The present disclosure is directed to rubber compositions containing a chemical additive capable of generating or enhancing strain-induced crystallization into the compositions, and tires containing the rubber compositions in one or more components such as sidewalls or treads. The chemical additive is at least one fatty acid amide compound of formula (I). As well, certain embodiments relate to methods for achieving reduced wear or improved durability in a tire tread or tire sidewall by using the chemical additives.