What is the best type of tire for a trailer?

When it comes to towing a trailer, having the right tires is essential for safety, performance, and durability. Trailer tires are designed to handle specific loads, weather conditions, and driving environments. Choosing the best type of tire for your traile r can improve towing stability, reduce wear and tear, and ensure a smooth and safe ride. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of trailer tires, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your trailer.

Why Choosing the Right Tire for Your Trailer Matters

Trailer tires serve a different purpose than regular passenger vehicle tires. While car tires are designed for traction, handling, and comfort, trailer tires are specifically built to carry heavy loads and maintain stability while being towed. The wrong type of tire can lead to poor handling, increased risk of blowouts, and faster wear.

Key Factors Trailer Tires Must Address:

• Load Capacity: Trailers often carry heavy loads, so the tire must support the weight of the trailer and its cargo.
• Durability: Trailer tires need to resist punctures, uneven wear, and environmental stress like UV exposure and road conditions.
• Stability: Proper tires can improve towing stability and reduce swaying or fishtailing.
• Heat Resistance: Trailer tires must be designed to handle long distances without overheating, which can lead to blowouts.

Types of Trailer Tires

There are two main types of trailer tires: Radial tires and Bias-ply tires. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best one for your trailer depends on how and where you plan to tow.

1. Radial Trailer Tires

Radial tires are the most common type of trailer tire used today. They have a flexible steel belt that runs across the tread, allowing for a more comfortable ride and even wear.

Benefits of Radial Trailer Tires:

• Longer Lifespan: Radial tires generally last longer due to their ability to distribute weight and wear more evenly.
• Improved Fuel Efficiency: Radial tires have less rolling resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency during towing.
• Better Heat Dissipation: These tires perform better on long-distance hauls because they handle heat more effectively, reducing the risk of blowouts.
• Smoother Ride: Radial tires offer a more comfortable ride, making them ideal for trailers that carry sensitive or fragile loads.

Drawbacks of Radial Trailer Tires:

• Less Durable on Rough Terrain: Radial tires may not be as durable as bias-ply tires on rough, off-road surfaces, as they are more susceptible to punctures.

2. Bias-Ply Trailer Tires

Bias-ply tires are made with multiple layers of rubber-coated fabric that run at an angle across the tire. They are known for their durability and strength, making them suitable for heavy-duty and off-road applications.

Benefits of Bias-Ply Trailer Tires:

• Durability on Rough Terrain: Bias-ply tires are sturdier and more durable when used on rough, uneven roads, gravel, or off-road conditions.
• Higher Load Capacity: These tires have a stronger sidewall, making them better suited for heavy loads.
• Affordability: Bias-ply tires are generally more affordable than radial tires.

Drawbacks of Bias-Ply Trailer Tires:

• Shorter Lifespan: Bias-ply tires wear out faster than radial tires, especially on smooth, paved roads.
• Less Heat Resistance: These tires tend to generate more heat during long-distance towing, which can increase the risk of blowouts.
• Rougher Ride: Bias-ply tires don’t offer the same smooth, comfortable ride as radial tires.

Special Trailer (ST) Tires vs. Passenger (P) Tires

It’s important to note that trailer tires are not the same as car tires. Special Trailer (ST) tires are designed specifically for trailers, while Passenger (P) tires are made for regular vehicles. ST tires are built to carry heavy loads, have stiffer sidewalls, and are more durable for towing purposes.

Why You Should Choose ST Tires for Your Trailer:

• Higher Load Capacity: ST tires are designed to support the weight of the trailer and its cargo, making them better suited for towing.
• Stronger Sidewalls: ST tires have thicker, more durable sidewalls, which prevent swaying and provide stability under heavy loads.
• Heat Resistance: These tires are made to handle long-distance towing and heat buildup, reducing the risk of blowouts.
• Special Tread Design: ST tires have a unique tread design that helps with traction, stability, and towing performance.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Trailer Tires

Choosing the best type of tire for your trailer involves more than just picking between radial and bias-ply options. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Load Rating

The load rating is one of the most critical factors when selecting trailer tires. It determines how much weight a tire can safely support. Trailer tires come with different load ratings, usually labeled as Load Range B, C, D, or E. The higher the letter, the more weight the tire can handle.

• Load Range B: Light-duty tires with a lower load capacity, suitable for smaller trailers.
• Load Range C: Medium-duty tires that can handle moderate loads.
• Load Range D and E: Heavy-duty tires built for larger trailers that carry heavy cargo, such as boats, campers, or horse trailers.

2. Tire Size

The size of your trailer tire should match the specifications of your trailer and its axle rating. You can find the recommended tire size in your trailer’s owner manual or on the placard inside the trailer door. Trailer tire sizes are labeled with a code like "ST205/75R15," where "ST" stands for Special Trailer, "205" is the tire width in millimeters, "75" is the aspect ratio (the tire height as a percentage of the width), and "R15" indicates the tire's diameter in inches.

3. Ply Rating

The ply rating refers to the tire's strength and how many layers of material it has. Higher ply ratings mean the tire is more durable and can carry heavier loads. For heavy trailers, a tire with a higher ply rating is necessary for safety and performance.

4. Tread Design

The tread design of trailer tires plays an important role in stability and traction. Most trailer tires have a ribbed tread design, which helps with straight-line stability and reduces rolling resistance. However, if you’ll be towing in off-road conditions, you may need tires with a more aggressive tread pattern for better grip.

5. Climate and Weather Conditions

If you plan to tow your trailer in extreme weather conditions, the type of tire you choose is essential. For example, if you live in a hot climate or plan to travel long distances in the summer, radial tires are better for heat resistance. In contrast, bias-ply tires may be a better option for trailers that need to navigate rugged, icy, or muddy terrain.

Best Trailer Tire Brands

Several tire manufacturers specialize in high-quality trailer tires. Here are some of the best brands known for reliability and performance:

1. Goodyear Endurance

Goodyear is a well-known name in the tire industry, and their Endurance trailer tires are top-rated for their durability, load-carrying capacity, and heat resistance. These tires are ideal for long-distance towing, heavy loads, and extreme weather conditions.

2. Carlisle Radial Trail HD

Carlisle is a leading brand for trailer tires, known for producing high-performance radial tires. The Radial Trail HD series offers excellent load capacity, heat dissipation, and a long tread life. They are suitable for various types of trailers, from utility to RV trailers.

3. Maxxis M8008 Radial

Maxxis is another trusted brand for trailer tires. The M8008 Radial tire is praised for its smooth ride, heat resistance, and long-lasting performance. These tires are ideal for both long-distance hauls and regular trailer use.

4. Michelin XPS RIB

Michelin’s XPS RIB is a premium choice for those who tow heavy loads or travel long distances. These radial tires are built to last, with a durable steel casing and superior heat resistance, making them perfect for commercial or large RV trailers.

5. Trailer King ST

Trailer King specializes in trailer tires and is known for offering affordable yet reliable options. The ST Radial II is a popular model with a strong sidewall, good load capacity, and a long tread life, making it a great choice for budget-conscious trailer owners.

Conclusion

Choosing the best type of tire for your trailer is crucial for safe and efficient towing. Radial and bias-ply tires each have their advantages, but radial tires are generally the best choice for long-distance towing and smoother rides, while bias-ply tires are better for rough terrain and heavy loads. ST tires, specifically designed for trailers, offer stronger sidewalls and greater load capacity compared to passenger tires.

When selecting trailer tires, always consider factors like load rating, tire size, ply rating, and the type of terrain and climate in which you’ll be towing. Brands like Goodyear, Carlisle, Maxxis, Michelin, and Trailer King offer some of the best trailer tires on the market, ensuring your trailer remains stable, safe, and reliable on the road.