The bulk of natural rubber is used in blends with "general purpose" synthetic rubbers: styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and polybutadiene. Such blends are used in tyres, especially the carcass, sidewalls and treads of tyres. The relative quantities of natural rubber/synthetic rubber are dependent upon the tyre component and the type of tyre. Truck tyres employ large quantities of natural rubber. Passenger car tyres use smaller quantities, but the amounts will depend upon service conditions and where the tyre are manufactured. Tyre treads based upon natural rubber give excellent adhesion on snow and ice.

Natural rubber can also be employed in blends with special purpose synthetic rubbers and the IRRDB was associated with a programme to develop technology to encourage this: the results from which are available in book form.