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Updated November 2026
Trailer tire reviews can be confusing: one owner swears by a tire, another reports a blowout on the same model. To make sense of them, you need to understand the ratings molded on the sidewall and know how to read reviews critically. This guide explains every trailer tire rating that matters, then shows you how to judge reviews and which tires are consistently well rated.
Key takeaways
- The ratings that matter most on a trailer tire are load range, load index, maximum pressure, speed symbol and the DOT date code.
- ST tires do not carry UTQG treadwear grades, so you cannot compare tread life by number.
- Most negative reviews involve underinflation, overloading, high speed or old tires. Check for those details before trusting a review.
- Consistently well-rated models include the Goodyear Endurance, Maxxis M8008 and Carlisle Radial Trail HD.
How to read a trailer tire sidewall
Example: ST225/75R15 117/112N Load Range E, Max Load 2,830 lbs @ 80 psi
| Marking | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ST | Special Trailer: designed only for trailer use |
| 225/75R15 | 225 mm wide, sidewall 75% of width, radial, 15-inch wheel |
| 117/112 | Load index for single and dual fitments |
| N | Speed symbol (N = 87 mph). Many ST tires without a higher symbol are limited to 65 mph |
| Load Range E | 10-ply rating, 80 psi maximum |
| Max Load @ psi | The weight the tire can carry at its maximum cold pressure |
| DOT code | Manufacturer and plant, with the last four digits showing week and year made |
Trailer tire ratings explained
Load range and ply rating
Load range shows the tire’s strength and maximum pressure: C (6-ply rating, 50 psi), D (8-ply, 65 psi), E (10-ply, 80 psi), F (12-ply, 95 psi) and G (14-ply, 110 psi) are typical for ST tires. Higher load ranges carry more weight but ride stiffer. Our load capacity guide shows how to pick one.
Speed rating
ST tires were traditionally limited to 65 mph. Newer designs may carry L (75 mph), M (81 mph) or N (87 mph). Towing above the rating builds heat, the main cause of failures.
Radial vs. bias-ply
Radial tires run cooler, track better and suit highway travel trailers. Bias-ply tires have stiffer sidewalls and are common on small utility and farm trailers driven at lower speeds.
Sidewall construction
Some ST radials use steel or reinforced sidewalls for puncture resistance and stability under heavy loads. See trailer tire sidewall construction.
How to read trailer tire reviews
- Check the details. Useful reviews mention trailer type, weight, pressure, speed and miles. Reviews without them tell you little.
- Look for patterns, not single stories. One blowout is an anecdote; dozens of similar failures across sizes is a signal.
- Watch for the usual causes. Underinflation, overloading, speeding and old tires cause most failures regardless of brand.
- Prefer long-term reviews from owners who have run tires for several seasons.
- Check RV and towing forums, where owners share data like weights and pressures.
Consistently well-rated trailer tires
| Tire | What owners like | Read more |
|---|---|---|
| Goodyear Endurance | US-built, 87 mph rating, durability | Highway picks |
| Maxxis M8008 ST Radial | Long-term reliability | Highway picks |
| Carlisle Radial Trail HD | Value, wide availability | Carlisle trailer tires |
| Sailun S637 | High load ranges for heavy fifth-wheels | Highway picks |
Frequently asked questions
What is the most reliable trailer tire?
The Goodyear Endurance and Maxxis M8008 are among the most consistently well-reviewed. Reliability still depends on correct load, pressure and age.
Do trailer tires have treadwear ratings?
No. UTQG grades apply to passenger tires, not ST trailer tires.
Why do trailer tires get bad reviews?
Many failures come from underinflation, overloading, high speed or aged rubber. Check those details when reading reviews.
Which is better, radial or bias-ply trailer tires?
Radials for highway travel trailers; bias-ply for slow, short-distance utility use.