Sep. 08, 2025
When you're hurtling down a track at 200 km/h, the last thing you want is mushy brakes. But that's exactly what many racers contend with when using stock rubber brake lines.
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The solution? Braided brake hoses.
I first encountered braided brake hoses years ago when tinkering with my own track day car. The difference was night and day - where before the brake pedal felt vague and spongy under hard use, with braided lines it became firm and precise.
Since then, I've seen braided lines become ubiquitous in racing, from amateur club events all the way up to Formula 1.
But why are braided brake lines so much better than rubber? And how exactly do they improve a race car's performance? Let's dive in.
To understand why braided hoses are superior, we need to look at what's wrong with conventional rubber brake lines. But it's important to note that rubber hoses aren't without their advantages.
Rubber hoses have been the standard in automotive design for decades. They're cheap, flexible, and do an adequate job for normal street driving in the UK. They're also easy to visually inspect for wear and tear, non-abrasive to surrounding components, and have a proven track record of reliability in various conditions.
Modern rubber lines also often have an internal nylon weave to prevent expansion, making them much more rigid than people realise. In fact, many cars with rubber brake lines still have a very firm pedal feel.
Regardless of all that, they still have a critical flaw: under high pressure, they expand.
When you slam on the brakes in a race car, hydraulic pressure in the hoses spikes dramatically. A rubber hose will balloon outwards slightly under this pressure (not visible but it happens). This expansion happens because rubber is inherently elastic, and under high pressure, it stretches. This results in a longer pedal travel before you get the desired braking force, potentially resulting in that spongy, imprecise feel some drivers report.
For daily driving, this isn't a huge problem. But in racing, where fractions of a second matter, it's unacceptable.
A braided brake hose solves this problem through a clever bit of engineering. It consists of three layers:
An inner PTFE (Teflon) tube that contains the brake fluid
A woven stainless steel braid surrounding the PTFE tube
An outer PVC jacket (often clear) for protection
At the core of a braided brake hose is a layer of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), a type of Teflon. PTFE is chosen for its excellent resistance to high temperatures, chemical corrosion, and its non-elastic nature. This means that under pressure, PTFE doesn't stretch a lot like rubber does. It holds its shape and transmits the brake fluid pressure directly to the brake calipers.
The key to the whole construction is that middle layer of stainless steel braid. Under pressure, it prevents the inner PTFE tube from expanding outwards. The result is a brake line that maintains consistent volume even under extreme pressure.
This translates directly into better braking performance. With braided lines, most of the force you put on the pedal goes into stopping the car. There's no sponginess, no wasted energy. Just pure, linear braking power.
The stainless steel construction has other benefits too. It's far more durable than rubber, resisting cuts, abrasion, pressure, and heat. And for these reasons, many manufacturers offer lifetime guarantees on their braided lines.
So braided lines sound good in theory, but what about in practice? Just how much do they improve a car's braking?
The exact numbers will vary depending on the specific car and brake setup. But in general, you can expect:
One of the most noticeable benefits of braided brake lines is the improved pedal feel. In rubber hoses, expansion under pressure can create a spongy sensation in the brake pedal, reducing responsiveness. This slight delay can make a world of difference when you are racing.
Braided lines eliminate this issue by maintaining their shape under high pressure. The result is a firmer, more responsive pedal that reacts instantly to your input. By providing a firm and consistent brake pedal feel, they allow you to brake later and harder, giving you the confidence to push your car to its limits.
Consider the racing technique of threshold braking - applying maximum braking force without locking up the wheels. This skill is essential for late braking, a strategy that allows you to carry more speed into a corner, potentially overtaking competitors or shaving precious milliseconds off your lap time.
With rubber lines, threshold braking is a bit of a guessing game. The spongy pedal feel makes it hard to judge exactly how much pressure you're applying. You might lock up unexpectedly, or not brake hard enough. Braided lines give you much finer control. You can feel exactly where the threshold is and modulate your braking precisely. This allows you to consistently brake later and harder than you could with rubber lines.
However, the ultimate effectiveness of threshold braking and late braking techniques still largely depends on the driver's skill and experience.
Racing puts an enormous strain on brake systems, generating extreme heat. In this intense environment, traditional rubber hoses can soften and expand, leading to hose-related brake fade, in which the braking efficiency diminishes, compromising safety and performance.
Braided stainless-steel hoses excel in these conditions. The inner Teflon or rubber core is shielded by stainless steel braiding that resists high temperatures. Unlike standard rubber, the materials used in braided hoses do not degrade or lose structural integrity under heat.
This heat resistance ensures consistent braking force throughout the race, allowing you to maintain reliable performance lap after lap without worrying about diminished responsiveness when it matters most.
Braided brake hoses offer superior durability compared to traditional rubber hoses. The stainless-steel braiding provides a tough exterior that stands up to the harsh conditions of racing—grime, abrasion, chemicals like brake fluid and oil, heat, and constant movement. Rubber hoses can degrade quickly under these conditions, leading to cracks, leaks, and ultimately, brake failure.
The robust construction of braided lines means they resist wear and tear much better. This resilience translates into fewer replacements over the lifespan of your vehicle's braking system. You spend less time in the garage swapping out worn-out parts and more time on the track pushing your limits.
Besides general wear and tear, braided brake hoses contribute significantly to even wear across your braking system. The stainless-steel braiding ensures consistent hydraulic pressure, translating into uniform force distribution on the brake pads and rotors. When every component of the brake system receives the same amount of pressure, it prevents uneven wear.
While performance is the primary concern for most racers, aesthetics also play a role. After all, a well-built race car is a source of pride, and every detail matters. Braided brake lines contribute to this visual appeal, giving your brake system a high-tech appearance.
The stainless steel braid, often visible through a clear protective coating, adds a touch of sophistication to your vehicle's undercarriage. It's a subtle detail that might go unnoticed by casual observers, but it's sure to be appreciated by fellow enthusiasts who understand the thought and care that goes into every aspect of a performance vehicle.
For those looking to take the aesthetics a step further, Proline Braided Lines offers brake hoses with a PVC cover available in various colors that allow you to customise the appearance of your brake lines to match your car's overall look.
While braided brake hoses offer significant benefits, it's important to consider the full picture:
Potential for hidden damage: The steel braiding can hide internal wear or damage, making it harder to detect issues until a failure occurs, which could be dangerous.
Debris intrusion: While braided lines are tougher, fine debris like sand or dirt can penetrate and cause wear over time if not properly maintained or if the PVC coating gets damaged.
System synergy: Upgrading to braided hoses alone may not result in a massive performance boost. For the best results, consider them as part of a comprehensive brake system upgrade, including high-performance pads, rotors, and fluid.
Make sure to buy lines specifically made for your car model. Brake line routing and fitting types vary between vehicles.
Installation isn't overly complex, but it does involve working with your brake system. If you're not comfortable with this, it's best to have a professional do the job.
In some cases, braided hoses may affect your MOT. Check the current regulations.
While rare, some drivers find braided lines to be too sensitive for comfortable street use. It's worth test-driving a car with them before committing.
And finally :
Not all braided brake hoses are created equal. The performance benefits we've discussed only apply if you're using high-quality lines from a reputable manufacturer. Cheap, poorly made braided lines can actually be worse than stock rubber hoses. They might leak, fail under pressure, or not provide the expected performance gains.
When shopping for braided lines, look for manufacturers who:
Use high-grade stainless steel for the braided layer
Employ proper swaging techniques to attach the fittings
Use PTFE inner tubing, not cheaper alternatives
Offer a warranty or guarantee on their products
At Proline Braided Lines, we're proud to meet all these criteria. Based in Morden, Surrey, we make all our kits in-house using components from industry-leading manufacturers like HEL Performance. This allows us to maintain strict quality control and offer custom solutions for unique applications.
Proline's brake hose kits use hard-drawn tensile stainless steel braided hose with stainless steel fittings, rather than the zinc-plated fittings some competitors use. This makes them highly resistant to corrosion, a crucial factor for longevity in the often wet and salty UK driving conditions.
Our lines are rated for temperatures from -70°C to 260°C and can withstand pressures up to 290 bar ( PSI), with a bursting pressure of 870 bar ( PSI). This is far beyond what you'd ever see in even the most extreme racing conditions, providing a large safety margin.
In addition to our standard offerings, Proline also provides custom solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need a custom length, a specific fitting, or a complete ABS delete kit, Proline has the expertise and flexibility to deliver exactly what you need.
In the UK, braided brake hoses cost more than traditional rubber ones. A set of quality braided hoses typically ranges from £50 to £150, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In contrast, standard rubber brake hoses usually fall between £20 and £50 per set.
While this might seem like a significant price difference, the benefits often justify the extra cost. Considering their longer lifespan and reliability under extreme conditions, investing in braided brake hoses can save you money by reducing maintenance needs and improving safety. So yes, the added expense is worth it for those serious about their vehicle's maximum performance.
Braided brake hoses are one of those rare modifications that offer clear, measurable performance benefits with very few downsides. For racing applications, they're practically essential. Even for street cars, they're a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who values precise control and improved safety.
The key benefits are:
Improved pedal feel and consistency
Better brake modulation, especially during threshold braking
Increased durability and longevity compared to rubber hoses
Potential for improved brake pad life
While the performance gains might seem small on paper, they can make a significant difference in real-world driving, especially in high-pressure situations like racing or emergency maneuvers. For racing, precise braking allows drivers to enter corners at higher speeds and reduce time lost during deceleration. Efficient brakes also enable smoother transitions between high-speed straights and tight turns, shaving valuable seconds off each lap.
But it is not just about speed—safety is a major factor too. Inconsistent or failing brakes can lead to dangerous situations on the track. So, it would be right to say that having reliable braking systems ensures you maintain control under extreme conditions, protecting both you and other racers.
Just remember to choose a reputable manufacturer and ensure you're getting hoses specifically designed for your vehicle.
Absolutely. While they are ideal for racing due to their performance benefits, braided brake hoses can also improve everyday vehicles' braking response and durability.
Yes, proper hose installation typically requires specific tools like a flare nut wrench and a bleeder kit to ensure secure fittings and remove air from the lines.
Steel braided brake hoses are designed for longevity. Many manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on their products, which speaks volumes about their durability. In practice, a high-quality set of braided brake line kits can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, or even the lifetime of the vehicle if properly maintained. This is significantly longer than the typical 5-7 year replacement interval recommended for rubber hoses.
Imagine this: You’re on a long road trip, and you notice that your brakes feel a bit off. After pulling over to inspect the issue, you discover a small leak in one of your brake lines. With limited tools and resources on hand, you start thinking, “Could I temporarily fix this with a piece of rubber hose until I can get proper repairs?” It seems like a quick and easy solution, but is it safe?
Brake lines are an integral component of a vehicle’s braking system, responsible for transmitting hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders at each wheel. When you press the brake pedal, the master cylinder forces brake fluid through these lines, creating the necessary pressure to activate the brakes. This process ensures that your vehicle slows down or comes to a complete stop when needed.
Materials Commonly Used in Brake Lines
Brake lines are typically made from materials that can withstand high pressure and resist corrosion over time. The most common materials used include:
Steel: Standard steel brake lines are strong and durable, offering excellent resistance to pressure. However, they can be prone to rust if not properly maintained.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel brake lines are more resistant to rust and corrosion compared to regular steel. They are often preferred in performance vehicles and in regions where road salt is commonly used.
Nylon-Coated Steel: Some brake lines are made from steel that is coated with a layer of nylon for additional protection against corrosion and physical damage.
These materials are chosen for their ability to handle the demanding environment within a vehicle’s braking system, where both high pressure and temperature variations are constant factors.
Rigid Brake Lines:
Material: Typically made from steel or stainless steel.
Usage: These lines are used in areas of the vehicle where they are less likely to be exposed to movement or flexing, such as along the frame or chassis.
Characteristics: Rigid brake lines are known for their durability and ability to withstand high pressures without deforming. They are often custom-bent to fit the specific contours of a vehicle.
Flexible Brake Lines:
Material: Usually made from reinforced rubber or braided stainless steel.
Usage: Flexible brake lines are used in areas where the brake lines need to accommodate movement, such as between the vehicle’s frame and the wheels.
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Characteristics: These lines are designed to flex and move with the suspension and steering components. They are essential for maintaining consistent brake pressure while the vehicle is in motion.
Metal Brake Lines:
Advantages: High strength, resistance to pressure, and longevity. Metal brake lines provide more consistent and reliable braking performance over time.
Disadvantages: Can be prone to rust if not properly coated or maintained, especially in harsh climates. Rigid lines are less flexible and may be challenging to install in tight spaces.
Rubber Brake Lines:
Advantages: Flexibility allows for easy installation in areas that require movement. They are also less expensive and easier to replace compared to metal lines.
Disadvantages: Rubber lines are more prone to wear, cracking, and swelling over time, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or corrosive elements. They are also less resistant to high pressure, which can compromise their effectiveness in the braking system.
Inner Tube: The innermost layer, made from a rubber compound that is resistant to the fluid it will carry. This layer ensures that the hose does not degrade from the inside out due to exposure to fluids like water, oil, or other chemicals.
Reinforcement Layer: Surrounding the inner tube, this layer is often made from braided textile fibers, spiral wound wire, or synthetic yarns. The reinforcement layer provides strength and helps the hose withstand moderate pressure. It also gives the hose its characteristic flexibility.
Outer Cover: The exterior layer protects the inner layers from environmental factors such as abrasion, ozone, heat, and oil. The outer cover is often made from a durable rubber compound that resists wear and tear.
Comparison with the Materials Used in Brake Lines
Unlike standard rubber hoses, brake lines are designed to handle much higher pressures and are constructed from materials specifically engineered to resist the extreme conditions within a vehicle’s braking system.
Material Strength: Brake lines are typically made from steel, stainless steel, or reinforced synthetic materials, which provide significantly higher pressure resistance compared to rubber hoses.
Pressure Tolerance: Brake lines can withstand the hydraulic pressure generated in a braking system, which can exceed 1,500 psi. Standard rubber hoses, on the other hand, are generally rated for much lower pressures and would fail under such high demands.
Temperature Resistance: Brake lines are designed to resist the high temperatures generated during braking, whereas rubber hoses may soften, crack, or swell when exposed to excessive heat.
The difference in materials means that rubber hoses simply do not possess the structural integrity or pressure resistance required for use in brake systems.
Pressure and Temperature Resistance
Brake systems operate under extreme conditions, with hydraulic pressure often reaching over 1,500 psi. Additionally, the heat generated from friction during braking can cause temperatures to rise significantly. Rubber hoses, while flexible and useful in many applications, are not engineered to handle such intense pressure or temperature:
Pressure Resistance: Rubber hoses are typically rated for lower-pressure applications. When exposed to the high pressures within a brake system, they can expand, weaken, or even burst, leading to brake failure.
Temperature Resistance: Rubber hoses can degrade when exposed to the high temperatures generated during braking. The material may soften or become brittle, leading to cracking or splitting, which can cause leaks or total failure.
Durability and Lifespan Concerns
Rubber hoses are generally more prone to wear and tear compared to the materials used in brake lines. Over time, they can suffer from:
Aging: Rubber deteriorates with age, especially when exposed to environmental factors like UV light, ozone, and temperature extremes. This aging process can cause the hose to become brittle and crack, leading to leaks.
Swelling: Exposure to brake fluid, which is often incompatible with standard rubber compounds, can cause the inner layers of a rubber hose to swell. This swelling can reduce the internal diameter of the hose, leading to restricted fluid flow and impaired braking performance.
Wear and Tear: Rubber hoses are more susceptible to physical damage from abrasions, cuts, and punctures. This makes them less reliable in harsh environments where they are exposed to debris and other hazards.
Risk of Leaks, Swelling, and Failure Under Pressure
The combination of lower pressure tolerance, reduced temperature resistance, and decreased durability makes rubber hoses unsuitable for brake line applications. The primary risks include:
Leaks: As rubber hoses degrade or swell, they are more likely to develop leaks, which can cause a loss of brake fluid and a corresponding loss of braking power.
Swelling: Swollen hoses can impede the flow of brake fluid, resulting in delayed or reduced braking response, which is particularly dangerous in emergencies.
Failure Under Pressure: In extreme cases, a rubber hose used in a brake system could burst due to the high pressure, leading to immediate and total brake failure. This poses a significant safety hazard for the driver and others on the road.
Immediate Dangers: Brake Failure and Reduced Braking Efficiency One of the most critical safety hazards of using rubber hoses in place of proper brake lines is the immediate risk of brake failure. When a rubber hose is used in a braking system, it is not equipped to handle the high hydraulic pressure required for effective braking. This can lead to:
Brake Failure: Under intense pressure, a rubber hose may expand or burst, leading to a sudden and complete loss of brake fluid. This results in brake failure, leaving the driver unable to stop the vehicle, which can lead to severe accidents.
Reduced Braking Efficiency: Even if the hose doesn’t fail outright, the expansion of a rubber hose under pressure can cause a delayed response when the brake pedal is pressed. This reduced efficiency can increase stopping distances, making it difficult to avoid collisions, especially in emergencies.
Long-Term Risks: Gradual Degradation and Unexpected Failure Beyond the immediate dangers, rubber hoses used in brake systems pose significant long-term risks due to their tendency to degrade over time:
Gradual Degradation: Rubber is susceptible to environmental factors such as UV light, ozone, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these elements can cause the rubber to crack, harden, or become brittle, increasing the likelihood of leaks or failure.
Unexpected Failure: The gradual wear and tear on a rubber hose can lead to unexpected failure, often without warning. A small crack or pinhole leak can quickly escalate, causing a sudden loss of brake fluid and, subsequently, brake function. This unpredictability makes rubber hoses a dangerous choice for brake lines, where reliability is paramount.
These safety hazards underscore the importance of using materials specifically designed for brake lines, which are engineered to withstand the demands of the braking system and ensure consistent, reliable performance.
Legal Requirements for Brake Line Repairs in Various Regions
Brake line repairs are subject to strict legal and regulatory standards in many regions, reflecting the critical role brake systems play in vehicle safety. These regulations typically mandate:
Approved Materials: Only materials that meet specific standards for pressure and temperature resistance are legally allowed for use in brake line repairs. Rubber hoses, not meeting these stringent criteria, are often prohibited.
Professional Installation: In many jurisdictions, brake line repairs must be performed by certified professionals to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Using improper materials like rubber hoses could result in legal penalties or vehicle inspection failures.
Insurance and Liability Issues Associated with Improper Repairs
Using a rubber hose for brake line repairs not only violates legal standards but can also lead to significant insurance and liability issues:
Insurance Coverage: If an accident occurs due to brake failure linked to the use of a rubber hose, insurance companies may refuse to cover the damages. Policies often require that vehicle repairs are performed to industry standards, and the use of non-compliant materials could void coverage.
When it comes to brake line repairs, using the correct materials is crucial for ensuring safety and reliability. The most commonly approved materials for brake lines include:
Steel Brake Lines:
Composition: Standard steel brake lines are made from mild steel, often coated to prevent corrosion.
Use Case: These are typically found in most vehicles and provide a balance between strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Stainless Steel Brake Lines:
Composition: Made from high-grade stainless steel, these lines offer superior corrosion resistance.
Use Case: Ideal for performance vehicles or in regions with harsh climates where road salt and moisture are prevalent. They are often used in aftermarket upgrades due to their durability.
Copper-Nickel (Cupronickel) Brake Lines:
Composition: A blend of copper and nickel, these brake lines are known for their excellent corrosion resistance and ease of installation.
Use Case: Commonly used in European vehicles, Cupronickel lines are flexible and resistant to rust, making them a popular choice for brake line replacements.
Braided Stainless Steel Hoses:
Composition: These flexible hoses consist of an inner Teflon (PTFE) or rubber core, wrapped in a braided stainless steel exterior.
Use Case: Often used in high-performance applications, these hoses provide flexibility while maintaining high pressure resistance. They also improve brake pedal feel by reducing the expansion that occurs in rubber hoses.
Benefits of Using Stainless Steel and Other Durable Materials
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel and Cupronickel brake lines offer superior resistance to corrosion, which is a major factor in the longevity and reliability of brake lines. This is particularly important in regions where vehicles are exposed to road salt or moisture.
Durability: Materials like stainless steel and braided steel hoses are more durable than standard rubber hoses, resisting wear and tear over time. This durability ensures that the brake lines maintain their integrity and continue to function effectively under high pressure and temperature conditions.
Enhanced Performance: Using high-quality materials like braided stainless steel hoses can improve brake performance by minimizing line expansion, which leads to a firmer brake pedal feel and more responsive braking.
Proper brake line repair or replacement is a precise task that requires attention to detail and adherence to safety standards. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Preparation:
Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is on a stable, level surface and is securely supported with jack stands.
Gather Materials and Tools: Have the necessary brake line material, fittings, and tools (wrenches, flaring tool, brake fluid, etc.) ready before beginning the repair.
Removing the Damaged Brake Line:
Locate the Damaged Section: Identify the portion of the brake line that needs to be replaced.
Drain the Brake Fluid: Carefully drain the brake fluid from the system to avoid spills and contamination.
Disconnect the Brake Line: Use the appropriate wrenches to disconnect the damaged brake line from the brake system. Be careful not to damage the fittings or surrounding components.
Cutting and Bending the New Brake Line:
Measure the Replacement Line: Measure the length of the old brake line to ensure the new line is cut to the correct size.
Cut the Brake Line: Use a brake line cutter to make a clean, precise cut.
Bend the Line: Using a brake line bending tool, carefully shape the new line to match the contours of the vehicle’s chassis. Avoid kinks or sharp bends that could impede fluid flow.
Flaring the Ends:
Prepare the Ends: Ensure the ends of the brake line are smooth and free from burrs.
Use a Flaring Tool: Create the necessary flares (single or double flare, depending on the vehicle’s specifications) on the ends of the brake line to ensure a secure connection with the fittings.
Installing the New Brake Line:
Connect the Brake Line: Attach the new brake line to the brake system using the appropriate fittings. Tighten securely but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the fittings.
Bleed the Brake System: After installation, bleed the brake system to remove any air that may have entered during the repair process. This step is crucial to restoring full braking performance.
Final Inspection and Testing:
Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections and joints for leaks. Tighten as necessary.
Test the Brakes: Carefully test the brake pedal for firmness and response. Conduct a low-speed test drive in a safe area to ensure the brakes are functioning properly.
In conclusion, rubber hoses are unsuitable for brake lines due to their inability to withstand the high pressures and temperatures required for safe braking. Their tendency to degrade over time poses significant safety risks, including potential brake failure. It’s essential to use proper materials like stainless steel or approved brake line materials and to follow safe repair practices to ensure the reliability of your braking system. Always consult a professional for brake line repairs and regular maintenance.
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