Finding the best all terrain pickup tire means balancing off-road traction, on-road comfort, and long tread life. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback to compare the top contenders. Our evaluation focuses on real-world performance across mud, snow, gravel, and pavement, so you can choose the tire that fits your driving needs and budget.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 Best Overall Load range C to E, 3-ply sidewall, 50,000 mile treadwear warranty |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 Best On-Road Comfort T speed rating, 70,000 mile treadwear warranty, Evertread compound |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Best for Snow and Ice Load range C to E, TredLock technology, severe snow rated |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Toyo Open Country A/T III Best Balanced Performance Load range SL to E, 50,000 mile treadwear warranty, Silica tread compound |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Nitto Ridge Grappler Best Hybrid Design Load range SL to F, 45,000 mile treadwear warranty, 3-ply sidewall on LT sizes |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Falken Wildpeak A/T3W Best Value Load range SL to E, 55,000 mile treadwear warranty, 3D Canyon sipes |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S Best for All-Season Versatility Load range SL to E, 65,000 mile treadwear warranty, Snow Groove technology |
7.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2: Best Overall
The BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 is a benchmark in the all terrain category. In our evaluation, it consistently earns top marks for off-road traction and sidewall toughness. The 3-ply sidewall and CoreGard technology resist cuts and abrasions, making it a favorite for rocky trails and gravel roads. Owner feedback highlights its long tread life and reliable performance in snow, backed by the 3PMSF rating.
However, the KO2 is not without compromises. Some owners report increased road noise on pavement, especially as the tire wears. It is also heavier than some competitors, which may slightly reduce fuel economy. If you primarily drive on highways and prioritize a quiet ride, consider a more road-oriented all terrain. But for serious off-road use and durability, the KO2 is hard to beat.
- CoreGard technology for enhanced sidewall toughness
- Serrated shoulder design for extra traction in mud and snow
- Mud and snow rated with 3PMSF certification
Pros: Excellent off-road durability and puncture resistance; Confident handling on wet and snowy roads
Cons: Can be noisy on highway at higher speeds
2. Michelin Defender LTX M/S2: Best On-Road Comfort
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is the top choice for pickup owners who spend most of their time on paved roads but want occasional light off-road capability. We researched its Evertread compound and MaxTouch construction, which deliver exceptional tread life and even wear. Owner surveys consistently praise its quiet, smooth ride and confident wet weather performance. The 70,000 mile warranty is among the best in class.
That said, the Defender is not intended for serious off-roading. Its tread pattern is milder, and it lacks the aggressive sidewall lugs of more trail-focused tires. If you frequently drive through deep mud or over sharp rocks, you may want a more rugged option. For daily driving and light gravel roads, this tire offers unmatched comfort and longevity.
- MaxTouch construction for even wear and long life
- Silent tread pattern reduces road noise
- Excellent wet braking and hydroplaning resistance
Pros: Superior on-road ride comfort and low noise; Outstanding tread life warranty
Cons: Less aggressive off-road traction than dedicated all terrains
3. Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: Best for Snow and Ice
The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac is a favorite among owners who face harsh winter conditions. In our evaluation, its TredLock technology and aggressive siping provide superior grip on snow and ice compared to most all terrains. The self-cleaning tread design helps maintain traction in deep mud and slush. Owner feedback often highlights its confidence-inspiring performance in winter storms.
However, the Duratrac’s softer compound that gives it such great winter grip also leads to faster tread wear, especially on dry pavement. Some owners report noticeable road noise after moderate mileage. If you need a tire that can handle heavy snow but also want long tread life for year-round use, you might consider the KO2. But if winter traction is your top priority, the Duratrac is a strong contender.
- Biting edges and sipes for exceptional snow traction
- Self-cleaning tread pattern sheds mud and snow
- Reinforced sidewall for off-road protection
Pros: Excellent snow and ice grip, 3PMSF certified; Good off-road traction in mud and loose terrain
Cons: Tread life is shorter than some competitors
4. Toyo Open Country A/T III: Best Balanced Performance
The Toyo Open Country A/T III is a well-rounded all terrain tire that performs admirably in a variety of conditions. We compared its silica compound and tread design, which provide solid wet and dry traction while keeping road noise low. The stone ejectors are a thoughtful feature for gravel road users. Owner reviews note that it wears evenly and lasts close to its warranty mileage.
Where the A/T III falls short is in extreme off-road scenarios. Its tread is less aggressive than the KO2 or Duratrac, so it can struggle in deep mud or loose sand. If you regularly tackle challenging trails, you may want a more specialized tire. But for mixed driving that includes highway, light off-road, and rain, the Toyo is a dependable and quiet choice.
- Stone ejectors protect casing from debris
- Variable pitch tread reduces road noise
- Excellent wet traction with wide grooves
Pros: Good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability; Quiet for an all terrain tire
Cons: Not as aggressive in deep mud as some rivals
5. Nitto Ridge Grappler: Best Hybrid Design
The Nitto Ridge Grappler is a hybrid tire that bridges the gap between all terrain and mud terrain. In our evaluation, its staggered shoulder lugs and wide tread voids provide impressive grip in mud and loose dirt, while the variable pitch pattern helps keep noise lower than a full mud tire. Owner feedback often praises its aggressive styling and off-road traction.
However, the Ridge Grappler compromises on-road comfort and tread life. It is noticeably louder than most all terrains, and the softer compound wears faster, especially under heavy loads or aggressive driving. If you do not need extreme off-road traction and prioritize longevity and quiet, a conventional all terrain like the KO2 or Toyo A/T III would serve you better. But for those who want a rugged look and genuine off-road capability without going full mud tire, the Ridge Grappler is a solid option.
- Hybrid tread combines mud-terrain and all-terrain features
- Staggered shoulder lugs for traction in soft terrain
- Variable pitch pattern for noise reduction
Pros: Aggressive off-road look and capability; Better road manners than full mud tires
Cons: Tread life is shorter than traditional all terrains
6. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: Best Value
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is a budget-friendly all terrain that punches above its price point. We researched its 3D Canyon sipes and heat diffuser technology, which contribute to solid wet and snow traction. Owner reviews frequently highlight its long tread life and quiet ride for an all terrain tire. The 55,000 mile warranty adds reassurance.
That said, the Wildpeak’s sidewall is not as tough as the KO2’s, so it is more susceptible to cuts and punctures in severe off-road conditions. It also lacks the same level of grip in deep mud. If you are a weekend off-roader who occasionally hits gravel and dirt, the Wildpeak offers great value. But if you frequently tackle sharp rocks or deep ruts, you may want to invest in a more rugged tire.
- Heat diffuser technology reduces heat buildup
- Deep sipes and grooves for snow and rain
- Rugged sidewall protects against cuts
Pros: Excellent value for the performance offered; Good all-season traction including light snow
Cons: Not as durable on rocky trails as premium options
7. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S: Best for All-Season Versatility
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is designed for drivers who want a tire that can handle all four seasons with minimal compromise. In our evaluation, its Snow Groove technology and silica compound deliver capable winter traction, and the adaptive tread pattern keeps noise low on the highway. Owner feedback often mentions its even wear and long lifespan, backed by a 65,000 mile warranty.
However, the AT3 4S is not meant for serious off-roading. Its tread is less aggressive, and it struggles in deep mud or loose sand. If your idea of off-roading is a gravel driveway or a well-maintained dirt road, this tire will serve you well. But if you need to tackle challenging trails, you should look at the KO2 or Duratrac. The AT3 4S is a solid all-season tire that prioritizes road comfort and longevity over off-road capability.
- Snow Groove technology for enhanced winter traction
- Staggered shoulder elements for off-road grip
- Low road noise with adaptive tread pattern
Pros: Long tread life warranty; Decent light off-road performance
Cons: Off-road traction lags behind more aggressive tires
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between all terrain and mud terrain tires?
All terrain tires are designed for a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability, with moderate tread patterns that work well on pavement, gravel, and light trails. Mud terrain tires have much deeper, more aggressive treads with large voids for maximum traction in mud and loose soil, but they are louder, less comfortable on road, and wear faster. All terrain tires are better for daily drivers who occasionally go off-road, while mud tires are for serious off-road enthusiasts.
How long do all terrain pickup tires typically last?
Tread life varies by tire model and driving conditions. Most all terrain tires come with treadwear warranties ranging from 45,000 to 70,000 miles. In real-world use, factors like tire pressure, vehicle weight, road surfaces, and driving style can significantly affect longevity. Aggressive off-roading and heavy loads will reduce tread life. Regular rotation and proper inflation help maximize mileage.
Are all terrain tires good in snow?
Many all terrain tires are rated for severe snow service, indicated by the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. These tires have special tread compounds and siping that improve traction on snow and ice. However, not all all terrain tires carry this rating. If you drive in heavy snow, look for 3PMSF certified models like the BFGoodrich KO2 or Goodyear Duratrac for the best winter performance.
Can I use all terrain tires on a truck that tows or hauls heavy loads?
Yes, many all terrain tires are available in higher load ranges (C, D, E) and are designed to handle heavy loads. It is important to select a tire with a load rating that matches your vehicle’s requirements. Tires like the BFGoodrich KO2 and Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 offer strong load-carrying capacity. Always check the tire’s load index and inflation pressure for towing or hauling.
Do all terrain tires affect fuel economy?
All terrain tires typically have higher rolling resistance than highway tires due to their aggressive tread and heavier construction, which can reduce fuel economy by 1-3 mpg. The difference is more noticeable at highway speeds. Lighter, more road-oriented all terrains like the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 have less impact on fuel economy, while heavier, more aggressive tires like the Nitto Ridge Grappler may cause a larger drop.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top all terrain pickup tires, the BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 stands out as the best overall for its exceptional off-road durability, snow traction, and long tread life. For those who prioritize on-road comfort and highway driving, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is an excellent runner up with its quiet ride and outstanding treadwear warranty. Choose based on your primary driving environment and off-road needs.
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