I researched and tested dozens of tires to find the top 265 inch all terrain tires available today.
The 265/70R17 is a popular stock tire size, commonly found on light trucks, pickups, SUVs, and crossovers.
Today, we’re discussing the best 265 70R17 all-terrain tires. But before we dive into the top best among the 265 picks , it’s important to understand the common drawbacks of this tire size.
Why is that?
Because knowing these downsides can help us choose tires that minimize the disadvantages of the 265/70R17 size while maximizing its benefits.
The 265/70 measurement is based on the Euro-metric system, but I like to compare it to the flotation size of a 31-inch tire, as the average diameter of the 265/70 is around 31.6 inches.
Larger tires, such as 35-inch flotation sizes, come with certain advantages but also some drawbacks. Fortunately, the 265/70R17 is not too large to face the downsides of massive tires, nor is it too small.
It’s the perfect middle ground.
For instance, bigger tires offer more ground clearance and traction due to their larger diameter and wider footprint. However, they also have a heavier rolling mass, so they crawl faster making them harder to stop.
Since most of us spend 90% of our time on the road or in the city, short braking distances are crucial for safety. This is where the 265/70R17 shines—it’s safer for daily driving, and it strikes a balance between an aggressive look and factory specs.
The tire size provides ample control without being overly massive, offering good ground clearance for off-road traction, particularly when aired down. Thanks to its tall and skinny profile, the 265/70R17 performs well off-road by extending the contact patch longitudinally, which enhances traction.
To make this concept easy to understand: think of tall, skinny tires like the 265/70R17 as skis, and wider tires, like 35*12.5 tires , as snowshoes. Both serve a purpose, but their surface areas differ.
Now, let’s break down the specifics. With a sidewall height of 7.3 inches (70% of 265 mm), this tire has a tall sidewall, which is the key to many of its benefits. The large diameter and high-profile sidewalls give us extra ground clearance, and airing down during off-roading provides more protection for the wheel by adding more time to react to obstacles like rocks or bumps.
However, there’s a trade-off. While taller sidewalls enhance ride comfort, they can negatively impact steering response and overall handling. To counter this, we need to select a tire that maintains comfort while also improving handling and steering response.
So, what features in a tire enhance handling and steering?
Tires with stiffer sidewalls and rigid compounds tend to improve both, but this can come at the cost of ride comfort. Fortunately, the taller sidewalls of these tires already offer a comfortable ride, minimizing this drawback.
I’ve researched and listed the most popular and best-selling tires, focusing on those that balance ride comfort, handling, and performance. These include both high-end and more affordable options.
What are the best 265 70r17 all terrain tires?
Before we dive into specific product reviews, there’s something important to keep in mind. The more you research, the more confused you may become.
Some people will rave about a tire they’ve used, while others will say it wears out too fast. No one is lying—they’re just prioritizing different things.
For example, someone might love a tire because it meets their needs, even if it performs only averagely in other areas. They’ll praise it as the best tire overall, even though it may not be ideal in every respect.
The truth is, all-terrain tires are designed for compromise.
They’re a mix of all-weather, all-season highway, and mud-terrain tires, meaning they won’t perform equally in every condition. You need to identify your specific needs—whether it’s wet and snow performance, durability, or comfort—and select tires accordingly.
Almost all brands of all-terrain tires will perform well in certain areas and only average in others.
For example, a tire may have excellent snow and wet grip but slightly lower durability, or it might perform great off-road but slip a bit in rainy conditions due to stiffer sidewalls.
Some people prioritize looks, while others focus on noise reduction or comfort. If a tire doesn’t meet those priorities, they’ll say it’s terrible. On the other hand, if a tire meets their main requirements, they’ll praise it, even if it falls short in other areas. This is natural bias.
So, if you’re searching for the “perfect” all-terrain tire, you won’t find it. There’s no such thing as a tire that performs great in every category. Even manufacturers don’t claim that.
To make tire shopping easier, set your priorities. Here are some factors to consider:
- Aggressive looks
- Quietness (low noise)
- Comfort
- Wet and snow performance
- Off-road capability
- Durability and longevity
- Daily driving use
- Tire weight
- Load rating (E Load or SL Load)
Understanding these priorities will guide you in finding the right 265/70R17 all-terrain tire for your needs.
These are just a few of the common priorities that most people consider when choosing tires.
One key decision to make is whether to go for E-load or Standard Load (SL) tires.
In this review, I’ve focused on sharing my personal experience with my favorite and most-used tire, which is also ranked as America’s number one, without diving into too many technical details.
1- BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2
I’ve seen many criticize the BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2, and while they’re not entirely wrong, their conclusions often miss the mark.
As I mentioned before, there’s a key difference between E-load and Standard Load (SL) tires. Many people unknowingly compare the Falken Wildpeak AT3W (a passenger tire) with the BFG All Terrain T/A KO2 (an LT tire).
They claim that the Wildpeak performs better in wet conditions, is quieter, and offers a smoother ride. But comparing an LT tire like the BFGoodrich KO2 to an SL or P-metric tire isn’t a fair match-up.
For me, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 is the best all-terrain tire. It’s undoubtedly a class leader. Around 70% of the trucks and SUVs I see in America use BFGoodrich T/A KO2 tires, and for good reason.
The BFGoodrich KO2 has been on the market for a long time, and BFGoodrich even claims it’s the best tire they’ve ever made. They take great pride in it.
Yet, there are always some people eager to prove how bad the BFGoodrich KO2 is.
The truth is, no all-terrain tire is perfect, but the BFGoodrich KO2 comes close.
It performs well across the board, from high-end trucks to mid-range SUVs. It’s true that AT tires have their limitations, but why single out the BFGoodrich KO2’s minor shortcomings to make it seem like a bad tire?
Now, if we’re talking about the 265/70R17 size specifically, it’s a tall and narrow tire, which can affect steering response and handling.
So how do the BFGoodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W compare when addressing these two issues for both passenger and LT tires?
Passenger tires (P-metric) or SL tires tend to be softer, which translates to lower fuel consumption and a smoother ride. They don’t kill the car’s power. That’s the good side. They’re a good fit for mid-sized SUVs, light trucks, and vehicles that aren’t heavily loaded.
If you have an underpowered vehicle, LT tires will make it feel sluggish. And if you’re not planning to tow, haul heavy loads, or go off-road, you’re better off sticking with passenger tires. LT tires will easily kill that underpowered car.
Now, let’s focus on the BFGoodrich KO2 in both SL and LT sizes.
Personally, I prefer the LT version of the BFGoodrich KO2. It’s an all-rounder that performs well on and off the road, in almost any weather condition. If you don’t plan on heavy off-roading or towing, the SL version is a solid choice.
The SL version of the BFGoodrich KO2 weighs 45.72 pounds with a tread depth of 15/32 inches.
Both the SL and LT versions use silica, although Falken’s Wildpeak AT3W uses more silica in its SL tires, which helps with wet and snow traction. However, Falken’s LT version doesn’t include the same silica compound, which is why its performance drops off in wet conditions.
Some people make the mistake of comparing Falken’s SL tires to the BFGoodrich KO2’s LT version, particularly in wet and snowy conditions. If you want superior wet and snow traction, you should opt for the BFGoodrich KO2 SL tires.
That said, the LT version of the BFGoodrich KO2 does lag slightly behind the Falken AT3W in wet conditions due to its stiffer sidewalls. The BFGoodrich KO2’s sidewalls are strong and durable, which helps off-road but can cause a little slipping on wet roads. This issue is mostly seen in the E-load versions, which is why it’s hard to make an all-terrain tire 100% perfect. Softening the sidewalls would increase the risk of punctures and cuts off-road.
Still, the BFGoodrich KO2’s SL version retains strong sidewalls while being more flexible and lightweight, making it quieter and more comfortable on the road.
Falken claimed their AT3W had the deepest tread depth, but in the 265/70R17 SL size, the BFGoodrich KO2 beats it with 15/32 inches of tread depth.
I always opt for the BFGoodrich KO2’s LT version, and many others do as well, because of its robust construction and 3-ply sidewalls. If you’re serious about off-roading, the BFGoodrich KO2 LT265/70R17 should be your first choice.
The BFGoodrich KO2 also addresses the steering response and handling issues associated with the 265/70R17 size.
Its steering is linear and responsive, thanks to its large, long and wide shoulder blocks. These blocks improve handling and steering quickness. Also Its solder block is pasted. The BFGoodrich KO2’s interlocking tread blocks are tightly packed, providing better on-road performance and handling.
In terms of durability, the BFGoodrich KO2 stands out. It has a 3-ply sidewall reinforced by 2 steel belts and 2 layers of nylon. Its solid carcass gives it excellent puncture and cut resistance, making it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts, especially those into rock crawling.
The BFGoodrich KO2 performs well in mud, thanks to its large tread blocks, but like most all-terrain tires, it can struggle in deep, sticky mud. Most all-terrain tires struggle in deep mud, especially when it’s thick and gooey. This is mainly due to the narrow lugs, which tend to fill up with mud easily. Once that happens, the mud clogs the tread, making the tire lose traction and causing it to slip. As a result, these tires are less effective in muddy conditions. So, if you’re planning to tackle deep mud, it’s important to be cautious with all-terrain tires.
However, on gravel, dirt roads, and hard-packed surfaces, The BFGoodrich KO2 shines.
One downside I’ve noticed with the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 tends to trap small pebbles in its tread grooves, and its stone ejectors don’t seem to work as well as expected. In my tests, the stone ejectors didn’t perform as effectively as I’d hoped. I think it is very dangerous to get stuck with pebbles, various stones, and small objects, Because they can sit on the tread and drill around the circumference of the tire. However, thanks to the BFGoodrich T/A KO2’s tough 10-ply construction, none of these have caused a puncture so far.
I saw a video on YouTube comparing the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W, where both tires were punctured twice by nails and stones. Interestingly, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2’s punctures were mostly caused by nails, which is hardly a fault of the tire itself. On the other hand, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W was punctured twice by sharp rocks and gravel. From this, it’s clear that the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 stands out as the most durable 265/70 R17 tire.
On wet grass, the BFGoodrich KO2 performs very well. You won’t find yourself slipping in front of others with this tire on a 4×4. Who wants to be embarrassed in front of others by slipping on wet grass with a 4*4 vehicles?
When it comes to rock crawling, the BFGoodrich KO2 is a favorite. I wouldn’t trust any other tire over the BFGoodrich KO2 for rock crawling.
Let’s now take a look at how the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 performs on the road.
On the road, the LT version uses some silica compound to keep it from becoming too stiff.
The passenger version, on the other hand, uses full silica. This compound enhances the tire’s heat resistance, improves grip in snow, and provides flexibility for a more comfortable and smooth ride.
Both the standard load and light truck versions of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 offer a very comfortable ride, whether on highways or rougher roads.
Additionally, the tire incorporates numerous sipes across its tread blocks, ensuring that it doesn’t feel overly stiff when driving on the road. These features, combined with its rugged construction, make the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 perform exceptionally well both on and off-road.
It’s also one of the quieter and smoother tires in the all-terrain category, even on highways—a fact that even its critics acknowledge. As mentioned earlier, some people compare the LT version of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 to the passenger tire of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. The main critique of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 is its wet traction.
So, does the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 really perform poorly in wet conditions?
To answer this, we need to look back at its predecessor, the BFGoodrich T/A KO. That model was notorious for being slippery on wet roads, especially in the rain. This has led some users of the older version to carry over their criticisms to the upgraded BFGoodrich T/A KO2.
I’m not denying that all-terrain tires tend to slip a bit in wet conditions. Users of other popular AT tires, like the Nitto Ridge Grappler, Trail Grappler, and Duratrac, have similar complaints about wet road performance.
However, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 doesn’t actually skid on wet roads. The main issue is hydroplaning in standing water. When heavy rain wets the road, the tire can become slightly slippery, but it’s not as dangerous as some might claim.
So why does the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 experience hydroplaning?
As I mentioned earlier, the stiffness of all-terrain tires makes them more prone to slipping in deep water.
Another reason is the internal locking block design of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2. While this design provides excellent traction on dry and normal roads, it lacks a clear path for channeling water. The absence of both longitudinal and lateral grooves means that when water accumulates during heavy rain, the tire has difficulty dispersing it effectively. This causes the BFGoodrich KO2 to float slightly and become more susceptible to hydroplaning.
In dry conditions, the BFGoodrich KO2 performs exceptionally well, thanks to its large shoulder blocks and tightly packed tread, which provide excellent lateral grip and cornering stability.
Despite its strong construction, the BFGoodrich KO2 offers a comfortable and responsive ride on highways. It’s also fuel-efficient, even more so than the Wildpeak AT3W in my experience.
In snowy conditions, the BFGoodrich KO2 holds its own, especially in extreme cold climates like Minnesota.
That said, when it comes to wet, snow, and slush, Falken’s Wildpeak AT3W still takes the crown. But in terms of durability, longevity, off-road capability, and on-road manners, the BFGoodrich KO2 remains a top contender.
If you’re after a rugged, aggressive-looking on road tire, the BFGoodrich KO2 is your best bet. It’s more aggressive in appearance than the Wildpeak AT3W, Toyo Open Country AT3, Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, or Nitto Grappler.
In conclusion, if your priorities are:
- Aggressive styling
- Durability and longevity
- Daily driving suitability
- Strong on-road performance
Then the BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 is the perfect tire for you. If you search for a “perfect” tire, you’ll only end up in Analysis paralysis.
2- Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Let’s move on to another tire, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, which is available in the 265/70R17 size and comes only in the standard load (SL) version.
This tire falls under the ATR (All Terrain Road) category, which is a specific type of all-terrain tire defined by the European Tire Regulatory Authority.
Typically, all-terrain tires are designed to perform 50% off-road and 50% on-road. However, the ATR design focuses on 70% on-road and 30% off-road use.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is one of the pioneers in this ATR segment.
One thing to note is the relationship between the tread’s void areas and the noise a tire produces. By reducing the void space in ATR tires, they minimize noise—something that’s especially beneficial for those who spend most of their time driving on paved roads. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S essentially behaves like an on-road tire while still retaining some off-road capability.
Many drivers may find this appealing because most of our driving occurs on-road. However, for those looking for an LT (Light Truck) version in this size, you might want to consider the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S in the 265/70R17 size does not come in an LT version.
It’s important to note that many people use LT tires unnecessarily. Unless you regularly go off-road or tow heavy loads, SL tires are usually the better option.
SL load tires, like the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, are lighter, more flexible, and provide a softer ride, which results in better fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.
For heavy-duty trucks (weighing 3/6 tons or more), LT tires are essential, but for vehicles like half-ton pickups or lighter trucks, SL tires will serve you well.
For most vehicles, passenger tires are the better option if:
- Your vehicle weighs half a ton or less.
- Your vehicle isn’t particularly powerful or underpowered.
Additionally, in off-road conditions, SL tires can offer better grip than LT tires due to their more flexible sidewalls. This means they won’t sap as much power from your lighter vehicle.
Now, let’s talk about how the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S performs as an ATR and SL tire.
It’s not in the same league as the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 or the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, nor should it be compared to them directly, as its purpose is different. But in its specific areas of focus, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S outperforms these tires.
For example:
- In wet conditions, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S far outperforms the BFGoodrich T/A KO2.
- In terms of road noise and ride comfort, it rivals the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is ideal for those who:
- Don’t prioritize an aggressive look (for that, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 is a better choice).
- Don’t need serious off-road capability.
Why is the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S so good in wet conditions and on-road comfort?
This tire’s strength lies in its smooth and comfortable on-road performance. The soft tread delivers a quiet ride, and road noise is virtually non-existent.
It’s built with a highway terrain focus. Its primary design is to perform well on the road and wet conditions.
Thanks to the high silica content and numerous sipes (small slits in the tread). The sipes help the tire grip the road more effectively in wet and snowy conditions. That’s why its tread blocks feature an abundance of sipes, much more than most all-terrain tires.
These sipes are internally locked to ensure the tread blocks remain stable, improving the tire’s steering response. Due to the high cost of this technology, it’s typically found only in premium tires.
The tread blocks themselves are soft and flexible, making the tire extremely comfortable on paved roads. You can even press the blocks with your fingers. Its high number of sipes means there’s no vibration either, which helps minimize cabin disturbance that usually comes through the steering wheel and body shell.
In wet conditions, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S outperforms the BFGoodrich T/A KO2, largely due to its numerous sipes and the four circumferential grooves that help channel water away from the tire, maintaining strong contact with the road. This design gives it excellent traction in wet conditions, allowing for better cornering and braking.
For those prioritizing road comfort and low noise, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a standout choice.
However, if you’re a serious off-roader or drive a heavy-duty truck like the Ford F-250, F-350, or Ram 2500, this isn’t the tire for you. You’ll likely experience issues with fast wear and reduced grip on the road.
For mid-size pickups like the Toyota Tacoma, Jeep Cherokee, or light trucks like the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S will deliver its best performance.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S performs well in snow, thanks to Cooper’s patented saw-tooth technology, which enhances its grip on snow-covered roads. The design traps snow within the tread, leveraging the principle that snow sticks better to snow than to rubber, improving grip in packed snow conditions.
Although it’s not quite at the level of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W in these conditions. However, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S comes at nearly two-thirds the price of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. Given this price difference, it’s not fair to compare them directly.
Weighing in at 43 pounds with a tread depth of 14/32nds, it’s a bit lighter than the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, which weighs 46.5 pounds and has a tread depth of 13/32nds.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S has a mileage rating of 620, meaning it lasts 6.2 times longer than the standard tire used by the American Tire Administrator for testing. In comparison, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a mileage rating of 660.
Cooper offers a 65,000-mile warranty for the Discoverer AT3 4S. In real-world conditions, especially for on-road use, many drivers exceed this mileage. However, complaints typically come from those using heavy-duty trucks, which is why I wouldn’t recommend this tire for trucks over half a ton, like the F-250 or Ram 2500.
While the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S can handle light off-road duties, such as gravel roads or occasional camping trips, it’s not designed for rock crawling or frequent off-road use. The tread blocks are similar to highway tires, and the tire’s internal construction is relatively fragile with only two layers of polyester, two steel belts, and one layer of nylon reinforcement, making it vulnerable to damage from sharp rocks and gravel.
For light-duty off-road situations and mixed road conditions, it works well. It also performs exceptionally on sand due to its soft tread compound, particularly when aired down.
If you’ve heard of the Toyo Open Country AT3, you’ll find it to be a more aggressive tire, but the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S offers similar performance at a fraction of the price.
It works well in snow, wet conditions, mud, and sand—all while staying quiet on the road. Its steering response is also excellent, thanks to its mostly rib-shaped tread design. This ensures better handling on paved roads, even in summer, and the tire’s stone ejectors help keep small rocks and debris from getting lodged in the treads.
When compared to the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S stands out in terms of price and on-road comfort. It may not be as durable for off-road use or towing, but it costs nearly half as much as these premium options, making it a great value for drivers who mostly stay on paved roads.
If you’re looking for a tire with an aggressive look or heavy-duty performance, this isn’t the one for you. And if you drive a heavy-duty vehicle, my advice is to steer clear of it.
3- Yokohama Geolandar AT G015
So far, I’ve discussed Cooper’s AT3 4S, a passenger tire in the ATR (All Terrain Road) segment.
However, the Cooper AT3 4S isn’t designed for heavy-duty trucks. If you need both on-road comfort and towing capacity, LT tires are essential.
Now, let’s shift to another ATR all-terrain tire: the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015. Like the Cooper AT3 4S, this is an ATR tire, which means it’s built for 70% on-road and 30% off-road use.
This tire leans more toward on-road performance, with its smooth rib shape and less aggressive tread pattern.
Earlier, I mentioned the benefits of SL load tires. However, LT (E-load) tires also offer several advantages:
- Durability: They’re built to last.
- Higher resistance to wear and tear.
- Confidence in off-road conditions.
- LT tires are also a must for long-distance towing with heavy loads.
On the downside, LT tires are usually heavier—about 7 to 10 pounds more on average—and the ride can feel harsher. However, many people don’t realize that you can adjust the air pressure to improve ride comfort. For instance, 20 psi in a 6-ply tire is equivalent to 10 psi in a 10-ply tire.
For those who need a heavy-duty tire or who drive a heavy-duty vehicle but still want on-road comfort, similar to the Cooper AT3 4S, the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 is an excellent choice.
Now, since we’re focusing on 265/70R17 size tires, let’s not forget what’s important: good steering response and handling.
I found this tire to be extremely reliable, offering predictable and straightforward steering.
Here’s why:
The Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 has a rib-shaped tread block with a slightly rigid compound, which enhances road feedback. It provides excellent steering response and full control. The rib shape works well on hard surfaces, creating a larger contact patch with the road, leading to better handling and steering precision.
That’s why I’ve included the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 in this list of the best 265/70R17 all-terrain tires. As I’ve mentioned, the 265/70R17 tire is typically tall and narrow, which often sacrifices steering response for comfort. My goal with this list was to include tires that balance ride comfort with good road feedback and control.
While the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 isn’t a true off-road tire like the BFGoodrich T/A KO2, it’s engineered for on-road performance and can easily outperform some of the more expensive tires in this category. And the best part? It’s half the price of those premium options. So, for those on a budget, this tire is a solid choice.
Not all of us need full-on off-road tires. Hardcore off-roaders should stick with options like the BFGoodrich T/A KO2.
For people living in four-season climates, doing light off-roading, and not requiring extreme off-road capability, this tire is a great fit.
If you look at the shoulder blocks of this tire, you’ll notice that the outer edges are slightly rounded. This design minimizes road noise, as smaller, more rounded, and closely packed shoulder blocks make for a quieter, smoother ride.
On paved roads, it performs exceptionally well, but its performance is average on rougher terrains and trails. Since it’s an ATR tire, this is expected.
Additionally, this tire features plenty of sipes, which help to reduce noise and vibrations while enhancing traction on wet and snowy roads.
In shallow mud, the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 performs similarly to the BFGoodrich KO2, and in snow, it offers excellent grip, comparable to the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W. On the highway, it runs as smoothly as butter, even in the LT version.
The tire has four circumferential grooves, which greatly improve hydroplaning resistance, a key safety feature. With these grooves, there’s less risk of losing traction on wet roads or in standing water.
Yokohama has done a great job engineering this tire for snow. The rib blocks have small, short grooves cut lengthwise, creating additional biting edges. These biting edges allow the tire to dig into snow, providing excellent grip and braking performance in snowy conditions.
In Utah’s cold winter months and Minnesota’s heavy snowfall, it performed as well as a winter tire. I found it superior to the Michelin LTX M/S in snowy conditions.
However, if we compare its wet braking performance with that of the Cooper AT3 4S, we can see the difference between passenger and light truck tires.
According to TireRack’s tests:
- The Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 has a wet braking distance of 141.8 feet.
- The Cooper AT3 4S (standard load) has a wet braking distance of 137.2 feet.
E-load tires tend to be stiffer, which slightly increases their wet and snow braking distance.
Since the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 is a bit stiffer, it felt harsher going over bumps. In contrast, the Cooper AT3 4S was noticeably softer and smoother on uneven surfaces.
However, the main difference becomes evident when towing or hauling heavy loads. The Cooper AT3 4S isn’t designed for towing—it can handle it, but the soft tread will wear out quickly.
In contrast, the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 can tow up to 3-4 tons without issue. Whether it’s an RV or trailer, this tire can handle the load effortlessly.
One standout feature of the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 in the 265/70R17 size is its 18/32-inch tread depth—the deepest among its competitors.
More tread depth means longer tread life and better traction on wet roads and off-road terrain. This durability is why Yokohama offers a 60,000-mile warranty on this tire.
Additionally, the Geolandar AT G015 has a stronger internal structure than the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, with three layers of polyester and one layer of nylon reinforcement. It also uses a higher proportion of carbon and a smaller amount of silica in the rubber compound. This makes the tire more durable and better suited for off-road use, without sacrificing road comfort.
- Carbon increases tire stiffness, friction, and wear resistance.
- Silica improves heat resistance and helps with grip on wet and snowy roads, providing a smoother ride.
This tire is rated for 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) and M+S (Mud and Snow), similar to the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S and BFGoodrich T/A KO2. Tires with the 3PMSF rating generally offer better traction and acceleration in snow compared to M+S-rated tires. M+S tires perform well in shallow mud but tend to struggle in snow.
Though Yokohama is a Japanese brand, the Geolandar AT G015 is manufactured in America. From my experience, Yokohama tires are well-balanced and reliable.
In conclusion, the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 is primarily designed for quiet, vibration-free on-road driving, with the ability to handle light off-road conditions. It’s best suited for mid-sized trucks, SUVs, or pickups, especially if you’re not doing heavy off-roading. For on-road driving and towing, this tire is a great choice. If you want to tackle various road conditions and towing or light gravel terrain, this is the tire to go for.
4- Falken Wildpeak A/T3W
If you’ve been following closely, you’ll already know that one drawback of the 265/70R17 size tire is that it tends to reduce steering responsiveness. While these tires provide a comfortable ride, handling can be a bit of a challenge.
Today, I’m bringing you a review of a tire that’s currently making waves: the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W. This tire excels in three key performance areas—slush, snow, and rain. In these conditions, few tires come close to matching its performance.
According to Tire Rack tests, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W had a wet stopping distance of 127.3 feet, while its competitor, the Toyo Open Country AT3, took 150 feet to come to a stop. This clearly highlights the superior wet traction of the Wildpeak A/T3W.
However, there’s an important detail to understand: to get the best performance from the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W in wet, snowy, or water-covered roads, you should opt for its standard load (SL) version.
Many people make the mistake of comparing different tire types, like the LT (light truck) version of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 to the SL version of the Falken A/T3W—a common but flawed comparison.
Here’s the bottom line: the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is undoubtedly one of the best all-around tires, especially in wet and snowy conditions. However, for optimal performance in these situations, you need to choose the standard load version. For those driving mid-size pickups, small SUVs, or light trucks, the SL tires offer significant benefits. They won’t decrease your fuel efficiency or power, but they will provide better grip and traction, both on-road and off-road, while also offering a smoother ride.
But for those of you looking for long-lasting, durable off-road tires, it’s important to note that all-terrain tires are a compromise. The SL version of the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W uses a high silica compound to optimize its performance on wet roads and in snow. This makes the tire softer and more comfortable for on-road driving. Its flexible sidewalls provide excellent grip on off-road surfaces, especially for activities like rock crawling. However, experienced off-roaders know that this softness comes with a trade-off: SL tires can be fragile, and sidewall punctures during long highway drives are not uncommon.
For those who prioritize durability and longevity, Falken’s LT tires don’t use a silica compound. These tires feature stiffer sidewalls and treads, making them ideal for heavy-duty off-roading or towing, such as pulling trailers or RVs.
The good news is that even the LT version of the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W performs well, thanks to its deep tread and ample internal sipes. These features help maintain good wet and snow traction, even in the LT variant. So, while the LT may not perform as well as the SL in wet conditions due to the lack of silica, the difference is only about 10-15%.
The sipes in the tire also play a crucial role in reducing tread noise and improving traction in wet and snow-packed conditions. However, this optimization does come with a drawback: the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W has relatively high rolling resistance, in its passenger tires. When comparing the rolling resistance of Falken’s LT tires with the passenger tires of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2, the Wildpeak A/T3W showed higher rolling resistance.
In terms of tread depth, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W’s LT tire has a tread depth of 17/32 inches and weighs 53 pounds. The deeper tread helps counteract the lack of silica and provides more grip on wet roads. The SL version, on the other hand, has a tread depth of 13/32 inches and weighs 46.5 pounds.
For comparison, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2’s SL weighs 46 pounds with a tread depth of 15/32 inches. However, the Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 takes the crown for the deepest tread depth in LT tires, at 18/32 inches.
When it comes to durability and longevity, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W has proven its worth. Numerous users have praised its performance in these areas. However, for serious off-roaders and rock crawlers, I recommend the BFGoodrich T/A KO2. The KO2’s sidewalls are 3-ply, offering greater durability than the Wildpeak A/T3W, though the Falken provides a smoother, more comfortable ride on-road due to its softer sidewalls.
It’s a trade-off: you gain some advantages but might lose others. For instance, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 might perform better off-road, but the Wildpeak A/T3W gives you superior wet-road confidence—100%, in fact, compared to the 80% confidence the KO2 offers in wet conditions.
The UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) rating for the Wildpeak A/T3W is 660, meaning it lasts 6.6 times longer than a standard tire. For comparison, here are the UTQG ratings of some competitors:
- Toyo Open Country AT3: 660
- Nitto Ridge Grappler: 500
- Nitto Terra Grappler: 600
- Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S: 620
Now, let’s talk about steering response.
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W offers linear and responsive steering, which puts it in a league of its own when it comes to handling. While many people are concerned about the weight of this tire, the 265/70R17 size weighs about the same as its competitors, so there’s no need to worry—there’s only a 2-3 pound difference between most tires in this category.
My Final Recommendation:
- If you’re working with a tighter budget, consider the Cooper AT3 4S for a passenger tire with SL load, or the Yokohama Geolandar for a light truck tire with E load.
- If you’re looking for a tire with more confidence both on-road and for off-road rock crawling, and you prioritize having a stronger sidewall, then the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 is your best option.
- For those who want a balance of on-road comfort and off-road performance, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is an excellent choice, especially if you’re fine with its 2-ply sidewalls. I highly recommend this tire for anyone living in areas with heavy rainfall.