Explore the differences between the Ventus F200, Z214, and more to find the best fit for your race car and performance goals.

When it comes to motorsports, the right tire can mean the difference between finishing mid-pack and standing on the podium. That’s why Hankook’s Ventus line has become a favorite among racers. It offers high-performance racing tires that deliver grip, consistency, and durability at the highest levels.

Whether you're competing in time attack, road racing, or track days, selecting the proper compound and tread pattern for your application is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular Hankook Ventus racing tires and help you choose the one that matches your vehicle, driving style, and racing environment.

Ventus F200 – The Go-To Slick for Road Racing

Type: Full Slick
Best For: Road racing, time attack, club racing
Compounds Available: C52 (hard), C72 (medium), C92 (soft)

The Ventus F200 is a premier full slick racing tire designed for ultimate dry performance. It’s the tire of choice for serious competitors in club-level and pro-am series due to its exceptional grip and predictable handling.

Key Features: 

• Smooth, consistent performance across a wide range of track temperatures

• Superb cornering stability and heat tolerance

• Compound choices allow you to dial in tire behavior based on track and weather conditions

Recommended For:

• Racers in NASA, SCCA, or FARA sprint events

• Track day drivers looking to extract maximum grip from a slick setup

Ventus Z214 – DOT-Legal R-Compound Performance

Type: R-Compound / DOT-R
Best For: Time attack, autocross, HPDE, competitive track days
Compounds Available: C51, C71, C91

The Ventus Z214 is a DOT-approved R-compound tire that’s perfect for racers who need street-legal status without sacrificing performance. It’s a staple in time attack events, providing excellent grip and repeatable lap times with a grooved tread design.

Key Features: 

• DOT-compliant, making it a legal choice for certain street-driven classes

• Wide range of compounds to suit different temperatures and track layouts

• More forgiving than a full slick, with easier warm-up characteristics

Recommended For:

• Enthusiasts who trailer their cars but still need DOT tires for class rules

• Racers transitioning from street tires to a dedicated competition tire

Ventus TD (Z221) – The Fast Track Day Favorite

Type: Semi-slick / DOT Track Tire
Best For: Track days, performance driving schools, high-end HPDE
Compounds Available: Single compound optimized for track use

The Ventus TD combines the characteristics of a slick with the convenience of a DOT tire. Its minimal tread pattern and optimized compound give it near-slick performance while offering quicker warm-up and more predictable handling under less-than-ideal conditions.

Key Features:

• Designed for consistent lap times during extended sessions

• Works well for drivers seeking race-tire performance without frequent heat cycling

• Ideal for cars with mild aero and power upgrades

Recommended For:

• HPDE drivers in advanced run groups

• Performance enthusiasts who need a track-ready tire that can still legally hit the road

Ventus RS4 – Endurance and Street/Track Versatility

Type: 200-treadwear Extreme Performance Summer Tire
Best For: Endurance racing, street-to-track builds, weekend warriors
Treadwear: 200

The Ventus RS4 is a true dual-purpose tire designed to be driven to the track, beat on all day, and driven home. It’s especially popular in endurance series like ChampCar and Lucky Dog Racing League, where consistency and long life matter just as much as outright grip.

Key Features: 

• Extremely durable and heat-resistant

• More consistent over long stints than many other 200-treadwear options

• Stable under heavy loads, making it a favorite for heavier cars and daily drivers that see track use

Recommended For:

• Budget-conscious racers who need tires that last

• Daily-driven track cars and entry-level competitors

Which Ventus Tire Is Right for You?