Finding the best big tires for 17 inch rims requires balancing size, load capacity, and tread design. We researched manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback to evaluate the top options. Our comparison focuses on tires that offer a larger diameter or wider footprint while maintaining safety and durability for trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Best Overall Off-Road LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Nitto Ridge Grappler Best Hybrid Tread LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Toyo Open Country A/T III Best All-Rounder LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Best for Snow LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Cooper Discoverer STT Pro Best Extreme Off-Road LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Firestone Destination X/T Best Value Hybrid LT285/70R17, 33-inch diameter, 10-ply rating |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Michelin Defender LTX M/S Best Highway Tire LT265/70R17, 31.6-inch diameter, E load range |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: Best Overall Off-Road
In our evaluation, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 stands out as the best big tire for 17 inch rims for off-road enthusiasts. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, it offers exceptional sidewall strength and rock-deflection capabilities. The 10-ply rating ensures it can handle heavy loads and rough trails without compromising safety. We found that its tread compound and pattern provide reliable grip on loose surfaces while maintaining decent on-road manners.
However, this tire is not ideal for those who prioritize a quiet highway ride or maximum fuel efficiency. Its aggressive tread and heavy construction create noticeable road noise at higher speeds. If your driving is mostly on pavement, consider a less aggressive all-season tire. The KO2 is best for truck and SUV owners who frequently venture off-road and need a tire that can withstand abuse.
- CoreGard technology for sidewall toughness in rocky terrain.
- Serrated shoulder design for enhanced traction in mud and snow.
- 3D sipes improve wet braking and snow handling.
Pros: Excellent off-road durability and puncture resistance.; Long tread life with 50,000-mile warranty.
Cons: Heavier than some competitors; can affect fuel economy.
2. Nitto Ridge Grappler: Best Hybrid Tread
We researched the Nitto Ridge Grappler as a hybrid option that bridges the gap between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. Based on aggregated owner feedback, it offers impressive off-road grip while maintaining a relatively quiet ride on the highway. The variable pitch tread pattern helps reduce drone, making it more comfortable for daily driving. In our comparison, its sidewall design also provides good protection against cuts and abrasions.
That said, the Ridge Grappler’s tread compound is softer, which can lead to faster wear on pavement compared to harder all-terrain tires. If you primarily drive on highways and want maximum mileage, a dedicated all-terrain like the KO2 may serve you better. This tire is best for those who want a balance of off-road capability and on-road comfort without going full mud-terrain.
- Hybrid tread design combines mud-terrain and all-terrain features.
- Variable pitch tread pattern reduces road noise on highways.
- Stone ejectors prevent stone retention in tread grooves.
Pros: Quieter than most mud-terrain tires on pavement.; Excellent traction in mud and snow.
Cons: Tread life is shorter than dedicated all-terrain tires.
3. Toyo Open Country A/T III: Best All-Rounder
Our research indicates the Toyo Open Country A/T III is a top choice for drivers who need a big tire for 17 inch rims that performs well in diverse conditions. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, it excels in wet and snowy conditions thanks to its advanced sipe design. The Silent Wall technology significantly reduces road noise, making it one of the quietest all-terrain tires we evaluated. Its load capacity and durability are solid for light trucks and SUVs.
However, in extreme off-road situations like thick mud or rock crawling, the A/T III falls short compared to more aggressive mud-terrain tires. If you frequently tackle deep mud or rocky trails, consider a tire with a more aggressive tread. This tire is best for daily drivers who occasionally venture off-road and prioritize a quiet, comfortable ride.
- Silent Wall technology reduces road noise for a quiet cabin.
- Deep sipes and grooves for excellent wet traction.
- Stone and mud ejectors to keep tread clean.
Pros: Very quiet and comfortable on the highway.; Strong wet and snow performance.
Cons: Not as aggressive in deep mud as dedicated mud-terrains.
4. Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: Best for Snow
We compared the Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac as a top performer in snowy conditions. Based on owner feedback and its 3PMSF rating, it provides exceptional grip on packed snow and ice. The Tractive Groove Technology helps channel snow and slush out of the tread. In our evaluation, its Durawall sidewall adds durability for off-road use, making it a adaptable tire for winter and light off-roading.
That said, the Duratrac is louder than many all-terrain tires on dry pavement, which may be a concern for daily drivers. Its tread life is also average compared to competitors. If you live in a region with heavy snow and need a tire that can handle both winter roads and occasional trails, this is a solid choice. For mostly dry highway driving, a quieter all-terrain may be preferable.
- Tractive Groove Technology for enhanced snow traction.
- Durawall technology for sidewall protection.
- Severe snow service rated with 3PMSF symbol.
Pros: Excellent snow and ice traction.; Good off-road capability in mud and gravel.
Cons: Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds.
5. Cooper Discoverer STT Pro: Best Extreme Off-Road
In our evaluation, the Cooper Discoverer STT Pro is a dedicated mud-terrain tire for those who demand extreme off-road performance. Based on the spec sheets and owner feedback, its Armor-Tek3 construction provides outstanding puncture resistance, and the aggressive tread digs deep in mud. We found that it performs well in rock crawling and loose dirt, making it a favorite among serious off-roaders.
However, this tire is not suitable for daily highway driving due to significant road noise and harsh ride quality. Tread life is also shorter than all-terrain options. If you primarily drive on pavement, skip this tire. It is best for off-road enthusiasts who have a dedicated trail vehicle and prioritize traction over comfort.
- Armor-Tek3 construction for enhanced puncture resistance.
- Deep, aggressive tread lugs for maximum traction in mud and rocks.
- Stone block technology to prevent stone drilling.
Pros: Exceptional traction in deep mud and rocky terrain.; Very durable sidewalls resist cuts and abrasions.
Cons: Rough and noisy ride on pavement.
6. Firestone Destination X/T: Best Value Hybrid
We researched the Firestone Destination X/T as a budget-friendly hybrid tire for 17 inch rims. Based on owner feedback, it offers a reasonable balance between on-road civility and off-road capability. The tread pattern is less aggressive than dedicated mud-terrains, which helps keep road noise down. In our comparison, its value stands out for those who want a bigger tire without breaking the bank.
However, in demanding off-road conditions like deep mud or rock crawling, the Destination X/T does not perform as well as pricier options. Its tread life is also average. If you need a tire for occasional light off-roading and want to save money, this is a viable choice. For heavy off-road use, invest in a more capable tire.
- Hybrid tread for on-road comfort and off-road traction.
- Traction grooves and sipes for wet performance.
- Reinforced sidewalls for durability.
Pros: Good value for a hybrid tire.; Decent on-road comfort for a mud-terrain style.
Cons: Off-road traction lags behind premium competitors.
7. Michelin Defender LTX M/S: Best Highway Tire
We evaluated the Michelin Defender LTX M/S for those who want a big tire primarily for highway use. Based on the spec sheets and owner feedback, it offers outstanding longevity and a smooth, quiet ride. The MaxTouch technology helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing irregular wear. In our comparison, it provides excellent wet traction and stability, making it a safe choice for road trips and daily commuting.
However, this tire is not designed for off-road use. Its tread is not aggressive enough for mud, snow, or gravel, and it lacks the sidewall protection needed for trails. If you need a tire for off-road adventures, look elsewhere. This tire is best for truck and SUV owners who stay on paved roads and prioritize tread life and comfort.
- MaxTouch construction for even wear and long tread life.
- EverTread compound for durability.
- Excellent wet and dry braking performance.
Pros: Exceptional tread life and fuel efficiency.; Very quiet and comfortable ride.
Cons: Limited off-road capability; not for mud or rocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a big tire for 17 inch rims?
A big tire for 17 inch rims typically has a larger diameter (32 inches or more) and/or a wider section width (e.g., 285 mm or more) than standard tires. Common sizes include 285/70R17 (33 inches) and 315/70R17 (34 inches). Always check your vehicle’s clearance and load capacity before upsizing.
Can I put 33-inch tires on 17 inch rims without a lift?
It depends on your vehicle. Many trucks and SUVs can fit 33-inch tires (e.g., 285/70R17) on 17 inch rims with minimal or no lift, but you may need to trim plastic or adjust the suspension. We recommend consulting your vehicle’s specifications and owner forums for fitment guidance.
What is the difference between LT and P metric tires for 17 inch rims?
LT (Light Truck) tires have higher load capacity and stronger sidewalls than P (Passenger) metric tires. For big tires on trucks and SUVs, LT tires are recommended for safety and durability, especially when carrying heavy loads or off-roading.
How do I choose between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires?
All-terrain tires offer a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability, while mud-terrain tires provide maximum traction in mud and rocks but are noisier and wear faster on pavement. Choose based on your primary driving environment. If you drive mostly on roads, go with all-terrain; for serious off-roading, consider mud-terrain.
Will bigger tires affect my speedometer accuracy?
Yes, larger tires can cause your speedometer to read slower than actual speed. For example, going from a 31-inch to a 33-inch tire may result in a 3-5% error. Many modern vehicles can be recalibrated by a dealer or with a programmer to correct the reading.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the best big tires for 17 inch rims, our top pick is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 for its outstanding off-road durability and all-around performance. The runner up is the Nitto Ridge Grappler, which offers a great hybrid tread for those who want off-road capability with less noise. Always verify fitment and load requirements for your specific vehicle.
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