Last Updated on August 8, 2025
Trailer Tire Buying Guide- How to Select Tires That Fit Your Trailer’s Needs
Despite having very similar features to passenger cars, SUVs, and truck tires, trailer tires have very different characteristics, construction, and use. A high-quality trailer tire is crucial for safety, stability, and longevity.
Trailer tires are specifically designed to handle heavy loads, resist heat buildup, and maintain stability during towing. If you know anything about towing, you know that it requires precision and a dependable set of rubber tires. First, let’s discuss the difference between trailer tires/passenger tires and what trailer tire types are available on the market.
The Difference Between Trailer And Passenger Car Tires
The main differences between these two types of tires can be grouped into two categories: construction and rubber compounds. Trailer tires are made with stronger sidewalls, which prevent swaying and improve stability under heavy loads. They have a significantly higher load index for carrying loads. Although the thread patterns might look familiar, trailer tires have less tread flex, reducing heat buildup and preventing premature wear or blowouts. Trailer tires are built for straight-line towing instead of high-speed cornering. You should never drive aggressively when towing a load.
What Are The Two Main Types Of Trailer Tires?
Currently, you will find two main trailer tire types on the market – Radial and Bias Ply.
Radial trailer tires are constructed similarly to passenger car tires and used for lighter trailers. They perform best on highway use and long-distance towing. The radial trailer tires have more flexible sidewalls for a smoother ride. Those who do a lot of towing know that radial tires are commonly found on boat or car trailers, travel trailers, etc. Also, radial trailer tires are known for longer tread life and better fuel efficiency.
Bias-ply trailer tires have traditional construction, which is far better suited for heavier loads. They have stronger and more rigid sidewalls, a more aggressive tread pattern for off-road use and difficult terrains, and chunkier tread blocks that can endure punctures and damage. Bias-ply trailer tires are used for heavy trailers, construction machinery, big farm trailers, etc.
The Most Important Aspect Of Trailer Tires Is the Load Rating
The tire load rating (or index) is a numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at the speed indicated by its speed symbol under specific conditions. It is a critical specification that ensures the tire can support the vehicle’s weight and any additional load without compromising safety. The load rating is typically found on the tire sidewall.
Besides the load rating, the trailer tires are usually marked by ply rating and are mostly connected to bias ply trailer tires. The ply rating shows the ruggedness of the tire and how durable the construction is.
Load Range and Ply Ratings
- Load Range B (4-ply) – Light-duty trailers
- Load Range C (6-ply) – Medium-duty trailers
- Load Range D (8-ply) – Heavy-duty trailers
- Load Range E (10-ply) – Extra heavy-duty trailers
Determining the exact Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is easy but crucial for safe towing. Just find the GVWR figure for your vehicle, and then make sure that you have tires with a combined load capacity that exceeds that weight.
Speed Ratings
Most trailer tires are designed for speeds between 65 mph and 75 mph. Exceeding the speed rating can lead to excessive heat buildup and tire failure. We urge you to always drive under the limit and respect the local laws and road conditions.
Standard trailer tire speed ratings:
- L (75 mph) – Most standard trailer tires
- M (81 mph) – High-speed radial trailer tires
- N (87 mph) – Premium trailer tires for heavy loads
Best Trailer Tires For Heavy Loads In 2025
1) Goodyear Endurance
The Goodyear Endurance is a premium radial trailer tire that is durable and stable during towing.
Features:
- Rounded profile to cushion the trailer’s ride.
- Symmetric tread design with closely spaced ribs for straight tracking and dependable highway stability.
- Twin steel belts with two-ply nylon reinforcement to stabilize the tread, increasing traction and durability.
- Polyester cord body to help smooth out the trailer’s ride.
- A scaffold guard is molded into the sidewall to resist damage from contact with curbs.
Specifications:
- Sizes Available: ST205/75R14, ST215/75R14, ST205/75R15, ST225/75R15, ST235/80R16, ST235/85R16, ST255/85R16.
- Load Range: D and E, depending on size.
- Speed Rating: N (87 mph).
- Tread Depth: 8/32″.
- Max Load Capacity: Varies by size;
- Price: From $175 per tire, depending on size.
2) Carlisle Radial Trail HD
The Carlisle Radial Trail HD is known for its durability and performance, making it suitable for various trailer applications.
Features:
- Heat-resistant tread compound for longer life and reduced rolling resistance.
- Optimized tread pattern for improved traction and reduced road noise.
- Durable internal structure to handle heavy loads.
Specifications:
- Sizes Available: ST205/75R14, ST215/75R14, ST205/75R15, ST225/75R15, ST235/80R16, among others.
- Load Range: C, D, and E, depending on size.
- Speed Rating: M (81 mph).
- Tread Depth: 8/32″.
- Max Load Capacity: Varies by size; for example
- Price: From $67 per tire, depending on size.
3) Maxxis M8008 ST Radial
The Maxxis M8008 is praised for its high-speed stability and smooth towing experience.
Features:
- Advanced tread compound for improved wear and extended tread life.
- Double steel-belted construction for added strength and load capacity.
- Low rolling resistance design for better fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
- Sizes Available: ST205/75R14, ST215/75R14, ST225/75R15, ST235/80R16, among others.
- Load Range: C, D, and E, depending on size.
- Speed Rating: R (106 mph).
- Tread Depth: 9/32″.
- Max Load Capacity: Varies by size;
- Price: From $87 per tire, depending on size.
4) Trailer King ST Radial
The Trailer King ST Radial offers a balance between performance and affordability.
Features:
- Center groove for consistent tracking and stability.
- Enhanced shoulder design for better heat dissipation.
- Nylon overlay construction for added strength and durability.
Specifications:
- Sizes available: ST175/80R13, ST205/75R14, ST225/75R15, ST235/80R16, among others.
- Load Range: C, D, and E, depending on size.
- Speed Rating: L (75 mph).
- Tread Depth: 8/32″.
- Max Load Capacity: Varies by size.
- Price: From $94 per tire, depending on size.
5) Freestar M-108+
The Freestar M-108+ is a bias-ply trailer tire designed for heavy-duty applications.
Features:
- Robust bias-ply construction for enhanced load-carrying capacity.
- Deep tread depth for extended tire life.
- Durable rubber compound to resist cuts and abrasions.
Specifications:
- Sizes Available: ST205/75D14, ST225/75D15, ST235/80D16, among others.
- Load Range: C, D, and E, depending on size.
- Price: From $46 per tire, depending on size
Why Tires Easy Is The Best Place For Shopping For Trailer Tires
Besides being bonafide tire fans and experts, Tires Easy offers unbeatable deals with the best prices and terms. This includes a 45-day return policy, free delivery, and a wide range of high-quality trailer tires. What sets us apart is our vast network of 1,000+ trusted tire installers, like Pep Boys and Monro, with free shipping to their locations. If you opt for the service with free shipping and installation, you’ll get a fantastic deal that is tough to beat. With over 7 million tires sold, we remain the top choice for drivers nationwide.
Conclusion:
Selecting the right trailer tires is essential for safe and efficient towing. By considering factors like tire type, load rating, and size, you can ensure your trailer performs at its best for years to come. Of course, always obey the rules of the road, drive according to the environment and weather, and ensure that your trailer and towing vehicles are in top working condition.
