Hydroguard wiper blades review: Nike Essential Short Sleeve Hydroguard

BEST OVERALL

Rain-X Silicone Advantedge

Wipes to clean: 2 | Noise: 58.1 dB | Material: Silicone

Rain-X Advantedge 26-Inch Wiper Blade

Rain-X Advantedge 26-Inch Wiper Blade

$36 at advanceautoparts.com

Pros

• Great performance
• Low noise

Cons

• Difficult to install properly

When it comes to getting what you pay for, wiper blades are no exception. Befitting the most expensive model in our test, the Rain-X Silicone Advantedge performed the best and remained the quietest. It also applies a water-repellent coating as it runs along the glass. So does the Michelin Endurance XT below, however, unlike that wiper, this one remained whisper-quiet. The only gripe I had with it was a difficult install, thanks to a mechanism that was exceptionally complex and didn’t inspire a secure connection.

BEST VALUE

Michelin Endurance XT

Wipes to clean: 3 | Noise: 71.1 dB | Material: Silicone

Michelin Endurance XT 26-Inch Wiper Blade

Michelin Endurance XT 26-Inch Wiper Blade

$19 at Walmart

Pros

• Most affordable

Cons

• Makes lots of noise

Yes, the Endurance XT was the loudest wiper in our test, but it was also one of the most affordable, with great performance for the price. Along with the Advantedge above, which costs close to twice as much, the Endurance XT applies a water-repellent coating as it runs along the windshield. On top of the blade laying down small bits of silicone—which is inherently hydrophobic—Michelin has treated the wiper with four layers of its hydrophobic coating to improve clearing ability before the wiper is even engaged. For motorists who experience relatively mild seasons throughout the year, this will be a great option.

EASIEST TO INSTALL

Trico Maxx

Wipes to clean: 3 | Noise: 61 dB | Material: Synthetic rubber

Trico Maxx 26-Inch Wiper Blade

Trico Maxx 26-Inch Wiper Blade

$34 at advanceautoparts.com

Pros

• Universal compatibility

Cons

• Hard to find

The Trico Maxx was level with its compatriots in terms of performance but remained one of the quietest, producing a whole ten decibels less than the Michelin Endurance XT. However, the clear party piece of the Trico was how easy it was to install. Rather than being stuck with one universal carrier, the Trico comes with two, which snap in and out using a series of clips. After fitting the correct bit of plastic, there are a series of removable plastic spacers—used to accommodate different mechanisms—that clicked in securely once I had the right arrangement for my VW.

MOST ADVANCED

Bosch Focus

Wipes to clean: 3 | Noise: 65 dB | Material: Synthetic rubber

Bosch Focus 26-Inch Wiper Blade

Bosch Focus 26-Inch Wiper Blade

$35 at advanceautoparts.com

Pros

• Great day and night performance

Cons

• Limited compatibility

The Focus is a bit of a standout among the wipers here. Aimed to optimize night-time running, this wiper features clever technology to mitigate reflection while maintaining strong performance elsewhere. The spoiler—which keeps the wiper stuck to the windshield in high winds—is coated in a light-absorbing charcoal powder to eliminate reflections for those inside the vehicle. Along with the unique design of that spoiler, the Focus also includes a wear indicator on the outside edge, which turns yellow when it’s time to replace your wipers. Aside from the über-clever design points, the pair is easy to install and not too loud.

BEST DESIGN

Bosch Icon

Wipes to clean: 4 | Noise: 63.4 dB | Material: Synthetic rubber

Bosch Icon 26-Inch Wiper Blade

Bosch Icon 26-Inch Wiper Blade

$28 at Amazon

Pros

• Wear-indicator simplifies replacement

Cons

• Limited compatibility

Much like the Focus, Bosch’s Icon uses clever design elements to improve performance. To eliminate wind lift—where strong gusts can blow the wiper off the windshield—this blade uses an asymmetric spoiler to create uniform levels of downforce across the wiper. It’s not quite a Formula 1 level of aerodynamic design, but more contact with the windshield means more water gets wiped away. The blade itself has Bosch’s ClearMax 365 technology, featuring a soft rubber core with a hard polymer shell that improves performance and longevity. Much like the Focus, the Icon uses the same carrier mechanism, making for quick and easy installation.

Matt Crisara

Matt Crisara is a native Austinite who has an unbridled passion for cars and motorsports, both foreign and domestic, and as the Autos Editor for Popular Mechanics, he writes the majority of automotive coverage across digital and print. He was previously a contributing writer for Motor1 following internships at Circuit Of The Americas F1 Track and Speed City, an Austin radio broadcaster focused on the world of motor racing. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona School of Journalism, where he raced mountain bikes with the University Club Team. When he isn’t working, he enjoys sim-racing, FPV drones, and the great outdoors. 

Best Silicone Wiper Blades (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Summary List

Best Overall: Michelin Endurance XT

Best Value: Silblade Premium

Honorable Mention: Rain-X Silicone Endura

Best All Season: PIAA Super Silicone

Best Budget: Meto T6 Silicone Windshield Wiper Blades

Best for Snow and Ice: PIAA Si-Tech Silicone Wiper Blade

Best Premium: PIAA Aero Vogue Premium Silicone Wiper Blade

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

Learn more

Our Methodology

When it comes to choosing the best silicone wiper blades available, I wanted to provide you with a well-rounded list that features a solid variety of reputable manufacturers with a history of providing high-quality, long-lasting products. I wanted to include a range of price points to suit any budget. Lastly, I wanted to feature silicone wiper blades that use the latest in construction technology and innovative materials that are not only efficient and effective at removing water, but also durable and long-lasting. There’s literally something for everyone. For more info on our selection criteria, go to The Drive’s Gear About page, which explains our methodology further.

Best Silicone Wiper Blades Reviews & Recommendations

Best Silicone Wiper Blade Overall

Michelin Endurance XT

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Specs

• Brand: Michelin
• Model: Endurance XT
• Mounting Type: Slide and lock

Pros

• Improved durability across a broader range of temperature extremes
• Duckbill-shaped leading edge deflects water and reduces wind noise
• Easy to install

Cons

• Unconventional break-in procedure required for peak performance
• Rounded leading edge shape can clash with some design language

Excellent performance, realistic durability claims, and ready availability earned the Michelin Endurance XT our overall Best Silicone Wiper pick. The advanced silicone compound blade can handle searing 195-degree heat and remains flexible down to minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The well-designed connector made installation a snap.

Michelin recommended a clean windshield like any other manufacturer, but the break-in procedure was a little unusual. The instructions stated to run the new wipers on a dry windshield for at least five minutes to break in the Endurance XT QuadTech 4-layer coated silicone blade. I’m not sure of the science involved in the procedure, but it worked.

The duckbill-shaped aerodynamic leading edge was particularly effective against water in static and road tests. The spray testing rig was so appealing to the Pekin ducks next door that they came over for some water of their own. Their beaks likely shed water better than the wiper, but the Michelin duckbill design beat the low-speed waddlers in high-speed noise reduction. Check your local laws first if you want a flock of ducks.

Best Value

Silblade Premium

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Specs

• Brand: Silblade
• Model: WB116S
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Six-point frame design maintains even pressure across the length of the silicone blade
• Premium powder-coat finish outshines the competition in style
• No special break-in period required

Cons

• Slightly heavier than its conventional frame-style silicone wiper competitors
• Glossy finish and dual logos might not be for everybody

The SilBlade Premium is the company’s conventional frame style product. The traditional steel chassis wears a powder-coated finish for durable good looks, and the six-point structure maintains even blade pressure on the windshield. SilBlade’s patented silicone rubber formula adds graphite and PTFE for improved performance from the same stuff that makes fried eggs slide out of the pan.

Hooking the Silblade up to the wiper arm was uneventful, and the pre-installed connector fit firmly on the bayonet arm with a positive click. No special break-in was required, and the Silblade delivered excellent performance minutes after installation. The connector kept the wiper in the zone across the entire sweep with no deflection.

The Silblade Premium and its frame-type PIAA contender developed a slight squeak at the bottom right of the passenger side wiper arm sweep. We made a few adjustments to the Starlet’s wiper arms and dialed it out. The same noise in the same spot across two sets of windshield wipers means that the wipers are not the problem. Suspect wiper arms or a greasy windshield if your new wipers chatter and squeak worse than the old ones.

Honorable Mention

Rain-X Silicone Endura

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Specs

• Brand: Rain-X
• Model: Silicone Endura
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Flexible beam resists ice buildup
• Time-proven Rain-X windshield treatment technology with every wiper sweep
• Lasts up to 2X longer than standard rubber wipers

Cons

• Universal connector is a compromise in some applications
• Modern beam-style can look out of time on older vehicles

The Rain-X Silicone Endura beam style wiper is an excellent choice in the silicone wiper category and silently dispatched water as it left a coating of time-proven Rain-X windshield treatment. The synthetic silicone blade material is formulated for use from a teeth-chattering minus 20 degrees up to rubber-deforming 194 degrees, and Rain-X claims the Endura can outlive its conventional beam wiper blades two to one. Proprietary graphite treatment helped the wiper blades glide across the windshield, and the Rain-X Endura remained silent in the crucial transition from wet to dry. The flexible leading edge resists ice buildup.

The only fault with the Rain-X Silicone Endura was with the Uniclick connector. The design was far better than most, but like so many other beam-style wipers, the mounting position left the wiper arm riding too high off the windshield. The resulting deflection was minimal but would have only worsened with time in an ongoing metal vs. plastic war of attrition that neither side would win.

Best All Season

PIAA Super Silicone

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Specs

• Brand: PIAA
• Model: 97043
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Simple, sleek frame design
• Offers budget-friendly blade refills versus replacing the entire unit
• Performs well in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions

Cons

• Time-consuming pre-treatment process
• May not include a connector compatible with your vehicle

The PIAA Super Silicone wiper blade came with its own windshield pre-treatment package. Cleaning the windshield first and applying the pre-treatment added water-beading protection over the entire surface, and set the glass up for the silicone wiper blades. The simple yet effective frame design was a perfect match to the factory satin black trim, and a small PIAA logo on each frame was a premium finishing touch. The PIAA Super Silicone wiper blades performed well on the test rig and out on the road. The windshield treatment helped the wipers get the job done, and the Super Silicone blades were silent into the dry transition.

PIAA is the only company in the test that offers wiper blade refills. At roughly half the full wiper assembly price, refills can offset the initial high cost over time. The inexplicable lack of a bayonet wiper arm connector bumped the proven performer out of a top slot. The extensive pre-treatment procedure was also somewhat time-consuming.

Best Budget

Meto T6 Silicone Windshield Wiper Blades

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Specs

• Brand: Meto
• Model: T6
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Affordable; get two for the price of one
• Universal fitment
• Backed by a one-year warranty

Cons

• Tend to squeak over time
• Connector can be difficult to switch out

A solid contender from a lesser-known competitor, the Meto T6 Silicone Windshield Wiper Blades scores points for being a durable silicone wiper blade at an uber affordable price point. It also comes backed by a one-year warranty, to help outweigh the risks of this lesser-known option. These blades are compatible with fewer vehicle models than others but will still work with 96 percent of vehicle makes out there.

One common complaint is that the blades come with one of the adapters already affixed to them, so if that’s not the adapter that suits your car, it can be difficult and frustrating to remove it and install the right one. These blades encompass a streamlined shape designed to help eliminate wind noise and streaking, as well as minimizing snow and ice accumulation on your windshield. These silicone wiper blades also lose some love because they do tend to start streaking at some point and when used with very little rain on the windshield, they tend to be a bit squeaky.

Best for Snow and Ice

PIAA Si-Tech Silicone Wiper Blade

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Specs

• Brand: PIAA
• Model: 97055 Si-Tech
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Modern, frameless design cuts down on ice build-up
• UV and heat resistant blades
• Fits up to 98 percent of vehicles

Cons

• Pricey
• Difficult to install compared to some other models

This is a straightforward and understated silicone wiper blade that encompasses a modern, frameless design that creates multiple pressure points throughout the entire length of the blade to eliminate streaky wiping. This type of design helps to cut down on snow and ice build-up along the blade as a bonus.

Patented silicone impregnated rubber blades deliver reliable all-season performance. This blade is also UV and heat resistant, helping to give it a longer lifespan. It’s designed to fit with 98 percent of vehicles, but you’ll still need to double-check before purchase.

Unlike the PIAA Super Silicone Wiper Blade, this model doesn’t come with a windshield pre-treatment, but the silicone rubber that the blade is constructed from continually reapplies an active coating to your windshield to help water bead up and allow for streak-free wiping. Couple that with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee for one year from the date of purchase, and what have you got to lose by trying out these well-designed wiper blades?

Best Premium

PIAA Aero Vogue Premium Silicone Wiper Blade

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Specs

• Brand: PIAA
• Model: 96160 Aero Vogue
• Mounting Type: Pinch tab

Pros

• Quiet, smooth operation
• Maintains solid contact with windshield througout arc
• Uses the same blade refill as the PIAA Super Silicone

Cons

• Expensive
• Not the most effective at removing dirt, dust, and pollen

The PIAA Aero Vogue Premium Silicone Wiper Blade actively coats your car’s windshield with a water repellent barrier with each swipe. It delivers a quiet and streak-free, pristine wiping action that lasts up to two times longer than standard windshield wipers.

What is unique about this wiper blade versus other offerings is that it features a unique aerodynamic design with patented pass-through technology that incorporates two vents. One vent forces air up and over the top of the wiper, while the other one pushes trapped air under the blade out the rear of the wiper to ensure a snug and tight contact with the windshield.

For even greater incentive, the Aero Vogue wipers use the same blade refills as the Super Silicone wipers, so it’s easy to update them. And, of course, you get the same 100 percent satisfaction guarantee that PIAA offers with its other products. These wiper blades do fall short when it comes to cleanly removing dirt, dust, and pollen, so if you live in a desert climate, they may not be your best option.

Our Verdict on Silicone Wiper Blades

Again, our top pick goes to the Michelin Endurance XT Silicone Wiper Blades. They’re easy to install and the advanced silicone compound blade can handle searing 195-degree heat and remains flexible down to minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For an excellent value option that will perform well and last a long time, check out the Silblade Premium Silicone Wiper Blades.

What to Consider When Buying Silicone Wiper Blades

While the difference in silicone wiper blades may seem subtle, there are several key factors to pay attention to in order to get the pair that best suit your particular vehicle make and model, as well as your driving style and climate.

Silicone Wiper Blade Key Features

Frame or Beam Type

Take the type of wiper that came with your vehicle into consideration when choosing which type of silicone wiper is best. Beam-type wipers are not attached to a metal frame, so they adhere to the curve of your windshield more naturally and are more flexible. This generally helps to reduce ice and snow buildup. That said, your vehicle generally works best with its stock wiper style. The majority of blade wiper connector adapters place the arm too high and can result in unwanted deflection. 

Connector Type

The connection between the wiper arm and the windshield wiper blade is the most important consideration when choosing aftermarket replacements. The best wiper blade in the world is also the worst if it doesn’t fit. Universal connectors can be too much of a one-size-fits-all compromise and sometimes don’t fit all. All of our test wipers are 16-inch, so 

so make sure to check out the manufacturer catalog and get the right fit for your year, make, and model.

Warranty/Replacement Options

Since many silicone wiper blades are a greater financial investment at the outset, many reputable companies will back their product by offering a warranty or hassle-free replacement period should you have any issues. In fact, you should be wary of a company that doesn’t back its product with a solid warranty that provides its customers with added protection and peace of mind. 

Silicone Wiper Blade Pricing

A large majority of decently functioning and reliable silicone wiper blades can be found for between $20 to $30. These are generally the lower-end silicone models offered by reputable name brands, or they could also be good options from lesser-known companies that lack the familiarity of longer-standing competitors. For premium, high-quality, extra durable silicone frames, expect to spend between $35 to $40 per blade.

FAQs 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: How often do I need to replace my windshield wiper blades?

A: Durability is the main advantage to silicone windshield wipers, but inspecting your windshield wiper blades, arms, and washer fluid system in the spring and fall is a good habit to have. Replace any cracked, worn, deformed, or just plain worn out wiper blades or refills as needed. Don’t forget to put winter windshield washer fluid before the deep freeze and road salt season.

Q: Are silicone wiper blades better than natural rubber ones?

A: That depends on what you’re looking for from a windshield wiper. Silicone wiper blades deliver excellent performance, but the real advantage is durability and longevity across a wide temperature range. If a better wiper blade is the one you only have to change once every few years, then yes, silicone wiper blades are better than natural rubber equivalents.

Q: Do silicone wiper blades squeak?

A:  If your wiper blades require windshield prep prior to use and you neglect that important step, your silicone wiper blades are more prone to squeaking. Read the installation instructions thoroughly prior to use to ensure you’ve done the process correctly. Also, as wiper blades age, they can become dry or brittle, which can also cause them to squeak. Regular cleaning of the wiper blade can help prevent this.

Q: How do I clean my wiper blades?

A: About the same way you would clean a silicone kitchen spatula. The idea is to remove oils that can cause streaking and noise. Hand dish soap and water is a grease removing safe bet, and household isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball is another winner. Silicone wiper blades may require specialized care depending on the manufacturer, so read up on any cleaning restrictions. Clean the windshield while you’re at it.

Q: Are wiper blade refills a good choice?

A: In this case, yes, especially if your stock windshield wipers accept refills. PIAA offers a wide range of premium silicone wiper blade refills so you can experience the advantages of silicone wipers without the steep entrance fee. Head over to PIAA for a complete wiper blade refill rundown.

Q: Do silicone wiper blades do well in hot and cold weather?

A: Silicone rubber is extremely resistant to cold or heat, with most being able to reliably function in temperatures ranging from 190 to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes them last 2 to 4 times longer than traditional rubber wiper blades.

Types of wiper blades | ZavGar Barnaul

Windshield wiper blades, they are common windshield wipers clean the glass from water, snow, dirt, therefore they are an important part in the car. Without them, it is sometimes impossible to imagine a trip.
In addition to safety, wiper blades are the key to driving comfort and cleanliness in all seasons and in all weather conditions.
To date, the following types of wiper blades can be distinguished:

Framed

Their function is that the wiper, consisting of rocker arms, fastened together by hinges, cleans the surface of the glass, pressing the rubber base against it. Often, thanks to the reinforced metal frame, the brushes cope with the increased loads that occur in the winter. They are distinguished by easy installation and strong fixation of the brushes on the wiper arm.

Frameless

This type differs in that it does not have a cleaning tape. Basically, it is a bar made of plastic with rubber and more often in the form of a spoiler. Drivers describe this type as comfortable, frameless brushes that contribute to better aerodynamic characteristics. The compact design of the brush makes it easy to see through the windshield. Frameless brushes are protected from corrosion, are not subject to icing in the cold season, and do not fade for a long time. Innovative technology and high quality materials ensure the brushes run quietly, glide easily and smoothly, and last without loss of cleaning quality. nine0003

Hybrid

This type of wiper combines the functionality of both frame and frameless wipers. Combining the characteristics of the above types of wiper blades, the Hybrid type is distinguished by the possibility of a high-quality fit of the rubber blade to the glass surface. The main distinguishing feature of hybrid wiper blades is the versatility of their application.
The connected design provides optimal brush pressure to the glass, the casing protects the brush from moisture and dust ingress into the internal elements of the product, and the presence of a spoiler significantly improves downforce and reduces lifting force. nine0003

Winter

Another type is also distinguished — seasonal, in particular, winter wiper blades. With a unique rubber formula, the brush remains soft and flexible without freezing or sticking to the glass. The special profile of the cleaning tape is designed for winter conditions, guaranteeing a perfect cleaning of the windshield. The hermetic rubber cover protects from snow, ice and water ingress, which ensures soft mobility of all structural elements. Thanks to the reinforced metal frame, the brushes cope with the increased loads that increase in the winter. They are distinguished by easy installation and strong fixation of the brushes on the wiper arm.