Shiny chrome is out. Check what’s in.
When it comes to making your vehicle look its best, don’t overlook the importance of a sweet set of wheels. If you ask, we can help you take advantage of the latest trends.
Chrome is no longer the bling of choice. Way back in the 90s, bling was the thing, and the brighter the chrome on the wheels, the cooler the guy or gal driving would be. It wasn’t just rappers in music videos, like Wu-Tang Clan, sporting them either, although the wheels on the bus—the ones that go round and round— never quite caught on to the trend. According to the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA), chrome wheels no longer dominate the market. The association asserts that “painted wheels are becoming more prevalent, and seemingly every wheel company now offers some variation on that theme.” If you’re looking to upgrade your wheel style, there’s sure to be an expert here who can match your vehicle with the perfectly colored wheels.
These aftermarket trends are sure to turn a head or two. Concave and colored wheels are an increasingly trendy option in today’s wheel market. Other notable trends, according to SEMA, include two-color wheels, larger sized wheels, and the ability to mix and match. Advances in manufacturing have led to a larger variety of styles on the market, “including painted, plated, machined and clear-coated products in high volumes with low and mid-range price points.”
The market is driven by three primary factors. Practicality, cost, and process complexity drive the wheel aftermarket. For that reason, steel and aluminum alloy wheels grab a large share of sales. These three things, however, shouldn’t minimize the importance of other factors, factors that include style and fit. In other words, you’re probably looking for a practical, affordable, well-made wheel that makes people give you and your vehicle a second look when they see you drive by. Chances are with today’s emerging technologies; it’s easier than ever to deck your car out with an affordable set of eye-catching wheels.
Although shiny chrome is no longer the hot look in wheels, the look of a new set of wheels on your vehicle is still hot. And if you like the shiny chrome look, just like any trend that look will be back some day. In the mean time, if you’re looking to stay in style, start sassin’ up your ride with less chrome, and more color and paint accents.
