felspaatin

Felspaatin, the Finnish term for a rim guard, is a protective device installed around the outer edge of a wheel to prevent damage to the tire tread and rim. The word is derived from the Swedish *fel* meaning “rim” together with the Finnish *paati*, comparable to “shield” or “guard.”

Designed primarily for motorsport, off‑road vehicles, and heavy‑duty trucks, the felspaatin provides a hard barrier that deflects stones, potholes, and other road hazards. By absorbing impact forces before they reach the tire or rim, it reduces the likelihood of sidewall abrasion, punctures and rim cracks.

Typical felspaatit are made from high‑strength steel or aluminium alloy, although recent models use reinforced polymers or composite materials to reduce weight. Installation usually involves securing a metal or composite strip around the wheel’s rim or attaching a clamp to the wheel hub. Some racing regulations even mandate the use of a riders’ rim guard for safety.

The device is not only a cost‑saving measure—by extending tire life and preventing costly wheel repairs—but also a safety feature. When a rim or tire is compromised, the risk of a runaway wheel or a sudden loss of traction increases. Felspaatin has therefore become common in competitive racing series, rally events, and in the construction industry where wheels encounter abrasive terrain.

Overall, the felspaatin represents a simple yet effective solution to a pervasive problem in high‑performance and heavy‑traffic environments.