Ever wonder about those 35×12.50R20 all-terrain tires?
They’re like the superheroes of light trucks and pickups.
But hey, here’s the scoop – while 35-inch tires usually hug full-size trucks best, plenty of folks out there are cutting body mounts and fitting these bad boys.
So, This size tire is popular for lifting the vehicle as well.
Just a heads up, it might cost a lot with potential body mount chopping (BMC) and maybe even regearing to up the drag and mpg. Oops, wallet alert!
Now, here’s the real kicker – not all 35×12.50 tires are exactly 35 inches in diameter. They Differ very slightly. For vehicle modification, it is necessary to know the exact size of each tire.
On the other hand,
Every brand out there seems to have its lineup of 35×12.50R20 tire models. It’s like a tire buffet out on the internet, with everyone throwing in their two cents on websites, forums, YouTube, and reviews.
But let’s cut to the chase.
Tires – they’re like people, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Not all are created equal. You’ve probably noticed one person dissing a tire while another is singing its praises as the ultimate 35×12.50R20 all-terrain tire. So, what gives?
Well, it’s because our experiences vary. Different sizes, vehicle weights, and production years – it’s a tire jungle out there.
Today, I’m here to spill the beans on just three tires that stole my tire-loving heart. I won’t say the rest are bad, but these three? They’re like the VIPs of the 35×12.50R20 All Terrain Club.
In my testing, these are the best and the most popular. If you’re overwhelmed by choices, consider this your tire shortlist.
Okay, let me break it down in simpler terms.
What Are The Best 35 12.5R20 Al Terrain Tires?
Falken Wildpeaks?
They’re the rockstars. Superior on the road, rain, and snow, plus quiet. Fifty-fifty performance on and off-road, just steer clear if you’re anti-heavy tires.
Now, the BFGoodrich AT T/A KO2
– these bad boys come with 3-ply sidewalls, like the bodyguards of tires. I came back to them for being 9 lbs lighter per tire than the AT3W. But, fair warning, they can slip a bit on wet roads thanks to those tough sidewalls. And oh, they’re collectors of everything – rocks, screws, you name it.
Verdict?
Both rock, especially for LT tires, but the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 takes the crown.
Remember when I said there are tons of tire brands out there?
Well, a handful stand out in the chatter, like Falken Wildpeak A/T3W, Toyo Open Country A/T 3, BFGoodrich ALL TERRAIN T/A KO2, and Nitto Terra Grappler.
Common faces in the 35×12.50R20 world. Start digging deeper, and you might drown in analysis paralysis.
But if you ask me, Falken Wildpeak’s A/T3W tires are the cream of the crop. Users swear by them – quieter, grippier, and rain-friendly compared to the KO2, the popular kid on the block.
KO2 might slip a bit in the rain – trust me, I’ve been there. So, my vote leans towards the Wildpeak A/T3W.
Wondering why I keep comparing these two. Well, after a gazillion hours of research, most folks find themselves stuck choosing between these exact two tires. It’s a tiring struggle, my friend.
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W
Let’s take a closer look at its specs and features:
- Actual Size: 34.6×12.5
- Weight: 76.1 lbs
- Tread Depth: 19.7/32 inches
- Price: Comparatively lower than the KO2
The Wildpeak A/T3W in 35×12.50R20 size performs exceptionally well, minus its weight. A typical tire of this size usually weighs around 70 pounds, but the A/T3W comes in at 76 lbs.
Loses Out in Terms of Weight
The BFG KO2 weighs 67.1 pounds, while the A/T3W tips the scales at 76 pounds, which is noticeably heavier.
However, E-rated tires are generally heavy. The extra weight comes from its increased tread depth, which is about 5/32 inches deeper than most. Although the additional weight impacts acceleration and fuel efficiency (due to rotational mass), this difference is subtle and might not be noticeable to everyone.
Winner for Deepest Tread Depth
One standout feature of the Wildpeak A/T3W is its deep tread depth—19.7/32 inches, the deepest groove in this category.
For comparison:
- BFG KO2: 15/32 inches
- Toyo A/T3: 16.9/32 inches
- Wildpeak A/T3W: 19.7/32 inches
This deeper tread ensures long-lasting performance, maintaining strong traction in snow and rain over time. Even after a long time of use, It has a serious bite in snow and rain. This tire will be very long-lasting.
The deep grooves also provide excellent resistance to hydroplaning and act like a shovel in snow and mud, delivering superior traction.
Quietest All-Terrain Tire I’ve Ever had
In terms of noise and vibration, the A/T3W is quieter than most other all-terrain tires. That being said, don’t expect it to be as silent as a regular passenger tire—it’s still an all-terrain tire.
All Terrain tires will be noisier and louder than other types of road tires due to their tread pattern and function. A very quiet all-terrain tire means your tire’s tread pattern is not serving its purpose properly.
For example, square shoulder blocks offer immediate steering response but tend to create lower-frequency vibrations, which can be loud.
Queen of Snow and Wet Performance
When it comes to performance in rain and snow, the A/T3W is unmatched.
Its deep, lateral and circumferential zig-zag grooves prevent water and mud from accumulating, and its sharply angled side biters and aggressive shoulder blocks act like a shovel, increasing traction in tough conditions.
This tire is a solid option for anyone looking for a smooth drive on paved roads while still being capable of handling rough terrains.
Some argue that the BFG T/A KO2 outperforms the A/T3W in off-road conditions, but I don’t think the difference is significant.
However, in extremely sticky mud, neither the BFG KO2 nor the A/T3W performs well. Both tires struggle with sticky, gooey clay as the treads tend to hold onto the mud, reducing traction.
But My experience says that in the case of a mud terrain, BFG T/A KO2 performs well. The reason is because of its lugs and open treads.
Practical Stone Ejector
One thing the Wildpeak A/T3W does exceptionally well is ejecting small stones and debris. The tread features small steps along the edges that remove various small round objects, stones and gravel, reducing the risk of punctures.
Dry Performance
The Wildpeak A/T3W performs well in dry conditions, such as desert terrain, similar to the KO2.
Falken, a Japanese brand, is well-regarded in the overlanding community for producing long-lasting all-terrain tires, and the A/T3W, released in 2016, is no exception.
You may wonder what the “3W” in the name stands for. It highlights three key performance areas of the Wildpeak A/T3W: wear, winter, and wet performance. The “W” also represents winter, as this is Falken’s third-generation model.
Mountain Snowflake Rated
The Wildpeak A/T3W is 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake-rated, meaning it’s designed for severe winter conditions. Its thin 3D zigzag sipes on each tread block provide excellent grip in snowy conditions. These sipes also improve handling stability during cornering, acceleration, and braking.
Another hidden feature is its proprietary silica compound. Silica prevents the tire from becoming brittle under stress and helps maintain its grip in extremely cold temperatures. This compound, along with other chemical additives, contributes to the tire’s durability, earning it a 55,000-mile tread life warranty.
If you live in an area that demands strong snow and wet performance, the Wildpeak A/T3W is a fantastic choice.
For LT Tires, BFG T/A KO2 Wins
However, there’s a downside: Falken doesn’t use the silica compound in its LT load tires, so their performance in snow and rain is slightly reduced. Since all 35×12.50-size tires are LT-rated, I would recommend the BFGoodrich AT T/A KO2 in this size.
Another issue with the Wildpeak A/T3W is its sidewall. While two-thirds of the sidewall is 4-ply, the upper third is only 2-ply, which could be a risk in harsh off-road conditions. However, Falken AT3W has reinforced the 2-ply area with thick lugs, offering some protection, but it’s still a vulnerability.
On the other hand, the 2-ply sidewall contributes to better wet-road performance and a more comfortable ride.
Final Verdict
In wet and snowy conditions, the A/T3W outperforms the KO2. However, when it comes to sidewall strength and weight, the BFG KO2 has the advantage.
Pros:
- Performs well in both urban and off-road settings
- Exceptional performance on snow-covered paved roads
- Suitable as a daily all-season tire
- Reliable in desert conditions
- Excellent at preventing rock retention
- Resistant to punctures from debris
- Superior wet pavement performance
- Deepest tread block in its class (19.7/32 inches)
- LT version (35×12.50R20) offers exceptional wear life
- Unmatched traction in snow and cold weather
Cons:
- Non-LT versions perform better in wet conditions than LT versions
- Struggles in deep mud and sticky clay
- These tires are dang heavy
- Upper sidewall is only 2-ply (though heavily protected by large side lugs)
BFGoodrich T/A KO2 All-Terrain
Let’s start by going over the specs and features of the BFGoodrich T/A KO2:
- True Size: 34.5×12.50
- Tread Depth: 15.0/32
- Tire Weight: 67.1
- Mileage Warranty: 50,000
- Sidewalls: 3 Ply
- 3PMSF, M+S
The BFGoodrich T/A KO2 has an overall diameter of 34.5 inches, which is almost identical to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W’s 34.6 inches.
At first glance, many say the tread patterns of the KO2 and the Wildpeak AT3W look almost the same. Unless you examine closely, you may not notice much of a difference. But there are huge differences between the two.
Mud and Snow Performance
The BFGoodrich T/A KO2 is M+S (Mud and Snow) rated, meaning it’s designed for solid performance in both muddy and snowy conditions. Its tread pattern is more aggressive, with larger, more open lugs compared to the Wildpeak AT3W, making it better suited for off-road environments—especially clay terrains.
That said, the KO2 isn’t necessarily superior in deep, sticky mud. Like the Wildpeak AT3W, it struggles in thick mud or clay. Without a winch, you might find yourself stuck. For off-roaders who frequently drive on challenging mud terrain, these tires may not be ideal.
Best for Regular Roads
For those who primarily drive on paved roads but want occasional off-road capability, the Wildpeak AT3W is a better choice. It’s especially suited for drivers who don’t encounter extreme off-roading but prioritize rain and snow performance.
Both tires feature full-depth sipes, which is an important factor for maintaining traction and flexibility even as the tire wears down. This helps both tires perform well in snow and rain throughout their lifespan.
Tread Block Comparison
One noticeable difference is in the tread block design. The Wildpeak AT3W has more tightly packed tread blocks compared to the KO2 and Toyo AT3. This tighter design makes the AT3W quieter and better suited for on-road driving, while the KO2’s more open tread block gives it an advantage in mud terrain.
Weight and Acceleration
One key area where the BFGoodrich T/A KO2 outperforms the AT3W is in weight. The KO2 weighs 67.1 pounds, about 9 pounds lighter than the Wildpeak AT3W, which weighs 76.1 pounds. Over a full set of four tires, that’s a difference of about 36 pounds.
While both are E-rated, 10-ply tires with a load index of 3195, the extra weight of the AT3W is largely due to its deeper tread. This added weight affects fuel efficiency and acceleration due to the increased rotational mass. However, the difference in performance might be negligible for most drivers.
If you’re looking for a lighter tire that can offer better mileage and speed, the KO2 is a better option. Still, the weight difference between the two is relatively small, so it may not be noticeable to everyone.
Sidewall Strength and Noise
The KO2 also shines with its tough 3-ply sidewalls, making it more puncture-resistant. In terms of noise, the KO2 isn’t as loud as Goodyear’s Duratracs, but it’s not as quiet as the Wildpeak AT3W, which benefits from its tighter tread design and softer compound.
Stone and Gravel Retention
One downside to the KO2 is that it tends to pick up small rocks and gravel in its tread, which can lead to punctures. The Wildpeak AT3W, on the other hand, has been engineered with step-down technology along the tread edge, which helps eject stones and reduces the risk of punctures or blisters.
Wet and Snow Performance
The KO2 performs average in rain, often slipping in these conditions. For that reason, I frequently recommend the Falken Wildpeak AT3W to those who need better traction in rain.
Conclusion
The BFGoodrich T/A KO2 excels in certain areas, particularly with its lighter weight and tough 3-ply sidewalls. However, for heavy rain conditions, the Wildpeak AT3W is a stronger performer.
Pros:
- Great ride quality
- Excellent handling
- Tough 3-ply sidewalls
- Lighter than the AT3W by 9 pounds (per tire)
- Durable tread, can last up to 70,000 miles with proper rotation
Cons:
- Tends to pick up rocks and gravel
- Poor performance in deep mud and sticky clay
- Less confident handling on wet roads
Many people confuse the Falken Wildpeak AT3W with the Toyo Open Country A/T3, especially when abbreviated as A/T3. But note, the Toyo A/T3 is a different tire entirely, while the “W” in the Falken AT3W signifies the Wildpeak version.
Now, let’s see how the Toyo Open Country A/T3 compares to the Falken AT3W and BFGoodrich KO2.
Toyo Open Country A/T 3
First some specs and features of Toyo Open Country A/T 3:
- 35X12.50R20LT
- True Size: 34.5×12.50
- Tread Depth: 16.9/32
- Tire Weight: 68 lbs
- Mileage Warranty: 50,000 for LT sizes
- Sidewalls: 2 ply
- 3PMSF
Toyo designed the Open Country A/T 3 as an upgrade to its predecessor, the A/T 2. They addressed several issues from the A/T 2, including a major improvement: the A/T 3 is now 3PMSF rated, unlike the A/T 2.
With these upgrades, the A/T 3 offers enhanced grip in dry, wet, and snowy conditions. I’ve heard a lot of positive feedback about its overall performance, especially in snow, but there are some concerns regarding its wet-road traction.
Wet Traction Concerns
While the A/T 3 has made huge strides in snow performance, many users still report less-than-ideal wet traction. Given its improvements in dry and snowy conditions, I had expected the wet traction to be on par, but that isn’t always the case.
The Falken Wildpeak AT3W, for instance, performs noticeably better on wet roads compared to the Toyo A/T 3. However, the Toyo A/T 3 still outperforms the BFGoodrich KO2 in wet conditions, as the KO2 tends to slip more on wet roads.
I believe this issue with wet traction could be due to the design of the tire’s lateral grooves. There’s a rubber step between the lateral grooves of the tread blocks, which likely helps eject stones and gravel but may also hinder the tire’s ability to channel water effectively, reducing hydroplaning resistance. This is just my theory, though.
That said, it’s important to remember that all-terrain tires are a compromise. Each tire will perform differently depending on the conditions, and while the A/T 3 might not excel in wet traction, it still holds its own in various scenarios.
Dry Performance and Tread Design
On dry roads, including desert terrain, the Toyo A/T 3 performs comparably to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W and BFGoodrich KO2.
However, I think the Wildpeak AT3W has a better tread design. The A/T 3 features an S-shaped tread block down the center, while the Wildpeak AT3W uses a Z-shaped design. The edges of the Wildpeak’s tread blocks are sharper, with three small steps to help eject stones and gravel. The Toyo A/T 3 has similar steps on its tread edges, but I find the Wildpeak’s design more efficient in ejecting debris.
Both the Toyo A/T 3 and Wildpeak AT3W outperform the BFG KO2 when it comes to clearing stones, gravel, and other debris.
Road Noise and Aerodynamics
Another observation with the Toyo A/T 3 is its solder blocks. The lateral grooves between the blocks are partially closed off by a rubber step, which not only reduces water flow but also affects aerodynamics, resulting in increased noise. In terms of appearance, I feel the Toyo A/T2 had a more aggressive look than the A/T3, but the trade-off is that the A/T3 offers a more comfortable ride on pavement.
Unfortunately, wet traction hasn’t seen the same level of improvement.
Ride Comfort and Balancing Issues
One downside I’ve noticed with the Toyo A/T3 is its tendency to bounce and shake. The tire requires a considerable amount of weight to balance properly, and without proper balancing, you might experience noticeable vibration.
Sidewall Strength
The Toyo A/T 3’s sidewalls are somewhat of a concern. They are only 2-ply, which makes them weaker compared to competitors. In contrast, the Wildpeak AT3W has a 2-ply sidewall, but only on about a third of the tire, whereas the rest is reinforced. This could lead to issues with sidewall punctures or tears during off-roading. If you’re looking for a tire with more robust sidewalls, the Toyo A/T3 may not be the best option.
Weight Comparison
In terms of weight, the Toyo A/T 3 holds up well against its competitors. Weighing in at 68 lbs, it’s only 1 pound heavier than the BFG KO2 and significantly lighter than the Wildpeak AT3W, which weighs 76.1 lbs per tire. If you’re looking for one of the lightest 35×12.50R20 all-terrain tires, the Toyo A/T 3 is a solid option.
Final Thoughts
The Toyo Open Country A/T 3 is a good all-terrain tire, but it does have some shortcomings in wet conditions. If you frequently drive in rain-prone areas, I would recommend the Falken Wildpeak AT3W over the Toyo A/T 3. Additionally, the Toyo A/T3’s sidewalls are on the weaker side, so if you need a lightweight tire with durable sidewalls for off-roading, the BFGoodrich KO2 might be a better choice.
Verdict
The Toyo Open Country A/T 3 is a capable tire for off-roading while offering comfort on pavement. However, it may not be the best in wet conditions or for those looking for strong sidewalls.
Conclusion
- The Wildpeak AT3W is great for Rain and Snow conditions.
- The BFG KO2 performs well in most conditions but is only average on wet roads. However, it has stronger sidewalls and is lighter than the others.
- The Toyo Open Country A/T 3 shines in dry and snow conditions.
All three tires handle well on dry roads, but none of them are great in deep, sticky mud or clay.