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Boat trailer tires do a tough job. They carry a heavy load, sit unused for weeks, roll down wet ramps, get dunked in fresh or salt water, and then run at highway speed to the lake or coast. When they fail, it is usually far from home, with a boat behind you. So it pays to know what good boat trailer tires cost, what drives the price, and how to make them last.
This guide gives typical 2026 prices for common boat trailer tire types and sizes, explains the difference between cheap and premium options, and covers the hidden costs many owners forget, such as mounting, balancing and wheel bearings.
How Much Do Boat Trailer Tires Cost?
Prices depend mainly on size, load range and construction. As a rough guide from current retailer listings:
| Tire type | Typical sizes | Typical price per tire |
|---|---|---|
| Budget bias-ply ST tire | 4.80-12, ST175/80D13 | About $45 to $110 |
| Budget radial ST tire | ST175/80R13, ST205/75R14, ST225/75R15 | About $55 to $100 |
| Premium radial ST tire | ST205/75R14 to ST235/80R16 | About $120 to $250 or more |
| Tire mounted on a wheel | 12 to 16 inch | About $75 to $190 per assembly |
For example, budget radial trailer tires such as the National Road Max ST have recently sold for roughly $56 in ST185/80R13 and around $94 in ST225/75R15, while bias-ply boat trailer tires from brands like Air-Loc range from about $59 to $111 depending on size. Premium tires such as the Goodyear Endurance, which Discount Tire lists among the most popular boat trailer choices, cost more but come with better quality control and warranty support.
For a typical single-axle boat trailer, that means a set of two new tires can cost anywhere from about $110 to $500, plus installation. A tandem-axle trailer needs four, plus a spare.
What Affects the Price?
Size
Small trailers for jon boats and personal watercraft often use 8- or 12-inch tires, which are the cheapest. Most boats from about 16 to 22 feet ride on 13-, 14- or 15-inch tires. Larger boats and tandem trailers may need 15- or 16-inch tires with higher load ratings, which cost more. Our trailer tire size guide explains how to read trailer tire sizes.
Load range
The load range shows how much weight a tire can carry at its maximum pressure. Load range C is common on small trailers, while D and E are used on heavier boats. Higher load ranges need stronger construction and cost more, but they are essential for safety if your boat and trailer are heavy. Our trailer tire pressure and load range guide shows how to match tires to your trailer.
Radial or bias-ply
Bias-ply tires are cheaper and have stiff sidewalls that resist scuffs. Radial tires cost more, but they run cooler, track straighter and usually last longer on long highway trips. West Marine’s guide to trailer tire basics explains the differences in detail. If you tow long distances at highway speed, radials are usually worth the extra cost.
Brand and warranty
Premium brands invest more in quality control and often offer longer warranties. Some budget brands perform well, but quality can vary more between batches. Read recent reviews and check that the tire’s speed rating suits the speeds you tow at.
Tire only or tire and wheel
Many boat owners buy pre-mounted tire and wheel assemblies, especially if their old wheels are rusty. These cost more per unit but save mounting fees and give you fresh wheels. Galvanised or aluminium wheels resist corrosion better than painted steel, which matters if you launch in salt water.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
- Mounting and balancing: shops often charge per tire for mounting, balancing and new valve stems. Balancing is not always required on trailers, but it can reduce vibration and uneven wear; see our guide on whether trailer tires should be balanced.
- Wheel bearings: water exposure makes bearings a common failure point. Many owners repack or replace them when they replace tires.
- A spare: always carry a mounted spare and a jack that works on your trailer.
- Disposal fees: most shops charge a small fee to recycle old tires.
Why ST Tires Matter
Boat trailers should use ST (special trailer) tires, not passenger car tires. ST tires have stiffer sidewalls and higher load ratings to resist sway and carry heavy, constant loads. Passenger tires are designed for steering and comfort, and they can overheat and fail under trailer loads. Always match or exceed the load capacity shown on your trailer’s certification label.
How Long Do Boat Trailer Tires Last?
Boat trailer tires usually age out before they wear out. Sun, ozone, long periods of sitting and wet storage break down the rubber even when the tread looks fine. Many experts recommend replacing trailer tires about every three to five years, whatever the tread depth. Our guide on how long trailer tires last covers the warning signs, such as cracks, bulges and uneven wear.
To check a tire’s age, read the last four digits of the DOT code on the sidewall. For example, 2324 means the tire was made in the 23rd week of 2024. The NHTSA tire safety guide explains how to read DOT codes and check for recalls.
How to Save Money on Boat Trailer Tires
- Keep them inflated: underinflation is the main cause of trailer tire failure. Check cold pressure before every trip and inflate to the pressure on the sidewall for the load you carry.
- Rinse after salt water: wash the wheels, hubs and brakes with fresh water after every launch in salt water.
- Protect from the sun: use tire covers or park in shade when the boat is stored.
- Take weight off during long storage: if possible, support the trailer on stands so the tires do not develop flat spots.
- Replace in pairs: always replace both tires on an axle at the same time so they share the load evenly.
- Shop around: compare prices from local tire shops, marine stores and online retailers, and look for multi-tire deals.
Where to Buy Boat Trailer Tires
Boat trailer tires are sold by tire chains, marine dealers, farm and ranch stores and online retailers. Tire shops can mount, balance and check your wheels on the spot. Online retailers often have lower prices, especially on tire and wheel assemblies, but you will need to fit them yourself or pay a shop. For a wider look at trailer tire choices, see our list of the best travel trailer tires, many of which also suit boat trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace boat trailer tires?
Expect about $110 to $500 for two tires, depending on size and quality, plus mounting fees. Pre-mounted tire and wheel assemblies cost more but save labour.
Are radial tires better for boat trailers?
For highway towing, usually yes. Radials run cooler and track better. Bias-ply tires are cheaper and fine for short, low-speed trips.
Can I use car tires on a boat trailer?
It is not recommended. Use ST trailer tires with the correct load range for your trailer.
How often should I replace boat trailer tires?
Every three to five years is a common guideline, or sooner if you see cracks, bulges or uneven wear.
Final Thoughts
Boat trailer tires are not expensive compared with the boat they carry, but cheap or worn tires can cause costly breakdowns and dangerous blowouts. Budget roughly $55 to $250 per tire depending on size and quality, choose the right ST size and load range, and replace them by age as well as wear. With correct pressure and a quick rinse after salt water, a good set will carry your boat safely for years.