This short review presents the landmark discoveries and ideas in rubber abrasion that have brought the field to where it is today. First, the important features of rubber abrasion are reviewed as background for a physical model for the abrasion of rubber. The model, due to Thomas, is described in detail, since it clearly shows the connection between the failure of rubber by abrasive wear and the appropriate rubber fracture properties. The implications of the model for improved abrasion resistance are also discussed. Then, physical principles are applied to the failure of rubber by abrasion in actual products, such as tires. The tire wear model of Schallamach and Turner is described, together with its success in explaining several features of tire wear.