Behind the Scenes: How Zestino Tires Are Used in Formula Drift and Pro-Am Competition
Zestino tires aren’t just a spec on a product sheet — they’re active components in builds that are pushing 1000 horsepower, hitting 100mph+ entries, and linking tandem battles on the highest stages in North America.
From grassroots to pro-level podiums, here’s how Zestino compounds are being used by real drivers, on real cars, in the most demanding drift environments in the U.S.
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Formula Drift: Zestino on the Biggest Stage
Formula Drift (FD) is the highest level of professional drifting in the U.S., and every component on a competition car is battle-tested under extreme pressure. Several drivers trust Zestino compounds for their consistency, grip curve, and ability to handle heat across full tandem brackets.
Examples from the Grid:
Trenton Beechum | BMW E46 | 1000HP LSX
Runs: 07RS rear, Accrova 07A PRO front
→ Used in FD Pro-Spec competition. Known for aggressive driving style and deep commitment zones — demands fast heat-up and control under throttle.
Kyle Mohan | Mazda MX-5 | 790HP 13B Rotary
Runs: 07RS rear, Accrova 07A MAX front
→ FD veteran and rotary specialist. Zestino tires allow predictable slip angles, even with the unique torque curve of a turbocharged 13B.
Rome Charpentier | BMW E36 | 500HP M50 Turbo
Runs: 07RS rear, Accrova 07A PRO front
→ Known for aggressive entries and smooth tandem proximity. Multiple-time FD podium winner and Hotpit champ.
Pro-Am: Licensing, Podiums, and Podium Streaks
At the Pro-Am level, tires have to perform across longer bracket runs with limited sets. Zestino tires are a favorite because of their consistent heat cycles, repeatable grip, and affordability.
Drivers Making Moves with Zestino:
Logan Hunter | Nissan S14 | LS3 | 450HP
Champion at Holley LS Fest. Runs 07RS rear with Accrova 07A MAX front. Focuses on throttle control and smoke output in long-distance battles.
Blaize Potts | Mazda FC RX7 | 900HP LS1
3rd Overall in Hotpit Championship. Relies on Zestino’s breakaway predictability for a V8-swapped lightweight chassis.
Josh Mason | BMW E92 | 600HP LSX
2nd Overall in Hotpit Drift Championship. Uses Zestinos for their balance on a heavier chassis with wide track setups.
Tony Crispin, Jon Shaffer, Wesley Stump, Jake Gonzalez and others run Pro-Am series across the U.S. with Zestino setups that help bridge the gap between grassroots driving and pro licensing.
Common Tire Setups Across Competitive Builds
Across all these drivers — whether it’s a Z chassis, E92, RX7, or S14 — the theme is consistent:
Rear Tire: Gredge 07RS
Soft compound, high grip, stable wear. Tuned for competition-style tandem driving.
Front Tire: Accrova 07A MAX or PRO
Reinforced sidewall for control at full lock, strong self-steer return, and precise angle hold during transitions.
The pairing helps maintain front-end control without excessive tire flex, and a rear-end grip curve that can be modulated with throttle, even in unpredictable conditions.
Used Across Engine Setups and Powerbands
Zestino tires are trusted across all kinds of drivetrain configurations:
High-power LS builds (450HP–1000HP)
Turbo JZ and M-series BMW engines
Rotary engines with peaky power delivery
Naturally aspirated drift builds requiring throttle precision
That means whether you’re dialing in boost on a 2J or managing heat in an NA VQ, you can find a Zestino setup that balances your grip needs.
Why Zestino Works for Competitive Drivers
Repeatable Heat Cycles – Predictable performance across multiple runs
High Value per Set – Run harder without worrying about tire costs
Optimized Compounds – Engineered specifically for drift, not just repurposed street tires
Available in the U.S. – Zestino North America supplies direct, no delays
Proven in Real Tandem Scenarios – Not just dyno claims — actual podium wins
Trusted by the Pros
From FD podiums to Pro-Am brackets, Zestino tires are delivering the grip, control, and consistency that drivers demand. Whether you’re a grassroots build chasing a license or a seasoned pro looking for edge-of-the-envelope grip, Zestino compounds are already doing the job — on the cars you follow, at the events you watch, and with the results to prove it.
Ready to build your setup? Start with what’s already winning.
Gredge 07RS + Accrova 07A. Grip that delivers.
