How We Chose
We focused on all-terrain tyres for US pickups and SUVs that deliver proven durability. Selection was based on a blend of real-world owner feedback, independent test results, and manufacturer data. Key criteria included treadwear (UTQG), resistance to cuts/chipping, wet and dry grip, off-road traction, comfort, noise, and value. We considered load/speed ratings for light trucks, snow capability (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake where relevant), and typical US driving conditions—highway, rough work sites, and unpaved trails. Brands and models span budget to premium tiers.
1. Michelin LTX A/T2 — Balanced Longevity and Everyday Comfort
Why it stands out
The Michelin LTX A/T2 is renowned for its class-leading treadlife, responsive handling on paved roads, and quiet ride—without sacrificing moderate off-road ability. Its MaxTouch Construction promotes even wear, making it a top pick for fleets and daily drivers alike.
Best for
- Drivers covering high annual mileage
- Fleet operators seeking low cost-per-mile
- Mix of highway and light off-road
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, LT245/75R16, 275/60R20
- Strengths: Treadwear, road comfort, fuel economy
- Trade-offs: Not the most aggressive for deep mud/rocks
2. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 — Off-Road Durability, Modernized
Why it stands out
Building on the KO2’s legacy, the KO3 brings enhanced sidewall strength and improved chip/cut resistance. The tread pattern provides reliable traction in mud, snow, and gravel, while still maintaining decent on-road manners.
Best for
- Frequent off-roaders
- Work trucks exposed to harsh surfaces
- Drivers in winter-prone regions (3PMSF rated)
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: LT265/70R17, LT285/75R16, LT275/65R18
- Strengths: Cut resistance, snow traction, sidewall durability
- Trade-offs: Slightly firmer ride on pavement
3. Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac — Versatile Traction with Longevity
Why it stands out
The DuraTrac stands out for its aggressive tread and self-cleaning shoulder blocks, offering strong grip in mud, snow, and gravel. Its tough carcass and reinforced tread make it a favorite for work trucks and overland enthusiasts who rack up miles.
Best for
- Drivers needing winter traction (3PMSF)
- Construction and utility fleets
- Off-road adventure seekers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: LT275/70R18, LT245/75R16, 315/70R17
- Strengths: Snow grip, off-road durability, tread life
- Trade-offs: More road noise than highway A/Ts
4. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W — Affordable All-Terrain with Serious Endurance
Why it stands out
The Wildpeak A/T3W hits the sweet spot between price, durability, and all-surface grip. With a silica-enriched compound and deep tread, it’s engineered to resist wear and maintain traction in wet, dry, and snowy conditions.
Best for
- Budget-conscious drivers who demand longevity
- All-weather versatility seekers
- Occasional off-roaders
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, LT285/75R16, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Value, wet/snow traction, tread depth
- Trade-offs: Slightly heavier than some rivals
5. Toyo Open Country A/T III — Toughness Meets On-Road Civility
Why it stands out
The Open Country A/T III boasts a robust tread compound and staggered shoulder lugs for off-road durability, with a focus on even wear and stability for daily driving. It balances road noise and comfort better than many aggressive A/Ts.
Best for
- Drivers needing a daily driver capable of weekend trails
- Owners seeking a quiet, stable ride
- Mixed-use vehicles
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: LT275/70R18, 265/65R17, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Treadwear, low noise, balanced grip
- Trade-offs: Not a pure mud or rock tyre
6. General Grabber A/TX — Dependable Durability at a Wallet-Friendly Price
Why it stands out
The Grabber A/TX offers strong treadwear and cut resistance, with a multi-pitch tread that keeps it quieter than most budget all-terrains. Its aggressive sidewall and winter rating make it suited to year-round work and play.
Best for
- Value-focused pickup and SUV owners
- Rural or mixed-surface driving
- Light commercial applications
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, LT245/75R16, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Price, winter grip, cut resistance
- Trade-offs: Not as refined as premium A/Ts
7. Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT — American-Made Workhorse
Why it stands out
The AT3 XLT mixes long treadlife with a reinforced structure aimed at heavy-duty trucks. Its Even Wear Arc Technology helps maintain a flatter tread profile, promoting better wear and stability under load.
Best for
- Owners of 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickups
- Vehicles towing or hauling frequently
- Those seeking US-made options
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: LT275/70R18, LT265/70R17, LT285/75R16
- Strengths: Load capacity, treadwear, value
- Trade-offs: Not 3PMSF for severe snow
8. Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 — All-Weather Endurance
Why it stands out
The G015 is engineered with an advanced triple-polymer compound for extended treadlife and resistance to chips and cuts. Its optimized contact patch means even wear, while 3PMSF certification assures year-round utility.
Best for
- Drivers in variable climates
- Highway-to-trail commuters
- Light off-road use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, severe snow
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/55R20, 245/65R17
- Strengths: All-weather grip, longevity, quiet ride
- Trade-offs: Less aggressive off-road than KO3/DuraTrac
Buying Tips
Check your owner’s manual for approved tyre sizes, load and speed ratings—especially for towing or hauling. Confirm the tyre’s UTQG and 3PMSF ratings if you need winter performance. Rotate tyres every 5,000–7,500 miles for even wear. Store off-season sets in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. After off-roading, inspect for cuts or punctures. Schedule regular alignment checks to maximize treadlife.
Verdict
If you’re primarily highway-bound but want long treadwear and low noise, the Michelin LTX A/T2 or Toyo Open Country A/T III are standouts. For fleets and work trucks that face harsh surfaces, consider the Goodyear DuraTrac or BFGoodrich KO3 for their reinforced durability. Budget-focused drivers should look at the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W or General Grabber A/TX for solid performance without breaking the bank. Owners of heavy-duty pickups or those hauling loads will appreciate the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT’s robust construction. For drivers needing a quiet, year-round all-terrain with winter capability, the Yokohama Geolandar G015 is a strong all-rounder. Match your choice to your driving mix, climate, and load needs for the best value and longest life from your tyres.
For someone mostly driving on unpaved trails with occasional highway trips, would a more aggressive all-terrain like the DuraTrac be worth the trade-off in road comfort mentioned here?
If unpaved trails are your main routes, the DuraTrac’s aggressive tread can give you better grip and durability off-road, even if there’s some extra road noise or a firmer ride on highways. For mostly trail use with only occasional highway driving, that trade-off is usually worthwhile.
You mentioned the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for snow capability. How much should I prioritize this if my trucks only see moderate winter weather in the Midwest?
If your trucks experience only moderate Midwest winters, the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating can be helpful but isn’t essential. All-terrain tyres without this rating can still perform well in light snow. However, if you occasionally drive in heavier snow or icy conditions, prioritizing this rating provides added confidence and safety.
Do you have recommendations for budget-friendly all-terrain options that still deliver decent chip and cut resistance?
If you’re looking for budget-friendly all-terrain tyres with good chip and cut resistance, consider options like the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W or the General Grabber A/TX. Both offer solid durability at a reasonable price point and are designed to handle rough surfaces without breaking the bank.
For those mainly driving on highways with some occasional unpaved roads, is there a significant comfort or noise difference between budget and premium models listed here?
Yes, there is usually a noticeable difference in comfort and noise between budget and premium all-terrain tyres, especially for mostly highway driving. Premium models tend to use advanced tread designs and rubber compounds that reduce road noise and improve ride comfort. Budget options may be louder and transmit more road vibrations, which you might notice on long drives.
Did you notice any major differences in tread life or comfort between the Michelin LTX A/T2 and the BFGoodrich KO3 after a year or more of use, especially for daily highway driving?
After a year or more of daily highway use, the Michelin LTX A/T2 typically offers a smoother, quieter ride and slightly longer tread life compared to the BFGoodrich KO3. The KO3 is more rugged and excels off-road, but you might notice more road noise and a firmer feel on highways over time.