5 Great Overlanding Tires & Why

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When it comes to overlanding, selecting the right tire is crucial for a successful trip. Overland vehicles are designed to go off-road, so the tires need to be able to handle a wide variety of terrain types. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of tread patterns and terrain considerations when selecting overlanding tires. We will also touch on the topic of tread life relative to hard and soft rubber, as well as the benefits of hard vs soft rubber off-road. Finally, we will list 5 great off-road tires with links for you to consider.

Tread Patterns

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting overlanding tires is the tread pattern. The tread pattern is the design of the tire's surface that makes contact with the road or off-road terrain. The type of tread pattern you choose will depend on the terrain you will be driving on. Below are some of the most common tread patterns and the terrains they are best suited for:

• All-Terrain Tires: These tires have a moderate tread pattern that works well on a variety of terrains, including gravel, dirt, and pavement. They are ideal for overlanders who frequently travel on mixed terrain.

• Mud-Terrain Tires: These tires have an aggressive tread pattern that works well in mud, sand, and loose dirt. They are ideal for overlanders who frequently travel off-road in muddy and wet conditions.

• Rock-Crawling Tires: These tires have large, aggressive tread patterns with deep lugs that provide maximum grip on rocks and boulders. They are ideal for overlanding that frequently involves travel in off-road, rocky terrain.

Terrain Considerations

When selecting overlanding tires, it is important to consider the type of terrain you will be driving on. Below are some of the most common types of terrain and the types of tires that work best:

• Gravel and Dirt Roads: All-terrain tires are a good choice for gravel and dirt roads, as they provide good traction on loose surfaces.

• Mud and Wet Terrain: Mud-terrain tires are a good choice for mud and wet terrain, as they have an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent grip in slippery conditions.

• Rocky Terrain: Rock-crawling tires are a good choice for rocky terrain, as they have large, aggressive tread patterns with deep lugs that provide maximum grip on rocks and boulders.

Tread Life and Rubber Hardness

Another factor to consider when selecting overlanding tires is tread life. Tread life is the amount of time the tire's tread will last before needing to be replaced. The hardness of the rubber used in the tire's construction can affect tread life. Generally, tires with harder rubber have a longer tread life than tires with softer rubber. However, tires with softer rubber typically provide better grip and traction off-road.

Benefits of Hard vs Soft Rubber Off-Road

The choice between hard and soft rubber off-road depends on the type of terrain you will be driving on. Tires with hard rubber are better suited for rocky terrain, as they provide better protection against punctures and cuts from sharp rocks. Tires with soft rubber are better suited for muddy and wet terrain, as they provide better grip and traction.

5 Great Off-Road Tires

Here are 5 great off-road tires with links, including the popular BF Goodrich tire brand:

• BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 - The BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a popular choice among overlanders for its durability and versatility. Its interlocking tread design provides good traction on both wet and dry terrain, and its tough sidewalls offer excellent protection against punctures and cuts from sharp rocks.

• Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac - The Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac is another popular choice among overlanders. Its aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction on muddy and wet terrain, and its tough construction offers good protection against punctures and cuts.

• Toyo Open Country M/T - The Toyo Open Country M/T is a great choice for overlanders who frequently travel off-road in mud and loose dirt. Its large, aggressive tread pattern provides excellent grip and traction in these conditions, while its tough construction offers good protection against punctures and cuts.

• Nitto Ridge Grappler - The Nitto Ridge Grappler is a hybrid tire that combines the benefits of both mud-terrain and all-terrain tires. Its aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction in mud and loose dirt, while its tight center pattern provides good stability and handling on paved roads.

• Cooper Discoverer STT Pro - The Cooper Discoverer STT Pro is a mud-terrain tire that offers excellent traction in mud, sand, and loose dirt. Its tough construction provides good protection against punctures and cuts, while its aggressive tread pattern provides maximum grip and traction.

In conclusion, selecting the right overlanding tire is crucial for a successful trip. The tread pattern and terrain considerations should be taken into account when choosing the right tire for your vehicle. The choice between hard and soft rubber off-road should also be considered, depending on the type of terrain you will be driving on. Finally, the 5 great off-road tires listed above offer excellent options for overlanders.