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Run-flat, extended mobility, continuous mobility or zero-pressure tires can be driven at normal speeds, for some distance, without any air pressure in the event of a puncture, a deep cut or the ravages of just about any other road hazard.

A common design for these tires involves stiffer side-walls (sometimes 50% thicker) that can bear the weight of the vehicle even when the pressure within the tire is greatly reduced. The side-walls are typically constructed of layers of rubber and a heat-resistant cord that prevent the side-walls from folding or creasing. The bead around the edge of the tire is also specialized to grip the wheel rim such as to avoid becoming detached from the rim.

Self-supporting run flat tires are fairly common on light trucks and passenger cars and typically allow the vehicle to drive for up to 100 km at around 80 km per hour. However, they may still suffer irreparable damage in the process. In addition, if the tire is punctured in the sidewall or at the edge of the tread, repair may be impossible or unsafe.