Hydroplaning info here:
Tire Tech Information - Air Pressure vs. Wet Performance
Be sure to read that part under the last pic about the tests at 'Michelin's Laurens Proving Grounds'.
I like the HydroEdge (44 sidewall max) tires and normally try to keep them at 40 PSI, as a compromise between comfort and MPG+Performance.
Had them on my CRV and loved them. My wife has them on her Corolla and we maintain them at 40 PSI.
If they go down a few PSI over the winter, they will still be pretty safe.
But, if they were at 'factory' pressures and got low.?. Dangerous IMHO.
My compressor gets a lot of use on other people's cars. The guy across the street, my sister-in-law & etc.
When I can easily
see their tires are low, it's not a surprise to see the meter reading 15 to 20 PSI.
That's just asking for poor handling and wear..
Speaking of wear, Hypermilers over at CleanMPG
Driving Under Pressure (full article) - CleanMPG Forums sometimes use pressures above sidewall.
My guess is almost all of them are using well above factory placard pressures.
But, I don't hear them talking about excessive tire wear.. Some of them do report longer tire life.
Maybe, that long life could be due to hypermiler driving techniques. No jackrabbits or hard braking etc.
One side benny is less brake dust on your alloy wheels!!
This baby came from the dealer at 40 PSI. Same
Low-rolling resistance tires they give you on the Escape Hybrid..
I keep them at 40 (sidewall 44 max) and the ride is good for an SUV.