Buying guide for best trailer tires
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I never gave my trailer's tires much thought until I noticed that our rides up north just weren't smooth anymore. I looked into it, and I realized they need a completely different design from my car tires. Trailer tires have to handle heavier loads, different road conditions and long hours on the highway,
A quality trailer tire (also called an ST tire) features stronger construction and is designed to safely carry heavy loads at highway speeds. The tricky part is figuring out which one is right for your trailer, given the many options.
After hours of research trying to find the best tires for my trailer, I learned a lot about the different kinds you can choose from. I'll walk you through everything you need to know and help you choose the right set. An excellent choice is the Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tire (2-Pack) for their long-lasting, reliable performance.
Editors’ picks
Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tire (2-Pack)
Editors’ Favorite
Size: 225/75R15 | Load Index: 117 | Load Capacity: 2,830 lb | Speed Rating: N | Tread Type: Non-directional
This two-pack of Goodyear Endurance Trailer Tires is an excellent value pick that offers reliable all-year performance. With a deep tread design and high load capacity, these tires are built for long-haul road trips.
They boast a thick rubber construction that adds extra sidewall thickness for enhanced durability. They’re built with a nylon-overlaid cap and feature high-strength steel belts for improved stability, allowing them to support heavy loads without sacrificing road performance. Towing is super smooth even on more rugged surfaces, and they’re built to support up to 2,830 pounds.
Overall, this is a great set of tires for recreational campers that deliver elite traction performance, even on tricky road conditions. They hold up well, and Goodyear customer service is top-notch if you need any assistance or have concerns.
Free Country ST205/75R15 Premium Trailer Tires
Great Value
Size: 205/75R15 8PR | Load Index: 107 | Load Capacity: 2,150 lb | Speed Rating: N | Tread Type: Symmetrical
Trailer tires can be expensive, but this set of Free Country Premium Trailer Tires is an excellent bargain pick for those who want something affordable yet reliable for recreational camper use.
With a full nylon overlay across the entire tread area, you’ll get significantly more safety compared to tires that only have it on the shoulder area. Seven millimeters of tread depth delivers longer mileage than tires with just 5.6 millimeters, and they can handle over 2,000 pounds with ease. Plus, they have a "Scuff Guard" ring on the tire wall for better tire side protection.
These radial tires are surprisingly durable given their lower price point compared to some of our other picks. Most customers report smooth riding, and the eight-ply design makes them suitable for those who frequently take long road trips in their trailer.
Carlisle Radial Trail HD
Best for RV and Boat Use
Size: ST225/75R15 D | Load Index: 113 | Load Capacity: 2,540 lbs | Speed Rating: M | Tread Type: Symmetrical
Whether you’re going on a short or long trip in your camper, you’ll want reliable tires to help you get there safely with everything you need. The Carlisle Radial Trail HD is a versatile tire that many customers use for trailers and boats.
Its high load capacity supports up to 2,540 pounds, and its M speed rating allows you to travel at 80 miles per hour without issue. Symmetrical tread provides excellent traction on flat and rugged terrain, and an eight-ply construction makes it one of the more durable trailer tires you’ll find. It’s designed for improved tread wear and heat resistance, and many customers report that they’re much better than OEM trailer tires.
For a low price, you’ll get D-load capacity and elite tread performance every time you hit the road. You’ll experience smooth rides even at fast speeds, and they’re easy to mount and balance.
Kenda Loadstar K399
Best High-Speed Tires
Size: ST175/80D13 Single | Load Index: 99 | Load Capacity: 1,710 lbs | Speed Rating: M | Tread Type: Non-Directional
Long-lasting durability and smoother rides are the top reasons why so many trailer owners love the Kenda Loadstar K399. It features a bias-ply construction and high-quality rubber compounds that ensure extended tread life, even under heavy loads.
You can load your trailer with these tires, as they can support up to 1,710 pounds and help you drive safely over rugged terrain thanks to a nondirectional tread pattern. The tread design has a flatter contact patch that helps keep your trailer firmly planted, even at fast speeds. They’re incredibly smooth and have passed several safety tests for quality assurance and elite performance on roads and rugged trails.
The low rolling-resistance design facilitates noticeably better handling, and many customers find it works well on a log splitter. They’re not as robust as some other trailer tires, but they’re a great choice if you’re a little more budget-conscious.
Libra Trailer Parts ST205/75R15 Load Range E Steel-Belted Radial Tires
Best ST205/75R15 Tires
Size: ST205/75R15 | Load Index: 111 | Load Capacity: 2,400 lb | Speed Rating: M | Tread Type: Symmetrical
If you’re looking for a four-set of affordable yet durable trailer tires, you won’t find many better options than the Libra Trailer Parts ST205/75R15. These radial tires have a whopping 2,400-pound load capacity, making them the best choice for those who often take extended road trips.
The speed rating lets you go as fast as 80 miles per hour without any trouble, and the symmetrical tread type provides excellent handling whether you’re on the highway or a dirt trail. The "Scuff Guard" ring on the tire wall provides better tire side protection, and the nylon cap ply overlay across the entire tread area makes them safer than standard trailer tires.
Customers rave about the feel of these tires, with many reporting smooth rides even at high speeds. They’re thick, durable and a great bargain for four tires for under $400.
How we analyzed
We analyzed various specs and features, such as design, tread pattern, speed class and load capacity, to give shoppers a broad selection of trailer tires. We found the best tires deliver excellent all-season performance and are easy to mount. We also considered the actual construction of the tire to ensure we provided only the most durable picks.
What are trailer tires?
Trailer tires have a different function than other types of tires. With passenger cars and light trucks, you need tires with good traction to start, stop, and steer the vehicle without slipping. Another main concern with passenger car tires is comfort. The sidewalls of passenger tires are more flexible to absorb the bumps of the road.
A trailer tire, on the other hand, doesn’t need as much tread for traction since it is not responsible for starting or stopping the vehicle. With less traction, there is more room for reinforcing layers like plies and belts. This results in stiffer sidewalls, which are less effective at absorbing any bumps. The additional structural material allows trailer tires to carry a heavier load.
Matching trailer tires to your trailer
Tires are identified by a sequence of letters and numbers found on their sidewalls. Use this code to match new trailer tires to your trailer.
Tire type
The type of tire is indicated by the first letter in the identifying code: P for passenger car, LT for light truck, or ST for special trailer. For trailer tires, look for tires that start with ST. For example, the code ST205/75R15 D/8 would indicate a specialty tire.
Tire width
Listed next is the width of the tire in millimeters. If the code is ST205/75R15 D/8, the width of the tire is 205 mm.
Tire height
The number following the slash indicates the tire’s height. This number is not a measurement, however. It’s the percentage of the tire’s width. In our example, ST205/75R15 D/8, the height of the tire is 75% of its width of 205 mm.
Tire construction
The next letter will either be R or D. These letters let you know how the tire is constructed on the inside. R stands for radial, and D stands for diagonal bias. In our example, ST205/75R15 D/8, we have a radial tire.
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Radial tires: Radial tires have rubber-coated steel cables running perpendicular across the tire. They are better for long distances because they stay cooler and provide less rolling resistance, which means they help with fuel efficiency. They also resist developing flat spots better than diagonal bias tires, and they have a longer tread life of about 40,000 miles.
- Diagonal bias tires: Diagonal bias tires have layers of nylon textile cords that crisscross at 30° angles. They are better for short distances and work well for off-pavement situations, which makes them a good choice for construction vehicles. Diagonal bias tires have a shorter tread life of about 12,000 miles.
Wheel diameter
The last number in the sequence before the space is the diameter of the wheel in inches. In our example, ST205/75R15 D/8, the wheel is 15 inches in diameter.
Load range
The load range is listed after the space. It’s a letter and number that indicates how many plies the tire has. For instance, load range B has four plies, load range C has six plies, load range D has eight plies, and load range E has 10 plies. This number has nothing to do with tire size. It tells you the maximum tire pressure and weight each tire can carry. Two tires can be the exact same size, but the tire with more plies will be able to haul a heavier load. In our example, ST205/75R15 D/8, the tire has a D load range or eight plies.
Features to consider for trailer tires
Speed rating
While older trailer tires were only rated to travel at a maximum speed of 65 miles per hour for sustained periods, many newer trailer tires are designed and manufactured to travel at higher speeds. A new trailer tire will have a letter on its sidewall that indicates its speed rating: M for 81 mph, L for 75 mph, and J for 62 mph. This rating is for normal inflation and load conditions and good road conditions. Traveling at a higher speed than indicated may cause heat to build up, which can lead to sudden tire failure.
Tire pressure
Trailer tires are designed to function best with the proper inflation. Under-inflated tires will create more friction, causing overheating. This can lead to premature wear and a possible blowout. Over inflation will cause the tires to wear more quickly along the center treads.
Date manufactured
Locate the date of manufacture on the sidewall of your trailer tire. It will look something like this: DOT K3AP 1218. The last four numbers tell you the week and year the tire was manufactured. In our example, DOT K3AP 1218, the tire was made the twelfth week of 2018.
Tread wear
Trailer tires are unique in their tread wear. Since many trailer tires sit most of the year, the tread may look exceptional. Even after a number of years, the tires may appear new. However, since tires naturally break down over time, regardless of the tread wear, it is important to know when they were made. Most manufacturers recommend replacing trailer tires at least every five years, no matter how much tread is left.
Price
Radial trailer tires range in price from just under $50 to about $150. Diagonal bias trailer tires range in price from just under $40 to about $120.
Trailer tires need to be replaced in sets. When you replace one tire on an axle, the other tire on that axle should be replaced as well.
FAQ
Q. When should I check the tire pressure in my trailer tires?
A. Not only should you visually inspect your trailer tires before every trip, but you should also check the pressure in each tire, too, by using a tire pressure gauge. For the most accurate reading, check the pressure when the tires are completely cool.
Q. My trailer tires are new. That means they won’t leak, right?
A. Unfortunately, even brand-new trailer tires can lose air. Heat, cold, heavy loads, and long driving distances can all contribute to your tires losing air.
Q. What is a flat spot?
A. A flat spot is an area of your tire that has become flat due to the weight of the vehicle pressing down on the tire for an extended period of time. This typically occurs when the parking surface is cold. Flat spots can easily happen with trailer tires because trailers tend to sit for extended periods of time. In most cases, these flat spots will round out again after the tire has heated up from traveling. However, a flat spot can be permanent. A permanent flat spot could be a sign of damaging moisture buildup, especially if the trailer is parked in the grass.
