How to Choose Off-Road Tires?
3 Answers
Generally divided into three types: HT tires (Highway Tires), AT tires (All-Terrain Tires), and MT tires (Mud-Terrain Tires). For off-roading: MT tires; For a balance between off-roading and comfort: AT tires; For driving on sandy and soft soil surfaces: choose all-purpose tires.
As an off-road enthusiast, I believe the first question to ask when choosing tires is where you primarily drive for fun. If it's mostly muddy terrain, go for deep-tread mud tires which offer strong grip and prevent getting stuck; if you mainly tackle rocky mountain trails, all-terrain tires are practical and more budget-friendly. Don’t randomly upsize—check your vehicle’s manual to ensure compatibility with the rims, as mismatched sizes can affect handling and fuel efficiency. Price isn’t always an indicator of quality; established brands often deliver durability and peace of mind. I regularly inspect tire wear and replace them every year or two, especially since deeper treads enhance safety on wet, slippery roads. Remember, good tires make off-roading more thrilling, but never overlook regular maintenance and balancing your budget.
When choosing off-road tires, I always prioritize saving money and hassle. All-terrain tires are the best starting point—they adapt to various road surfaces and are durable, unlike pure mud tires which are more expensive, making them suitable for urban driving with occasional off-roading. Stick to the original factory size; arbitrarily going larger may damage the chassis. Keep the price around a thousand yuan, and don’t chase high-end brands. Be cautious about wear levels when opting for used tires. Regularly check tire pressure and maintain the standard value to extend lifespan by two or three years. During the rainy season, choose treads with good drainage for better stability. In short, matching daily needs and budget is the most practical approach, ensuring the investment pays off.
