However, during this process, air bubbles can get trapped between the rubber and the mold. These bubbles can prevent the tire from forming correctly. This is where the vent spews come in.

The mold has tiny tubes called spew holes or vent sprues, which allow excess air to escape as the rubber expands. These holes help ensure that no air bubbles form, allowing the tire to mold perfectly.

Steve Burke, the technical manager at Toyo Tires, explains why these little spikes are left on your new tires. “The air exits, ensuring that no air bubbles form between the tire and the mold, and it also carries out small bits of rubber.

This is how vent spews are produced. Most of the spews on the tread face are shaved off, but those on the shoulders and sidewalls of the tire often remain intact.”

So, should you remove these spikes? Steve says, “It doesn’t really matter. Vent spews don’t serve any purpose after the tire is made. Many show car owners take pride in shaving or trimming the nibs, but there’s no practical reason to remove them. If you want to, just grab them with your hand and pull them off—it’s actually quite effective stress relief.”

So, there you have it! Another mystery solved. Next time you get a new pair of Toyo tires, take a closer look at those vent spews, and you’ll know exactly what they’re all about.