Rain-X Latitude Wiper Blade

The support structure for beam-style wiper blades is like an internal skeleton, doing away with the traditional exposed plastic and metal superstructure. As windshields continue to grow larger and more aerodynamic, it becomes more challenging for a wiper to make contact across the full area. Some believe that beam wipers' internal structure holds the wiper evenly across the glass better than a standard wiper, while better resisting wind lift. The lack of the external frame also makes beam-style wipers more conducive to winter use, even if they aren't specifically marketed as winter blades.

CarBibles.com, a website run by a self-described "pro-car, pro-motorbike petrolhead into basic maintenance" tests this idea on a Honda Element, Toyota Camry, Toyota Yaris, Subaru Impreza and Dodge pickup truck with two beam wiper blades, the Rain-X Latitude and Bosch Icon (*Est. $16). With both, he says wiping is clear with no chatter in the middle of the windshield, where the blades make full contact. But the edges pose a problem: "Neither manufacturer's blade is actually able to keep itself pressed against the windscreen across the whole length of the blade. This means that you get an uneven wipe." Even increasing vehicle speed did little to push the wiper blades down and generate completely even coverage.

When the Rain-X Latitude and Bosch Icon are tested in snow and ice, however, CarBibles.com says this is where users can really see the difference. "With no frame, there's nothing for the snow and ice to freeze into place. This means the blades are able to conform to the shape of the windscreen even in sub-zero temperatures."

The Rain-X Latitude gets top marks because some professional testing shows it's one of the only wipers to still perform well after six months. Many users on Amazon.com report getting 18 months of life or more from these blades. "These wipers work extremely well for many months without streaking or deteriorating. Their design prevents snow buildup while driving," says one owner. Although Bosch Icon's blades claim to last 40 percent longer, professional tests don't back up those claims.

Ease of installing the Rain-X Latitude is generally said to be comparable to that of a traditional wiper. Several owners say at Amazon.com that they appreciate the installation video on the Rain-X website.