So what is the big deal about Nitrogen vs. Oxygen in my tires? Why do I even care? It just sounds like another industry gimmick to pick my pocket for a few more dollars. Really?!?

1. Did you know that fewer than 60% of the population ever check the air in their tires?

2. Did you know that tires will lose on average 1 to 2 pounds of air per month, around the bead of the tire, but also, almost unbelievably through the sidewalls?

3. Assuming that everyone could agree that there is a correlation between tire pressure and a) fuel economy, b) a tires longevity, c) handling characteristics, d) and last but not least, rolling resistance. A tire with less rolling resistance will ultimately benefit you at the gas pump. Is it easier to roll a tennis ball or an egg? Simple.

Okay, so you are 1 of the 60& of the population that never checks their air in their tires, or maybe, you are the either the one that trusts your "Quick Lube" to properly inflate your tires, or you only think about it before that "big trip". Don't feel alone. Most of us have more pressing things on our minds than the air in our tires.

However, what if you gave us a moment to explain the true fasts about Nitrogen vs. Oxygen?

These are proven facts that are verifiable, and a good reason to consider the purchase of Nitrogen for your "New Tires', or "Tires you have had for some time".

1. Tires filled with Nitrogen lose up to 50% or more less air than tires filled with oxygen. The reason being is the size of the Nitrogen molecule. It is 5 times larger than oxygen and has a more difficult time escaping around a bead or through the sidewalls.

2. Let's start with; One of the biggest reasons for premature tire wear is heat built up during a tires cycle. Underinflated tires generate that heat and thus succumb to premature tire wear.

3. Nitrogen is less dense than Oxygen, or lighter if you will. It has the property of staying at a more constant and equal pressure through a tires cycle. A tire filled with Oxygen will fluctuate 4 to 6 pounds when driven continuously, while a tire filled with Nitrogen will fluctuate a pound or less.

4. It may seem irrelevant, but NASCAR, the Airline industry, and even NASA have realized the benefits of Nitrogen for years. When you go through as many tires as they do on the track, or have to pay as much as an "Airline" or worse yet "NASA" for Space Shuttle tires. They just may be on to something.

If you take nothing away from this little lesson on the inherent benefits of Nitrogen vs. Oxygen in tires, comtemplate this notion. Tires filled with Nitrogen have less rolling resistance and can, and do achieve a fuel economy savings of up to 5% over the tire's life. It's not hard to see why paying the few extra dollars for a tire filled with Nitrogen will quickly pay you back on your initial investment, and most certainly pay off in the long run, considering the cost of the average tire.