Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and method for retreading tires with a continuous precured and premolded tread strip. A flexible substantially air impervious annular envelope overlies the tread strip and aids in holding the tread strip in intimate contact with an underlying tire casing while the tread strip is bonded to the tire casing. An air porous band of drapable fabric is provided between the annular envelope and the tread strip and intimately engages the entire periphery of the tread strip during the bonding. This air porous band along with air porous straps secured thereto wick away and remove substantially all air initially entrapped underneath the envelope thereby permitting the retreading operation to be done at increased temperature and reduced time, as well as avoiding the problem of frequent replacing of ruptured envelopes.