We researched and compared the top 255/65R17 all terrain tires on the market. Our evaluation is based on manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. We focused on on-road comfort, off-road traction, tread life, and winter performance to help you choose the right tire for your truck or SUV.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 Best Overall Load Range E, 50,000 mile treadwear warranty |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Michelin Defender LTX M/S Best On-Road 70,000 mile treadwear warranty, T speed rating |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Falken Wildpeak A/T3W Best Value 55,000 mile treadwear warranty, 3D Canyon sipe technology |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Best for Snow Tractive Groove Technology, severe snow service rated (3PMSF) |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Toyo Open Country A/T III Premium All-Terrain 65,000 mile treadwear warranty, Silent Wall technology |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S Balanced Performer 65,000 mile treadwear warranty, Snow Grooves for winter traction |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Nitto Ridge Grappler Hybrid Off-Road Variable pitch tread pattern, dual sidewall design |
7.3 | 🛒 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. We researched its CoreGard sidewall construction, which is designed to resist impacts from rocks and debris. Owner feedback consistently praises its longevity and ability to handle mud, gravel, and snow. On pavement, it delivers stable handling and decent noise levels for an aggressive tire.
However, the KO2 is a heavy tire, which can slightly reduce fuel economy and on-road ride comfort compared to lighter all-terrains. It also comes at a premium price. If you prioritize maximum off-road toughness and long tread life, this tire is a top choice. But if you spend mostly on highways and want a quieter, lighter tire, consider the Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
- CoreGard technology for enhanced sidewall toughness
- 3D sipes for improved snow traction
- Serrated shoulder design for off-road grip
Pros: Excellent off-road durability and puncture resistance; Long tread life with solid warranty
Cons: Heavier than some competitors, may affect fuel economy
2. Michelin Defender LTX M/S: Best On-Road
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is the tire to beat for on-road performance. We compared its Evertread compound and MaxTouch construction, which owner feedback confirms delivers exceptional mileage often exceeding the 70,000-mile warranty. It provides a quiet, smooth ride with confident wet and dry braking.
That said, this is a highway all-season tire, not a true off-road performer. It lacks aggressive tread for mud or rocks, and its sidewall is not reinforced for off-road impacts. If you rarely leave pavement and prioritize comfort and longevity, this is an outstanding choice. But if you need off-road capability, look at the BFGoodrich or Falken.
- Evertread compound for long tread life
- Comfort Control technology for a quiet ride
- MaxTouch construction for even wear
Pros: Class-leading tread life and highway comfort; Excellent wet traction and low road noise
Cons: Not designed for serious off-road use
3. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: Best Value
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W offers a strong balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability at a more accessible price point. We researched its 3D Canyon sipes and silica compound, which owner feedback highlights as effective in rain and light snow. It handles gravel, dirt, and moderate trails well.
One trade-off is steering response: it feels a bit softer than the KO2 or Defender. Also, while durable, the sidewall is not as tough as some heavy-duty options. This tire is ideal for drivers who want a capable all-terrain for mixed use without breaking the bank. If you need maximum off-road toughness, the KO2 is a better choice.
- Silica tread compound for wet and winter traction
- Heat diffuser technology to reduce heat buildup
- Deep sipes and stepped shoulder for off-road grip
Pros: Great all-around traction on and off road; Competitive price with good treadwear warranty
Cons: Slightly less precise steering feel than premium rivals
4. Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: Best for Snow
The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac is a favorite among winter warriors. We evaluated its Tractive Groove Technology and severe snow service rating, which owner feedback confirms delivers impressive grip in deep snow and on ice. It also performs well off-road in mud and loose terrain.
However, the aggressive tread pattern leads to more road noise and a slightly harsher ride on pavement compared to more road-oriented tires. Tread life is also average. This tire is best for those who frequently drive in snowy conditions and want a dedicated winter-capable all-terrain. If you prioritize a quiet highway ride, consider the Michelin Defender.
- Biting edges for snow and ice traction
- Self-cleaning shoulder blocks for mud
- Reinforced sidewall for off-road durability
Pros: Exceptional snow and ice traction with 3PMSF rating; Good off-road performance in mud and rocks
Cons: Road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds
5. Toyo Open Country A/T III: Premium All-Terrain
The Toyo Open Country A/T III combines a refined on-road demeanor with genuine off-road ability. We researched its Silent Wall technology and stone ejectors, which owner feedback notes contribute to a quiet ride and resistance to stone retention. It offers a good balance of wet, dry, and light off-road traction.
While the tread life is commendable, the sidewall is not as robust as the KO2 or Duratrac for extreme off-road conditions. This tire is ideal for drivers who spend most of their time on pavement but want occasional off-road capability without sacrificing comfort. If you need heavy-duty off-road toughness, the KO2 is more suitable.
- Stone ejectors to prevent stone drilling
- Tapered tread blocks for even wear
- High void ratio for off-road traction
Pros: Quiet and comfortable for an all-terrain; Long tread life with good warranty
Cons: Less aggressive sidewall than some competitors
6. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S: Balanced Performer
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a solid all-around all-terrain tire for light to moderate use. We compared its Snow Grooves and adaptive compound, which owner feedback indicates provide reliable performance in rain and light snow. It rides comfortably on pavement with modest noise levels.
However, in serious off-road conditions like deep mud or rock crawling, it falls short of more aggressive designs. Tread life is also average relative to premium options. This tire is a good choice for budget-conscious buyers who need a capable all-terrain for mixed driving but don’t require extreme off-road prowess. For better off-road performance, consider the Falken or BFGoodrich.
- Adaptive tread compound for all-season traction
- Whisper Grooves for reduced road noise
- Staggered shoulder lugs for off-road grip
Pros: Good all-season traction with 3PMSF rating; Reasonable price point
Cons: Off-road capability is limited compared to more aggressive tires
7. Nitto Ridge Grappler: Hybrid Off-Road
The Nitto Ridge Grappler is a hybrid tire that blends mud-terrain aggression with all-terrain versatility. We evaluated its dual sidewall and variable pitch tread, which owner feedback confirms delivers strong off-road traction in mud, sand, and rocks. It also looks aggressive, appealing to those who want a rugged stance.
However, the compromise is on-road refinement: it generates more noise and a firmer ride than standard all-terrains. Tread wear is also faster, especially under heavy loads or aggressive driving. This tire is best for off-road enthusiasts who prioritize trail performance and style over highway comfort. If you spend most of your time on pavement, the Toyo or Michelin would be better choices.
- Hybrid tread combines mud-terrain and all-terrain elements
- Stone ejectors to prevent stone drilling
- Reinforced shoulder for off-road durability
Pros: Aggressive off-road appearance and traction; Good in mud and rocky terrain
Cons: Noticeable road noise and reduced ride comfort; Tread life is shorter than many all-terrains
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 255/65R17 mean?
The numbers indicate tire size: 255 is the width in millimeters, 65 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height is 65% of width), and R17 means it fits a 17-inch rim. This size is common on midsize SUVs and light trucks.
Can I use all-terrain tires in snow?
Many all-terrain tires carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, meaning they meet severe snow service standards. Tires like the Goodyear Duratrac and Falken Wildpeak are good for snow. However, dedicated winter tires still offer superior ice traction.
How long do all-terrain tires typically last?
Tread life varies by design and driving conditions. Highway-biased all-terrains like the Michelin Defender LTX M/S can last 70,000 miles or more, while aggressive hybrids like the Nitto Ridge Grappler may only last 40,000-50,000 miles. Proper rotation and inflation help maximize life.
Are all-terrain tires louder than highway tires?
Generally, yes. Aggressive tread patterns generate more road noise. However, some all-terrains like the Toyo Open Country A/T III and Michelin Defender LTX M/S are designed to be quiet. If noise is a concern, look for tires with noise-reducing features.
What is the best all-terrain tire for fuel economy?
Lighter, highway-oriented all-terrains tend to have less rolling resistance and better fuel economy. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is a top choice for efficiency. Heavier, more aggressive tires like the BFGoodrich KO2 can reduce MPG by 1-2.
Our Verdict
After researching specifications, industry standards, and owner feedback, our top pick is the BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 for its unmatched off-road durability and long tread life. For those who prioritize on-road comfort and longevity, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S is an excellent runner-up. Choose based on your primary driving environment.
