Top 10 Best 35-inch Tires, Tested and Reviewed

Are you looking to enhance your vehicle's off-road abilities? Then, apart from meddling with the suspension, you will need a new set of off-road-capable tires.

Preferably, these tires should come in larger sizes, with tall sidewalls and wide footprints, aiming to give you the highest possible traction when driving off the beaten track. In other words, you will need flotation-sized tires, such as 31-inch, 33-inch, 35-inch, 37-inch, 39-inch, or 41-inch tires.

In this article, I will focus on 35-inch tires because they offer the best middle ground between sensational off-road capability and usable daily-driving dynamics. But I will go even deeper than others and give you both all-terrain and mud-terrain (maximum traction off-road) tires since different people have different needs.

In my list, I will only include tires that were proven on various trails across the world but also ones that I tried and tested. By choosing one of the tires below, I am confident that you will be happy with the purchase. Just make sure that you carefully read the reviews and pros/cons, so you can select a tire that best fits your needs.

So, without further ado, let's unravel the best 35-inch tires for trucks and SUVs on the market, and has been tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best 35-inch All-Terrain Tires

1. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W

The Wildpeak A/T3W is one of the most well-rounded all-terrain tires, mainly thanks to its 3PMSF rating. This means that the tire was tested for additional longitudinal traction on snow (acceleration and braking) when compared to a regular M+S tire, which in theory, should make it a better overall winter tire.

Now, the test doesn't measure the tire's lateral grip or the way it behaves on snow, but Falken's latest all-terrain tire aces those tests, too. I was really impressed with how this tire handled snowy conditions. Sure, it is not too uncommon for an all-terrain tire to perform well on unpacked snow – the type you encounter when off-roading, but the Wildpeak A/T3W also performs well on packed snow.

While its traction won't rival a winter tire anytime soon, the Wildpeak A/T3W has enough braking and acceleration power to keep you safe on snow-covered roads. Moreover, it feels very planted in the corners, with good handling balance and a strong grip.

Thanks to its large void area, the Wildpeak A/T3W also performs very well in slush, though it struggles on ice. Still, that is not a disadvantage by any stretch of the imagination, as every all-terrain tire is average on ice.

The aggressive tread pattern with deep grooves and large void area also brings some excellent off-road traction to the mix. The Wildpeak A/T3W is one of my favorite all-terrain tires for driving off the beaten track, as its cleverly designed tread pattern provides good traction on dirt, gravel, shallow mud, and even over large rocks. That is particularly true for the 35-inch sizes, which provide additional traction over very large rocks and sand.

Thus, for most people, the Wildpeak A/T3W is all they would ever need from an off-road tire, and perhaps a bit more than that. Of course, a real maximum traction off-road tire will be better, but then you would lose in other areas, particularly in the on-road grip.

The Wildpeak A/T3W is quite good on paved roads, with high lateral grip, good braking, and strong acceleration. It also feels surefooted in the corners, though it is ultimately not a good driver's tire.

Namely, the steering feels sluggish and nonlinear, almost like a true off-road tire or perhaps the all-terrain tires of yore. It is not particularly engaging, but I know that some truck/SUV drivers actually like their vehicles to feel like they are harder, i.e., more manly to drive.

Despite that type of behavior, though, the Wildpeak A/T3W is a very safe tire. It also works well in rainy conditions, where it provides the driver with short stopping distances, good lateral grip, and stable cornering. The hydroplaning resistance is also very good, though that is to be expected considering the large and deep grooves on the tire.

What surprised me the most when I tried the Wildpeak A/T3W, though, was how quiet it is. Tires with such aggressive tread patterns don't have the right to be that quiet – or at least, that is what I thought. Sure, the Wildpeak A/T3W produces some noise, but as far as all-terrain tires go, it is silent. Moreover, the ride is very smooth, even when driving on bad roads with repetitive impacts.

Finally, the Wildpeak A/T3W comes with a 55,000-mile treadwear warranty, which is one of the best of any all-terrain tire with such an aggressive tread pattern. Also, owners are very satisfied with the real-world treadlife, meaning you should get at least three years from a set of these tires.

Pros:

• Displays robust grip on compacted terrains such as dirt and gravel
• Provides satisfactory traction on muddy and rocky terrains
• Exhibits top-tier performance on sandy terrains, particularly in flotation sizes
• Exudes robust performance on dry pavement, especially lateral grip
• Presents strong handling and braking in wet conditions
• Displays effective braking and balanced handling on snow-draped roads
• Provides a comfortable ride with minimal cabin disturbance
• Boasts rugged construction and commendable tread life

Cons:

• The performance on paved roads feels a bit sluggish, harkening to its off-road roots

2. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2

BFGoodrich's All-Terrain T/A KO2 stands as the beacon of excellence within the realm of all-terrain tires, drawing a wealth of technology from BFGoodrich's ventures in iconic racing series such as Baja and Dakar Rally.

However, the allure of the All-Terrain T/A KO2 extends far beyond its ability to conquer off-road conditions; it is the tire's balanced performance on and off the road that truly sets it apart.

When on the tarmac, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 may face stiff competition from newer rivals, but it certainly holds its own. On dry roads, it exhibits admirable performance with responsive steering, solid braking, and commendable lateral grip. A long haul on the highway? No problem – the tire provides excellent stability, even when towing a hefty load.

Admittedly, wet conditions could reveal a few shortcomings with the All-Terrain T/A KO2. Traction is a bit diminished on wet roads, leading to longer braking distances and a less sticky grip around corners. However, for those with their sights set on a superior off-road tire, this mild compromise is often anticipated.

One should not disregard the All-Terrain T/A KO2 when it comes to winter conditions, either. It performs quite admirably on both packed and unpacked snow, making it versatile for public road use and winter off-roading. However, caution is advised on icy surfaces, as the tire could use some extra biting edges for optimal traction.

Venturing off-road is where the All-Terrain T/A KO2 truly shines. Whether it's dirt, gravel, or sand, the tire delivers remarkable performance, almost unparalleled in the industry. The tire's stiff construction and aggressive tread design lend it remarkable agility, making your SUV feel right at home on a gravel rally stage.

Plus, the robust casing provides excellent resistance against punctures and cuts - a vital attribute for demanding terrains. On the sand, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 delivers convincing performance when deflated, and it even manages to negotiate mud and large rocks, particularly when combined with beadlock wheels.

As for comfort, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 provides a ride quality that isn't overly harsh, despite its off-road emphasis. That said, it is essential to consider noise levels, especially on highways, where the tire tends to be on the louder side.

BFGoodrich's confidence in its product is backed up by a generous 50,000-mile treadwear warranty for the All-Terrain T/A KO2 - a testament to its longevity and durability. The All-Terrain T/A KO2 is not just an off-road tire; it's an all-terrain warrior that adapts and excels, no matter the landscape.

Pros:

• Exhibits superb durability and control on compacted surfaces
• Showcases commendable traction in muddy conditions, a standout in its category
• Flotation-sized variations display superior off-road capabilities, notably on sandy terrains
• Solid handling and grip on dry surfaces
• Exudes responsive steering and unwavering traction on dry tarmac
• Performs admirably on both compacted and loose snow
• Comes with a generous treadwear warranty

Cons:

• Its grip in wet conditions falls a bit short compared to contemporary competitors
• Generates noticeable noise at high velocities compared to newer entrants

3. Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T

Mickey Thompson is a tiremaker that specializes in producing all-terrain and off-road tires built with precision and quality materials. Its most popular all-terrain tire, the Baja Boss A/T, is one of my favorite models in its category when it comes to off-road traction – it even competes with some maximum traction off-road tires.

For instance, this is one of the few all-terrain tires that really works in mud. It aces shallow mud with ease, providing you with excellent acceleration traction and solid lateral grip, but thanks to its large tread blocks, it can even dig into deeper mud. Of course, it won't replace a proper off-road tire in the most demanding conditions, but for most people, it is more than good enough.

The off-road abilities of the Baja Boss A/T don't stop there, though. Large, 33-inch, 35-inch, and 37-inch sizes are also great for rock crawling, provided you deflate them a bit. The sharp and aggressive tread blocks will easily grab onto sharp rocks, giving you traction where few other all-terrain tires can.

The Baja in the name also suggests that this tire is great in the desert, and indeed, it is. It offers outstanding traction on hardpacked and sandy surfaces, and when deflated, it will even work in deeper sand. And if that wasn't impressive enough, the tread pattern provides excellent grip on dirt and gravel, while the strong construction with Mickey Thompson's Powerply XD that includes a heavier denier body cord keeps the tire safe from punctures and cuts.

So, the Baja Boss A/T is impressive in any off-road scenario, but how does it work on paved roads? Well, although it is not comparable to the class-leading all-terrain tires, the Baja Boss A/T is more than capable as a daily driver. In dry conditions, it provides solid braking and acceleration, average lateral grip, and balanced handling. Still, its steering leaves a lot to be desired, as it's not as quick or as linear as some of its rivals.

But the biggest weakness of the Baja Boss A/T is its rain traction. Thanks to the wide grooves, the tire has excellent hydroplaning resistance, but in terms of braking and lateral grip, it lags behind the competition. It is not unsafe – there is still more than enough traction for regular driving, but push it hard, and the Baja Boss A/T will show its limitations.

That said, Mickey Thompson did a great job when it comes to snow traction. The Baja Boss A/T comes with a 3PMSF rating of 12.50" (315mm) and smaller width sizes, which means it was tested for higher longitudinal traction on snow than M+S tires. Indeed, the Baja Boss A/T stops and accelerates outstandingly well on packed snow – the type you encounter when driving on paved roads.

Furthermore, the tire behaves well in the corners, with good stability and solid grip. But its snow abilities don't end there – the Baja Boss A/T is also great for traversing snowy off-road trails, thanks to its excellent traction in unpacked snow. Overall, the tire performs impressively well during the winter months.

As for comfort, Mickey Thompson did a great job with the tread pattern – the Baja Boss A/T is a pretty quiet tire considering how aggressive it is. In addition, the ride isn't very uncomfortable, even when you go over bad roads with many sharp impacts.

Mickey Thompson provides a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty on LT-metric sizes, which includes 35-inch sizes. That is quite good for the category, as most other premium all-terrain tires also come with a similar warranty, especially models with aggressive tread patterns. Moreover, the Baja Boss A/T comes with a 60,000-mile warranty in Euro-metric sizes, which is one of the highest in the category.

Pros:

• Displays unparalleled traction and control on compacted surfaces
• Exhibits class-leading traction in muddy conditions
• Performs admirably on rocky terrains
• Displays solid traction over loose snow typically found off-road
• Provides balanced handling and solid braking on compacted snow
• Remarkably quiet for such an aggressive all-terrain tire
• Features robust construction and respectable tread life

Cons:

• Could benefit from improved road responsiveness
• Rain traction and braking fall within the average range
• Lateral grip in dry conditions could be improved

4. Toyo Open Country A/T III

Toyo's Open Country lineage of tires is fairly popular among owners of trucks and SUVs. It offers good overall performance at a lower price point than some premium truck/SUV tires, and the latest model, the Open Country A/T III, is the best example of what differentiates Toyo from its competitors.

For instance, although it is attractively priced, the Open Country A/T III comes with a class-leading 65,000-mile treadwear warranty on Euro-metric sizes and a still very respectable warranty of 50,000 miles for LT-metric sizes, including 35-inch tires. Owners are also very satisfied with the real-world treadlife of the tire, meaning you should get at least three years of carefree driving.

But the durability of the Open Country A/T III extends beyond the treadlife – this is also a very tough tire. Notably, it is made from a cut-and-chip-resistant tread compound, and its casing is resistant to punctures. Thus, you won't have to worry about damaging the tires when traversing some very abrasive terrains, like, for example, hardpacked surfaces.

And you probably will use this tire for off-roading because it is one of the best in the all-terrain category. Thanks to the fairly aggressive tread pattern with sharp and carefully placed tread blocks, the Open Country A/T III provides excellent traction on dirt and gravel and also works very well in shallow sand. 35-inch sizes also work very well in deep sand (when deflated to low psi), which is another trump card of this tire.

The Open Country A/T III also works in shallow mud, providing excellent traction, but it can't compete with the Baja Boss A/T in deeper mud. Still, its aggressive tread pattern is more than good enough for driving over medium-sized rocks, and it works well on turf, too.

But how does this tire perform on paved roads? Well, at least when it comes to ride quality, it is one of the best in the category. The ride is firm but very well controlled over sharp and repetitive impacts. As a result, it doesn't transmit a lot of vibrations into the cabin, giving a well-damped ride. That said, you can hear the tires at higher speeds as the tread growl is noticeable.

It is a similar story when it comes to the performance aspect of the tire. The Open Country A/T III is an excellent performer on dry tarmac, with high lateral grip, good braking, and quick acceleration off the line. Moreover, the handling is very balanced and predictable at the limit, something you can't say about most all-terrain tires.

Still, the Open Country A/T III lacks the wet traction of some of its rivals. It is not unsafe – you still get a lot of traction considering the type of tire, but some of its competitors are better. That is true across all metrics – in my testing, the Open Country A/T III needed a few more feet to stop than the class-leading tires in wet conditions, and it achieved a few mph less in the corners.

But the Open Country A/T III has an ace up its sleeve that steals the show – its excellent snow performance. The tire comes with the 3PMSF symbol and provides some of the shortest stopping distances on snow-covered roads in its category. Moreover, it accelerates well from a stop and has enough lateral grip in the corners.

Owing to the aggressive tread pattern, the Open Country A/T III also works well in unpacked snow, the type you encounter when off-roading. Thus, you can continue with your off-road adventures during the winter and never care about losing control on snow-covered roads.

Pros:

• Exhibits superb sand traction
• Offers solid steering for an all-terrain tire
• Provides commendable braking and handling on dry tarmac
• Offers a firm yet controlled ride
• Ranks among the best all-terrain tires for off-road adventures
• Shows excellent traction on both compacted and loose snow
• Boasts exceptional tread life and an impressive treadwear warranty for an all-terrain tire

Cons:

• Rain performance could be better when compared to other high-end all-terrain tires
• Produces noticeable noise on the highway

5. Firestone Destination X/T

Firestone's Destination X/T is its latest tire in the popular lineage of highway, all-terrain, and off-road tires. It is a fairly aggressive all-terrain tire with a tread pattern that includes the brand's TractionTech Package with full-depth features and interlocking sipes, enabling it to receive the 3PMSF symbol. In other words, the tire was tested for higher longitudinal traction on snow than regular M+S tires.

But does it deliver on snow-covered roads? Well, it surely won't replace a winter tire, but as far as all-terrain tires go, the Destination X/T is one of the best. Notably, Firestone's all-terrain tire provides some of the shortest braking distances on packed snow (in its category), accelerates easily from a stop, and provides good lateral grip when cornering.

Moreover, the Destination X/T has natural and predictable behavior in the bends, providing an overall safe driving experience on snow. Thanks to the aggressive tread pattern, the tire also performs well on unpacked snow, which is particularly true for flotation sizes like the 35-inch models.

But the Destination X/T is also a great off-road tire when it doesn't snow. On dirt and gravel, it is one of my favorite all-terrain tires because it feels very stable and surefooted in the corners, allowing you to have some rally-inspired fun. It also accelerates easily from a stop and stops impressively.

Furthermore, the tire can give you some traction in light mud, though it might start to suffer when the mud is deeper. That is not too surprising for the category, but still important to note. It is the same story when driving over rocks – the Destination X/T provides traction over medium rocks, but it isn't the best all-terrain tire for rock crawling.

On public roads, the first time I tried this tire, I wasn't very impressed. The steering felt a bit numb and unresponsive for my taste, and the Destination X/T needed a few more feet to stop than its closest rivals. Still, it was solid in the corners – the handling balance was natural, and the tire behaved well at the limit. Crucially, the Destination X/T is a safe tire on dry tarmac – it is just that its rivals are better.

But to my surprise, the opposite was true when I pushed the Destination X/T to its limits on wet tarmac. This is one of the best all-terrain tires in rainy conditions, with short stopping distances, good lateral grip, and strong acceleration off the line.

Not only that, but Firestone did a great job with the handling balance – the Destination X/T feels very stable in the corners without the nervous behavior at the limit I felt in most other all-terrain tires.

The Firestone Destination X/T also impressed me with its comfort levels. It is very quiet for an all-terrain tire, with a low-pitched tread growl that never feels tiring on longer journeys. Moreover, the ride is very comfortable, even when you drive over broken roads.

Firestone provides a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty on all sizes, which is impressive when you consider that the Destination X/T is only available in LT-metric and flotation dimensions. Owners also report excellent real-world treadlife, so durability shouldn't be an issue if you opt for this tire.

Pros:

• Provides superb traction on dirt, gravel, and grass
• Capable of handling light mud and medium-sized rocks
• Good handling on dry tarmac
• Solid traction and balanced handling in wet conditions
• Provides a comfortable ride across different surface types
• Remarkably quiet for an all-terrain tire
• Built tough with a long treadwear warranty

Cons:

• The steering could be more responsive, particularly at the center
• Acceleration and braking on a dry tarmac could be better

Best 35-inch Off-Road Tires

6. General Grabber X3

The General Grabber X3 is one of the best mud tires currently available on the market. It is super aggressive, available in many 35-inch sizes, and proven on many trails across the world. If you want the best off-road tire, this is the one to go for.

But that is not only because the Grabber X3 is exceptional when off-roading – it is also good on tarmac. From a road performance perspective, the Grabber X3 lives up to what one would expect from a tire built for the mud. The steering may seem a tad numb and somewhat unresponsive, but this tire compensates with ample grip on both dry and wet roads.

In fact, it delivers robust braking power in rainy conditions, paired with an impressively solid grip around corners. In addition to this, the tire's broad grooves contribute to excellent hydroplaning resistance.

That being said, you might find your vehicle more challenging to handle on wet tarmac than with a typical highway or all-terrain tire. But, keeping in mind the category it belongs to, the Grabber X3 outperforms many with its safe and predictable handling. So, a bit of careful driving should keep you safe!

Transitioning to off-road performance, the Grabber X3 is truly an exceptional mud tire. Its substantial tread blocks and deep grooves seamlessly churn through deep mud, offering significant traction. It also delivers commendable lateral grip in muddy conditions, making turning a breeze.

But the capabilities of the Grabber X3 go beyond its mud prowess. It also exhibits robust performance over large rocks and sand, thanks to its firm casing, which can be deflated to low psi levels. The large tread blocks provide biting edges for negotiating the sharp edges of rocks, while its sticky compound ensures ample traction, making it one of the top tires for rock crawling.

The Grabber X3 is not a one-trick pony; it also performs admirably on turf, dirt, and gravel. Although it tends to dig into and damage grass, it makes up for it with substantial traction and stability on dirt and gravel, with minimal side-to-side movement. It also comes in the most popular 35-inch tire sizes, making it suitable for pairing with beadlock wheels for low psi use.

One standout feature of the Grabber X3 is its robust construction. Equipped with General's DURAGEN technology, the tire exhibits high resistance to punctures and cuts from large rocks or smaller debris, promising an impressive tread life. General doesn't provide any treadwear warranty, but that is not unusual for a maximum-traction off-road tire.

The Grabber X3 does reasonably well on snowy terrain, offering acceptable traction and drivability. While it falls behind most highway and all-terrain tires on packed snow, it does shine on unpacked snow, thanks to its deep grooves and ample void area – exactly what you might encounter during an off-road excursion.

Finally, it's noteworthy that the Grabber X3, despite its aggressive design, is surprisingly quiet and offers a smoother ride compared to many of its direct competitors. The level of road noise it produces is relatively low, and its tendency to roll without excessive vibration enhances its overall appeal.

Pros:

• Superior rock-crawling capabilities
• Top-tier traction across a variety of off-road terrains
• Remarkable traction in deep mud
• Remarkably stable and balanced on dry tarmac
• Exceptional handling and traction in wet conditions for its class
• Relatively quiet for its kind when driven on the street
• Provides a smooth ride across diverse terrains
• Solid traction on compacted snow and performs exceptionally well on loose snow

Cons:

• The steering could be more responsive
• Not as effective on compacted snow (though better than most off-road tires)

7. Firestone Destination M/T2

Firestone's formidable contender to the burgeoning mud-terrain tire industry is their audacious creation - the Destination M/T2. This exceptional off-road tire is meticulously designed with tread blocks that feature 23-degree attack angles for optimum pulling power on loose surfaces. Built for the daring at heart, the Destination M/T2 assures a gripping off-road journey like no other.

Firestone's predecessor tire model was already a formidable off-road conqueror, but the Destination M/T2 has pushed the envelope even further. It boasts a high void area, sizeable blocks, and deep grooves that collectively make it one of the most effective tires for traversing deep mud terrains. The digging power of this tire is simply phenomenal – an experience you need to witness to fully comprehend its capabilities.

Not limiting its performance to muddy conditions, Firestone's Destination M/T2 showcases impressive performance over large rocks, and that too at lower psi. Its formidable casing enables it to be driven at low pressures, adding to the tire's durability and toughness. This structural robustness provides impressive resistance against punctures and cuts – I couldn't damage the tire, even when driving aggressively on hardpacked terrains.

Furthermore, I found that the tire's handling on dirt and gravel is commendable, ensuring that SUVs and trucks can traverse these terrains with ease. Moreover, the Destination M/T2 holds its own even on turf and sand, making it a reliable partner in a myriad of conditions.

With that said, during these modern times, even maximum traction off-road tires need to do a good job on the road to be considered by buyers. And while it is not perfect on the tarmac, the Destination M/T2 is one of the best such tires that I tried.

That is particularly true on dry roads, where the tire provides outstanding longitudinal traction, i.e., acceleration and braking. The lateral grip is also very good, and overall, the handling balance is neutral.

It is even responsive and linear regarding the steering input, something I didn't expect when I saw its aggressive tread pattern. In fact, the Destination M/T2 might just be my favorite off-road tire to drive on public roads.

Still, the Destination M/T2 isn't at its best in rainy conditions. It lags behind its rivals in the braking department and suffers from slippage when accelerating hard out of a corner.

Moreover, the lateral grip is only average, and overall, the tire doesn't feel very stable or surefooted in the corners. The hydroplaning resistance is excellent, but that doesn't change the fact that the Destination M/T2 is an average rain tire.

But the opposite is true when it starts to snow outside. Although it can't compete with all-terrain tires on compacted snow, the Destination M/T2 is better than its closest rivals. It provides solid braking, good acceleration, and useful lateral grip on snow-covered roads and feels predictable in the corners.

Still, the natural winter scenario for the Destination M/T2 is unpacked snow – the type you encounter when off-roading. And on that type of surface, this is perhaps the best tire on the market, thanks to its aggressive tread blocks and high void area. You can go further off-road in the winter with the Destination M/T2 than with most tires.

Unlike most off-road tires, the Destination M/T2 is also pinned, meaning it accepts studs. As a result, it can also be useful on roads or trails with a lot of ice since the studs provide better traction than any tread pattern could.

As for comfort, if you upgrade from regular highway tires or even from all-terrain tires, the Destination M/T2 will shock you with how loud it is. Sure, most mud tires are louder than regular tires, but the Destination M/T2 is even louder than most of its rivals. That is unfortunate because the ride is actually very smooth, even over sharp and repetitive impacts.

Lastly, the Destination M/T2 has a very tough construction that can withstand quite a lot of abuse, and owners are also fairly satisfied with the treadlife.

Pros:

• Superior mud traction over large rocks
• Strong performance on hardpacked surfaces
• Responsive steering for a mud-terrain tire
• Satisfactory traction and control on dry roads
• Outstanding performance on both compacted and loose snow
• Comfortable ride quality for a mud-terrain tire
• Very tough construction and impressive tread life

Cons:

• Generates significant noise, even at slower speeds
• Wet surface acceleration traction could be better

8. Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003

Yokohama's Geolandar family of tires has been extremely successful lately, offering its buyers excellent overall performance at a fair price. The most aggressive tire from that lineup, the Geolandar M/T G003, offers all those qualities, but crucially, it is one of the best tires in its category, regardless of price.

Although it costs less than some of its more well-known competitors like the General Grabber X3 and BFGoodrich T/A KM3, the Geolandar M/T G003 offers comparable off-road traction. In fact, it is one of my favorite tires for rock crawling, particularly in 35-inch and 37-inch sizes.

Deflate them to low psi, and they will grip the rocks like few other tires can, giving enough traction to even climb steep inclines. At low pressures, the tire is also very successful on the sand, even when traversing over dunes in the desert.

But the abilities of the Geolandar M/T G003 don't stop there. Thanks to the high-density compound with big and deep grooves, this tire will also dig into deep mud, while its carefully placed tread blocks will ensure your SUV/truck doesn't sway from side to side.

Furthermore, the Geolandar M/T G003 performs very well on dirt and gravel, providing solid stability at speed and good acceleration off the line. Thanks to the large tread blocks, the tire is also good on turf, though it is important to note that it will damage softer soil.

Crucially, the tire is made from Yokohama's proprietary GeoShield Construction, which makes it more puncture resistant than most tires on the market. Also, the company's Triple Polymer Blend is cut-and-chip-resistant, meaning abrasive surfaces won't damage the tread as easily.

On the road, Yokohama's off-road tire continues to impress with its overall abilities. Sure, it can't compete with an all-terrain tire as far as grip goes, but for the category, it is impressive.

On dry roads, for example, the Geolandar M/T G003 has enough lateral grip to keep you safe and provides you with fairly short stopping distances. I was also not disappointed with the steering, which felt precise and linear enough for the category.

Even more impressive was how the Geolandar M/T G003 handled wet tarmac. Thanks to the in-block siping, which is not very usual for the category, there is additional water evacuation to help with traction. Indeed, this is one of the best off-road tires for rainy conditions, with good braking and solid lateral grip. On top of that, the handling on wet tarmac is natural, and the tires are predictable at the limit.

With that said, the Geolandar M/T G003 isn't at its best in the winter, as it lacks traction on compacted snow. You can still accelerate, brake, and steer, but you will need to be very careful in order to not lose control of the vehicle. Also, due to its construction, this tire isn't very good on ice-covered roads. Still, it does work well over unpacked snow, the type you encounter when off-roading.

As for comfort, the Geolandar M/T G003 isn't a particularly smooth tire over bumps, but it's not too bad, either. Crucially, it is quiet for such an aggressive tire, a feat that few other off-road tires can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional rock-crawling ability with strong traction
• Outstanding traction in deep mud
• Superior performance on dirt, gravel, grass, and sand
• Extraordinarily robust construction ideal for rock crawling
• Solid dry pavement performance
• Excellent rain traction for a mud tire
• Relatively quiet for a mud tire when driven on the street

Cons:

• Winter traction is average for the category, especially on packed snow

9. Cooper Discoverer STT Pro

Cooper's super-aggressive Discoverer STT Pro also impresses with its combination of exceptional off-road abilities and low price. In fact, this is one of the few off-road tires at its price that combines usable dry/wet road traction with those legendary off-road abilities.

Seriously, you won't have a hard time steering your SUV/truck on paved roads with this tire. The steering feels fairly responsive and direct, and it is paired with a good grip from the front tires. Moreover, the handling is very balanced, which means that the rear tires follow the front tires pretty well, providing an overall stable and surefooted ride.

The wet traction of the Discoverer STT Pro is also very impressive, especially when you consider the price. As expected, the hydroplaning resistance is excellent, but more than that, the Discoverer STT Pro also provides short stopping distances and a high lateral grip. Furthermore, the handling balance on wet tarmac is exceptional, and the tires are predictable to control when they lose traction.

With that said, like most mud-terrain tires, the Discoverer STT Pro suffers when driving over compacted snow. In my testing, it showed a lack of traction for acceleration and braking, and it didn't fair well in the corners, either. Moreover, it felt nervous and unpredictable at the limit.

Still, that is not to say the Discoverer STT Pro isn't impressive when driving over loose snow that you would encounter on the trail. Thanks to those huge blocks and large void areas, this tire can dig into unpacked snow and give you meaningful traction when driving off the beaten track in the winter.

As a matter of fact, Cooper's mud-terrain tire is one of the best on the market for traversing challenging terrains, regardless of the weather conditions outside. In my testing, I found that the Discoverer STT Pro is super impressive in deep mud, where its aggressive design creates quite a lot of digging action, thus improving traction.

Select a 35-inch or a 37-inch size, and the Discoverer STT Pro will also give you outstanding traction over large rocks and cliffs, especially when deflated to lower psi. The tire's stiff construction lets you drive at some very low pressures, which can be extremely helpful for rock-crawling, and also sand dunes.

Furthermore, the Discoverer STT Pro works well on dirt and gravel, where it feels very stable at speed. It also accelerates well on those surfaces and overall feels very drivable in the desert. Obviously, you will also get quite a lot of traction when traversing turf, but you will damage the surface.

As for comfort, the Discoverer STT Pro isn't super smooth over bumps, but it isn't too bad, either. I think it is more than comfortable enough for the average truck/SUV owner, particularly because newer trucks and SUVs are already comfortable in the first place. Still, some people might be off-put by the noise this tire produces, particularly at higher speeds.

Lastly, the Discoverer STT Pro comes with Cooper's proprietary Armor-Tek3 Construction, which makes it one of the most puncture-resistant tires in the category.

Pros:

• Exceptional traction over large rocks
• Outstanding traction in deep mud
• Very good performance on dirt tracks
• Balanced handling and excellent traction on wet tarmac
• Stable and grippy on dry pavement

Cons:

• Noisy at highway speeds
• Packed snow traction is a step behind the class leaders

10. BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3

Drawing inspiration from racing technologies, the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 is a formidable off-road tire. Much like its all-terrain counterpart, it is well suited for the rugged requirements of your SUV or truck, particularly in those 35-inch and 37-inch sizes.

However, let's start with its on-road performance because this tire is actually pretty good on the tarmac, where it offers an impressive handling balance. On dry roads, it provides some of the best lateral grip in the category, paired with solid braking and easy drivability.

In wet conditions, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 also performs pretty well, providing good overall handling balance and predictable behavior at the limit. The longitudinal traction (braking and acceleration) is okay, and the lateral grip is solid, but they don't detract from the fact that this is an easy tire to control on wet tarmac, which is crucial for safety.

On top of that, thanks to the exceptional hydroplaning resistance, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 won't have any stability issues when driving through puddles of water.

It is notable that even the ride comfort is commendable – the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 provides a remarkably smooth driving experience. Nevertheless, it feels like the mud-terrain tires of yore regarding tread growl, as it tends to generate noise at higher speeds. This may be a minor annoyance to most off-road enthusiasts, but still important for people that want to move to aggressive off-road tires.

Moving on to its winter performance, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 demonstrates remarkable capability in navigating untouched, unpacked snowy terrains, making it an excellent choice for off-roading during the chilly months.

However, its proficiency in handling packed snow, commonly found on public roads, doesn't match its prowess on unpacked snow. Notably, it will struggle to stop your SUV/truck as successfully as its rivals on packed snow, and it also doesn't provide as much lateral grip. Suffice to say you will need to drive more slowly with this tire.

When it comes to desert terrains, though, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 truly shines. The carefully designed tread pattern ensures that the tires do not sink into deep sand, thereby maintaining optimum traction. That is particularly true for 35-inch and 37-inch models, which can be used at very low pressures to aid with flotation.

But the capabilities of this tire extend beyond the sandy landscapes to the muddy terrains as well. The Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 excels in providing a robust grip in deep mud, setting it apart from other off-road tires I've tested.

In addition to sand and mud, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 is quite capable of handling rocky terrains. It offers sufficient traction on turf and performs exceptionally well on dirt and gravel. It doesn't necessarily outshine other tires in any single category but brings to the table a well-rounded set of off-road capabilities that truly set it apart.

Users of the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 seem extremely satisfied, particularly praising its durability. Treadlife is not a concern, but more importantly, this tire stands out for its exceptional toughness. Its Traction-Armor Sidewall Sculpture makes it incredibly resistant to punctures or cuts, offering peace of mind to off-road enthusiasts.

All in all, the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 embodies a perfect blend of ruggedness and versatility, making it one of the best choices for off-road tires available on the market.

Pros:

• Outstanding grip in thick mud
• Offers remarkable handling and control on rocky landscapes, perfect for rock crawling
• High performance on firm surfaces
• Superior grip on loose snow
• Good overall drivability on dry and wet tarmac
• Comfortable ride considering the tire's ruggedness

Cons:

• Needs improvement in grip on compacted snow
• Can generate substantial noise during highway drives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are 35-inch tires typically used for?

35-inch tires are predominantly used to enhance the off-road capabilities of a vehicle, especially over demanding terrains such as mud, rocks, and sand. Moreover, they could also prove to be helpful over very deep unpacked snow, where they float over the surface instead of sinking into it.

35-inch tires are characterized by a very large overall diameter and usually have tall sidewalls and a wide footprint. The larger diameter not only allows for higher ground clearance, reducing the risk of undercarriage damage, but it also facilitates larger tread blocks. These larger blocks provide a greater surface area and more aggressive patterns for improved traction, which is vital for navigating tough terrain.

Furthermore, the 35-inch tire's broad contact patch and larger diameter improve grip and stability. The larger circumference enables 35-inch tires to cover more ground per tire revolution, which can prove advantageous in rock-crawling or traversing steep and slippery terrains.

Another great advantage of 35-inch tires is that they distribute the vehicle's weight on a broader area, which reduces the likelihood of the tires sinking into sand and getting stuck. The ability to be used at very low pressures (psi) further works against sinking, as it makes them similar to a flotation device. Meanwhile, at low pressures, these tires can better conform to large and sharp rocks, providing a useful grip.

So, it is obvious that 35-inch tires are mainly designed to be fitted on vehicles that were developed with off-roading in mind, like trucks and SUVs. That is particularly true for such vehicles with ladder chassis, beefy suspension, and selectable 4WD systems, like the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Toyota 4Runner.

2. How do 35-inch tires affect the ride quality of my vehicle?

35-inch tires will greatly affect the ride quality of your SUV or truck, both in a positive and a negative way.

How so? Well, thanks to the taller sidewalls and, generally, the higher ratio of rubber used for the construction, 35-inch tires provide a more comfortable ride off-road or over rough terrain due to their ability to absorb shock from larger obstacles. This shock absorption can reduce vibrations transmitted to the cabin, enhancing the ride quality.

However, these tires also have a much stiffer construction, which is there to allow driving at very low psi and, generally, to allow for higher load ratings. This stiff construction is very bad at absorbing sharp impacts at speed, like potholes, which will be transmitted in the cabin with a noticeable harshness.

In addition, due to their sheer size, 35-inch tires add more unsprung mass to your vehicle, making the suspension work harder to control the wheel when it moves. As a result, they also produce more reverberations after they hit a bump than smaller tires. The higher unsprung mass can also lead to slower acceleration, less responsive braking, and potentially wear out the suspension components sooner.

But the biggest drawback of 35-inch tires is that they are much louder than their regularly-sized counterparts. Due to the larger tread blocks, larger circumference, and generally wider footprint, 35-inch tires produce quite a lot of noise on the highway.

Finally, with wider tires, the vehicle might exhibit an increased tendency to follow grooves or ruts in the road surface, a phenomenon known as tramlining. This is a performance metric, sure, but it can make operating the vehicle less comfortable for the driver.

3. Are 35-inch tires suitable for daily driving?

Whether 35-inch tires are suitable for daily driving depends on your driving scenario and your personal preference.

If you don't frequently drive on uneven terrains, i.e., you spend most of your time on paved roads, I highly recommend sticking with regularly-sized tires. That is because 35-inch tires are much more expensive to buy, less comfortable on the road, and noisier.

Notably, 35-inch tires will decrease the handling performance of your truck or SUV, prolong the stopping distances (provided it is the same tire model), and feel much less stable at higher speeds due to the considerably tall sidewalls.

Another big disadvantage of these tires is that they are heavier, which can negatively impact fuel economy, and not insignificantly. In addition, you might not like the way they handle, as 35-inch tires slow down the steering and make it much less precise.

It's also worth mentioning that the installation of such tires may require additional modifications to your vehicle, such as lift kits or fender modifications to accommodate the larger size and prevent rubbing, which could add to the overall cost and complexity. Not to mention, the added unsprung mass will wear the suspension components faster.

With that said, for those who frequently encounter rough, unpaved roads or need enhanced off-road capabilities for activities such as camping, hunting, or off-roading, the benefits of 35-inch tires may outweigh any drawbacks. These tires can be very advantageous for heavy-duty tasks, and I know that many drivers will be ready to sacrifice on-road drivability for the ability to traverse some very challenging terrains.

So, if you are one of those drivers that need the best possible off-roading grip, 35-inch tires can be a usable daily driver. Just make sure that you choose a tire model from a reputable manufacturer because those tend to work much better in 35-inch sizes than cheap tires.

4. Do I need a lift kit to fit 35-inch tires on my vehicle?

This largely depends on the make and model, but for most SUVs and trucks, you will need a lift kit to fit 35-inch tires. You could put 33-inch tires on most off-road-focused SUVs without any lift kit, but for 35-inch tires, it is a must.

A lift kit essentially raises the vehicle's body or suspension to create additional space for larger tires. This modification not only prevents interference with various mechanical components but also can improve the vehicle's ground clearance, which can be beneficial for off-road applications. Moreover, it will stop the tires from rubbing against the fender or wheel wells.

However, a lift kit changes the geometry of your suspension, which puts more strain on the components. Also, it significantly affects the center of gravity, handling, and overall dynamics of the vehicle, making it less stable overall.

For that reason, I would only recommend installing lift kits from reputable manufacturers, which were tested before they hit the market. Some kits that I tried in the past are near dangerous and unsafe. In addition, I would highly recommend going to a professional shop for the installation, as a poorly installed kit can significantly compromise your vehicle's safety.

5. What type of vehicles can typically be fitted with 35-inch tires?

35-inch tires are typically fitted onto larger vehicles, such as full-size pickup trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles, due to their inherent size and ground clearance.

Notable examples of vehicles that are often fitted with larger tires, such as 33-inch, 35-inch, 37-inch, 39-inch, and even 41-inch tires, are the Jeep Wrangler JK, JL, and JT, Jeep Gladiator, Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Tacoma, Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Colorado, Land Rover Defender, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Land Cruiser.

However, full-size pickup trucks are also increasingly fitted with 35-inch wheels, such as the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra, among others. Of course, the heavy-duty versions of those trucks are also good candidates for 35-inch, or even larger, tires. Even some premium SUVs, like the Lexus GX and LX, can also be outfitted with 35-inch tires.

However, it's important to remember that not all vehicles in these categories can accommodate 35-inch tires without modifications. Factors such as wheel well size, suspension configuration, and brake components can all impact the maximum tire size a vehicle can accept without rubbing or other interference. Therefore, it's crucial to verify with a professional or your vehicle's manufacturer before undertaking such an upgrade.

6. How will 35-inch tires impact my vehicle's fuel efficiency?

Increasing your tire size to 35-inch tires can increase the fuel consumption of your vehicle. That is because 35-inch tires are larger and heavier, necessitating more power from the engine to turn, but also because the wider footprint increases the rolling resistance (friction). So, due to these things, the engine will need to use more energy (fuel) to keep your vehicle at the same speed.

In addition to increased rolling resistance and weight, larger tires can also increase the vehicle's aerodynamic drag. This is because a larger tire raises the vehicle's ride height, increasing the frontal surface area exposed to air resistance. Also, the wider footprint of the tire itself adds to the aerodynamic drag of the vehicle.

Finally, another factor that negatively affects fuel economy when switching to 35-inch tires is the gearing. Larger tires effectively alter your vehicle's final drive ratio, making the engine work harder to turn the wheels, especially at lower speeds or during acceleration.

It is hard to quantify how much jumping to a 35-inch tire will affect the fuel efficiency of your vehicle simply because not all trucks and SUVs come with the same tire sizes from the factory. In other words, for some vehicles, the change will be more significant.

Still, in my testing through the years, I found that putting 35-inch tires will decrease the fuel efficiency by 2-5 mpg. It is not a small difference, sure, which is why you should really need and want 35-inch tires to install on your truck/SUV.

7. How does the tread life of a 35-inch tire compare to smaller tire sizes?

35-inch tires are usually designed with durability in mind and feature hard-wearing tread compounds and stiffer casings. So, they will provide much better treadlife when driven on more abrasive surfaces than smaller tires.

Moreover, thanks to the larger diameter, 35-inch tires turn at a lower rotational speed at the same vehicle speed, which should prolong treadlife even further. Not to mention, they are also more resistant to cuts and punctures in general, which makes them even more durable than regular tires.

However, the fact that these tires are used in more challenging conditions means that they won't last as long on average. For those reasons, some tiremakers don't offer treadwear warranties on those sizes, though most of them do today.

8. Do 35-inch tires require specific types of rims or wheels?

35-inch tires come in various rim sizes, ranging from 15-inch to 20-inch wheels. However, they often do require different rims because their footprint is usually wider, and the factory wheels on most trucks/SUVs are narrower. Using a rim that is not the right size for the tire can lead to poor handling, an increased risk of damage to the tire or rim, and can even be dangerous.

Here is what every number on 35-inch tires means. I chose the popular 35X12.5R15 tire size for off-road trucks and SUVs, which fits relatively small 15-inch rims:

• "35": This number represents the tire's overall diameter in inches when inflated and not under load. In this case, the tire has an overall diameter of 35 inches.
• "X": The "X" is simply a separator used in some tire size notations, particularly for large or off-road tires.
• "12.5": This is the tire's width in inches. This is also known as the section width and is the distance from one sidewall of the tire to the other when properly mounted, inflated, and not under load.
• "R": The "R" stands for Radial, indicating the tire's construction type. Radial tires are the most common type of tire today. In radial tires, the cord plies are arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of travel or radially (from the center of the tire).
• "15": This number indicates the wheel or rim diameter in inches. Therefore, this tire is meant to be mounted on a wheel with a 15-inch diameter.

If you want to get the best of your 35-inch tires, though, I highly recommend opting for beadlock wheels. These rims allow you to use your huge tires at very low pressures by locking the tire's bead against the rim using multiple screws. Thanks to that, the tire won't come off the wheel when driven at very low pressures and even without pressure at all.

Please note that beadlock wheels are very expensive, and make every tire change a chore, because you will need to unscrew every bolt to remove the tire.

9. How does tire pressure affect the performance of 35-inch tires?

Tire pressure will significantly impact the performance of any tire, most often in a negative way. For those reasons, it is highly recommended to keep your tires inflated at the manufacturer's recommended pressure.

However, you can use tire pressure to your own advantage on 35-inch tires, particularly when driving on very challenging terrains. For example, lowering the pressure will allow the tire to flex over irregular objects, like rocks, thus greatly increasing traction. Therefore, it is a very common occurrence to see off-roaders use very low pressures when rock crawling.

Low pressures can also be helpful when driving over sand. Because low pressures increase the footprint of the tire, the weight of the vehicle will be distributed to a wider area. As a result, your SUV or truck won't sink into the sand, which could get you stuck.

With that said, tire pressures should be returned to the manufacturer's recommended level for regular road use. That is because underinflation can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel economy, and poor handling, and can even cause the tire to fail due to overheating.

10. Do 35-inch tires affect the vehicle's braking performance?

Yes – 35-inch tires will usually prolong the stopping distances on your vehicle. Larger and heavier tires can increase braking distances because they have more rotational inertia than smaller, lighter tires.

Moreover, because of the added weight and wider footprint (which adds grip), the brakes on your truck/SUV will need to work harder to stop the vehicle. As a result, they might overheat, leading to a phenomenon called "brake fade," where the brakes start to lose their stopping power.

However, the differences in braking performance might be even higher in rainy conditions. Namely, wider tires would hydroplane more easily over standing water, i.e., they won't cut through it, which prolongs the stopping distances. It is the same story on snow or slush – wider tires usually have lower longitudinal traction, leading to worse braking.

Conclusion

You might have probably noticed, but the list above lacks some very cheap tires. Well, the reason is that in my real-world experience, those super-cheap tires aren't worth it. I had quite a few friends with Wranglers that tried cheap Chinese tires, only to be left stranded in the middle of nowhere because the tires got punctured by medium rocks.

In my opinion, you should not cheap out on any type of tire, but that is especially true for off-road tires. This is because you will rely on these tires in places without cellphone coverage and roadside assistance, so any problem might leave you stranded. Not to mention, cheap tires also don't provide as much grip, meaning you might get stuck in the mud, and they also don't work as well on paved roads.

Now, I don't say that there is no market for cheaper tires, but at least make sure that they come from reputable manufacturers. Read experiences from other people on online forums, and read the reviews on our website, as making an informed decision when buying tires is crucial. At the end of the day, it is your own safety we are talking about!