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Updated November 2026
Off-road trailers, such as overland campers, teardrops, adventure trailers and utility trailers that leave the pavement, ask more of their tires than a highway boat trailer. They face rocks, washboard gravel, sand and sharp edges, often far from a tire shop. That changes which tires make sense. This guide covers the two main approaches (heavy-duty ST trailer tires vs. LT all-terrain tires), the brands worth knowing, and how to choose.
How we chose: we compared manufacturer specifications, load and speed ratings, and a large volume of owner feedback from trailer and overlanding communities. We have not physically tested every tire.
Key takeaways
- Mostly gravel roads and campgrounds? A tough radial ST tire in the right load range is usually enough.
- Real trails, rocks and remote areas? Many owners switch to LT all-terrain tires, often matching the tow vehicle so one spare fits both.
- Whatever you choose, total load capacity must exceed the trailer’s GVWR with a margin. LT tires used on trailers may need to be derated, so check the tire maker’s guidance.
- Off-road, sidewall strength and puncture resistance matter more than tread pattern.
ST trailer tires vs. LT all-terrain tires off-road
| Heavy-duty ST radial | LT all-terrain | |
|---|---|---|
| Designed for | Trailer loads, highway towing stability | Trucks and SUVs on and off pavement |
| Sidewall and puncture resistance | Moderate | Usually stronger, especially LT load range E with sidewall lugs |
| Traction on loose surfaces | Basic | Much better |
| Spare compatibility with tow vehicle | No | Yes, if wheel bolt pattern and size match |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Load rating on trailers | Full ST rating | May need derating; check tire maker |
Trailer tire brands worth knowing for off-road use
Goodyear: Endurance (ST)
The Goodyear Endurance is one of the most popular ST radials. It is made in the USA, rated to 87 mph (speed symbol N), and widely praised for durability on travel trailers. It is a strong choice for trailers that see gravel and forest roads but not technical trails.
Carlisle: Radial Trail HD (ST)
A long-running, widely available ST radial with load ranges to suit small utility trailers up to large travel trailers. It is good value for occasional dirt-road use.
Maxxis: M8008 ST Radial (ST)
A well-regarded ST radial with a reputation for durability, used on many RVs and utility trailers. A good alternative where Goodyear sizes are hard to find.
BFGoodrich: All-Terrain T/A KO3 (LT)
BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A line is a long-time overlanding favorite for its tough sidewalls. The KO3, which replaced the KO2, carries the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol and is a common choice when owners want trailer tires that match their truck.
Falken: Wildpeak A/T series (LT)
Falken’s Wildpeak all-terrain tires offer strong off-road traction and snowflake ratings at a lower price than some rivals. Popular for matched truck-and-trailer setups.
Toyo: Open Country A/T III (LT)
A durable, snowflake-rated LT all-terrain with good on-road manners, often chosen for long-distance overland trips that mix highway and dirt.
How to choose tires for an off-road trailer
- Calculate your load. Divide the trailer’s GVWR by the number of tires and add a 10–20% margin. Our trailer tire load capacity guide walks through it.
- Be honest about the terrain. Gravel roads favor a quality ST radial. Rocky trails and remote travel favor LT all-terrain tires.
- Match the tow vehicle if possible. Same tire size and bolt pattern means one spare covers both.
- Check wheel ratings. Wheels must handle the tire’s load and pressure.
- Carry recovery and repair gear: a quality compressor, plug kit, pressure gauge and a full-size spare.
Off-road tire tips for trailers
- Lowering pressure slightly on rough trails can smooth the ride and improve grip, but always reinflate before returning to pavement and higher speeds.
- Inspect sidewalls after every trail day for cuts and bulges.
- Check DOT dates. Trailer tires often age out before wearing out.
- Run a trailer TPMS on long trips so you catch slow leaks early.
More in our trailer tire guides and light truck all-terrain tire buyer’s guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put all-terrain tires on my trailer?
Yes, many off-road trailer owners do. Make sure total load capacity, after any derating the tire maker requires, exceeds the trailer’s GVWR, and that your wheels are rated for the load and pressure.
What is the best trailer tire brand?
For ST radials, Goodyear Endurance, Carlisle Radial Trail HD and Maxxis M8008 are widely trusted. For off-road trailers using LT tires, BFGoodrich, Falken and Toyo all-terrains are popular.
Are ST tires good off-road?
Quality ST radials handle gravel and dirt roads well. For rocky trails, LT all-terrain tires offer tougher sidewalls and better traction.