We researched and compared the top 185/80R13 trailer tire and rim combinations based on manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Our evaluation focuses on load capacity, tread life, wheel construction, and real-world performance to help you choose the right setup for your trailer. All products listed are complete assemblies (tire mounted on rim) available on Amazon.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire and Rim Best Overall Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 65 psi max |
9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Kenda Loadstar K579 Trailer Tire and Rim Best Value Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 50 psi max |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tire and Rim Premium Pick Load Range D, 1710 lbs capacity, 80 psi max |
9.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Taskmaster Premium ST Trailer Tire and Rim Budget Friendly Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 50 psi max |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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SureTrac ST Radial Trailer Tire and Rim Solid All-Rounder Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 65 psi max |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Hercules Trail-Trac HT Trailer Tire and Rim Highway Towing Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 65 psi max |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire and Rim Entry Level Radial Load Range C, 1360 lbs capacity, 50 psi max |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire and Rim: Best Overall
The Carlisle Radial Trail HD is a top-tier choice for frequent highway towing. Its radial design runs cooler than bias-ply tires, which extends tread life and improves fuel economy. Owner feedback consistently praises its stability at higher speeds and resistance to blowouts. The galvanized steel rim adds durability against rust, making it a solid investment for boat or utility trailers.
However, the higher cost may not be justified for occasional, low-speed use. If you primarily tow short distances on rural roads, a bias-ply tire could offer similar safety at a lower price. We recommend this for anyone who regularly travels at highway speeds or carries near-maximum loads.
- Radial construction for reduced heat buildup and smoother towing
- Reinforced sidewalls resist cuts and punctures
- Galvanized steel rim with powder coat finish
Pros: Excellent highway stability and tread wear; Strong rim resists corrosion
Cons: Premium price point compared to bias-ply options
2. Kenda Loadstar K579 Trailer Tire and Rim: Best Value
The Kenda Loadstar K579 delivers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. Bias-ply construction offers good puncture resistance and is well-suited for lower-speed towing on paved or unpaved roads. Many owners report satisfactory tread life for seasonal use. The white spoke rim is a classic look that holds up reasonably well with care.
That said, this tire is not ideal for extended highway trips. The bias-ply design generates more heat, which can lead to premature wear or failure if pushed hard. If you tow occasionally and stay under 65 mph, this is a great value. For heavy highway use, consider a radial option.
- Bias-ply construction for affordability and durability
- Deep tread pattern provides good traction on gravel
- White spoke wheel with durable paint finish
Pros: Very competitive price for a complete assembly; Solid load capacity for utility trailers
Cons: Runs slightly hotter at highway speeds; Rim paint may chip over time
3. Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tire and Rim: Premium Pick
The Goodyear Endurance is the premium choice for heavy-duty towing. With a Load Range D rating and 1710 lbs capacity, it can handle the heaviest boat or RV trailers. The advanced compound and construction reduce heat and resist weathering, leading to longer service life. Owner reviews highlight its stability and confidence at highway speeds.
However, this tire is overbuilt for light loads. The higher price and stiff sidewalls may result in a firmer ride for small utility trailers. We recommend it only if you frequently tow near the maximum weight limit or need the extra safety margin for long trips.
- Extra load capacity with Load Range D rating
- Advanced tread compound resists aging and cracking
- Rust-resistant black steel rim with E-coat
Pros: Highest load capacity in this size; Exceptional durability and long life
Cons: Significantly more expensive; May be overkill for light loads
4. Taskmaster Premium ST Trailer Tire and Rim: Budget Friendly
The Taskmaster Premium ST is a no-frills option for budget-conscious buyers. It meets basic safety standards and works well for small utility trailers, lawn equipment, or lightweight campers. The bias-ply construction is simple and easy to maintain. Owners on a tight budget appreciate the low cost.
However, this tire has limitations. It is not designed for frequent highway use or heavy loads. Some users report faster tread wear and less stability at higher speeds. If you tow infrequently and keep speeds low, it can be a reasonable choice. For regular highway towing, invest in a higher-rated tire.
- Affordable bias-ply tire for light-duty trailers
- Standard tread pattern suitable for dry roads
- Silver painted steel rim
Pros: Lowest price point in our lineup; Adequate for occasional use
Cons: Tread life is shorter than premium options; Not recommended for heavy loads or high speeds
5. SureTrac ST Radial Trailer Tire and Rim: Solid All-Rounder
The SureTrac ST Radial is a competent mid-range option that offers radial benefits without top-tier cost. It provides a smoother ride than bias-ply tires and runs cooler, making it suitable for longer trips. The tread pattern is designed for even wear, and the black rim resists rust well.
On the downside, a few owners have noted that the tire may require additional balancing. While it is reliable for most applications, heavy-duty users may prefer the Goodyear or Carlisle for extra durability. We recommend this for general-purpose towing at moderate loads and speeds.
- Radial construction for smoother ride
- Computer-optimized tread pattern for even wear
- Black powder-coated rim for corrosion resistance
Pros: Good balance of performance and price; Smooth towing at moderate speeds
Cons: Not as durable as premium radials; Some owners report balancing issues
6. Hercules Trail-Trac HT Trailer Tire and Rim: Highway Towing
The Hercules Trail-Trac HT is engineered specifically for highway towing. Its radial design and heat-resistant compound keep temperatures in check during long hauls, reducing the risk of tire failure. Owners report confident handling at 65-75 mph. The galvanized rim adds long-term corrosion protection.
However, it is priced a bit higher than some competitors, and stock can be inconsistent. If you frequently tow at highway speeds, this is a strong contender. For occasional use, you might find better value elsewhere.
- Radial construction optimized for highway use
- Heat-resistant compound reduces blowout risk
- Rust-resistant galvanized rim
Pros: Excellent high-speed stability; Good heat dissipation for long trips
Cons: Slightly higher price than comparable radials; Limited availability on Amazon sometimes
7. Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire and Rim: Entry Level Radial
The Trailer King ST Radial is an entry-level radial that offers a smoother ride than budget bias-ply tires at a similar price. It is suitable for lightweight trailers used on paved roads. The radial construction reduces heat buildup, which is a plus for longer trips.
However, we have concerns about long-term durability. Some owner feedback mentions sidewall cracking and premature wear, especially under heavier loads. The actual load capacity may be lower than advertised for sustained use. We recommend this only for very light duty applications, such as small utility trailers carrying less than 1000 lbs. For heavier loads, choose a more durable option.
- Affordable radial tire for light trailers
- Standard tread pattern for dry conditions
- Silver painted steel rim
Pros: Low cost for a radial tire; Smoother ride than bias-ply options
Cons: Lower load capacity than spec suggests in practice; Some owners report sidewall cracking after a few years
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between radial and bias-ply trailer tires?
Radial tires have steel belts running perpendicular to the tread, which reduces heat buildup and provides a smoother ride at higher speeds. Bias-ply tires have crisscrossing layers that offer stiffer sidewalls and better puncture resistance at low speeds. For highway towing, radials are generally preferred; for short, slow trips, bias-ply can be more cost-effective.
What does Load Range C or D mean?
Load Range indicates the tire’s maximum load capacity and inflation pressure. Load Range C typically supports up to 1360 lbs at 50 psi, while Load Range D supports up to 1710 lbs at 80 psi. Higher load ranges provide a safety margin but may result in a stiffer ride. Always match the load range to your trailer’s gross weight.
Can I use passenger car tires on my trailer?
No, you should always use Special Trailer (ST) tires. Passenger tires are not designed for the sidewall stresses and sustained loads of trailer towing. ST tires have reinforced sidewalls and higher load capacities to handle the demands of trailering.
How do I determine the correct tire pressure for my trailer?
Check the tire sidewall for the maximum pressure (e.g., 50 psi). Inflate to that pressure when the tires are cold. Do not reduce pressure based on load; trailer tires operate best at maximum rated pressure to prevent overheating and blowouts. Always use a reliable gauge.
How often should I replace trailer tires?
Replace trailer tires every 5-7 years regardless of tread depth, as rubber degrades over time. Also replace if you see cracks, bulges, or excessive wear. Check tire age by the DOT date code on the sidewall. Regular inspection before each trip is recommended.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing specifications, safety standards, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Carlisle Radial Trail HD for its excellent highway performance and durability. The Goodyear Endurance is the runner-up for those needing maximum load capacity. For budget-conscious buyers, the Kenda Loadstar K579 offers solid value. Choose based on your typical towing conditions and load requirements.
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