How We Chose
Our selection of the top 10 all-terrain tyres for US SUVs and light trucks is based on a blend of independent test results, real-world user feedback, and manufacturer data. Safety and traction were paramount, especially wet grip and off-road capability. We also weighed comfort and noise levels during highway driving. Durability, treadwear (using UTQG ratings where available), and long-term economy factored strongly, recognizing the diverse demands of US drivers. As EU label data is less prominent in the US, we referenced UTQG where possible, as well as reported owner experiences and expert tests for noise, wet/snow grip, and mileage. Our list covers a range of price points and brands to suit weekend adventurers, daily commuters, and hardworking fleets alike.
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 — Legendary Off-Road Durability
Why it stands out
The KO2 is a renowned benchmark for rugged all-terrain performance, trusted by off-roaders and commercial fleets. Its aggressive tread and reinforced sidewalls deliver exceptional resistance to cuts and chips, while its road manners remain surprisingly civilized for daily use.
Best for
- Serious off-roaders
- Contractors needing durability
- Drivers tackling snow, mud, and rocks
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow rated (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 285/75R16
- Strengths: Off-road grip, sidewall strength, winter traction
- Trade-offs: Road noise, rolling resistance, price
2. Falken WildPeak A/T3W — All-Weather Versatility
Why it stands out
The WildPeak A/T3W blends robust off-road traction with excellent wet weather and snow performance. Deep tread blocks and full-depth sipes ensure traction throughout the tyre’s life, while the design keeps noise and ride comfort surprisingly refined on pavement.
Best for
- Drivers needing year-round confidence
- Mountain and snowbelt regions
- Budget-conscious adventurers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-weather, Three Peak Mountain Snowflake
- Popular sizes: 265/65R18, 275/55R20, 245/75R16
- Strengths: Snow/wet grip, value, ride comfort
- Trade-offs: Slightly heavier, can decrease mpg
3. Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT — Everyday Utility
Why it stands out
Balancing on-road comfort with dependable off-road capability, the TrailRunner AT is a versatile choice for daily drivers who need to handle gravel, dirt, and light trails without sacrificing ride quality or fuel efficiency.
Best for
- Daily drivers with occasional off-road needs
- Fleet operators
- Light trucks/SUVs in mixed environments
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, 245/75R17, 275/60R20
- Strengths: Treadwear, quiet ride, value
- Trade-offs: Mud grip, not severe snow rated
4. Michelin LTX A/T2 — Longevity and Comfort
Why it stands out
The LTX A/T2 is a premium all-terrain tyre built for high mileage and a quiet, comfortable highway experience. It offers dependable traction on gravel and dirt, making it ideal for drivers who split their time between paved and unpaved roads.
Best for
- High-mileage commuters
- Light-duty off-road use
- Luxury SUVs and pickups
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/65R18, 245/75R16
- Strengths: Tread life, low noise, ride comfort
- Trade-offs: Mud/snow grip, price
5. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S — Everyday Traction & Value
Why it stands out
With a focus on balanced performance, the Discoverer AT3 4S offers solid year-round traction, including Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification. It is affordable and known for even treadwear, making it popular for both private owners and fleets.
Best for
- Budget-minded buyers
- Snow-prone regions
- Mixed-use SUVs and light trucks
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow rated
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 245/65R17
- Strengths: Snow traction, price, treadwear warranty
- Trade-offs: Road noise at higher speeds
6. Toyo Open Country A/T III — Modern All-Terrain Confidence
Why it stands out
The Toyo Open Country A/T III features a modern tread design engineered for improved wet weather grip and off-road bite, while maintaining a quiet, stable ride on pavement. It is quickly gaining popularity among overlanders and weekend warriors.
Best for
- Adventurers who want quiet on-road manners
- Light trucks and SUVs in variable conditions
- Drivers needing severe snow capability
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Three Peak Mountain Snowflake
- Popular sizes: 275/65R18, 285/70R17, 265/60R18
- Strengths: Wet/off-road grip, low road noise
- Trade-offs: Slightly firmer ride
7. General Grabber A/TX — Reliable All-Condition Performer
Why it stands out
The Grabber A/TX is engineered for a balance of off-road traction and daily usability. Its aggressive tread bites into loose surfaces, while the optimized block pattern reduces noise and improves comfort on the highway.
Best for
- Drivers needing versatility
- Occasional off-roading
- Light and standard SUVs
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow rated
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 285/75R16, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Traction across surfaces, value
- Trade-offs: Slightly faster treadwear on heavy trucks
8. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus — European Precision Meets US Terrain
Why it stands out
Pirelli’s entry into the all-terrain segment brings precise steering and stability to the mix. The Scorpion All Terrain Plus offers solid off-road grip and wet weather braking, with a reputation for quiet, refined highway performance.
Best for
- Drivers wanting a premium, quiet ride
- Light off-roading
- Luxury SUVs and crossovers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow rated
- Popular sizes: 275/55R20, 265/60R18, 245/70R17
- Strengths: Comfort, handling, snow grip
- Trade-offs: Not for extreme off-road use
9. Nitto Terra Grappler G2 — Stylish Versatility
Why it stands out
The Terra Grappler G2 appeals to those who value both looks and function. Its aggressive sidewall, balanced tread, and long treadwear warranty make it a popular choice for trucks and SUVs that see a mix of daily driving and weekend adventure.
Best for
- Truck owners seeking style and performance
- Mixed pavement and light trail use
- Drivers wanting long tread life
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 275/60R20, 285/70R17, 265/70R16
- Strengths: Treadwear warranty, on-road comfort, looks
- Trade-offs: Not severe snow rated, moderate mud grip
10. Hankook Dynapro AT2 — Balance of Affordability and Performance
Why it stands out
The Dynapro AT2 is a value-focused all-terrain tyre that delivers dependable traction in a variety of conditions. It’s a strong performer in wet and dry scenarios, with a surprisingly refined ride for its price point.
Best for
- Budget-minded drivers
- Urban trucks with weekend adventures
- Fleet owners needing value
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, 245/75R17, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Value, ride comfort, road manners
- Trade-offs: Not severe snow rated, moderate off-road grip
Buying Tips
Before purchasing all-terrain tyres, confirm the correct size for your vehicle by checking the door jamb sticker or owner’s manual. Ensure the speed and load ratings meet your needs, especially if towing or carrying heavy loads. Rotate your tyres regularly (every 5,000–7,500 miles) to ensure even wear. Store unused tyres in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Finally, perform a wheel alignment after installation to maximize tread life and maintain optimal handling.
Verdict
For drivers prioritizing off-road performance and durability, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 or Falken WildPeak A/T3W are top picks. High-mileage users or those wanting a quiet, refined ride should look to the Michelin LTX A/T2 or Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus. Value seekers will appreciate the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, Hankook Dynapro AT2, or General Grabber A/TX for their balance of price and performance. For weekend adventurers who want modern tread technology and versatility, the Toyo Open Country A/T III and Nitto Terra Grappler G2 are strong contenders. Ultimately, the best tyre depends on your specific driving style, climate, and mix of on- and off-road use.
Are there any models on this list that are particularly suitable for someone who mostly drives on highways but needs good snow traction in winter?
Yes, several tyres on the list are ideal for mostly highway driving with strong winter performance. Look for models like the Michelin LTX A/T2 or the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W. Both offer a comfortable highway ride and are rated for good snow traction, often marked with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol.
For daily commuting with occasional off-road or mountain trips, would you recommend prioritizing comfort and noise like the WildPeak offers, or is it worth going for maximum durability like the KO2?
If most of your driving is daily commuting, prioritizing comfort and low road noise like what the WildPeak offers is usually the better choice. However, if your off-road or mountain trips are frequent or especially rugged, the extra durability of the KO2 might be worth it. It really depends on how demanding your off-road use is versus how much you value daily comfort.
How do the all-terrain tires on your list compare when it comes to highway noise and comfort, especially for someone who does a lot of commuting?
Several tires on the list stand out for low highway noise and a comfortable ride, like the Michelin LTX A/T2 and the Continental TerrainContact A/T. These are designed to reduce road noise and vibrations, making them a better choice for commuters. Others, like the BFGoodrich KO2, are more rugged and may be a bit noisier. For daily commuting, the more comfort-focused options are recommended.
With the KO2 being on the pricier side, are there comparable options in your top 10 that offer strong winter traction but are more affordable?
Yes, the General Grabber A/TX and the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W are both more affordable options in the top 10 list. They deliver impressive winter traction, with the Wildpeak A/T3W even holding the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, making them solid alternatives to the KO2 for winter performance on a budget.
Can you clarify how much weight the UTQG rating had compared to real-world owner feedback when ranking these tyres, especially for durability and treadwear?
In our rankings, real-world owner feedback played a larger role than the UTQG rating for assessing durability and treadwear. While UTQG provides standardized test data, we prioritized feedback from actual users, since their experiences better reflect how tyres perform over time in varied conditions.