The Foundation of Braking Performance
Brake pads are the most frequently replaced component in your braking system and have the greatest impact on how your vehicle stops. The friction material that contacts your rotors determines stopping distance, pedal feel, noise levels, dust output, and fade resistance under demanding conditions. Upgrading from factory pads to performance brake pads transforms your braking experience—whether you're seeking quieter daily driving, reduced brake dust on your wheels, or the ability to push harder on track without losing stopping power.
Understanding Brake Pad Compounds
Different driving demands require different friction materials. Organic and low-metallic pads prioritize quiet operation and minimal dust for daily commuting, though they may sacrifice outright stopping power and high-temperature performance. Ceramic brake pads offer an excellent balance of low noise, reduced dust, consistent friction characteristics, and good rotor life—making them popular for street performance applications. Semi-metallic performance pads provide stronger initial bite and better heat dissipation for spirited driving and light track use, though they may produce more noise and dust. Full racing compounds deliver maximum stopping power at elevated temperatures but require heat to function properly and are unsuitable for street driving.
Choosing the Right Pads for Your Application
Your pad selection should match how you actually drive. For daily drivers who occasionally enjoy spirited backroads, a high-performance street pad with good cold bite and fade resistance handles both scenarios well. Dedicated track cars benefit from aggressive compounds designed to operate in higher temperature ranges, often paired with a second set of street pads for driving to and from events. Vehicles with added power modifications or sticky performance tires place greater demands on brakes, making upgraded pads essential to match the increased kinetic energy that must be converted to heat during braking.
Compatibility and Fitment
Our brake pad selection covers Subaru WRX, STI, BRZ, and Legacy; Honda Civic, Civic Type R, Accord, and S2000; Toyota GR86, Supra, and Camry; Nissan GT-R, 370Z, and 350Z; Mazda MX-5 Miata and Mazda3; Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution; and additional performance platforms. Each listing includes specific fitment information, compound characteristics, and recommended applications to help you select the right pads for your vehicle and driving style.