Safe driving is a priority for every driver. The safety of the driver and others depends on the technical condition of the vehicle. There are no insignificant details in this matter; every component is important. Windshield wiper blades play an important role. They clean the windshield from dust, dirt and other factors that impair the driver’s visibility. Motorists face the consequences of adverse weather every day. Windshield wipers must effectively cope with the task, since the safety of movement on public roads depends on this. Otherwise, even new brake pads and high-quality tires will not save you from an accident.

How they work

A simple device that cleans the windshield of various types of contaminants that are invariably found on the road is called wipers. The design is designed to maintain functionality regardless of speed and weather conditions. This result can only be achieved if they are in close contact with the surface along the entire length. To achieve this situation, the design of the brushes is constantly modified. The composition and profile of the rubber bands, as well as the mechanical part of the brushes, undergo changes.

The material used for manufacturing is a thick metal profile. In frameless models, uniform pressure is achieved due to the shape of the rocker arm. It exactly matches the curves of the windshield of a particular car.

The rubber strip is one of the most important components of any windshield wiper. It must not only efficiently clean the surface from dirt, but also withstand the adverse effects of the external environment. The latter is understood as maintaining shape under the influence of high temperatures in summer, not tanning in the cold and being resistant to aggressive chemicals.

The base of the wiper rubber includes silicone; thin layers of graphite and polymer are added to the working part. They give the product the necessary rigidity and sliding properties.

The wipers are equipped with an electric drive, which drives the accessory in two directions on the windshield. The effectiveness of completing the task depends on two factors:

• uniform distribution of downforce;
• quality of the rubber element.

No. 10 – 33cm/13″ RAINBOX

Price: 230 rubles

33cm/13″ RAINBOX is a good option from the budget segment. The brush is designed for passenger cars with both right- and left-hand drive, which makes it universal. It is made of a polymetallic alloy, due to which the rubber fits tightly to the entire surface of the glass and provides maximum visibility.

Another advantage of the model over other cheap analogues is the fact that it does not lose elasticity and does not freeze up in winter. As for the disadvantages, we include the quality of the fasteners, which become flimsy over time.

windshield wiper blade 33cm/13

What are there

Any vehicle purchased at a car dealership is equipped with factory wipers. They are selected taking into account the characteristics of a certain type of car. Such brushes have been used for many years and, as a rule, do their job well. Any detail becomes unusable over time. For many drivers, the need to replace windshield wipers can be confusing. In order to avoid this problem, before purchasing you should familiarize yourself with the types of windshield wipers:

• Frame. Well known to everyone. The most popular group. Used by many automakers as standard wipers. Consist of a metal frame and rubber band. The brushes are secured with hinges inside the housing. Universal solution for convex and flat windshields. In the winter version, the body is placed in a rubber cover. This is done to protect the insides from snow and water. One of the advantages is the high downforce, which was achieved thanks to several points of contact with the glass. This design is absolutely not suitable for use in winter. Modern models are made of plastic. The following disadvantages are highlighted: the use of low-quality rubber, driving over 100 km/h leads to a sail effect, which negatively affects the quality of work, difficulties arise in removing moisture that has entered the body, and condensation occurs inside.
• Frameless. The next stage of development. The simple design shows better windshield cleaning results. The brushes consist of a metal plate placed in a rubber casing, which is closed on the sides with special plugs. New products from the automobile industry received a more concave windshield and frame models did not cope with their task. There was a lack of downforce; the edges of the brushes did not contact the surface at all. All this forced designers to think about updating windshield wipers. Frameless wipers have icing resistance and aerodynamic performance at an acceptable level. They do not deform during operation. Special mention should be made of its pleasant appearance and low weight. The latter factor has a positive effect on the car's windshield wiper drive, as it is subject to less stress and will last longer. The wipers work silently. If it fails, the rubber blade is replaced by removing the plugs on the sides. There is no need to remove the entire structure. One of the best solutions for use in winter. Every year more and more automakers give preference to such windshield wipers. Disadvantages include: high cost and the need for individual selection. There are no universal products.
• Hybrid. They combine the best qualities of the types of wipers described above. They received a closed, streamlined body, which had a positive effect on aerodynamic qualities. The hinges in this design are protected by plastic or rubber inserts. In production, high quality materials are used, which is why this product is resistant to negative atmospheric influences. The optimal solution for traveling in winter. The only thing that may disappoint is the high cost and the inability to install on windshields that are too convex.
• Winter. In countries with cold climates, highly specialized models are in demand. When they were created, the features of operation at low temperatures were taken into account and the possibility of icing of the product was provided. There are 2 types. The first is a frame model placed in a special rubber cover that protects against icing. Outdated solution. The second type is frameless wipers with a protective coating. It consists of graphite coating, which increases protection against the effects of “anti-freeze” and the wear resistance of rubber. In most cases, winter windshield wipers are noisy and cumbersome; their service life is equal to one season. The exception is elite models.
• Heated. One of the most technologically advanced types of winter brushes. Frameless wipers equipped with a heating element. During operation, they do not freeze and thus do not create additional problems. For power supply, the on-board network (12V) and a current of 2A are sufficient. This causes additional connection problems. In most cases, you will need the help of a specialist.
• Rear. Found on hatchbacks and SUVs. This is due to the design features of the body, when dirt flying out from under the wheel hits the glass. Most often, frame models made of plastic are used; aerodynamic performance is not important for them. Windshield wipers cannot be selected according to certain criteria, since manufacturers use specific fasteners.

Design of winter wipers by the German company Alca: what's interesting?

The rocker arms, like all frame frames, are stamped and connected to each other with metal bushings. Stable contact with the surface is ensured by pressing force concentrated at six contact points. The entire steel geometry is covered with a rubber cover.

Many tests in the ranking of the best car wipers place German products in the top three. High quality of work in harsh winter conditions is ensured by using a certain concentration of rubber in the contact rubber. In profile, the cleaning knife has a pronounced triangular shape, which guarantees high rigidity when moving across glass.

For your information. Alca's premium products are represented by the Heyner brand. The price of the latter's products is slightly higher due to the use of innovative technologies in the form of a graphite coating, which protects the contacting part of the wiper from exposure to ultraviolet rays. The quality of sliding on glass and its cleaning are indirectly improved.

Mounting type

1. Hook. Found on all cars manufactured before 1999.
2. Side pin, finger, “Side Pin”. Relevant for certain Peugeot, Mercedes-Benz, VW Passat and other models produced no later than 2005.
3. "Push button". Used on Ford, Renault, Volvo and compatibles.
4. Side clamp "Pinch tab" Compatible with all European cars.
5. Side mounting. Almost never found, with the exception of Renault.
6. Bayonet arm bayonet lock Used by automakers Saab and Renault (models no later than 2004).
7. "Claw" claw. Exclusive for Audi A6.
8. Top lock. Original mount for BMW 5 and 6 series.
9. "Pin lock". Can be found on Mercedes-Benz, Seat, Audi.

Wipers with a universal adapter are compatible with any type of mount.

Comparison table of characteristics

We hope that after reading the material described above, you will be able to say with confidence which frameless wipers are better. The following table will help you finally compare the models.

Model	Length (mm)	Seasonality	Number of adapters	Weight (g)	Price, rub)
Artway AL-600 600 mm	600	all-season	8	580	from 329 to 550
DENSO DFR-004 500 mm	500	summer	1	476	from 695 to 880
Lucky Way SCHET155 410 mm	410	all-season	4	140	from 279 to 395
Bosch Aerotwin AR606S 600 mm / 500 mm, 2 pcs.	500-600	all-season	2	290	from 1,029 to 1,699
TRICO ICE 600 600 mm	600	winter	6	230	from 1,009 to 1,596
Bosch Aerotwin AR604S RHD 600 mm / 450 mm, 2 pcs.	450-600	all-season	2	250	from 1,340 to 1,990
Bosch Aerotwin A187S 600 mm / 450 mm, 2 pcs.	450-600	all-season	2	360	from 1,002 to 1,596
GOODYEAR GY000421 530 mm	530	all-season	4	280	from 518 to 993
Bosch Aerotwin AR500S 500 mm / 500 mm, 2 pcs.	500	all-season	1	330	from 1,200 to 1,685
Bosch Aerotwin A312S 600 mm / 450 mm, 2 pcs.	450-600	all-season	3	420	from 1,662 to 1,884

How to properly use windshield wipers in winter

1. It is strictly forbidden to remove frozen brushes from the glass. This may damage the rubber or the product itself. It is recommended to warm up the interior. Good heating will get rid of the problem after 10 - 15 minutes.
2. Freezing frozen windshield wipers with hot water is contraindicated. If you often resort to this method, the windshield will be damaged or become more vulnerable.
3. A large layer of snow on the windshield is cleaned with a scraper or a brush with a rubber attachment. Otherwise, the surface may be damaged.
4. Heavy stains are removed with special products designed for a specific season.
5. Mixing products intended for winter and summer is contraindicated. Ignoring the recommendation will result in the formation of an ice crust and damage to the brushes.
6. They get rid of ice on the wipers without putting them into operation.
7. It is recommended to inspect the device regularly. If problems are found, fix them in advance. Prevention significantly extends the life of windshield wipers.
8. Raising the wipers and leaving them in this position for a long time will cause the springs to freeze in winter.
9. Timely replacement of tires will prevent scratches on the windshield, which will subsequently lead to chips and cracks.

No. 5 – Bear WS-14

Price: 280 rubles

Bear WS-14 is a durable frame brush from a domestic manufacturer. It is designed to withstand heavy mechanical loads, so the owner can count on the product to work stably for several seasons. The rubber cover protects the internal metal structure and the rubber element adjacent to it, so a snow or ice layer does not form on the composite links of the brush.

The product does not make noise during operation because it is coated with graphite. The universal mount supplied in the kit allows you to fix the brush on any passenger car. Drivers do not report significant shortcomings in their reviews.

Heyner Hybrid (036000) 650 mm

How to choose?

When faced with the need to purchase winter wipers, most beginners will be confused. What to focus on when choosing? Rely on the price or the manufacturer? These and many other questions are asked by the neophyte car enthusiast.

The purchase will be useful and will not cause irritation if you have knowledge about the features of the mechanism.

1. Clamp. The density of contact of the brush with the windshield depends on the magnitude of the clamping force. Optimal values ​​range from 14 to 23 grams of force per centimeter of brush. For a device 50 cm long, the characteristic is at least 750 gram-force.
2. Length. The driver's side wiper should cover a larger area. The requirement is due to the fact that the viewing area of ​​the road must be properly cleared of contamination. One brush is always longer than the second.
3. Aerodynamics. The indicator characterizes the quality of surface cleaning at different speeds. Some models are already useless at speeds above 70 km/h.
4. Possibility of operation in adverse weather conditions. One of the critical criteria for winter wipers. The quality of windshield cleaning should not decrease during snowfall, heavy rain and sub-zero temperatures. Plastic with a special coating is used as a frame for the product and is placed in a rubber frame.
5. Fastening. Make sure the mounting configuration is compatible with the vehicle. Carefully examine the quality of the holder. There are no gaps in the area of ​​the plastic attachment to the leashes. The elastic band is firmly fixed in place.
6. Silence. During operation, the wipers do not produce any extraneous sounds that can distract the driver.
7. Lifetime. Individual indicator for each individual model. Its value is influenced by the quality of the materials used. Violation of the rules for operating the mechanism will damage even premium models in a short time.

№1 – AWH261 (650 mm) Blue Edge

Price: 900 rubles

If you don’t know which wipers are best to buy for the winter, then here’s the answer - AWH261 (650 mm) Blue Edge. Along with the product you receive a universal adapter that allows you to attach it to a car of absolutely any brand. The advanced design of the brush also speaks in favor of the solution - it works quietly, but at the same time effectively, thoroughly removing dirt and leaving no streaks behind.

There are metal elements at the bend points, so the fasteners do not fail over time. So, if you are looking for a solution that can work for a long time, this model will be a good option. As for the downsides, owners report that some retailers sell the brush without a complete adapter, so you should be careful when choosing a seller.

Windshield wiper blade AWH261 (650 mm) Blue Edge

Rating of the best frame winter wiper blades

ALCA Winter 21 530 mm

The German product is designed for use at temperatures below zero. It received a hinge mechanism in a waterproof casing. It protects joints from corrosion and rust. The composition of the rubber mixture includes natural rubber and graphite impregnation. The edge of the cleaning tape is created using laser cutting.

ALCA Winter 21 530 mm

Advantages:

• compatible with almost every car brand;
• reliable fastening;
• thoughtful design;
• the waterproof cover prevents the frame from freezing;
• products from a leading German exporter;
• silent operation.

Flaws:

• windage at high speeds;
• graphite coating wears off within 2 weeks, after which it leaves a water mark on the windshield.

CHAMPION Winter WX45 450 mm

Swiss windshield wipers have a classic frame design. The housing is reinforced and adapted to work at extremely low temperatures. The rocker system is secured with hinged joints, thanks to which there are enough pressure points to completely clean the windshield, regardless of its degree of curvature. Elastic metal plastic prevents deformation of the rubber and frame. The rubber obtained from rubber has become resistant to the aggressive chemical composition of the washer.

CHAMPION Winter WX45 450 mm

Advantages:

• silent operation thanks to graphite coating;
• the well-thought-out geometry of the rubber band facilitates high-quality glass cleaning in any direction;
• resistance to aggressive chemical compounds.

Flaws:

• no universal adapter provided;
• questionable quality of fastening.

OSAWA SW65 650 mm

Japanese wipers can withstand sudden temperature changes and large amounts of precipitation. They effectively cope with the task at temperatures down to -40C and variable humidity. The material used to make the frame is zinc, which is corrosion-resistant. It is placed in a rubber case. It is necessary to protect the frame from freezing. A 1 cm high cleaning tape effectively cleans the surface from adhering wet snow. Graphite impregnation was used in the manufacture of rubber. The technology qualitatively increases the service life of the product up to 1.5 thousand strokes. The brush is compatible with many cars.

OSAWA SW65 650 mm

Advantages:

• certified ISO/TS - 16949;
• classic design;
• Japanese quality.

Flaws:

• mounting adapters are not included in delivery;
• high price.

No. 9 – WWB-26 (26″, 650 mm)

Price: 765 rubles

Our rating of winter windshield wiper blades continues with the 2021 model WWB-26 (26″, 650 mm). In reviews, owners call its main trump card a special protective cover made of elastic rubber. Thanks to it, the product does not freeze in winter. The brush has a reinforced metal frame, which improves the durability of the structure under increased loads. Users in reviews report that the solution can work for several seasons.

We also note that the product comes with two attachments of different sizes: 9x4 mm and 9x3 mm. During operation, the brushes do not leave behind dirty marks or uncleaned areas. Among the shortcomings, one can highlight a creak that is present at first, but disappears with use.

DENSO DUR-060L 600 mm

Rating of the best frameless winter wiper blades

NEOVISION, black

The main highlight is the patented ECOTECH technology. Its essence lies in the ability to change the rubber blade without replacing the entire device. This gives car enthusiasts the opportunity to have a brush on hand that is suitable for certain weather conditions. To do this, just replace the cartridge (replaceable rubber blade). The wiper kit includes a winter cartridge to clear snow and maintain acceptable visibility during snowfall.

NEOVISION, black

Advantages:

• unique design technology;
• set of 4 adapters;
• Includes all seasonal blade and winter cartridge;
• silent.

Flaws:

• not common in the CIS countries;
• made in China.

TRICO ICE 650 650 mm

A product of the American company Trico, which needs no introduction. It has been known on the market since the 17th century. During this time, it managed to take a leading position in the wiper market. The new model has a unique flexible body that reliably protects all elements of the device from snow and ice. The unique SWIFT universal adapter allows you to install windshield wipers on any vehicle.

TRICO ICE 650 650 mm

Advantages:

• silent operation;
• easy installation;
• stylish design will allow you to stand out;
• The asymmetrical spoiler eliminates the possibility of hovering at high speeds.

Flaws:

• asymmetrical spoiler for left-hand drive, incompatible with right-hand drive vehicles;
• Users report problems occurring at temperatures below -4C.

Bosch Aerotwin A925S 530 mm

Among many similar models, the Aerotwin series is distinguished by a steel plate that replaces the hinge-lever mechanism. The innovative solution increases downforce along the entire length of the wiper. The guide exactly follows the curves of the windshield. Two-component synthetic rubber efficiently cleans surfaces from debris, and its service life has significantly increased compared to its competitors.

Bosch Aerotwin A925S 530 mm

Advantages:

• The elastic band is resistant to direct sunlight;
• the spoiler additionally presses the product under the influence of oncoming air flows;
• easy installation;
• silent operation;
• new plug connector on the brush leash;
• High-quality materials and additional clamping force have a positive effect on service life.

Flaws:

• too expensive.

Exclusive solutions

When wondering what kind of wipers are best for winter, you may hear - heated ones . Fundamentally new solutions in the field of efficient glass cleaning in winter are provided by Burner . The goal of the engineers of this division was simple - to adapt the frameless version to winter. We coped with the task by installing an elastic heating element in the wiper housing. It heats the plate, which transfers heat to the canvas. This process effectively resists the formation of ice and maintains the flexibility of the structure at any temperature.

The existing variety of wiper designs will allow you to choose the most effective configuration for winter conditions. Changing the rubber blade will help significantly extend the life of the windshield wiper.

A short video review of all types of wipers from the Avtoprofi team:

Seasonal question: which anti-freeze product is better to buy in order to stay with clean windows in winter

Which tint is best for a car: options and advice from practitioners

Rating of the best hybrid winter wiper blades

Redskin Hybrid Winter

The Korean manufacturer has released new hybrid brushes that effectively clean the surface. They received an innovative design. Rubber bands made of natural rubber glide silently across the windshield.

]Redskin Hybrid Winter

Advantages:

• stylish design;
• smooth and uniform operation;
• perform well when used year-round;
• multi fastener 6 in 1;
• wide range of sizes;
• made in Korea.

Flaws:

• users encounter problems with fastening;
• not common.

Masuma 350mm (14)

One of the leaders in the market of spare parts, components and parts for cars. They specialize in after-warranty service for Japanese cars. The new wipers have a stylish housing with additional levers. Their task is to increase the clamping force, thereby improving the quality of cleaning from moisture and snow.

]Masuma 350mm (14)

Advantages:

• all seasonal solution;
• does not leave marks on glass;
• attractive appearance;
• graphite coating;
• The working elements of the windshield wiper are protected from snow and rain.

Flaws:

• not distributed on shelves.