We researched and compared the top 255/80R17 tires on the market, evaluating manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. This guide covers all-terrain, mud-terrain, and highway-terrain options for trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles. Our evaluation focuses on performance, durability, value, ease of installation, and safety to help you choose the best tire for your driving needs.
Note that 255/80R17 is a common size for heavy-duty trucks and off-road rigs, offering a tall sidewall for better ground clearance and load capacity. We selected seven real products available on Amazon, each with distinct strengths and weaknesses.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Best Overall All-Terrain Load Range E, 50,000-mile treadwear warranty |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Nitto Ridge Grappler Best Hybrid Terrain Load Range E, dual sidewall design |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Best for Snow and Ice Load Range E, Tractive Groove Technology |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Toyo Open Country A/T III Best Balanced All-Terrain Load Range E, 50,000-mile treadwear warranty |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Firestone Destination M/T2 Best Mud-Terrain Value Load Range E, 3-ply sidewall |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Cooper Discoverer STT Pro Best for Extreme Off-Road Load Range E, Armor-Tek3 construction |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
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Michelin Defender LTX M/S Best Highway Tire Load Range E, 70,000-mile treadwear warranty |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: Best Overall All-Terrain
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a top performer in our research, consistently praised by owners for its durability and off-road capability. Its CoreGard technology enhances sidewall strength against cuts and punctures, making it a favorite for rock crawling and gravel roads. The 3D sipes provide reliable grip on wet pavement and light snow, earning the 3PMSF symbol for severe snow service. Based on spec sheets, the 50,000-mile treadwear warranty reflects confidence in longevity.
However, the KO2 generates more road noise than highway-terrain tires, which may be a concern for daily drivers who prioritize cabin comfort. It also carries a higher price point, though many owners consider it a worthwhile investment. Skip this if you primarily drive on paved roads and want a quieter ride.
- CoreGard technology for tough sidewall protection
- 3D sipes for improved traction on wet and snow-covered roads
- Severe snow service rated (3PMSF)
Pros: Excellent off-road traction and chip resistance; Long tread life with even wear
Cons: Noticeable road noise at highway speeds
2. Nitto Ridge Grappler: Best Hybrid Terrain
The Nitto Ridge Grappler is a hybrid tire that combines the aggressive tread of a mud-terrain with the on-road comfort of an all-terrain. In our evaluation, owner feedback highlights its strong performance in mud and rocky terrain, thanks to the deep tread blocks and stone ejectors. The variable pitch design helps reduce noise, making it quieter than many mud-terrain tires. Specs show a dual sidewall pattern for customization and enhanced durability.
On the downside, the Ridge Grappler’s tread life is generally shorter than dedicated all-terrain tires, and some owners report faster wear on pavement. It is also heavier, which can slightly impact fuel economy. Skip this if you need a tire that lasts beyond 40,000 miles or if you rarely go off-road.
- Hybrid tread pattern blends all-terrain and mud-terrain features
- Variable pitch tread blocks reduce road noise
- Stone ejectors prevent stone retention
Pros: Aggressive off-road look with decent on-road manners; Good traction in mud and loose soil
Cons: Tread life is shorter than some all-terrain competitors
3. Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac: Best for Snow and Ice
The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac is a standout for snow and ice, earning the 3PMSF rating and strong owner reviews for winter driving. Its Tractive Groove Technology and self-cleaning shoulder blocks provide reliable traction in deep snow and slush. Based on manufacturer specs, it also performs well off-road in mud and sand. Many owners use it year-round in snowy regions.
However, the Duratrac is not as durable on rocky trails as some competitors, with some reports of sidewall punctures. It also generates more road noise than typical all-terrain tires, especially as the tread wears. Skip this if you rarely encounter snow or if you prioritize a quiet highway ride.
- Severe snow service rated (3PMSF) with excellent ice traction
- Tractive Groove Technology for enhanced grip in deep snow
- Self-cleaning shoulder blocks for mud and snow
Pros: Outstanding winter performance compared to all-terrain tires; Good off-road traction in loose conditions
Cons: Road noise is moderate and increases with wear
4. Toyo Open Country A/T III: Best Balanced All-Terrain
The Toyo Open Country A/T III is a well-rounded all-terrain tire that prioritizes on-road comfort without sacrificing off-road capability. In our research, owners appreciate its low noise levels and smooth ride, thanks to Silent Wall technology. The 50,000-mile treadwear warranty and even wear patterns suggest good longevity. Specs indicate reliable wet and snow traction from the 3D sipes.
Where it falls short is in aggressive off-road situations: deep mud and rocky trails can overwhelm its tread design. Some owners note that sidewall protection is not as robust as the KO2. Skip this if you frequently tackle hardcore off-road trails or need maximum traction in deep mud.
- Silent Wall technology reduces road noise
- Stone and mud ejectors for off-road protection
- 3D sipe design for wet and snow traction
Pros: Quiet and comfortable on pavement; Long tread life with even wear
Cons: Off-road traction is adequate but not class-leading
5. Firestone Destination M/T2: Best Mud-Terrain Value
The Firestone Destination M/T2 is a budget-friendly mud-terrain tire that delivers impressive off-road performance. Its deep tread and 3-ply sidewall provide good protection in rocky and muddy conditions, based on owner feedback and manufacturer specs. The stone bumpers help prevent stone retention, a common issue with mud tires. For the price, it offers solid value for off-road enthusiasts.
However, the M/T2 is loud and rough on pavement, making it less suitable for daily driving. Tread life is also shorter than all-terrain options, and some owners report uneven wear. Skip this if you spend most of your time on paved roads or want a tire that lasts beyond 30,000 miles.
- Deep, aggressive tread for extreme off-road traction
- 3-ply sidewall for puncture resistance
- Stone bumpers prevent stone drilling
Pros: Excellent grip in mud and loose terrain; Lower price point than many mud-terrain tires
Cons: Noticeable road noise and vibration on highway
6. Cooper Discoverer STT Pro: Best for Extreme Off-Road
The Cooper Discoverer STT Pro is built for extreme off-road conditions, with Armor-Tek3 three-ply sidewall and aggressive tread that excel in mud and rock crawling. Owner feedback highlights its self-cleaning ability and puncture resistance, making it a favorite for hardcore off-roaders. Manufacturer specs confirm its heavy-duty construction.
On the road, the STT Pro is noisy, harsh, and wears quickly on pavement. It also comes at a premium price. Skip this if you do not regularly tackle severe off-road trails or if you need a tire that performs well on highways.
- Armor-Tek3 three-ply sidewall for extreme durability
- Mud-Hook technology for self-cleaning in deep mud
- Stone block technology prevents stone drilling
Pros: Exceptional traction in deep mud and rock crawling; Very durable sidewall for off-road protection
Cons: Poor on-road manners: loud and stiff ride
7. Michelin Defender LTX M/S: Best Highway Tire
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is a highway-terrain tire designed for long-lasting performance on paved roads. Its 70,000-mile treadwear warranty is the highest in our research, and owner feedback confirms excellent longevity. The Comfort Control technology provides a quiet, smooth ride, and wet braking is top-notch according to spec sheets.
However, this tire is not intended for off-road use. It lacks aggressive tread and sidewall protection, making it unsuitable for gravel, mud, or snow beyond light conditions. Skip this if you need any off-road capability or if you drive on unpaved roads regularly.
- MaxTouch Construction for even wear and long life
- Comfort Control technology for a quiet ride
- Excellent wet braking and handling
Pros: Longest tread life in this size; Very quiet and comfortable on highway
Cons: Limited off-road capability; not for dirt or mud
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 255/80R17 mean?
255/80R17 is a tire size where 255 is the section width in millimeters, 80 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height is 80% of width), and R17 means radial construction with a 17-inch wheel diameter. This size is common on heavy-duty trucks and SUVs, offering a tall sidewall for load capacity and off-road clearance.
Can I use 255/80R17 tires on a stock vehicle?
It depends on your vehicle’s clearance and suspension. Many trucks and SUVs with a 17-inch wheel can fit this size, but it is taller than stock tires for some models. Check your owner’s manual or consult a professional to ensure no rubbing occurs, especially when turning or off-roading.
What is the best 255/80R17 tire for snow?
The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac is our top pick for snow, as it is severe snow service rated (3PMSF) and offers excellent traction on ice and packed snow. The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 also has the 3PMSF rating and performs well in light to moderate snow.
How long do 255/80R17 tires typically last?
Tread life varies by tire type and driving conditions. Highway-terrain tires like the Michelin Defender LTX M/S can last up to 70,000 miles, while mud-terrain tires like the Firestone Destination M/T2 may last only 30,000-40,000 miles. All-terrain tires generally fall in between, around 50,000 miles.
Are 255/80R17 tires good for off-road?
Yes, this size is popular for off-road due to its tall sidewall, which provides better ground clearance and absorbs impacts. Mud-terrain and all-terrain options like the Cooper Discoverer STT Pro and BFGoodrich KO2 are excellent choices for off-road use.
Our Verdict
After researching specs and owner feedback, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is our top pick for its balanced off-road and on-road performance, durability, and 3PMSF snow rating. For those who prioritize a quiet highway ride and long tread life, the Toyo Open Country A/T III is a strong runner up.
