Best 275/65r18 All Terrain tires: There are a few sizes which are huge volume drivers in the tire industry, for example the classic 205/55R16 which is hugely popular for B segment cars. On the other side, we have another hugely popular pick up truck size of 275/65 R18 as it is used in a whole range of different cars like Ford Expedition and F-150. This got us wondering, what is the best tire out there for this size?
Since we are talking about the USA market, there are 2 clear segments for this size. First is all season tires which have the elusive 3 peak mountain logo which means the tire has to pass a certain snow traction threshold. While the other segment would be all season M+S rated tires. We will break down the best 275/65R18 tires based on this segmentation.
Table of Contents
Off road segmentation
When it comes to a pick up truck, the main segmentation of tires comes in the form of on/off road terrain groups. However in this class of tires, there is an even further distribution as below:
| Segment | Off road | On road |
| ATR (all terrain road) | 30% | 70% |
| AT (all terrain) | 50% | 50% |
| MT (mud terrain) | 70% | 30% |
All terrain road (ATR) is a relatively new segment mainly driven by the R117 regulation over in Europe to ensure tires meet a maximum threshold of noise level as determined by regulation. Due to the relationship between pattern void volume and noise, this forces the industry to shift towards a lower void design to meet the noise requirements. Hence this spurred the creation of this new segment which has 70% on road & 30% off road focus.
All terrain (AT) is a well known segmentation whereby users do tend to enjoy the fair share of off road activities. Most of the pick up trucks who want to explore the off road activities on a monthly basis do tend to choose this segmentation. The AT segment has a 50% on road & 50% off road focus. There is however an even higher off road segmentation called mud terrain (MT) which has 70% off road and 30% on road. Recently most ATR segment tires.
All season 3 peak mountain
All season tires have always been the go to tires for the American market and this segment has been well established across the years. There are 2 types of all season tires, one with 3 peak mountain & one with only M+S. We have covered these 2 types of tire head to head with Michelin’s Defender T+H (M+S) vs Cross Climate 2 (3 peak mountain) and the M+S all season tires usually are worst in winter performances but excel much better in mileage.
If you are in an area which snows quite heavily, 3 peak mountain all season tires would be definitely a good choice. Below are the best 275/65R18 off road tires rank based on a compilation of test results.
All terrain road (ATR) with 3 peak mountain
1. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Launched in 2018, Cooper’s Discoverer AT3 4S has made a significant impact on the all-terrain tire market, with widespread availability in the three main markets: Asia-Pacific (APAC), North America, and Europe. As an early entrant into the all-terrain radial (ATR) segment, Cooper set a high standard for other manufacturers to follow, and the Discoverer AT3 4S is no exception.
The Discoverer AT3 4S is particularly well-regarded for its exceptional wet performance, thanks to several innovative design features. The tire’s tread pattern is optimized for water evacuation, with wide circumferential grooves and Aqua Vac™ channels that effectively disperse water, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Furthermore, the tire’s silica-based compound enhances its wet grip, ensuring that drivers maintain control even in rainy or damp conditions.
While the Discoverer AT3 4S excels in wet performance, it does not compromise on its dry capabilities. The tire offers stable handling and responsive braking, owing to its unique 5-rib design, which distributes pressure evenly across the tire’s contact patch. Additionally, the strategically placed micro-gauge sipes and Zigzag sipe design provide extra biting edges for enhanced traction on various surfaces. The tire’s rugged durability is another aspect that sets it apart. The durable tread compound, combined with Cooper’s patented DurableTread™ technology, ensures a longer tread life and resistance to cuts and chips, making the Discoverer AT3 4S suitable for off-road adventures.
In summary, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is an all-terrain tire that stands out for its excellent wet performance while maintaining a strong showing in dry conditions. With a design that caters to drivers who require a versatile, durable, and dependable tire for their vehicle, the Discoverer AT3 4S is a top choice in the 275/65R18 tire segment.
- Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 2/4
- Strength: Excellent in wet
Check out our head to head comparison of Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S against its competitors.
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S vs
2. Firestone Destination A/T2
Introduced in 2019, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a dependable all-terrain tire specifically designed for light trucks and SUVs. This tire is engineered to provide a reliable and comfortable driving experience on various surfaces, whether you’re navigating urban streets, cruising on the highway, or venturing off the beaten path.
In head-to-head comparison tests, the Destination A/T2 has been noted for its exceptional dry handling capabilities. The tire’s unique tread design features interlocking sipes and aggressive shoulder lugs, which together provide enhanced traction and stability on dry surfaces. Moreover, the optimized tread pattern ensures even wear, contributing to the tire’s long-lasting performance.
However, the Destination A/T2 has shown room for improvement in wet performance, dry braking, and noise reduction. Although the tire’s wet traction is adequate for most driving situations, it may not perform as well as some of its competitors in this category. Furthermore, dry braking distances could be shorter, and the noise generated by the tire at highway speeds may be higher than that of other all-terrain tires in the market. Despite these shortcomings, the Firestone Destination A/T2 has garnered significant recognition for its performance, winning the prestigious title of “Best Tire” in the highly popular 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test. This accolade speaks to the tire’s overall quality and the confidence it inspires in drivers seeking a reliable all-terrain option.
In conclusion, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a solid choice for those seeking a tire that delivers exceptional dry handling for light trucks and SUVs. While it may not be the top performer in wet conditions, dry braking, or noise reduction, it has proven itself to be a dependable and versatile all-terrain tire, as evidenced by its recent accolades in the 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test.
- Destination A/T2
- Launch: 2019
- Press test wins: 1/3
- Strength: Dry
Check out our head to head comparison of Destination A/T2 against its competitors.
Destination A/T2 vs
3. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A
When it comes to off-road tires, no brand is as well known as BFGoodrich. Many consider them as the “God” of all/mud terrain tires and have made their name true countless tire wins in the Baja competitions. BFGoodrich launched its latest foray into the ATR segment with the product called “Trail-Terrain T/A” in 2021. Based on the test results, Trail-Terrain T/A had a big advantage in snow & ice performances while having a low wet & dry performance. The main trade off is between winter against summer performance in this case. If you need a winter performance tire, Trail-Terrain T/A would be definitely a good choice for you.
- BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Excellent snow.
Check out our head to head comparison of Trail-Terrain T/A against its competitors.
BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A vs
4. Falken WildPeak A/T Trail
Falken’s WildPeak A/T Trail was launched in 2019 as it seeks to penetrate the ATR segment. Based on the head to head comparison below, WildPeak A/T Trail had a dominant wet & dry performance while having weakness in ice & snow. The main trade off is between winter against summer performance in this case. If you live in places which have only mild winter conditions & summer conditions is your dominant weather, WildPeak A/T Trail would be a suitable choice.
- Falken WildPeak A/T Trail
- Launch: 2018
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Strong wet.
Check out our head to head comparison of Falken WildPeak A/T Trail against its competitors.
Falken WildPeak A/T Trail vs
5. General Grabber APT
General Grabber APT was launched in 2017 and has been developed specifically for the North American market. Based on the head to head results, Grabber APT had slightly better dry performances while lacking the fire power in wet.
- General Grabber APT
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Dry
Check out our head to head comparison of General Grabber APT against its competitors.
General Grabber APT vs
6. Continental TerrainContact A/T
Continental’s TerrainContact A/T was launched in 2015 and has been a staple in this segment for many years. However this is the only tire in the list which does not possess the 3 peak mountain certification. Hence do be aware that if winter usage is required, this is definitely not the product you should be considering. Based on the head to head comparison, TerrainContact A/T had a dominant wet & dry performance but lacked the ice & snow of other 3 peak mountain competitors.
- TerrainContact A/T
- Launch: 2015
- Press test wins: 1/4
- Strength: Wet & dry
Check out our head to head comparison of TerrainContact A/T against its competitors.
TerrainContact A/T vs
7. Kumho Road Venture AT52
Kumho Road Venture AT52 was launched in 2021 and has been developed specifically for the North American market. Based on the head to head comparison below Road Venture AT52 excels in dry while having wet performances as its weakness.
- Road Venture AT52
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Dry
Check out our head to head comparison of Road Venture AT52 against its competitors.
Road Venture AT52 vs
8. Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
Yokohama launched its latest tireline in this segment called the “Geolandar A/T G015” in 2016 with the hopes of tapping the huge ATR market. Based on the head to head comparison, Geolandar A/T G015 had the advantage in snow & ice performances while weak in wet & dry performance.
- Geolandar A/T G015
- Launch: 2015
- Press test wins: 0/3
- Strength: Snow & ice
Check out our head to head comparison of Geolandar A/T G015 against its competitors.
Geolandar A/T G015 vs
All terrain (AT) with 3 peak mountain
1. Goodyear Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar
Introduced in 2013, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has established itself as a top contender in the all-terrain tire market over the past nine years. Competing head-to-head with industry giants like BFGoodrich, this tire has held its own and emerged victorious in numerous battles, solidifying its place in the all-terrain community.
In head-to-head comparison tests, the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has demonstrated excellent performance in dry, sand, and slope conditions. The tire’s unique tread design, featuring DuPont Kevlar, ensures superior grip and handling on various surfaces, enabling drivers to confidently navigate challenging terrains. The tire’s aggressive shoulder lugs and open-tread pattern also contribute to its impressive traction and stability.
However, the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has shown a minor weakness in gravel performance when compared to some competitors in the ATR segment. Despite this slight shortcoming, the tire’s overall performance remains highly competitive. One of the key advantages of the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar is its favorable price and expected mileage. Offering drivers a cost-effective option without sacrificing performance or durability, this tire represents excellent value for money.
In conclusion, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar is a fantastic choice for drivers seeking a high-performing, reliable, and cost-effective all-terrain tire. With its exceptional performance in dry, sand, and slope conditions, and only a minor weakness in gravel performance, this tire is well-suited to handle a wide range of driving situations, making it a worthy option for those in search of a versatile and dependable all-terrain tire.
- Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar
- Launch: 2013
- Press test wins: 0/4
- Strength: Excellent dry, sand, and slope
Check out our head to head comparison of Wrangler AT Adventure with Kevlar against its competitors.
Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar vs
2. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
BFGoodrich is a renowned brand in the niche off-road tire market, with its highly popular BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO setting the gold standard in the off-road segment for the past decade. The brand’s products are considered top-of-the-line, often accompanied by a premium price tag. In 2013, BFGoodrich launched the All-Terrain T/A KO2 to replace the iconic KO, successfully retaining its position as the king of all-terrain tires.
In head-to-head comparison tests, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has demonstrated strong performance in gravel conditions, showcasing its ability to handle rugged and uneven terrain with ease. Its aggressive tread design and durable compound contribute to the tire’s excellent traction and stability on gravel surfaces, ensuring drivers maintain control in challenging off-road situations.
However, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has faced some challenges in dry, sand, and slope conditions, struggling to match the performance of some competitors in these specific areas. Despite these shortcomings, the tire’s overall performance remains highly competitive, and its reputation as a top choice for off-road enthusiasts remains intact.
In conclusion, BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a proven choice for drivers seeking a high-quality, premium all-terrain tire that excels in gravel conditions. Although it may struggle in certain situations, such as dry, sand, and slope conditions, its overall performance and reputation in the off-road community make it a popular and respected option. For those willing to invest in a premium tire, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 remains a strong contender in the all-terrain tire market.
- All-Terrain T/A KO2
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/3
- Strength: Gravel
Check out our head to head comparison of All-Terrain T/A KO2 against its competitors.
All-Terrain T/A KO2 vs
3. Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse AT
Goodyear’s Wrangler Workhorse AT was launched in 2021 with an all season focus and it is specific only for the American market. Based on the head to head comparison below, Wrangler Workhorse AT was good in dry, noise & objective ice/snow but was weak in wet and subjective snow performances.
- Wrangler Workhorse AT
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Dry. noise & objective ice/snow
Check out our head to head comparison of Wrangler Workhorse AT against its competitors.
Wrangler Workhorse AT vs
4. Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek
Cooper’s Discoverer Rugged Trek was launched in 2021 and has been developed specifically for the North American market. Based on the head to head comparison below, Discoverer Rugged Trek was strong in wet and subjective snow performances while lacking behind dry, noise & objective ice/snow.
- Discoverer Rugged Trek
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: wet & subjective snow
Check out our head to head comparison of Discoverer Rugged Trek against its competitors.
Discoverer Rugged Trek vs
Summary
When it comes to buying your next set of tires, do remind yourself what you need and try to match your requirements to tire. Ensure your usage of tires based on the off road segmentation is clear so that you can derive the maximum value from your tire !