Finding the right set of all-terrain tires for your truck is about more than just looks. It’s about equipping your vehicle with the capability to confidently handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures off the beaten path. The 35X12.50R20 size offers a commanding presence and improved ground clearance, making it a popular choice for truck owners seeking both performance and style.
With so many options on the market, from aggressive mud-terrains to versatile all-terrains, selecting the perfect tire can be a challenge. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the top contenders in this size. We’ve compiled key features and benefits to help you make an informed decision that matches your driving needs and terrain demands.
Our Top Picks for 35X12.50R20 All-Terrain Tires
- Centennial Dirt Commander MT 35X12.50R20LT 12 ply Mud Tire
- Delinte DX9 Bandit M/T 35X12.50R20 E/10PLY BSW
- Zeetex MT1000 Mud Terrain Tire – 35X12.50R20 121Q 10PLY
- Set of 4 Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Radial Tires
- Firestone Destination M/T2 35X12.50R20LT 121 Q E
- Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT All-Season Radial Tire
- Cooper Discoverer STT Pro All-Season 35X12.50R20LT
- Nitto Ridge Grappler 35X12.50R20 121Q All Terrain Tire
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 35X12.50R20 121S Tire
Centennial Dirt Commander MT 35X12.50R20LT 12 ply Mud Tire
The Centennial Dirt Commander MT is built for drivers who regularly face challenging off-road conditions. Its robust 12-ply rating offers exceptional durability and resistance to punctures, which is vital for rocky trails and other harsh environments. The aggressive mud-terrain tread pattern is designed to dig in and clear out mud, providing the grip needed to keep you moving forward when the path gets messy.
This tire is intended for use on Jeeps, light trucks, and SUVs, making it a versatile option for a range of popular off-road vehicles. The deep, self-cleaning tread lugs help maintain consistent traction by preventing mud and debris from packing in. For those seeking a heavy-duty mud tire that can withstand serious punishment, the Dirt Commander is a strong candidate.
Delinte DX9 Bandit M/T 35X12.50R20 E/10PLY BSW
The Delinte DX9 Bandit M/T promises top-level traction for both on and off-road driving. Its E-load range and 10-ply construction indicate a tire built to handle heavier loads, which is perfect for trucks that are used for towing or hauling. The bold, muscular tread design not only looks the part but is engineered to perform in a variety of conditions.
This mud-terrain tire is designed to offer a balance of off-road capability and on-road stability. The tread blocks are arranged to provide multiple biting edges for improved grip on loose surfaces like dirt and gravel. If you need a tire that can support heavy-duty use while providing reliable traction, the Delinte DX9 Bandit is worth your attention.
Zeetex MT1000 Mud Terrain Tire – 35X12.50R20 121Q 10PLY
The Zeetex MT1000 is a 10-ply rated mud-terrain tire that is marketed as an all-season option, providing year-round usability. Its construction is focused on delivering off-road performance without completely sacrificing on-road manners. The Q speed rating ensures it is suited for the speeds typically driven on highways.
It is important to note that this is a tire-only product, and a wheel is not included. The tread pattern is designed for mud and loose terrain, featuring wide grooves to aid in self-cleaning. For truck owners looking for a capable mud tire that can also handle diverse weather conditions, the Zeetex MT1000 presents a viable solution.
Set of 4 Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Radial Tires
This offering from Venom Power provides a complete set of four Terra Hunter X/T tires, which is convenient for those looking to outfit their entire vehicle at once. With a 50,000-mile treadlife warranty, these tires are built with longevity in mind, offering good value for drivers who spend a significant amount of time on pavement.
Designed for extreme terrain, the all-season radial construction aims to balance aggressive off-road traction with dependable on-road performance. The Load Range F (12-ply) rating means these tires are constructed to be tough and resilient under heavy loads. This set is an excellent option for truck owners who want a rugged look and capability without purchasing tires individually.
Firestone Destination M/T2 35X12.50R20LT 121 Q E
The Firestone Destination M/T2 is the next generation of mud-terrain tire from a trusted brand. It is engineered to deliver serious off-road traction while improving upon road noise and handling compared to previous mud-terrain designs. The robust construction is made to resist chips and tears from sharp rocks and debris.
This tire benefits from Firestone’s heritage in tire manufacturing, often incorporating technologies aimed at durability and performance. The tread pattern is optimized to provide grip in deep mud and loose soil, while also offering stability on harder surfaces. For those who trust established brands, the Destination M/T2 is a modern mud-terrain option with a proven pedigree.
Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT All-Season Radial Tire
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT is engineered for confidence, incorporating DuPont Kevlar for extra strength and protection against tread damage. This technology helps make the tire more resistant to punctures and cuts, which is a significant advantage in rough off-road situations. It is built to provide a reliable performance for both work and recreation.
This tire stands out for its winter weather performance, featuring a tread pattern with numerous biting edges for enhanced grip in snow. This makes it a great all-season choice for drivers who face harsh winter conditions but still require off-road capability. The DuraTrac RT aims to be a tough, versatile tire that doesn’t compromise on safety in inclement weather.
Cooper Discoverer STT Pro All-Season 35X12.50R20LT
Cooper bills the Discoverer STT Pro as its most extreme all-season, off-road tire. It is designed to provide remarkable off-road performance in mud, sand, and rock, without giving up on-road traction and control. The tire’s Armor-Tek3 construction uses three layers of material to help resist punctures and abrasions.
The aggressive tread design includes deep grooves and staggered shoulder lugs to improve grip in challenging terrain. Despite its off-road focus, Cooper has worked to minimize road noise and provide stable handling on pavement. For the enthusiast who demands peak off-road performance but still drives regularly on the highway, the STT Pro is a compelling choice.
Nitto Ridge Grappler 35X12.50R20 121Q All Terrain Tire
The Nitto Ridge Grappler has gained a strong reputation as a hybrid tire that blends the best attributes of mud-terrain and all-terrain designs. It features an aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent off-road traction, particularly on rocky terrain, while offering a quieter and smoother ride on the street compared to a dedicated mud-terrain tire.
This tire is known for its durable compound and robust sidewall design, which helps resist damage from impacts and abrasions. The variable pitch tread blocks are arranged to help reduce road noise, making it a popular choice for daily-driven trucks that see frequent off-road use. The Ridge Grappler is an ideal solution for those who refuse to choose between extreme capability and civil road manners.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 35X12.50R20 121S Tire
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is often considered the benchmark in the all-terrain tire category. It is built with a tough, trail-armor sidewall rubber that is designed to resist abrasions and tearing when navigating over sharp rocks and other obstacles. Its core strength and durability are proven in some of the most demanding environments.
This tire excels in snow and is even recognized with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating its suitability for severe snow conditions. The tread compound and interlocking tread blocks provide solid traction on a wide variety of surfaces, from loose gravel to wet pavement. For a proven, do-it-all tire that balances rugged off-road performance with refined on-road driving, the KO2 remains a top-tier selection.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 9×12.50R20 All Terrain Tires for Trucks
When I’m looking for a new set of all-terrain tires for my truck, especially in a large size like 9×12.50R20, I know it’s not a decision to take lightly. This size is common on heavy-duty pickups that see a mix of highway driving, job site work, and weekend trail adventures. The right tire needs to handle it all without compromise. The first thing I consider is the tread pattern and compound. A good all-terrain tire has an aggressive, open shoulder for grip in mud and loose dirt, but the center of the tread should have tighter blocks and siping for quiet performance and solid handling on pavement, especially in the rain.
Next, I always check the tire’s construction. My truck is heavy, and I might be towing or carrying a load, so I need a tire with a robust, durable carcass. Look for tires that mention things like “cut-and-chip resistant” compounds or have reinforced sidewalls. This isn’t just about preventing punctures off-road; it’s about surviving rough job sites and pothole-ridden city streets. A tire that can’t handle the daily abuse will let you down long before its tread is worn out.
Noise and comfort are huge factors for me. Since my truck is also my daily driver, I don’t want a tire that sounds like a swarm of angry bees on the highway. Modern all-terrain tires have gotten much better at managing road noise through advanced pitch sequencing and variable tread block sizes. I read reviews and watch video comparisons specifically focusing on highway noise levels. A quiet tire makes long trips much less fatiguing.
Finally, I have to be realistic about my budget and the tire’s warranty. A 9×12.50R20 tire is a significant investment. I compare treadwear warranties, as a higher mileage warranty often indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in the compound’s longevity. However, I also balance that with real-world user reports. Sometimes a slightly less expensive tire with a solid reputation for durability is a smarter buy than the top-tier option with a great warranty but a much higher price tag. For the best 9×12.50R20 all terrain tires for trucks, finding that sweet spot between off-road capability, on-road manners, durability, and cost is the ultimate goal.
FAQ
What is the actual size of a 9×12.50R20 tire?
This is a common point of confusion. The “9×12.50R20” notation is a bit of a hybrid. The “12.50” typically refers to the tire’s section width in inches (how wide it is), while the “9” is often interpreted as the rim width in inches that the tire is designed to fit. The “R” stands for Radial construction, and the “20” is the rim diameter in inches. You might also see this size listed in a more standard format like 33×12.50R20, which gives you a better idea of the overall tire diameter and width. It’s always a good idea to confirm the exact specifications with the tire manufacturer.
Are all-terrain tires good for towing and heavy loads?
Yes, many all-terrain tires are excellent for towing and handling heavy loads, especially those designed for heavy-duty trucks. When I look for a tire for this purpose, I specifically check the load range (e.g., Load Range E) and the maximum load capacity listed on the tire’s sidewall. Tires with a higher load range have stronger internal construction with more ply layers, making them more resistant to the stresses of heavy payloads and trailer tongue weight. The stiff sidewalls also contribute to better stability when towing.
How do all-terrain tires affect my truck’s fuel economy?
You should expect a slight decrease in fuel economy when switching to a set of all-terrain tires. The more aggressive, heavier tread creates more rolling resistance compared to a standard highway tire. The weight of the tire itself also plays a role; a heavier tire requires more energy to get rolling and to stop. The drop in MPG isn’t usually dramatic, but it’s noticeable. Some modern all-terrain designs focus on using lighter materials and optimized tread patterns to minimize this impact.
Can I use these tires in severe winter conditions?
This depends heavily on the specific tire. Many all-terrain tires carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which means they are certified for use in severe snow conditions. These tires have a higher concentration of sipes (tiny slits in the tread blocks) that grip packed snow and ice. However, even a certified all-terrain tire is not a substitute for a dedicated winter tire on sheer ice. For occasional winter driving on plowed roads, a 3PMSF-rated all-terrain is a great compromise. For extreme ice and constant severe winter weather, a dedicated winter tire is the safer choice.
What is the typical lifespan of a 9×12.50R20 all-terrain tire?
Lifespan varies widely based on the specific tire model, your driving habits, truck alignment, and how often you rotate them. A well-made all-terrain tire with a robust tread compound can often last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles. I always look at the treadwear warranty as a good baseline for the manufacturer’s expectations. Consistent tire rotations (every 5,000-7,000 miles) are the single best thing you can do to ensure you get the full, even wear out of your investment in the best 9×12.50R20 all terrain tires for trucks.