Best Tires for Ram 1500: The Key to Unleashing Your Truck’s Full Potential
Regarded as a full-size pickup truck with a perfect fusion of raw horsepower, sophisticated comfort, and unmatched adaptability, the Ram 1500 consistently charms pickup truck enthusiasts. Its signature ability to tackle a broad spectrum of terrains and weather conditions sets it apart in the market. However, to truly tap into the formidable capabilities of the Ram 1500, the right set of tires is an indispensable asset.
The unique features of the Ram 1500 make it a multi-purpose vehicle – whether you’re navigating daily city routes, performing heavy-duty cargo hauling, or embarking on thrilling off-road exploits. Fueled by a formidable range of engines and fitted with cutting-edge suspension systems, the Ram 1500 boasts superior towing capabilities and smooth rides. Its advanced four-wheel-drive system enhances off-road prowess, while top-tier safety features provide a reliable and secure driving experience.
The newer models of the Ram 1500 typically come equipped with tire sizes 275/65R18 and 275/55R20. These tires are designed to optimize the Ram 1500’s handling and performance characteristics, providing robust traction, long-lasting durability, and stability on the go. The tire sizes harmonize with the Ram 1500’s size, weight, and power, ensuring smooth operations regardless of whether you are off-roading or cruising on asphalt. However, the 275/60R20 tire size remains extremely popular for older models of the Ram 1500. These tires continue to deliver excellent performance, with owners appreciating their enduring quality and consistency.
Choosing the appropriate tires for your Ram 1500 depends on a variety of factors, including your typical driving conditions, usage habits, and personal preferences. The forthcoming guide will discuss the top-performing tires for the Ram 1500, featuring all-season, all-terrain, and winter options, to assist you in making a decision that optimizes your truck’s performance and safety.
Table of Contents
Original Equipment Tires for Ram 1500
When purchasing a new Ram 1500, the car comes most likely equipped with either 18″ or 20″ tires, depending on the chosen specification. These tires are supplied by different manufacturers, which we will discuss individually below. It’s important to note that these are all all season tires, and depending on your location, summer or winter tires may be more suitable for your needs.
18″ Falken Wildpeak A/T3WA- LT275/65R18C
20″ Falken Wildpeak A/T3WA- 275/55R20
A standout feature of the Ram 1500 is its impressive tire selection. One of the factory-fitted options is the Falken Wildpeak A/T3WA, a high-performance tire compatible with both the 18″ and 20″ wheel sizes. Designed for superior off-road and on-road capabilities, this tire showcases the perfect blend of versatility and durability. The Falken Wildpeak A/T3WA is specifically built to take on the most challenging terrains while providing an enjoyable ride. It’s the ideal match for the Ram 1500’s power and versatility. Its unique design allows it to deliver excellent traction in various conditions and a long tread life, a testament to its durability and reliability.
One distinguishing feature of this tire is the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol on its sidewall. This symbol means that the tire meets required performance criteria in snow testing to be considered severe snow service-rated. This rating implies that the Falken Wildpeak A/T3WA not only excels in regular off-road and highway driving conditions but also performs admirably in challenging winter weather.
Price
To gain insight into how well the original equipment (OE) tires perform against their replacement counterparts, feel free to check out our Tesla Model 3 OE vs. replacement comparison featuring both Continental and Michelin OE tires. Even though this is on an electric vehicle platform, it does provide an insight on how the factory tires actually differs to the replacement ones. Additionally, we conducted a Tesla Model S tire showdown featuring the upcoming Hankook EV tire “iON evo,” Michelin Pilot Sport 5 (replacement summer), and Michelin Pilot Sport 3 (OE). Be sure to check it out to get a feeling on the OE (factory tire) vs standard summer vs EV tire,
Replacement Tires for Ram 1500
Off road segmentation
When it comes to equipping your Ram 1500 with the perfect tires, the landscape can be broadly divided into three categories. However, these categories further diverge based on their focus on off-road and on-road performance as detailed 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) Tires: With a split of 30% off-road and 70% on-road performance, ATR tires are a relatively recent addition to the tire industry. This segment’s emergence is primarily due to regulations, like those in Europe, that necessitate tires to adhere to specific noise level limits. The correlation between pattern void volume and noise has spurred an industry trend towards lower void designs to meet these noise requirements, resulting in the development of the ATR segment.
- All-Terrain (AT) Tires: The AT tires are well recognized and are an ideal choice for Ram 1500 drivers who enjoy frequent off-road adventures. These tires are often preferred by drivers who enjoy taking their truck off-road every now and then. AT tires offer a balanced 50% focus on both off-road and on-road performance.
- Mud Terrain (MT) Tires: These tires are specifically designed with a heavy off-road emphasis, boasting a 70% off-road and 30% on-road performance split. They are perfect for those who frequently find themselves in off-road conditions where maximum traction is required.
Recent trends indicate that Ram 1500 drivers who value both comfort and off-road capabilities are favoring the ATR segment tires. Nevertheless, the right choice for you will depend on your driving habits, terrain preferences, and comfort requirements. Ensure that you make an informed decision to fully unlock the potential of your Ram 1500.
All terrain road (ATR) with 3 peak mountain
1. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Since its launch in 2018, Cooper’s Discoverer AT3 4S has made a remarkable impact on the all-terrain tire market, gaining widespread acceptance in Asia-Pacific (APAC), North America, and Europe. As a pioneer in the all-terrain radial (ATR) category, Cooper set a high standard that many competitors strive to match. The Discoverer AT3 4S is a testament to this standard, proving itself to be an outstanding tire choice for the Ram 1500.
The Discoverer AT3 4S is particularly admired for its superior wet surface performance, attributed to several innovative design features. Its tread pattern is meticulously designed for efficient water evacuation, featuring large circumferential grooves and Aqua Vac™ channels adept at dispersing water and reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Moreover, the silica-based compound used in the tire enhances its grip on wet surfaces, ensuring that Ram 1500 drivers maintain control in rainy or damp conditions.
The merits of the Discoverer AT3 4S are not limited to wet surfaces – it also excels on dry roads. The unique 5-rib design ensures stable handling and responsive braking by evenly distributing pressure across the tire’s contact patch. Strategically placed micro-gauge sipes and a Zigzag sipe design offer additional biting edges, improving traction across a range of surfaces. The tire’s rugged durability is another standout feature. The durable tread compound, coupled with Cooper’s patented DurableTread™ technology, provides extended tread life and resistance to cuts and chips, making the Discoverer AT3 4S well-suited for off-road adventures with your Ram 1500.
In conclusion, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is an all-terrain tire that shines with its exceptional wet performance while offering strong capabilities on dry surfaces. For Ram 1500 drivers seeking a versatile, durable, and reliable tire, the Discoverer AT3 4S emerges as a top choice in the all-terrain 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
Price
- 275/60R20 : $271
2. Firestone Destination A/T2
Unveiled in 2019, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a robust all-terrain tire crafted especially for SUVs and light trucks, including the Ram 1500. This tire is tailored to ensure a reliable and comfortable driving experience across diverse terrains, whether you’re cruising city streets, hitting the highway, or tackling off-road trails.
In head-to-head comparisons, the Destination A/T2 has received accolades for its superior dry handling capabilities. Its unique tread design, featuring interlocking sipes and aggressive shoulder lugs, collectively enhances traction and stability on dry surfaces. Additionally, the optimized tread pattern ensures even wear, adding to the tire’s long-term performance.
However, there is room for enhancement in areas such as wet performance, dry braking, and noise reduction. While the tire’s wet traction is sufficient for most conditions, it might not be as adept as some competitors in this area. Similarly, dry braking distances could be shorter, and the noise produced at highway speeds could be quieter compared to other all-terrain tires in the market. Despite these minor areas for improvement, the Firestone Destination A/T2 has earned considerable praise for its performance, clinching the prestigious “Best Tire” award in the popular 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test. This honor attests to the tire’s overall quality and the confidence it instills in drivers seeking a dependable all-terrain option.
In summary, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a commendable choice for Ram 1500 drivers seeking a tire with exceptional dry handling capabilities. While it may not be the top performer in wet conditions, dry braking, or noise reduction, its proven reliability and versatility as an all-terrain tire, as evidenced by its recent accolades in the 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test, unquestionably affirm its status as a solid choice.
- 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
Price
- 275/60R20 : $294
3. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A
BFGoodrich, a brand synonymous with off-road tires, has earned a well-deserved reputation as the leading name in all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. With numerous victories in the challenging Baja competitions under their belt, they have solidified their status as a top choice for off-road enthusiasts. In 2021, BFGoodrich expanded their all-terrain radial (ATR) offerings with the introduction of the Trail-Terrain T/A tire, catering to drivers who demand excellent performance in a variety of conditions.
Test results have revealed that the Trail-Terrain T/A exhibits exceptional performance in snow and ice, making it an ideal choice for those who face harsh winter driving conditions. The tire’s specialized tread compound and design are specifically engineered to optimize traction on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the tire’s full-depth sipes and interlocking tread blocks provide enhanced grip and stability, ensuring a safe and secure driving experience in wintry conditions.
On the other hand, the Trail-Terrain T/A’s performance in wet and dry conditions may not be as strong as some of its competitors in the ATR segment. This trade-off between winter and summer performance is an important consideration for drivers when selecting the right tire for their needs.
In summary, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize winter performance in their all-terrain tires. While its wet and dry performance may be lower compared to some other options in the market, the tire’s outstanding snow and ice capabilities make it a reliable and suitable option for those who frequently encounter harsh winter conditions.
- 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
Price
- 275/60R20 : $253
All terrain (AT) with 3 peak mountain
1. Goodyear Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar
Since its debut in 2013, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has carved out a strong presence in the all-terrain tire market, holding its ground over the past nine years against industry giants like BFGoodrich. It has established itself as a robust choice in numerous comparisons, solidifying its position in the all-terrain tire realm, particularly for Ram 1500 drivers.
In head-to-head tests, the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has displayed impressive performance in dry, sandy, and sloped terrains. Its distinct tread design, reinforced with DuPont Kevlar, provides superior grip and handling on a range of surfaces, enabling Ram 1500 drivers to navigate challenging terrains confidently. The tire’s aggressive shoulder lugs and open-tread pattern further amplify its traction and stability.
Despite its strengths, the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar does show a minor deficiency in gravel performance compared to some competitors in the all-terrain radial (ATR) category. However, this minor shortcoming doesn’t overshadow its overall competitive performance. A notable advantage of the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar is its appealing price point and projected mileage, offering Ram 1500 drivers a cost-effective choice without sacrificing performance or durability, thereby representing excellent value for money.
In conclusion, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar emerges as a compelling choice for Ram 1500 drivers in search of a high-performing, reliable, and cost-effective all-terrain tire. With its exceptional performance in dry, sandy, and sloped conditions, and a minor setback in gravel performance, this tire is equipped to handle a wide range of driving situations. It’s an ideal pick for those seeking a versatile and reliable 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
Price
- 275/60R20 : $308
2. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
BFGoodrich is a renowned player in the specialized off-road tire industry, with its highly recognized BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO setting an unparalleled benchmark in the off-road segment over the past decade. The brand’s products are widely acknowledged as top-tier, often associated with a premium price tag. In 2013, BFGoodrich unveiled the All-Terrain T/A KO2 as a worthy successor to the legendary KO, successfully maintaining its standing as a leading option in all-terrain tires, especially for Ram 1500 owners.
In direct comparison tests, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has displayed exceptional performance on gravel terrains, showcasing its ability to conquer rough and uneven landscapes with confidence. Its aggressive tread design and sturdy compound contribute to the tire’s superior traction and stability on gravel surfaces, ensuring Ram 1500 drivers maintain control in challenging off-road situations.
However, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has faced some challenges in dry, sandy, and sloped conditions, struggling to match the performance of some competitors in these specific contexts. Despite these minor hurdles, the tire’s overall performance remains highly competitive, and its reputation as a top choice among off-road aficionados remains unscathed.
In conclusion, BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a reliable choice for Ram 1500 drivers seeking a top-notch, premium all-terrain tire that excels exceptionally in gravel conditions. Even though it may encounter difficulties in certain scenarios, such as dry, sandy, and sloped conditions, its overall performance and standing in the off-road community make it a favored and respected selection. For those willing to invest in a premium tire, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 continues to be 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
Price
- LT 275/60R20 : $346
Studless tires aka Snow tires
As we are talking about winter tires, it is very important to distinguish between the studless & winter segment. The studless segment has a main focus on ice & snow and it is currently the best tire selection for extreme cold weather conditions (<23°F). Winter tires are mainly focused on milder winter conditions (>23°F) while having a very strong wet braking performance. These are typically used in middle European countries as they do not have such cold winters.
For the American market, studless tires are the main go to tires when it comes to snow tires as the winter middle European tires are usually not sold directly here. Below are the best snow tires for Ram 1500 for the American market.
1. Michelin X-Ice SNOW SUV
As a response to a highly competitive winter tire market, Michelin introduced the X-Ice Snow in 2020, a new contender in the Snow/Studless tire segment. The X-Ice Snow, a much-anticipated upgrade from its predecessor, arrived eight years later, showcasing impressive performance on icy and snowy surfaces, making it an apt option for drivers seeking dependable winter tires.
While the X-Ice Snow may not boast an extensive list of accolades, it still offers commendable performance in icy and snowy conditions. This makes it a worthy alternative, particularly for those driving in regions where winter tire usage is mandated by law. However, it’s important to note that the X-Ice Snow exhibits some limitations in wet performance. This is a common trade-off for Snow/Studless winter tires, which emphasize traction on ice and snow over handling in wet conditions. Despite this, the X-Ice Snow remains a strong competitor in the market, providing Ram 1500 drivers an additional choice to consider for their winter driving needs.
In conclusion, the Michelin X-Ice Snow is a notable competitor for drivers in search of a reliable winter tire for their Ram 1500. Although it excels in ice and snow performance, it shows some weaknesses in wet handling. Ultimately, it’s crucial for drivers to evaluate their specific needs and driving conditions when choosing among Snow/Studless winter tire options.
- X-Ice Snow
- Launch: 2020
- Press test wins: 0/12
- Strength: Relatively good ice & snow.
Check our head to head comparison of X-Ice Snow against its competitors.
X-Ice Snow vs
- Continental Viking Contact 7
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3
- Pirelli Ice Zero FR
- Michelin Pilot Alpin 5
- Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
- Goodyear WinterCommand Ultra
- Michelin Cross Climate 2
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Price
- 275/55R20 : $309
Summary
In conclusion, the selection of the best tires for the Ram 1500 depends on a multitude of factors, including specific driving conditions, tire preferences, and driving habits.
For Ram 1500 drivers who prioritize off-road capabilities, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S stand out with their balanced on-road and off-road performance. The Firestone Destination A/T2, on the other hand, offers remarkable dry handling capabilities, while the Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar presents itself as a cost-effective, high-performing, all-terrain tire. In the premium segment, BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 stands out for its excellent performance in gravel conditions, and its Trail-Terrain T/A emerges as a strong choice for light winter conditions. For severe winter tire options, Michelin’s X-Ice Snow is a commendable option, offering impressive performance in icy and snowy conditions.
Each of these tires offers unique strengths and potential weaknesses, thereby catering to different preferences and needs of Ram 1500 drivers. As always, it is essential for each driver to carefully evaluate their driving conditions, style, and needs when selecting the best tires for their Ram 1500. No matter the choice, each of these tires promises to enhance the driving experience, providing safety, comfort, and performance for every journey.