasts buy heated wipers. They not only more money spend on buying consumables, but also remodel the on-board network. The effect of such modification is doubtful even among experts. Heating on the brushes can only warm the place of contact with the glass. The rest of the windshield will have to be defrosted by warming up the car.

Recently, almost all the motorists I know have begun to complain that the windshield wiper blades have become difficult to remove moisture from the glass. It is quite natural, because this winter is rich in heavy precipitation in the form of freezing rain. And this is the most serious test for rubber structural elements. Maybe I would have ignored these complaints if the same thing had not happened to my brushes. In principle, I have been waiting for this for a long time - my current brushes are equipped with special beacons that have been showing me for several months that the brushes need to be changed.
It is for this reason that I decided to write this material, thereby refreshing my knowledge on choosing windshield wiper blades, and at the same time sharing useful information with you. Many car enthusiasts (even with great experience) do not perceive wipers as something very important. And this is wrong. After all, it is the cleanliness of the glass, especially in twilight or fog, that can play a decisive role in avoiding an unpleasant situation.

As usual, let's start with a little theory. A windshield wiper is a device that removes water and dirt from a car's glass. There are only two main elements in the design: the lever and the rubber brush itself, which comes into contact with the surface of the glass.

Today there are three types of windshield wiper blades:
- Frame.
- Frameless.
– Hybrid.

By tradition, we will analyze the pros and cons of each design.

FRAME

This type of windshield wiper blade is the most common. The principle of its operation is quite simple. Such a “wiper” consists of several small “rocker arms”, which are connected to each other by special hinges. This system presses the rubber base against the glass. Until recently, the hinge axes of this type of windshield wiper were completely metal, which led to their loosening and corrosion, and, accordingly, to rapid failure.

In modern windshield wipers of this type there is practically no such problem. The bushings and axles themselves are made of plastic, making them less susceptible to icing and corrosion. At positive air temperatures, this type of brushes also copes better with precipitation; this design is more durable due to the use of metal rocker arms. It is thanks to them that the transverse strength of the entire structure is achieved.
To be fair, it should be noted that if wipers are cheap, then you obviously shouldn’t count on their long-term service. And the main disadvantage of this type of “wipers” is the tendency to ice.

FRAMELESS

A relatively modern type of windshield wiper. They are a body made of a combination of rubber and plastic and are usually made in the form of a spoiler. By the way, this is not a coincidence. This shape is specially designed - it helps to better press the brush to the glass surface. For structural rigidity, two metal plates are provided inside this type of brush. Typically, there are plastic plugs at the ends of frameless wipers, which allow you to easily change the rubber blade, which can significantly reduce the cost of operating this type of wiper.

In general, the design of this type of windshield wipers is less sensitive to icing and, of course, does not have wearable hinges. Another advantage is the less bulky design, which takes up less space and is therefore less noticeable to the driver. Another advantage of this design is the absence of noise during operation.

The biggest disadvantage of this type of “wipers” is its lack of versatility. The effectiveness of frameless wipers directly depends on the shape of the glass: if your windshield has a very convex shape, these blades are not for you. You may find that the ends of the windshield wipers will simply hang in the air without touching the surface of the glass itself. Another disadvantage, although less significant, is that the fastenings are not unified between various manufacturers. This makes choosing this type of brush more difficult.

HYBRID

As you might guess from the name, this type of windshield wiper is designed to combine the advantages of the previous two. “Windshield wipers” of this type have appeared quite recently, which is why they cost much more than the previous two types.

The design of hybrid windshield wipers is a reduced system of frame “rocker arms” with hinges, closed by a compact plastic casing in the form of a spoiler. Windshield wipers of this type have the main advantage of frameless models - the effect of an aerodynamic wing. This is what contributes to a better fit of the rubber blade to the surface of the glass.

The presence of systems with rocker arms and hinges in hybrid wipers allows for better pressing of the blade to the glass surface at low speeds. Equally important is better contact with the glass on cars with convex windshields. By the way, such brushes can most often be found on the rear windows of modern hatchbacks.

Due to the fact that this type of windshield wiper combines the advantages of two types of blades, such a solution costs much more. By the way, the high price is the main disadvantage of this type of windshield wipers. On the other hand, it is compensated for a long time services. The high price factor is due to the fact that this type of brushes is currently produced exclusively by famous brands, which in production use much higher quality materials that better withstand various weather conditions. Thanks to the use of quality materials this type Windshield wipers can easily serve you for 12 months, while conventional wipers will last an average of 4-5 months.

RESULT

So which brushes should you choose? The answer is simple: if the glass of your car is convex, you can safely buy classic frame “wipers.” At the moment there are models that are equipped with a small spoiler, these are the brushes I recommend taking. If your glass is relatively straight, feel free to look towards frameless solutions. Hybrid wipers are currently unreasonably expensive. And if your car is just parked in the yard, you risk one day simply not finding them.

Good luck with your choice!

• , 26 Jan 2015

Before you buy wipers for your car, you should familiarize yourself with their characteristics. To avoid unpleasant situations on the road, you need to see it clearly, and this means that the cleanliness of the windshield must be perfect. And high-quality wipers for cars will help us achieve this. Moreover, for winter and summer they should be different. Although many car enthusiasts neglect this rule.

Properly selected wipers will allow us to provide the necessary visibility through the front and rear windows of the car. Therefore, the process of choosing wipers should be given special attention, because low-quality wipers will not cope with their duties properly. But few people know how to choose the right wipers and what parameters to pay attention to. In the modern world, we are offered a huge selection of manufacturing companies and it is very difficult to understand the quality and purpose of the product. Therefore, we will give some advice from professionals on how to choose wipers and not make a mistake.

First, let's figure out how winter wipers differ from summer wipers.

There is no doubt that there is a difference between winter wipers and summer wipers. Wipers designed for use in winter are made of rubber, which copes much better with snow and icing. It remains more elastic under the influence of negative temperatures. All this happens due to the fact that windshield wiper manufacturers use a special design and rubber composition, which copes with all of the above problems regarding times, since the surface of the wiper repels water.

How to choose the right wipers

From what we talked about above, we can conclude that windshield wipers, in relation to weather conditions, are divided into three main types:

• summer ones, those that are designed to operate at above-zero temperatures;
• winter ones, those that perform their duties well in sub-zero temperatures and snowy weather;
• universal - wipers that do an equally good job of cleaning glass at any temperature and in any weather conditions, but as a rule their price is high.

Wipers intended for use in the summer are made of less elastic rubber. Although at above-zero temperatures, you won’t feel much difference between winter and summer. Winter wipers are more expensive, so it is not practical to use them in the summer. For the summer period, you can use cheaper wipers, but for the winter it is better to install frameless ones.

When buying wipers, so that they last as long as possible, you should pay attention to the following things:

• First of all, it is the quality of the rubber;
• secondly, the wipers must be the same length;
• the set should contain fasteners suitable for any car;
• Well, fourthly - an adequate price.

If you don't ignore everything important factors, then purchasing wipers that are right for you, that will last as long as possible and without complaints, becomes not such a difficult matter.

What types of wipers are there?

We have already found out that there are winter, summer and universal wipers, but in addition to this, depending on the design, they can also be divided into frameless, frame and hybrid.
To decide which wipers are best suited for your car, and which it is advisable not to purchase at all, let’s look at the most popular types of windshield wipers:

• frameless wipers;
• frame wipers or summer ones;
• winter wipers;
• hybrid wipers.

Each type differs in the principle of impact on the windshield or rear window; as a rule, the difference is in the pressure. Let's figure out what distinguishes one type from another and what distinguishes these types from each other.

Wipers with frameless design

The main distinguishing feature of frameless wipers is the absence of hinges in their design, which fail, for example, when icing occurs. They also have good aerodynamics. They don't warp at decent speeds. These wipers also operate quite silently. Another advantage is the ease of replacing old rubber bands with new ones. Buying new rubber bands is cheaper than buying a whole wiper.

The only disadvantage of this type of windshield wiper is probably the lack of versatility. Such wipers will need to be selected for a specific car brand.

Advantages of frameless wipers in operation:

• it is easy to understand when to change the rubber bands, thanks to the presence of an indicator strip, which signals us in advance that a replacement will soon be required;
• thanks to low profile Such a brush increases visibility, and this, you see, is a significant advantage;
• thanks to their hingeless design, they can easily withstand snowy winters and icy glass;
• at speed, the rubber band is pressed more firmly against the glass, due to its aerodynamic properties, which means that the glass will be cleaned better;
• cope well with cleaning glass with curvature due to uniform pressing force;
• frameless wipers do not have metal elements, and therefore are not sensitive to rust, which also has a positive effect on the appearance;
• such windshield wipers have Beautiful design and look great on the windshield or rear window car of any class;
• Let's repeat. The main advantage is their design, which does not have hinges that periodically interfere with operation.

Disadvantages of frameless wipers

High-quality frameless wipers are in a fairly high price category. If you find such wipers at a low price, as a rule, this means that they are made of low-quality material or there is a fake. Therefore, you should not opt ​​for frameless wipers at a great price.

Frame type wipers

These are classic wipers. As a rule, these wipers are designed for use in the summer. They have a very simple design. They consist of curved rocker arms, elastic bands and certain supports on hinges. Once upon a time, hinges were made of metal, which was extremely impractical in cold or humid environments, since they did not hold their shape well and the integrity of the structure was compromised. And all this shortened the operational period.

Today's frame wipers are equipped with axles and bushings that have plastic components, which makes it easier to clean the mechanism from snow or ice; they do not rust. But, if you want frame wipers to serve you to the maximum, then use them in the summer, as they do their job perfectly in warm conditions.

In the case of frame wipers, price is of great importance. As a rule, a low price of a product means low quality. If your windshield wipers do a poor job of cleaning the glass, due to poor adherence of the rubber band to the glass, they squeak and you can hear a crunching sound - then you can be sure that these are very cheap wipers.

Models from the more expensive category will do a good job of cleaning glass; thanks to the tight fit of the rubber band to the glass, you will not be annoyed by squeaks and other extraneous sounds when the brushes operate.
But no matter how high-quality and expensive framed products are, they will all perform poorly in winter, especially when icing.

As a rule, more expensive windshield wipers can last a year or more without any complaints, which cannot be said about budget options.

Advantages of frame wipers

Despite the fact that frame wipers are considered summer wipers, they perform well in severe frosts, if icing is excluded.
They adapt well to different windshield surfaces thanks to the frame.

The presence of a plastic protective cover protects the hinges from dirt and dust.

Due to the fact that the frame is made of metal, they are quite durable (with the exception of some internal elements).
The rubber band is quite easy to replace.

Like other designs, frame windshield wipers have their drawbacks.

First of all, it's appearance. After a certain period of operation, frame wipers begin to rust. Which, you see, doesn’t look very good.
Over time, the rocker arms wear out, which is why even with a new cleaning rubber, the grip on the glass will no longer be the same and you will notice flaws in cleaning the glass.
As mentioned above, they do not like snow and ice.
The biggest disadvantage, perhaps, can be considered the presence of mechanical hinges, because if they are damaged, then you can forget about the normal operation of the brushes.

Winter windshield wipers

Optimal wipers for winter conditions are considered to be frame wipers, BUT equipped with special special covers, the purpose of which is to protect against freezing during snowfalls, thanks to which the mechanism is protected and can function without problems. It is not advisable to use such brushes in summer, since this protective casing creates additional resistance. At speeds above 90 km/h, vibration begins and noise will be heard.

As with previous types of windshield wipers, the quality of the winter version will also be related to the price. Therefore, in this option, it is better to pay once, but more expensively, than to often change cheap brushes that quickly fail.

Hybrid car wipers

Such windshield wipers are characterized by a low frame height, which is their main distinguishing feature from other types. In addition to the small frame, they also have relatively small casing sizes. Thanks to these features, hybrid wipers have good aerodynamics. The wiper rubber fits tightly to the glass, which provides excellent cleaning from rain and snow.

Such wipers are purchased, as a rule, for cars with a large convex glass. They are quite expensive, but do their job well for a long period of time.

They have become popular due to the high-quality materials used in their manufacture. The presence of a high-density natural rubber insert makes hybrid wipers resistant to mechanical breakdowns and various atmospheric phenomena.

Hybrid wipers take longer than others to do their job efficiently. They are durable and strong. They can be used at any time of the year and will show excellent results. But for all these advantages you will undoubtedly have to fork out more.

Advantages of hybrid wipers

• the elastic band fits tightly to the glass, thanks to the developed frame;
• the presence of a plastic case protects against adverse weather conditions and other contaminants;
• they are universal. Will fit almost any car.

Cons of hybrid wipers

The most important and only disadvantage that can affect the refusal of a purchase is their cost!

How to extend the life of your windshield wipers

In order for your wipers to serve you as long as possible, you should adhere to the following rules:

• do not turn on the windshield wipers when the glass is dry or icy;
• It is not recommended to brush off snow with wipers, as this can damage the motor. To do this, use a scraper or brush, and at the final stage you can turn on the wipers;
• During frosts, in order to protect the rubber bands, the brushes should not be allowed to freeze to the glass. You should just leave them raised;
• do not forget to lubricate the hinges, most often they are the first to suffer;
• Clean your windshield wipers from dust and dirt in a timely manner to protect the blades from rust and the glass from scratches.

Conclusion

Windshield wipers, at first glance, are an insignificant element. But quite a lot depends on them - after all good review and visibility on the road is the key to your safety and the safety of others. Therefore, do not forget to promptly maintain and repair your brushes, and, if necessary, completely replace them.