Our Top Picks
Our #1 Top Pick: Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire
It’s difficult to talk about trailer tires without mentioning the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire. This tire takes the top spot for multiple reasons. Its radial construction and tread design provide excellent stability and traction. The Carlisle tires are known for their durability and ability to withstand the challenges of long-distance travel and heavier loads. Additionally, their resistance to heat makes them an exceptional choice for a variety of climates and usage conditions. Each tire is built with a focus on reducing rolling resistance, which can help to improve fuel economy — a crucial factor for those frequenting long road trips.
Pick #2: Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tire
The name Goodyear is synonymous with quality rubber, and their Endurance Trailer Tire is no exception. As our second pick, this tire is designed for performance and longevity. Goodyear Endurance tires are constructed with a specialized rubber compound that is optimized for trailer use, which means they are less likely to scalp or wear unevenly when properly maintained. Furthermore, they boast a high-speed rating, making them suitable for modern highway use without sacrificing safety or control.
Pick #3: Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire
Third on our list is the Maxxis M8008 ST Radial Trailer Tire. Maxxis is a brand that has consistently performed well in both commercial and recreational tire categories. This particular tire excels in both tread life and load-carrying capacity. It’s constructed with advanced tread compounds to decrease rolling resistance for smoother towing and better fuel efficiency. Moreover, the reinforced sidewall design gives added stability, which is crucial when hauling heavier loads.
Pick #4: Freestar M-108+ Trailer Tire
Freestar’s M-108+ Trailer Tire makes the fourth position with its impressive durability and strength. This tire is designed to handle a variety of road surfaces while maintaining a comfortable towing experience. It provides a solid balance of wear and temperature resistance, ensuring a reliable performance across different driving conditions. The M-108+ is also known for its exceptional value, offering robust performance without breaking the bank.
Pick #5: Trailer King ST Radial II
Rounding out our top five is the Trailer King ST Radial II tire. This tire offers a modern design with improved shoulder treatment for better heat dissipation, resulting in extended tire life. Its center groove technology aids in stability, while its enhanced tread depth and patterns ensure better traction and performance. The Trailer King ST Radial II also stands out with a budget-friendly price tag, making it a solid choice for those who want a reliable tire without a lofty investment.
What to Know Before You Buy
- Trailer Tire Types: Understand the difference between ST (Special Trailer) tires and LT (Light Truck) tires, as this is critical to purchasing the correct tires for your trailer.
- Load Range & Capacity: Make sure you’re aware of your trailer’s load capacity and buy tires that can handle the weight. Overloading your tires can lead to blowouts and accidents.
- Sizing: Tires must be the right size for your wheels; incorrect sizing can lead to poor handling and increased wear.
- Speed Rating: Trailer tires have speed ratings that indicate the maximum speed they can safely maintain over time. Ensure the tires you choose match your typical highway speeds.
- Weather Conditions: Consider whether your trailer tires will be used in environments that are hot, cold, or see a mix of weather. Choose tires designed to cope with the expected conditions.
- Warranty: Look for tires that come with a warranty as it reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and gives you a safety net should anything go wrong.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
- Durability: Look for tires made from high-quality, durable materials that can resist wear and tear from different road surfaces.
- Tread Design: Consider tread designs that offer good grip and water evacuation to prevent hydroplaning in wet conditions.
- Heat Resistance: Since trailer tires are prone to heating, it’s essential to buy tires with heat-resistant technologies to minimize the risk of blowouts.
- Compatibility: Ensure the tires are compatible with your trailer type, whether it is a boat trailer, utility trailer, or RV.
- Brand and Reviews: Opt for reputable brands and read customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction levels.
- Price: Finally, consider the price point and ensure it aligns with your budget and the value offered by the tire.
Why Trust ChooseRight?
When it comes to making recommendations, ChooseRight has a reputation for thorough research and unbiased assessments. For our evaluation of the best trailer tires, we’ve analyzed various aspects of what makes a tire stand out. We’ve delved into the technical specs, looked at the materials and construction methods used, and considered the design features that enhance tire performance and safety.
We have read through thousands of customer reviews to better understand the real-world experiences that users have had with these tires—both the good and the bad. Our team has weighed-in expert opinions and feedback from professionals in the tire and towing industry who work with these products every day. Drawing from this wealth of information, we’ve curated a list that reflects both technical excellence and user satisfaction, ensuring you can choose your next set of trailer tires with confidence.
Finishing Thoughts
A trailer tire purchase is a significant decision that plays into the performance and safety of your towing experiences. Armed with the knowledge about what to look out for before buying, a curated list of top picks, and factors that influence the best tire for your specific needs, you’ve got a solid foundation to make an informed choice.
Make sure to do your due diligence, consider your personal requirements and preferences, and trust that the intentional consideration and expertise that went into this roundup provides a robust starting point. The best trailer tires are those that will safely and reliably carry you through your journeys, supporting not just your load but also your peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brands of trailer tires?
Popular brands that are often recommended for their quality and durability include Goodyear, Carlisle, Maxxis, and Continental. Always check for user reviews and ratings before purchasing to ensure you’re choosing the best option for your specific needs.
How do I determine the correct tire size for my trailer?
You should check your trailer’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended tire size. Additionally, you can look at the sidewall of your current trailer tires for a series of numbers and letters that specify the size.
What is the difference between radial and bias ply trailer tires?
Radial tires have ply cords that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, offering better road contact, improved tread wear, and higher fuel efficiency. Bias ply tires have ply cords that run at an angle, which can provide better resistance to sidewall damage and a smoother ride on rough surfaces but typically offer less tread life.
How often should I replace my trailer tires?
It’s recommended to replace trailer tires every 3 to 5 years, regardless of tread depth, due to the degradation of the rubber compound over time. Always inspect your tires regularly for signs of wear, damage, or aging.
What tire pressure should I use for my trailer tires?
The correct tire pressure should be specified by the tire manufacturer and is often found on the tire sidewall. It’s crucial to maintain the recommended pressure for safety, optimal performance, and longevity of the tire.
Can I use light truck or passenger car tires on my trailer?
It is generally not recommended to use light truck or passenger car tires on a trailer. Trailer tires are specifically designed to handle the load capacity and handling characteristics of trailers.
What load rating do I need for my trailer tires?
The load rating, or load range, indicates the maximum weight that each tire can support. To determine the required load rating, calculate the gross weight of your fully loaded trailer and divide it by the number of tires. Make sure the tire’s load rating meets or exceeds this number.
What should I do to maintain my trailer tires?
To maintain your trailer tires, regularly check tire pressure, inspect for signs of wear or damage, ensure they are properly balanced, and store the trailer in a cool, dry place with the weight off the tires if it’s not being used for extended periods.
Are there any specific features to look for in trailer tires for heavy-duty use?
For heavy-duty use, look for tires with a high ply rating, reinforced sidewalls, and durable construction. Additionally, tires designed for heavy loads may have advanced tread patterns that provide better stability and braking effectiveness.
Can I mix and match different types of trailer tires on the same trailer?
It’s not advisable to mix tire types, sizes, or tread patterns on a trailer, as this can affect the handling and safety. Always try to use the same type of tires on all wheel positions for consistent performance.
Is tire age important when buying trailer tires?
Yes, tire age is crucial because tires degrade over time, even if they’re not used. Check the tire’s manufacture date (usually found on the sidewall as a four-digit code) and try to purchase the newest tires possible.
