Upgrading or servicing a car's braking system and choosing the appropriate brake pad can make a real difference in both performance and safety and the feel of their wearing. The performance brake pad world is chock full of options, from rainbow EBC pads to niche Hawk models. But which one is right for your needs? In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between the popular Red Stuff, Yellow Stuff, and Green Stuff brake pads, as well as compare Hawk’s HPS and HP Plus pads to help you make the best decision for your car.
Understanding EBC Brake Pads: Red Stuff, Yellow Stuff, and Green Stuff
EBC Brakes, a trusted name in performance parts, offers a color-coded range of pads designed to meet varying performance needs. Here’s what you should know about each:
1. Green Stuff Brake Pads
Green Stuff pads are EBC's entry-level performance pads designed primarily for street driving. Here’s why they’re a solid choice:
- Application: Most notably for lighter, street-oriented vehicles, although they can be applicable to certain entry-level performance cars as well. They are designed for keen driving with no aggressive requirements for track or high-speed applications.
- Dust and Noise: Green Stuff pads generate a fairly low level of brake dust, so they are an ideal option for anyone wanting to avoid wheel grime. They are also very silent, making them a great choice for daily driving.
- Performance Range: They perform well at lower temperatures, offering a quick response on cold brakes, and are ideal for city commutes or suburban driving. However, they may be less reliable when exposed to high heat.
2. Red Stuff Brake Pads
Designed for vehicles with higher horsepower, Red Stuff pads are geared toward the performance-oriented driver who still values cleanliness and comfort.
- Application: Red Stuff pads are intended for use with vehicles exhibiting a greater performance demand, like sporty sedans and high-performance cars.
- Dust and Noise: These pads are made with a ceramic compound, which reduces dust significantly compared to traditional semi-metallic pads. They’re generally quiet in everyday use, although there can be a slight increase in noise during intense driving.
- Performance Range: Red Stuff pads perform best at moderate to high temperatures, making them ideal for spirited street driving and some light track driving.
3. Yellow Stuff Brake Pads
If you're looking for a pad that’s equally at home on the street and on the track, Yellow Stuff pads provide a balanced performance for both settings.
- Application: Yellow Stuff is versatile and suits a variety of vehicles, including high-performance cars, SUVs, and even some trucks. They’re EBC’s go-to pad for those who want a blend of street and track performance.
- Dust and Noise: Expect more dust compared to Green or Red Stuff, as Yellow Stuff pads are engineered for heavy-duty use. Noise can occur with high-performance operation, but they’re relatively quiet during everyday driving.
- Performance Range: Yellow Stuff pads withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for track days and extreme driving. They provide consistent braking force under high-stress conditions.
Hawk HPS vs. HP Plus Brake Pads: What’s the Difference?
While EBC pads cover a wide range of uses, Hawk Performance also offers exceptional pads, with HPS and HP Plus being two of their most popular options for performance enthusiasts. Here’s how they compare:
1. Hawk HPS Brake Pads
HPS, or High-Performance Street, is one of Hawk’s best-selling brake pads, designed for drivers who want improved performance on the street without compromising comfort.
- Application: Hawk HPS pads cater to drivers who need sharper braking but minimal noise and rotor wear.
- Dust and Noise: HPS pads are known for low dust output, making them wheel-friendly. They’re also designed to minimize noise.
- Performance Range: These pads perform well under typical street driving conditions but are not intended for heavy-duty track use.
2. Hawk HP Plus Brake Pads
The HP Plus pad is Hawk’s high-performance option designed for aggressive drivers who want a street-legal pad that can also perform on the track.
- Application: HP Plus pads are suited for autocross, track days, or spirited canyon driving.
- Dust and Noise: HP Plus pads produce more dust and noise than HPS pads, making them better suited for performance enthusiasts willing to trade some comfort for braking power.
- Performance Range: They excel under extreme heat and high-stress conditions but may feel less responsive when cold.
Key Takeaways: EBC vs. Hawk Pads
Choosing between EBC’s Green Stuff, Red Stuff, and Yellow Stuff pads, or Hawk’s HPS and HP Plus options depends largely on your driving style, vehicle performance needs, and expectations:
- Daily Driver/Street Use: Green Stuff or Hawk HPS pads are ideal for reliable stopping power with minimal dust and noise.
- Performance Street Driving: Red Stuff or Hawk HPS pads offer efficient and comfortable performance for street-driven sports cars.
- Mixed Use (Street & Track): Yellow Stuff and Hawk HP Plus pads handle aggressive driving demands without compromising street usability.
- Track-Focused: Yellow Stuff or HP Plus pads provide the reliability needed for high-speed braking during track days.
Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Best Brake Pad
Your choice of brake pad depends on your driving habits. For example, if your car sees mostly street driving with occasional spirited sessions, Red Stuff or Hawk HPS might be perfect. Alternatively, for track days, consider Yellow Stuff or HP Plus pads.
At JD Muscle, we specialize in performance parts. Whether you’re building a street beast or a track monster, contact us today to find the best brake pads for your needs!