On the outside, the Cross Contact UHP uses a silica-enhanced tread compound to combine wet and dry road grip with rolling resistance comparable to passenger car tires. The compound is molded into an asymmetric tread pattern that features solid outer shoulder blocks linked to a continuous rib combined with large, independent tread blocks that flank a circumferential center rib to provide directional stability and steering response. Lateral tread grooves are combined with four, wide circumferential grooves that provide efficient water drainage to reduce hydroplaning and enhance wet traction.

Continental Cross Contact UHP styling features smooth black letters reversed out of a serrated sidewall band.