Rubber vs. Silicone Wiper Blades: Winter Performance Compared

by Administrator | Feb 02, 2026

Table of Contents

Practical insights from a professional wiper blade manufacturer — designed to help you maintain clear visibility in cold weather.

Winter conditions place far greater demands on windshield wiper blades than any other season. Low temperatures, snow, frost, de-icing salt, and road debris all directly affect wiper performance — and tend to amplify the differences between blade materials.

Flexibility in Low Temperatures

Cold weather reduces material flexibility.

Traditional rubber wiper blades are more likely to stiffen in low temperatures, resulting in reduced contact with the windshield.

By comparison, silicone-based materials are generally more stable in cold conditions. Cleanbro silicone wiper blades are designed to operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -50 °C to 200 °C, helping maintain consistent contact and smooth wiping performance.

Performance in Rain, Snow, and Slush

In winter, wipers often deal with more than just rain.

Snow mixed with dust and de-icing salt creates thicker residue on the windshield, placing higher demands on consistent blade contact.

Under these conditions, materials engineered for low-temperature environments typically deliver smoother wiping performance, with less skipping or chattering.

Durability in Harsh Winter Conditions

De-icing chemicals, abrasive road particles, and frequent cold starts can significantly accelerate blade wear.

Material durability directly affects whether a wiper blade can maintain stable performance throughout the winter season.

Water Repellency and Winter Visibility

During winter driving, visibility depends not only on wiping action, but also on how quickly water disperses from the windshield surface.

Good water repellency helps reduce water film buildup — a factor that becomes especially important at higher driving speeds.

Final Thoughts

Winter conditions magnify performance differences between wiper blade materials.

Choosing a wiper blade designed for low-temperature environments can improve wiping consistency, visibility, and overall driving comfort.

If you’ve ever struggled with poor wiper performance in winter, it may be worth considering silicone wiper blades with stronger cold-weather resilience.