Best Light Truck Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is the lead tire for light trucks that need a balanced all-terrain option. It pairs an E load capacity with a widely used LT275/70R18 size, making it a strong default for full-size trucks. To build this guide, we compared 308 light truck listings and selected 15 tires based on stated specifications, load capacity, tread pattern, and size coverage. We did not test any of these tires.
15 picks from 292 tires that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For highway and work duty: If you spend most miles on pavement and tow or haul regularly, a highway tire with an E load capacity like the Firestone Transforce HT3 keeps things simple. See pick 4
- For dirt trails and gravel roads: Drivers who split time between pavement and light off-road routes should consider the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3, which pairs an E load capacity with an all-terrain tread. See pick 1
- For deep snow and ice: If you live where winter is severe, a dedicated winter tire like the Bridgestone Blizzak LT gives you the cold-weather compound you won't get from an all-season. See pick 13
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Car Tire for Light Trucks
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Terrain
- Rim size
- 18 in
- Tire size
- LT275/70R18
$348.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:29 UTC (Details)
This all-terrain tire pairs an E load capacity with a widely used LT275/70R18 size, making it a strong default for full-size trucks. The all-terrain tread covers gravel, dirt, and pavement without a dedicated off-road compound. Compared with other all-terrains in this list, it offers one of the higher load capacities.
Pros
- E load capacity supports heavy payloads
- All-terrain tread suits mixed driving
- LT275/70R18 fits many full-size trucks
- Brand with extensive light truck lineup
Cons
- Premium positioning likely price above budget picks
- Not designed for deep mud or rock crawling
- Only available in one size in this pool
Good fit if
- Full-size trucks that tow or haul
- Drivers who want one tire for highway and light trails
Skip if
- You need a dedicated winter tire
- You drive mostly in deep mud or on extreme terrain
Verdict: A balanced all-terrain choice for light trucks that do a bit of everything.
2 Best extreme terrain
NITTO Ridge Grappler All_Season Radial Tire-35x12.50R20LT F 125Q
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 20 in
$433.94 price as of 2026-10-05 06:06 UTC (Details)
This hybrid tire combines an all-season tread with a 35-inch diameter, built for lifted trucks and serious off-road use. Its F load capacity is the highest among these picks, meaning it can carry substantial weight. It suits drivers who spend most time on pavement but need aggressive looks and rugged capability.
Pros
- F load capacity, highest among picks
- 35-inch diameter for large fitments
- All-season tread with aggressive sidewall tread
- Ridge design bridges highway and off-road
Cons
- Large diameter may not fit stock trucks without lift
- Heavy tire could affect fuel economy
- No mud-terrain designation, so deep mud not its strength
Good fit if
- Modified trucks with 20-inch wheels
- Drivers who want an aggressive look without full mud tire
Skip if
- You own a stock truck with standard wheel wells
- You need maximum mud traction for dedicated off-roading
Verdict: A heavy-duty hybrid for trucks that need both highway comfort and off-road presence.
3 Best mud-terrain for 18-inch wheels
Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T LT35X12.50R18 Extreme Terrain E
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- Mud Terrain
- Rim size
- 18 in
This extreme-terrain tire comes in a 35x12.50R18 size with an E load capacity, offering a large footprint for off-road use. Its mud-terrain tread pattern is designed for loose surfaces. Compared with other mud-terrains here, it provides a wider 18-inch fitment for trucks that need big tires without moving to 20 inches.
Pros
- E load capacity on a 35-inch tire
- Mud-terrain tread for loose dirt and mud
- 18-inch wheel size matches many aftermarket wheels
- 10-ply construction for durability
Cons
- Aggressive tread may increase road noise
- Large size likely requires lift and fender modification
- Not ideal for highway only use
Good fit if
- Off-road enthusiasts with 18-inch wheels
- Trucks that need a 35-inch tire with heavy load capacity
Skip if
- You rarely leave pavement
- Your truck is not equipped for 35-inch tires
Verdict: A rugged mud tire for serious off-road use on 18-inch wheels.
4 Best highway all-season
Firestone Transforce HT3 All Season LT245/75R16 120/116R E Light Truck
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 16 in
- Tire size
- LT245/75R16
$166.50 price as of 2026-10-05 05:41 UTC (Details)
This all-season highway tire is built for light trucks that spend most of their time on pavement. Its E load capacity makes it suitable for work trucks and vans that carry weight. The LT245/75R16 size is common on many half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks.
Pros
- E load capacity for work truck loads
- All-season tread gives year-round utility
- 16-inch size fits many older and base trucks
- Smooth-center tread pattern for highway
Cons
- Not intended for off-road traction
- All-season, not winter certified
- Only one size in this pool
Good fit if
- Trucks used for commuting and light hauling
- Fleet vehicles that stay on roads
Skip if
- You need off-road capability
- You drive in severe snow conditions
Verdict: A reliable highway tire for light trucks that prioritize load capacity.
5 Best all-terrain for daily driving
Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail 225/65R17 102H All Terrain Light Truck Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Terrain
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 225/65R17
$184.20 price as of 2026-10-05 05:40 UTC (Details)
This all-terrain tire is designed for smaller crossovers and light trucks, with a 225/65R17 size and an H speed symbol for higher-speed highway travel. It offers a balance of on-road comfort and light gravel capability. Compared with heavier all-terrains, it is a lighter, less aggressive option suitable for daily driving.
Pros
- H speed symbol allows highway speeds
- All-terrain tread for light trails
- 17-inch size compatible with many SUVs
- Lighter construction may improve ride comfort
Cons
- Lower load capacity than typical E-rated off-road tires
- Not for heavy towing or extreme terrain
- Narrow width limits flotation in sand
Good fit if
- Trucks and SUVs used mostly on road
- Drivers who want a mild all-terrain look
Skip if
- You need a heavy-duty 10-ply tire
- You plan extended off-road expeditions
Verdict: A light-duty all-terrain that keeps road manners.
6 Best mud-terrain for standard 18-inch fitments
Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT LT275/65R18 113Q C Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Rim size
- 18 in
- Tire size
- LT275/65R18
$192.07 price as of 2026-10-05 05:46 UTC (Details) Typical price: $206.07, 7% off
This mud-terrain tire comes in a standard LT275/65R18 size with a C load capacity, making it one of the lighter mud tires in this list. It is designed for trucks that want mud capability without the heaviest construction. The 18-inch wheel size is popular on modern half-ton trucks.
Pros
- C load capacity reduces unsprung weight
- Mud-terrain tread for off-road traction
- 18-inch fitment for current trucks
- Goodyear brand with long history
Cons
- C load capacity may limit heavy towing
- Mud tread is noisy on highway
- Only one size available in pool
Good fit if
- Half-ton trucks used off-road
- Drivers who want a mild mud tire
Skip if
- You carry heavy loads regularly
- You prioritize highway silence
Verdict: An accessible mud tire for light trucks that don't need maximum load capacity.
7 Best mud-terrain for 17-inch wheels
Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 LT275/70R17 121/118Q E
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- Mud Terrain
- Rim size
- 17 in
This mud-terrain tire is built for 17-inch wheels with an E load capacity, making it a rugged option for trucks that both off-road and tow. Its LT275/70R17 size is common on many trucks and SUVs. The E load capacity supports significant payloads.
Pros
- E load capacity for heavy loads
- Mud-terrain tread for off-road
- 17-inch size fits many trucks
- Large tread voids help clean mud
Cons
- Mud tires may be loud on road
- Aggressive design can affect fuel economy
- Not for highway-only use
Good fit if
- Trucks that tow and off-road
- Owners with 17-inch wheels
Skip if
- You need a quiet highway tire
- Your truck rarely leaves pavement
Verdict: A heavy-duty mud tire for versatile use on 17-inch wheels.
8 Best highway tire for 16-inch wheels
TOYO LT265/75R16 123/120S E/10 OPEN COUNTRY HTII OWL TL
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Rim size
- 16 in
This highway all-season tire is offered in a common 265/75R16 size with an E load capacity. It is designed for light trucks that stay on roads and need durability. Toyo is an established brand with a strong presence in light truck tires.
Pros
- E load capacity for work duty
- Highway tread pattern for even wear
- 16-inch size fits many trucks
- All-season compound for year-round
Cons
- No off-road capability
- Not a winter tire
- Limited size range in this pool
Good fit if
- Highway commuters and light haulers
- Trucks with 16-inch wheels
Skip if
- You drive off-road
- You face severe winter conditions
Verdict: A dependable highway tire for everyday truck use.
9 Best highway tire for 20-inch wheels
General Tire Grabber HTS60 All Season 275/50R20 113H XL Light Truck Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 20 in
$253.07 price as of 2026-10-05 05:45 UTC (Details)
This highway tire uses a 275/50R20 size with an XL load capacity, designed for light trucks and SUVs that need a sportier 20-inch fitment. It offers an all-season tread with a strong highway focus.
Pros
- XL load capacity for heavier vehicles
- 20-inch size for modern trucks
- All-season tread for year-round
- Goodyear's General brand offers solid warranty
Cons
- XL load capacity lower than E load capacity
- No off-road capability
- Low profile may affect ride comfort
Good fit if
- Trucks with 20-inch wheels
- Drivers who want a highway tire with an aggressive appearance
Skip if
- You need high-towing capacity
- You drive on rough dirt roads
Verdict: A highway-oriented tire for 20-inch light trucks.
10 Best all-terrain for 17-inch wheels
Milestar Patagonia A/T R LT235/80R17 Rugged Terrain E
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Terrain
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- LT235/80R17
$154.07 price as of 2026-10-05 06:01 UTC (Details)
This all-terrain tire is sized LT235/80R17 with an E load capacity, giving it heavy-duty capability in a narrower width popular for winter and work use. The E capacity supports heavy loads. Its all-terrain tread is suited to mixed conditions.
Pros
- E load capacity on a 17-inch tire
- All-terrain tread for trails
- Narrow width can improve snow traction
- Affordable from a value brand
Cons
- Narrow footprint may reduce flotation in sand
- Brand less known than premium competitors
- Only one size in pool
Good fit if
- Light trucks needing E-rated all-terrain
- Drivers in snowy climates
Skip if
- You want a wide aggressive tire
- You need precise handling at high speed
Verdict: An economical all-terrain with heavy load capability.
11 Best all-terrain for 18-inch wheels
Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme RF12 255/55R18XL 109V Light Truck & SUV Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Rim size
- 18 in
$228.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:48 UTC (Details)
This all-terrain tire is offered in a 255/55R18 XL size, a fitment common to modern crossovers and light trucks. The XL load capacity supports heavier loads while keeping a lower profile for street performance. All-terrain tread gives light off-road capability.
Pros
- XL load capacity for higher capacity
- 18-inch size for modern fitments
- All-terrain tread for versatility
- Hankook is established global brand
Cons
- Lower sidewall reduces off-road compliance
- XL not as strong as E-rated tires
- Not for heavy off-roading
Good fit if
- Crossovers and trucks with 18-inch wheels
- Drivers who want a balance of road and light trail
Skip if
- You need a rugged 10-ply tire
- You regularly drive on rocky trails
Verdict: A modern all-terrain for street-oriented light trucks.
12 Best commercial highway tire
MICHELIN XPS RIB Truck Radial Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Rim size
- 16 in
$336.06 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)
This commercial highway tire is built for light trucks that carry heavy loads on the road. Its 235/85R16 size with an E1 load capacity is a common fitment for work trucks. The ribbed tread pattern is designed for even wear and stability under load.
Pros
- E1 load capacity for heavy commercial use
- Rib tread pattern for highway stability
- 16-inch size fits work trucks
- Michelin brand known for durability
Cons
- Not for off-road use
- Commercial tire may ride stiff
- Speed symbol is R (up to 106 mph)
Good fit if
- Work trucks and vans that haul
- Fleet vehicles on highways
Skip if
- You need off-road traction
- You want a quiet comfort tire
Verdict: A commercial-grade highway tire for serious load duty.
13 Best winter tire for light trucks
Bridgestone Blizzak LT Winter/Snow Commercial Light Truck Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 20 in
$355.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:30 UTC (Details)
This is the only winter tire in this list, with a dedicated winter tread compound and an E load capacity. It is sized LT275/65R20, fit for light trucks that face snow and ice. The winter tread pattern provides grip in cold conditions.
Pros
- Dedicated winter compound for snow
- E load capacity for trucks
- 20-inch size for modern trucks
- Bridgestone is a trusted winter tire maker
Cons
- Winter tires wear quickly on dry roads
- No all-season versatility
- Might require second set of wheels
Good fit if
- Trucks in snowy regions
- Drivers who want maximum winter traction
Skip if
- You drive mostly in mild climates
- You need one tire for all year
Verdict: The winter specialist for light trucks in severe snow.
14 Best mud-terrain for 15-inch wheels
Maxxis Buckshot Mudder II MT-764 32X11.50R15 C/6PLY Light Truck & SUV
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Rim size
- 15 in
$204.98 price as of 2026-10-05 05:59 UTC (Details)
This mud-terrain tire uses a 32X11.50R15 size with a C/6-ply construction, making it a lightweight option for older trucks and off-road rigs with 15-inch wheels. The mud tread is designed for loose terrain.
Pros
- C load capacity for lighter weight
- Mud-terrain tread for off-road
- 15-inch size for classic trucks
- 6-ply construction
Cons
- C load capacity limits heavy loads
- Not for highway comfort
- 15-inch wheels less common on new trucks
Good fit if
- Off-road vehicles with 15-inch wheels
- Drivers who want a budget mud tire
Skip if
- You have a modern truck with 17+ inch wheels
- You need high-speed stability
Verdict: A traditional mud tire for small off-road rigs.
15 Best all-season for heavy towing
Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx All-Season LT305/70R18 126/123Q Tire
- Vehicle
- Light truck
- Tread
- All Season
- Rim size
- 18 in
$465.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:34 UTC (Details)
This all-season tire is designed for light trucks that need a tough tire for mixed use. Its LT305/70R18 size and E load capacity provide a wide footprint and heavy-duty capacity. The tread pattern is a hybrid of all-terrain and mud terrain.
Pros
- E load capacity for heavy use
- Wide 305mm section for flotation
- 18-inch size for modern trucks
- Hybrid tread for off-road traction
Cons
- Wide tire may require lift
- All-season, not winter focused
- Heavy tire may affect fuel economy
Good fit if
- Trucks used for towing and off-roading
- Drivers wanting an aggressive yet streetable tire
Skip if
- You need a true mud tire
- Your truck has stock fenders
Verdict: A heavy-duty hybrid for serious light truck use.
Specifications side by side
How the picks were chosen
We started with a pool of 308 light truck tire listings and filtered to 15 picks that represent distinct categories: highway, all-terrain, mud-terrain, and winter. We prioritized tires from established manufacturers, checked load capacity (C, E, F) and tire sizes against what is commonly needed for light trucks, and noted where the seller did not state a spec. Prices shown on this page are live and read directly from the listings; they change over time. None of the tires were tested or used by our team, so every claim here is based on the maker's published information and the catalogue data.
Picking the right one for you
Match load capacity to payload
Load capacity (C, E, F) tells you how much weight a tire can carry. Under FMVSS 571.139, a light truck tire is designated by its manufacturer for use on lightweight trucks. Each load capacity corresponds to a maximum load at a given inflation pressure. For heavy payloads or towing, look for E or F designations. Lighter C-rated tires can improve ride comfort but reduce capacity.
Match tread pattern to your use
Highway tires feature shallow, uninterrupted ribs for stable pavement handling and even wear. All-terrain tires use larger blocks and deeper grooves for gravel and dirt, while mud-terrain tires have wide voids to shed mud. If you spend most miles on road, a highway or mild all-terrain is quieter and more efficient. Serious off-roaders should choose mud or rugged terrain patterns.
Check tire size and rim diameter
The tire size, such as LT275/70R18, must match your vehicle's recommended fitment. The rim diameter and width are set by the vehicle manufacturer. Installing a tire outside the recommended size can affect speedometer accuracy, clearance, and load capacity. Always consult the owner's manual or the placard on the driver's door jamb. Use only rims listed as compatible by the tire manufacturer per 49 CFR 571.110.
Look at speed symbol and load index
The speed symbol (e.g., S, T, H, Q) indicates the maximum service speed. The load index (e.g., 121) is a numeric code that pairs with the load capacity. For highway use, higher speed symbols like H or V are common. Off-road tires often have lower symbols like Q or R, which are fine for typical highway speeds but not for sustained high-speed driving.
Winter tire vs. all-season
All-season tires are designed to work in a range of conditions but they lack the specialized rubber of a winter tire. A winter tire uses a compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. If you live in an area with severe winters, a dedicated winter tire like the Bridgestone Blizzak LT can make a significant difference. Check for the Alpine Symbol (3PMSF) on all-season tires if you need some snow capability.
Plan for your TPMS
Most light trucks have a tire pressure monitoring system that warns when a tire is underinflated. When swapping tires, ensure the sensors remain compatible with the new wheels or that you have a plan to monitor pressure manually. Proper inflation is important for both safety and fuel economy. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that keeping tires inflated can improve gas mileage.
Questions
What is a light truck (LT) tire?
An LT tire is designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles, per FMVSS 571.139. LT tires typically have stronger sidewalls and higher load capacities than passenger car tires. They are designed for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight (GVWR) up to 10,000 pounds, though some LT tires are used on heavier trucks as well.
Can I use an all-terrain tire all year round?
Yes, all-terrain tires are designed for year-round use, but they do not perform like dedicated winter tires in severe snow or ice. Some all-terrain models carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, indicating they meet snow traction standards. For most drivers who do not face extreme winters, an all-terrain tire works fine in all seasons, but you may see a slight trade-off in on-road comfort and noise.
What does load capacity E mean?
Load capacity E corresponds to a 10-ply construction, offering a higher load capacity than C or D designations. It is common on light truck tires meant for heavy towing or hauling. The exact load capacity depends on the tire size and inflation pressure, as specified by the tire manufacturer. Always compare the load index and maximum load numbers printed on the sidewall.
Do I need a lift to fit 35-inch tires?
Whether a 35-inch tire fits without a lift depends on your specific truck and wheel width. Many stock half-ton trucks can handle a 35-inch tire with minor suspension modifications, but you may need a leveling kit or a lift to prevent rubbing. Check your truck's wheel well clearance and consult a tire professional. This decision is not something we can judge from the tire specs alone.
Are mud-terrain tires OK for highway driving?
Mud-terrain tires are legal for highway use, but they are designed for off-road traction, so they tend to be noisier and less comfortable on pavement. The large tread blocks can also wear faster if you drive primarily on highways. If you only drive on roads occasionally and need maximum mud grip, a hybrid or rugged terrain tire may offer a quieter compromise.
How do I find the right tire pressure for my truck?
The correct cold tire pressure is listed on a placard on the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual. Do not use the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall. Underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy and cause premature wear. If your truck has TPMS, it will warn you when pressure is 25% below the recommended level, as outlined in FMVSS 571.138.
Revision notes
- : First published.
Sources
- 49 CFR 571.139 - New pneumatic radial tires for light vehicles
- 49 CFR 571.110 - Tire selection and rims for vehicles up to 10,000 lbs
- 49 CFR 571.119 - New pneumatic tires for vehicles over 10,000 lbs
- 49 CFR 571.138 - Tire pressure monitoring systems
- 49 CFR 575.104 - Uniform tire quality grading standards
- U.S. Department of Energy - Gas Mileage Tips: Keeping Your Vehicle in Shape