I researched and tested dozens of tires to find the top 275 inch all terrain tires available today.
275/65R18 Tire: The Perfect Balance for Trucks and SUVs
The 275/65R18 tire has an average diameter of 32.1 inches, which qualifies it as a large-size tire.
Larger tires like this offer better control, especially in medium-weight vehicles, which is why they are now commonly used in trucks and full-size SUVs.
There’s a reason manufacturers are increasingly opting for 18-inch wheels.
The size of your wheels can significantly affect the ride quality and performance of your vehicle. The same goes for the amount of rubber on the tire’s sidewall.
Understanding Tire and Rim Dynamics
It’s important to be aware of some common issues related to specific rim sizes and tire sidewall ratios. By understanding these, you can make more informed decisions when selecting tires for 18-inch rims and the 275/65 tire ratio.
Larger rims have less sidewall rubber, which reduces their ability to absorb impact and shock, leading to more vibration and noise. This can result in a rougher ride and a higher risk of rim damage with low-profile tires.
On the upside, larger rims generally enhance performance and aesthetics.
Conversely, smaller rims with thicker sidewalls provide more cushioning, improving ride comfort and reducing the risk of wheel damage. However, the trade-off is that the vehicle’s handling and steering response can feel sluggish.
In short, comfort improves, but performance can decline.
The Appeal of the 18-Inch Rim
The 18-inch rim strikes a balance between these two extremes, offering the benefits of both large and small rims, though with some trade-offs.
In summary, the 275/65R18 tire and rim combination is ideal for on-road driving. It provides a smooth and comfortable ride while maintaining good handling and steering responsiveness.
For off-road conditions, this size performs well but isn’t perfect.
Off-road driving often requires reducing tire air pressure for better traction, and while these tires can handle it, they may not be the most optimal choice for extreme off-roading.
Tire Profile Considerations
Back in the 1970s, a 65-series tire was considered low-profile, but today, the 275/65 ratio is regarded as a standard-profile tire.
One thing to keep in mind is that the larger rolling radius of a 275/65 tire can slightly affect acceleration. On the positive side, its wider contact patch improves weight distribution and enhances cornering performance.
What is the Best 275 65r18 All Terrain Tires?
I’ve compiled a list of the best 275 65r18 All Terrain tires in this size that have served me well over the years.
These tires offer a great combination of comfort, performance, and durability, making them a solid choice for both on-road and off-road driving.
1- BFGoodrich AT T/A KO2
As someone who’s passionate about off-roading and frequently tows heavy trailers, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 has become my go-to tire.
It strikes the perfect balance between off-road durability and on-road comfort, making it an ideal choice for my needs.
Here’s why I believe this tire stands out from other all-terrain options:
- Exceptional for rough terrain and overlanding.
- Offers a comfortable, quiet ride on the road.
- Excellent for towing and hauling heavy loads.
- Features a robust 3-ply reinforced sidewall.
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
It’s no surprise that this is the most popular light truck tire in America—I see it on about 70% of trucks, and with good reason.
It would be a real shame if I ever missed the chance to own these tires again. Over miles of trailer towing, off-roading, and adventures on the Kyoto flats, these tires have never let me down.
On-Road Comfort and Winter Performance
Not only does the BFGoodrich KO2 perform off-road, but it’s also one of the quietest and smoothest all-terrain tires on the highway.
In Utah’s heavy snow and slush, it performed admirably, maintaining traction without slipping, and its braking distance was normal even in challenging winter conditions.
On dry roads, the large, wide shoulder blocks provide excellent contact with the road, delivering great grip and traction. This also contributes to the tire’s impressive cornering stability and control, especially in hot summer conditions.
Honestly, I always feel safe driving on this tire, whether on or off the road.
Limitations with the 275/65R18 Size
One drawback is that the 275/65R18 size only comes in an LT load rating, meaning there’s no passenger load option available.
Many drivers with quarter-ton or half-ton vehicles opt for SL-rated tires for better fuel economy and comfort. If fuel efficiency and road comfort are your top priorities, I’d recommend considering the Falken Wildpeak AT3W instead.
That said, the longer sidewalls of the 275/65R18 tires provide enough cushioning, so even with the LT load rating, ride comfort isn’t significantly affected.
The BFGoodrich KO2’s stiff sidewalls further enhance stability, making it a solid choice even when towing heavy loads.
Alternatives for On-Road Focus
For those who don’t tow or need extreme off-road capability, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W or Pirelli Scorpion ATR are great alternatives.
The Wildpeak AT3W, in particular, has been receiving rave reviews, and it’s my top choice for daily driving.
The Pirelli Scorpion ATR, meanwhile, does well as a full road tire, offering the quiet and smooth ride you’d expect from a summer or highway tire.
Why I Keep Recommending the BFGoodrich KO2
Despite these alternatives, I continue to recommend the BFGoodrich AT T/A KO2 for its all rounder performance.
For towing and off-roading, it’s simply unmatched.
The fact that it’s an E-load tire allows it to handle high air pressures, making it extremely versatile. I’ve aired these tires down to 5 PSI off-road, and they performed flawlessly.
The best part?
The BFGoodrich KO2 is incredibly long-lasting.
Its 3-ply sidewalls offer outstanding resistance to punctures and cuts, and while the warranty promises 50,000 miles, many users—including myself—have seen these tires last well beyond that, with some reaching up to 75,000 miles. The 15/32-inch tread depth and full-depth sipes contribute to this durability.
Tread Life and Noise Over Time
After around 55,000 miles, the treads do become stiffer, which leads to increased road noise and slightly reduced comfort.
However, with proper tire rotation every 8,000 miles, you can maximize tread life and continue to enjoy great performance for the long haul.
Although the BFGoodrich KO2 is a bit more expensive than other options, its performance, durability, and longevity make it worth every penny.
Cheaper tires may wear out or get punctured easily, especially when towing or driving on rough terrain. After 35 thousand miles you will see that the tread wears out. Most of them become loud after 20,000 miles, a common problem with cheap tires.
In contrast, the BFGoodrich KO2 remains reliable even after 40,000 miles, where most budget tires start showing signs of wear.
Minor Drawbacks
The BFGoodrich KO2 isn’t without its flaws.
One notable issue is its tendency to hydroplane in standing water.
Its interlocking tread blocks, while excellent for grip, don’t disperse water as efficiently as tires with more circumferential grooves. This can lead to reduced traction in heavy rain or puddles, though it still performs decently on moderately wet roads.
Another minor weakness is its average performance in deep clay.
When off-roading in sticky mud, I prefer the Nitto Ridge Grappler, which is a hybrid tire better suited for such conditions. However, the Ridge Grappler isn’t ideal for daily driving, and it doesn’t handle wet roads as well as the BFGoodrich KO2.
Conclusion
Overall, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 remains my top choice for anyone who needs a reliable tire for both on and off-roading.
Its durability, performance, and long tread life make it a smart investment.
While it does have some limitations in wet conditions and deep mud, these are minor compared to its overall capabilities.
If you’re looking for a versatile, long-lasting all-terrain tire, the BFGoodrich KO2 is hard to beat.
2- Falken Wildpeak AT3W
A Top Contender for All-Terrain Performance
When it comes to durability and longevity on rough terrain, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 ranks high.
But if you’re looking for top-tier performance in wet, snowy, and quiet ride conditions, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is undoubtedly one of the best 275 65r18 all-terrain tires available.
Here’s a breakdown of what I love about the Falken Wildpeak AT3W:
- It provides grip comparable to winter tires on snow.
- Its wet-road performance is exceptional, even in heavy rain.
- The tread life is impressively long.
- Despite being a full all-terrain tire, it’s as quiet and comfortable as a typical highway terrain tire.
I’m so pleased with these tires that I’m already considering getting a second set.
I recommend them to just about everyone, as they perform superior in three key areas: snow, wet conditions, and mud. It’s no wonder they’re often called the “queen” of all-terrain tires in these categories.
LT and SL Load Options
The Falken Wildpeak AT3W is available in both LT (light truck) and SL (standard load) versions in the 275/65R18 size.
For general highway driving and light off-roading, I prefer the SL load tires for their comfort.
That said, the LT load version is also excellent, though its focus is more on durability. It doesn’t use a silica compound, which makes the LT version a bit stiffer, particularly in snow and wet conditions.
The Best of Both Worlds
For those who prioritize a quieter, smoother ride with solid off-road capability, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W SL is an excellent choice.
While all-terrain tires tend to be noisier and offer a slightly rougher ride compared to highway tires, the Wildpeak AT3W strikes a great balance. It’s quieter than most and provides smooth handling both on and off the road. In fact, this tire behaves almost like an ATR (All-Terrain Road) tire despite its rugged design.
Many people compare the Falken Wildpeak AT3W to the Toyo Open Country AT3, but I’m personally not a fan of the Toyo.
Here’s why:
In a test measuring stopping distances on wet roads, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W came to a complete stop from 50 mph in 127.30 feet, while the Toyo Open Country AT3 required 148 feet.
That’s a significant difference, clearly showcasing the superiority of the Wildpeak in wet conditions.
Both tires are 3PMSF certified (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake), indicating they’re rated for severe snow conditions, but there’s still a noticeable gap in performance between them.
Tread Design and Longevity
The Falken Wildpeak AT3W features internal locking sipes, which enhance grip on snow and wet roads.
Excessive siping can increase tread movement, leading to more noise as the tire wears. That’s why the internal locking mechanism is crucial—it minimizes tread movement, reducing noise and extending tread life.
I recommend this tire frequently, whether you’re looking for the SL version for lighter vehicles or the LT for towing and hauling.
It’s comparable to the BFGoodrich AT T/A KO2 in terms of off-road performance, though the Wildpeak AT3W performs better in rain and wet conditions, making it the ideal choice if you live in a rainy or snow-prone area.
Impressive Mileage and UTQG Rating
The Falken Wildpeak AT3W is also known for its longevity. The “AT3W” stands for its three standout qualities: tread wear, winter performance, and wet performance.
It comes with a 55,000-mile warranty, but many users report getting much more mileage out of them.
One way to gauge a tire’s potential lifespan is by looking at its UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) rating. A higher rating generally means longer tread wear. The Wildpeak AT3W’s UTQG rating is 660, which is impressive when compared to similar tires:
- Michelin LTX AT2: 500
- Nitto Ridge Grappler: 500
- Toyo Open Country AT3: 620
- Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015: 600
While the UTQG rating doesn’t apply to LT, C, or E load tires, since their durability is measured differently, this comparison highlights the Falken Wildpeak AT3W SL as a tire that lasts longer than most in its class.
A Minor Drawback: Weight
One downside to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is its weight.
In the 275/65R18 size, the SL version weighs around 47 pounds, and the LT version weighs about 60 pounds—3 to 7 pounds heavier than other tires in the same size category.
While this added weight may concern some, I prioritize performance and durability over weight. In fact, the heavier weight can often indicate better-quality materials, which is why this tire has such a high UTQG rating.
Conclusion
In short, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is better in all the key areas for an all-terrain tire: superior wet and snow performance, long tread life, and a quieter ride than most of its competitors.
It’s slightly heavier, but that’s a small price to pay for its exceptional durability and performance.
If you’re looking for a tire that performs well in all conditions and lasts for miles, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a great choice.
3- Michelin LTX AT2
A Better Highway Tire than an All-Terrain Option
The Michelin LTX AT2 is more accurately described as a highway tire rather than a true all-terrain tire.
Unlike other all-terrain tires, its main strengths lie in providing a quiet and comfortable ride on highways and paved roads. One of its standout features is its longevity for highway use, backed by a 60,000-mile warranty.
While Michelin is known for making high-quality tires, I’m not a fan of their all-terrain options. Many people buy them because of the brand’s popularity, but when it comes to off-roading, they fall short.
The LTX AT2 is based on older technology.
While we’re currently in the third generation of all-terrain tires, Michelin seems to be stuck in the past with this one.
However, it does have some advantages:
- The tread design is less aggressive, making it as quiet and smooth as a highway tire.
- It performs well for towing trailers or carrying heavy loads on the road.
- It’s popular for its fuel efficiency and overall performance on paved surfaces.
So, if your daily driving consists mostly of highway or regular road use, with the occasional gravel road, the Michelin LTX AT2 could be a good option for you.
But personally, I wouldn’t choose this tire for myself.
I’d go with the Falken Wildpeak AT3W instead, and if I wanted something quieter for daily driving, I’d pick the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015. Of course, that’s just my personal preference—you should choose based on your own needs.
LT and SL Load Options
The Michelin LTX AT2 comes in both LT (light truck) and SL (standard load) versions. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for owners of super-duty vehicles.
Most of the complaints about this tire come from drivers of heavy trucks like the Ford F-350 or the Chevrolet 3500, where it tends to wear out quickly.
For mid-weight vehicles, the LT load version might be more appropriate, but I would still advise against using it for heavy hauling.
Weaknesses in Snow and Wet Conditions
One of the most common issues with the LTX AT2 is its poor performance in snow and wet conditions.
Most modern all-terrain tires are designed with multiple sipes in their tread blocks to provide better grip, but this tire lacks sipes altogether. As a result, it struggles in snowy conditions and has a longer braking distance.
The Michelin LTX AT2 is not 3PMSF-rated (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake), which explains its below-average performance in winter conditions.
It is, however, M+S-rated (Mud and Snow), though 3PMSF-rated tires tend to perform ten times better in terms of braking in snow.
The one upside of M+S-rated tires is that they tend to be more fuel-efficient. In fact, I got better fuel economy with the Michelin LTX AT2 than with the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
Best Use for the Michelin LTX AT2
I would recommend the Michelin LTX AT2 if you’re primarily driving on highways or paved roads and only doing light off-roading on gravel surfaces. It’s a great daily driver tire for those conditions.
However, if you own a super-duty vehicle or live in an area with harsh winter weather, I’d suggest looking elsewhere for a tire better suited to those demands.
4- Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015
A Balanced and Affordable All-Terrain Tire
Another favorite of mine is the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015.
Yokohama is originally a Japanese brand, but they manufacture their tires in the U.S. One of the standout features of Yokohama tires is how well-balanced they are straight from the factory.
The Geolandar A-T G015 has a 3-ply sidewall, much like the BFGoodrich T/A KO2, though it has one less nylon reinforcement layer.
Its treads are soft, similar to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, which results in a smooth and quiet ride on the road.
This tire falls into the ATR (All-Terrain Road) category, designed primarily for 70% on-road and 30% off-road use. It’s essentially an all-terrain tire modeled after highway terrain tires. As a result, road noise and vibrations are minimal, although I did notice it felt a bit harsh over large bumps.
Compared to the Michelin LTX AT2, I found the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015 to be a better performer. It has a UTQG rating of 600, while the Michelin LTX AT2 is rated at 500. This government-sponsored test measures tread wear life, and Yokohama backs its standard load tires with a 60,000-mile warranty.
Designed with daily driving in mind, whether on highways or off-road, the Geolandar A-T G015 delivers reliable performance.
Thanks to the plentiful sipes on the tread, it offers excellent grip on snow and wet roads—something the Michelin LTX AT2 lacks.
Additionally, while the Michelin LTX AT2 is only M+S-rated (Mud and Snow), the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015 comes with both M+S and 3PMSF certification (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake), making it far better in snowy conditions. That alone should clarify the performance gap for anyone wondering if I’m being biased.
Key Benefits of the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015:
- Ideal for regions with four seasons, including snow.
- Suitable for light off-road use.
- Excellent for towing trailers and RVs on highways.
- Best of all, it’s an affordable tire.
If you’re looking for a reliable daily driving tire that fits within a budget, this Japanese brand tire is a fantastic choice. It’s also a great option for towing on paved roads.
However, if your vehicle weighs over half a ton, I’d recommend opting for the LT load version to prevent premature wear. Those needing a tire for frequent towing should always go with LT tires.
Soft Tread for Strong Grip
The Geolandar A-T G015 is made from a softer compound, providing excellent grip on both snow and wet roads. Its circumferential grooves disperse water effectively, making it highly resistant to hydroplaning.
That said, when compared to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, it falls short, particularly in snow and wet conditions. To be honest, I haven’t seen a better all-terrain tire than the Falken in such conditions.
Let’s take a look at stopping distances in a wet braking test (from 50 mph to 0 mph):
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W: 127.30 feet
- Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015: 141.8 feet
- Toyo Open Country AT3: 148 feet
While the Falken Wildpeak AT3W clearly leads, the Geolandar A-T G015 still outperforms the Toyo Open Country AT3 in wet braking performance.
Alternative Considerations
If I were to suggest another all-terrain road (ATR) tire to consider, it would be the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S.
However, the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015 offers impressive material quality, making it a solid choice for both off-road capability and towing. Its LT version is also great for heavier vehicles, offering more durability without the stiffness that some E-load tires can bring.
Handling and Performance
One thing to note is that the 275/65R18 size has relatively tall sidewalls, which can lead to slightly rough steering response and handling. Tires that provide better steering feedback and quicker handling are ideal in this size.
That being said, the BFGoodrich T/A KO2, Falken Wildpeak AT3W, and Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015 all offer solid steering response and handling.
On dry roads, the Geolandar A-T G015 performs well, with excellent straight-line and lateral grip.
Another benefit is its ability to provide great traction on soft surfaces, like sand. Thanks to its flexible tread, it delivers impressive traction at lower tire pressures—especially for the SL version.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the Yokohama Geolandar A-T G015 is a budget-friendly tire that offers some of the benefits of premium all-terrain options like the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W, but at a lower price point.
It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a balanced, versatile tire without breaking the bank.
5- Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac
The Versatile 275/65R18 C Load Tire
One standout tire in the 275/65R18 size that comes with a C load rating is the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac.
If you’re familiar with off-road tires, you’ve probably heard of this one. It’s a highly popular choice for both off-roading and daily driving, with many people even preferring it over the BFGoodrich T/A KO2.
The DuraTrac’s tread pattern closely resembles that of a mud-terrain tire, giving it excellent traction on off-road surfaces and uneven terrain. Its block-shaped tread design also contributes to its aggressive, rugged appearance.
One of the key benefits of this tire is its suitability for heavier trucks or for towing. Typically, for tasks like these, I’d recommend E load LT tires, but the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac in the 275/65R18 size solves that problem by offering a C load rating.
If you’re looking for a tire that offers the advantages of both passenger tires and LT tires, this C load option could be the perfect middle ground.
It’s a 6-ply tire, unlike the standard load (SL) tires, which are typically only 4-ply. That’s why I generally don’t recommend using SL tires for off-roading or towing—they don’t provide the same durability.
If you’re hesitant to go for the heavier, 10-ply E load tires, this C load tire offers a great alternative. It has a robust casing without sacrificing too much ride comfort, which is often a drawback of E load tires.
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac does great in muddy conditions where other all-terrain tires might struggle.
Additionally, its tread life is impressively long.
However, due to its aggressive tread block design, it does generate more road noise. If you’re someone who prioritizes a quiet ride, this may not be the tire for you.
In summary, the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac is something of a hybrid tire—leaning more toward off-road performance and heavy towing than a traditional all-terrain tire.
It’s an excellent option for rough conditions, but you can expect a bit more noise compared to tires like the BFGoodrich T/A KO2.