Traveling with a trailer is a practical and exciting adventure, but it can quickly become annoying or even dangerous without the right tires. Finding the best tires for your trailer means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available sizes and compatibility. With the right trailer tires, you’ll be able to tow and take along anything you need to with ease.
We reviewed dozens of trailer tires to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in performance tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated trailer tires trailer owners can purchase to ensure a smooth and safe ride. (We’ve also reviewed the best truck tires and the best ATV/UTV tires in separate posts.)
We’ve identified the Maxxis M8008 Radial Trailer Tire as the best trailer tires out there. With an advanced tread compound that helps to promote stability, these trailer tires are ones that will keep your trailer hauling smoothly for many miles to come. These benefits allow trailer owners to haul and tow in a stable and smooth manner.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Trailer Tires
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Maxxis M8008 Radial Trailer Tire | 4.3 |
| Runner Up | Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Radial Tire | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Buy | Tredit Rim & Tire Assembly | 4.9 |
| Best Boat Trailer Tires | Wheels Express 15" White Spoke | 4.8 |
| Best Travel Trailer Tires | Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Maxxis M8008 Radial Trailer Tire
The Maxxis M8008 Radial Trailer Tire is our top choice for the best trailer tires, thanks to its advanced tread compound that provides increased stability when driving. This increased stability and longevity make it an ideal choice for those who need to haul long distances without having to worry about changing their trailer tires too frequently. It has an 8-ply rating and is available in a number of different sizes to suit various trailers.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer tire appreciated how sturdy this tire was, and that the quality in the manufacturing process was noticeable to them. Some comments mentioned the tread wear was quite nice on these tires, and felt they were a good value even with their higher price tag.
At a cost of about $123 per tire, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the high customer ratings and longevity more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with more than 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing trailer owners to make the investment.
Maxxis M8008 Radial Trailer Tire Key Features:
- Wheel sold separately
- Double steel-belted construction
- Speed rating of R, load rating of C
Runner-Up: Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Radial Tire
The Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Radial Tire is our runner up choice for the best trailer tire, as it is compatible with various trailer makes and models, and comes in at under $100 per tire. Ideal for both short and long-distance hauling, this trailer tire is suitable for use in various applications including boating, utility, and towable recreational vehicles. This tire boasts a unique wear-resistant and heat-resistant rubber tread compound that helps provide increased longevity through repeated long distance use. It also uses high-tensile steel belts to help decrease rolling resistance while increasing impact resistance.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer tire appreciated how easy they were to install, and that they came in varying sizes. Although a couple people were disappointed with the styling of these tires, they were impressed with their handling, and felt they were a good valued when compared to other similar options.
With a price tag of around $101 per tire, it’s still a bit pricey as far as trailer tires go, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.6 on Amazon with more than 170 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing trailer owners to make the investment.
Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Radial Tire Key Features:
- Interconnected tread blocks to promote longer tread life
- Speed rating of L
- Multiple plies for increased load carrying capacity
Budget Pick: Tredit Rim & Tire Assembly
The Tredit Rim & Tire Assembly is our choice for the most budget-friendly trailer tire, as it is compatible with various applications and vehicles and comes in at well under $100 per tire. Since it comes complete with the wheel rim, this also makes it a great choice for those who want an easy install-and-go option for their trailer. It boasts a high max load capacity of up to 780 lbs.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer tire appreciated the value that this tire and rim set provided, and found it easy to install. Reviewers noted that the rim color was grey and not silver coated as described, but said this didn’t affect performance in any way.
At a cost of approximately $45 per tire, this tire is an affordable choice for those looking for a trailer tire option on a budget. It has a rating of 4.9 on Amazon with more than 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing trailer owners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at providing a smooth haul as its more expensive counterparts.
Tredit Rim & Tire Assembly Key Features:
- Includes a steel rim
- Includes a 2-year warranty
- Load range of B
Best Boat Trailer Tires: Wheels Express 15″ White Spoke
The Wheels Express 15″ White Spoke is our pick for the best boat trailer tire thanks to its ability to handle heavy loads with ease. It comes complete as a set of rim and rubber, for an option that is ready to install right out of the package. The tire come pre-balanced, which helps provide a smoother ride, and comes pre-filled with air at just the right pressure.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer tire appreciated the quality that these tires provided for the price, and mentioned it would make an excellent spare. A couple of reviews mentioned that the tire sidewall was cracking earlier than it should have been expected to, but these happenings aren’t consistent enough to discourage buyers from giving this tire a try. The tread pattern is different than most other tires, which might be a turn-off for some users.
At a cost of around $82 per tire, it’s a fairly affordable choice, and their ease of installation combined with the fact that it includes the rim, more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.8 on Amazon with more than 700 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing trailer owners to make the investment.
Wheels Express 15″ White Spoke Key Features:
- Load rating of C
- Max load capacity of up to 1,820 lbs
- Compatible with several brands of trailers
Best Travel Trailer Tires: Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire
The Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire is our pick for the best travel trailer tire because it comes with decent ratings, and doesn’t skimp on essential features — all at a lower cost than many of its competitors. It offers enhanced traction capabilities in both wet and dry conditions, and is suitable for use in a variety of applications.
Those who purchased and reviewed this trailer tire appreciated the value that this trailer tire provided at a much lower cost than comparable tires. Some people complained that these tires didn’t include rims, but it’s certainly not a requirement if you’re just looking to replace worn trailer tires.
At a cost of around $64 per tire, it’s a fairly affordable option for those looking for a trailer tire without breaking the bank, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with more than 300 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing trailer owners to make the investment.
Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire Key Features:
- Includes a 5-year warranty
- Speed rating of J, load rating of D
- Durable 8-ply construction
Who Should Buy Trailer Tires
Trailer tires are an essential item for those who use a trailer to tow and haul in any capacity. This could be someone who needs to transport their motorcycle into storage for the winter, or someone who owns a boat and needs to get it to and from a body of water.
Having the right size tire for your trailer, properly inflated and installed, is essential for a smooth and efficient running trailer. You can tell a trailer tire from a regular vehicle tire because the trailer tire will be designated by the letters ST.
Important Features to Consider
Not all trailer tires are created equal. Trailer tires should have a thick construction, and a high speed rating. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best tires for your trailer:
- Tire type. You can easily determine the type of tire by the first letter in the identifying code: P means passenger car, LT means light truck, and ST indicates special trailer. Trailer tires will start with ST, such as ST 225/75R15.
- Tire width. Once you’ve selected the correct type of tire, you’ll need to find the right width. The number listed after the tire type indicated is the width of the tire in millimeters. If the code is ST 225/75R15, the width of the tire is 225 mm.
- Tire height. The next number you need to check for is the number following the slash, which indicates the tire’s height. While it’s not really a measurement, it indicates the percentage of the tire’s width. In our example, ST225/75R15, the height of the tire is 75% of its width of 225 mm.
- Tire construction. Radial tires have rubber-coated steel cables running perpendicular across the tire and are better for long distance travel, as they stay cooler due to the fact that they provide less rolling resistance. The also have a longer tread life. Tires with the letter R in their code are radial tires. Diagonal bias tires use layers of nylon textile cords crisscrossing at 30° angles, and are better for shorter distances or off-pavement situations. Diagonal bias tires have a shorter tread life than radial tires, and are indicated by the letter D in the tire code.
- Wheel diameter. The last number in the sequence before the space is the diameter of the wheel in inches. In our example, ST225/75R15, the wheel is 15 inches in diameter.
- Load. All trailer tires will have a maximum recommended load. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in order to get the best haul from your trailer tires.
- Speed rating. If you’ll be running your trailer tires down the highway, you’ll want to choose a tire with a higher speed rating. Newer trailer tires indicate their speed rating with a letter on the sidewall, with M for 81 mph, L for 75 mph, and J for 62 mph.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on trailer tires. Trailer tires vary in price from $50-$200 per tire or more. Something to keep in mind is that you should replace trailer tires in sets, rather than individually, which will increase costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are trailer tires?
A trailer tire is a type of tire that has been specially designed for use with tow trailers. This is a much different function than other types of tires, and as such, what to look for when shopping for trailer tires will be different than ordinary vehicle tires. Vehicle tires generally need to provide good traction and steering ability, in addition to offering a comfortable ride. The sidewalls of passenger tires are more flexible than trailer tires, in order to help absorb bumps on the road.
On the other hand, a trailer tire doesn’t need as much tread since it is not responsible for starting or stopping the vehicle. Because there is less traction required, trailer tires can use more reinforcing layers like plies and belts, which creates stiffer sidewalls. While trailer tires are less effective at absorbing any bumps, the additional structural material means that trailer tires can carry heavier loads.
What’s the difference between radial and bias-ply trailer tires?
Radial tires have rubber-coated steel cables running perpendicular across the tire and are better for long distance travel as they stay cooler due to the fact that they provide less rolling resistance. The also have a longer tread life. Tires with the letter R in their code are radial tires.
Diagonal bias, or bias-ply tires, use layers of nylon textile cords crisscrossing at 30° angles, and are better for short distances or off-pavement situations. Diagonal bias tires have a shorter tread life than radial tires, and are indicated by the letter D in the tire code.
It is not recommended to mix and match trailer tire types.
How do you know what size trailer tires to buy?
The simplest way to know what size trailer tires to buy is to check the sidewall of the tire that you are replacing. As explained above, the identifying code will tell you everything you need to know to purchase the right size tire. You can also check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your particular trailer.
What is the load rating on trailer tires?
The load rating will vary between trailer tires, and is indicated by a letter and a number at the end of a tire’s identifying code. This indicates how many plies the tire has and does not correlate with a tire’s size, but rather the maximum tire pressure and weight each tire can carry. For example, load range B has four plies (35 psi), load range C has six plies (50 psi), load range D has eight plies (65 psi), and load range E has 10 plies (80 psi). Tires can be the same size, but is one has more plies it will be able to haul a heavier load.
Other Trailer Tires We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other trailer tires. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best trailer tires list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your travel needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Radial Trailer Tires
ST 225/75R15 Freestar M-108 10 Ply E Load Radial Trailer Tire 2257515
This trailer tire features a radial construction and 15-inch diameter that’s suitable for a variety of different applications.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Speed rating: J
- Width of 225 mm
Cost: $114
Wheels Express 15″ Silver Mod Radial ST205/75R15 Tire
This trailer tire comes pre-mounted on a steel wheel for ease of installation, and boasts a radial construction.
Key Features:
- Weight rating of 1,820 lbs
- Maximum pressure of 50 PSI
- Tread wear indicator
Cost: $84
Gladiator 22575R15 ST 225/75R15 STEEL BELTED REINFORCED Trailer Truck Tire
This trailer tire comes with a load range of E and includes an API Pegasus Achilles steel belt for added stability and durability.
Key Features:
- Width of 225 millimeters
- Rim diameter of 15 inches
- Weight capacity of 2830/2470 SRW/DRW pounds per tire
Cost: $115
Free Country Premium Trailer Tires ST 225/75D15
Available in different sizes and configurations for various makes and models of trailers, these tires come in a complete set of four for ease of installation.
Key Features:
- 8 ply rated
- Load range D
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $240/4 tires
SuperCargo ST Radial Trailer Radial Tire – 175/80R13 91L
This radial tire boasts a 13-inch diameter along with a section width of 225 millimeters, and carries a speed rating of L.
Key Features:
- Includes a 5-year warranty
- Weight rating of 1,360 lbs
- Load range C
Cost: $44
4 New Gremax Premium Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 Radial 12PR Load Range F
Available in a convenient set of four, these trailer tires boast a nylon overlay across the entire tread area for added safety.
Key Features:
- Rims sold separately
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Speed rating of L
Cost: $397/4 tires
Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire – ST205/75R14
Suitable for a number of different applications, these radial tires offer durable and stable use for even the toughest of loads.
Key Features:
- Proprietary tread contour and pattern
- Variable pitch pattern
- Available in 15 different sizes
Cost: $56
Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire – 205/75R15 107L
This trailer tire boasts a unique center groove that provides for consistent tracking and stability for a quieter, more efficient ride.
Key Features:
- Improved heat dissipation
- Nylon overlay construction
- Speed rating of L
Cost: $50
Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire – 175/80R13 96M
Suitable for a number of varying applications and trips long or short, these trailer tires have a maximum weight capacity of 1,570 pounds per tire.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Speed rating of M
- Includes a 2-year warranty
Travel Trailer Tires
WE 14-2B Trailer 14″ White Spoke Trailer Wheel with Bias ST205/75D14
This bias constructed trailer tire comes pre-mounted on a steel wheel for ease of installation, and features a center bore of 3.19 inches.
Key Features:
- Weight Rating of 1,760 lbs
- Rim diameter of 14 inches
- Load range C
Cost: $69
QD-712 Trailer Tire, 4.80-8 6 Ply Load C
This trailer tire is available in single or multi-packs to suit various needs, and comes pre-mounted for ease of installation.
Key Features:
- Load range C
- Rim diameter of 8 inches
- Speed rating of L
Cost: $33
Grand Ride Premium Trailer Tires ST 175/80R13 8PR Load Range D
Available in a selection of various sizes to suit different types of trailers, these tires come in an economical set of four and boast premium construction.
Key Features:
- Speed rating of L
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Nylon overlay construction
Cost: $204/4 tires
Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire – 205/75R14 100L
This trailer tire boasts the brand’s unique center groove that provides for consistent tracking and stability for a quieter, more efficient ride.
Key Features:
- Rim sold separately
- Improved heat dissipation
- Speed rating of L
Cost: $55
ST 205/75R14 Freestar M-108 6 Ply C Load Radial Trailer Tire 2057514
With a maximum load per tire of 1,760 pounds, these trailer tires are suitable for use in a number of different applications, and are affordably priced.
Key Features:
- Speed rating of J
- Load range C
- Tread wear indicator
Boat Trailer Tires
Grand Ride 2 New Trailer Tires ST 205/75R14 8PR Load Range D
Available in a selection of various sizes to suit different types of trailers, these tires come in an economical set of two for ease of changes.
Key Features:
- Nylon overlay construction
- Rim diameter of 14 inches
- Load range D
Cost: $115
Carlisle Sport Trail Boat Trailer Tire – 480-8
Ideal for a wide variety of applications, this trailer tire boasts a bias construction and 8-inch rim diameter.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Tread wear indicator
- Speed rating of B
Cost: $21
Wanda Trailer Tires 4.80-8 6PR Load Range C – 11029
Coming in a convenient set of two, this trailer tire is suitable for use in a number of applications and is ideal for use on high speed highways.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Load range C
- Includes a 1-year warranty
Cost: $46
Power King Boat Trailer Bias Tire – 5.30-12
Ideal for use with both small and medium sized trailers, this tire boasts a bias construction and an advanced tubeless design.
Key Features:
- Speed rating of M
- Rim diameter of 12 inches
- Load index rating of 74
Cost: $38
Carlisle 6H04561 Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire – 205/75R14 105M
Suitable for a number of varying applications and trips long or short, these trailer tires have a maximum weight capacity of 2,040 pounds per tire.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Load range D
- Speed rating of M
Cost: $73
ST 175/80D13 Nanco S622 6 Ply C Load Bias Trailer Tire 1758013
Made from durable, quality materials, this trailer tire boats a premium construction designed to endure a variety of work and play environments.
Key Features:
- Wheel/rim sold separately
- Speed rating of J
- Width of 175 mm
Cost: $48
