Nitto Ridge Grappler is a rugged-terrain tire that is developed for SUVs, Jeeps, and pickup trucks. Rugged-terrain tires place somewhere between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires. To be honest, they look fantastic. Does this aggressive appearance have cons? Depends on your expectations. Let’s dig into it and see if it’ll meet your expectations!
Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
---|---|
Best for | Light trucks or Jeeps who prioritize off-road traction but want something fuel-efficient and quiet, Mostly warm regions if your usage is gonna be mostly highway |
Pros | Great off-road traction, Durability, Commercial usage |
Cons | Rough ride for SUV, Limited winter performance on the highway, P-metric sizes offer poor wearing |
Vehicle | SUV, Jeep, Light Truck |
Available Sizes | 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24” (Check if it fits your vehicle) |
Articles | vs BF Goodrich KO2 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 vs Toyo Open Country RT Where does it stand in Nitto’s all-terrain tire line-up? vs Exo Grappler |
Made In | US, Japan |
Labels | M+S |
Warranty | N/A |
As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Nitto Ridge Grappler is if you want mud-terrain tire durability but better on-road manners. Though worth reminding, this isn’t a highway-oriented tire. Since it’s highly durable, Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great option for commercial usage. Moreover, its wet and dry performance is highly acceptable for this aggressive design. Since it has a soft compound, its p-metric sizes don’t last long. However, due to higher tread depth, LT offers long-lasting rubber(better than mud tires, worse than all-terrain tires). On the other hand, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s winter performance is limited. It can take you out of unexpected situations or the deep snow but I don’t find it good on slush.
All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports.
We also analyzed ‘What customer complains more about all-terrain tires?’. Even though some of these complains are coming from the nature of all-terrain tires, there is still way to prevent yourself from these issues. Below, you can see articles about, hydroplaning, tire noise
- How to reduce tire noise?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise - Tire Vibration
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-vibration - Tire Air Pressure – How to Decide?
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-air-pressure-info
Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.
Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.
Name | Category | Articles | 3PMSF | Road Noise | Mileage | Fuel Economy | Riding Comfort | Responsiveness | Wet Performance | Mild Winter | Severe Winter | Mild Off-Road | Severe Off-Road | Best Fit by Pickup Truck Classification | Warranty (SL or XL) | Warranty (LT) | Product Page |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Poor | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Average | Light-Duty | 55,000 Miles | 55,000 Miles | Wildpeak AT3W | |
Toyo Open Country AT3 | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Average | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Medium-Duty | 65,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | Toyo Open Country AT3 |
General Grabber ATX | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Heavy-Duty | 60,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | General Grabber ATX |
BF Goodrich KO2 | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Heavy-Duty | N/A | 50,000 Miles | BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 |
Sumitomo Encounter AT | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Average | Decent | Average | Light-Duty | 60,000 Miles | 60,000 Miles | Sumitomo Encounter AT |
Firestone Destination XT | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Average | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Decent | Heavy-Duty | N/A | 50,000 Miles | Firestone Destination X/T |
Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | No | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Average | Elegant | Average | Heavy-Duty | N/A | 60,000 Miles | Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT |
Falken Wildpeak AT Trail | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Average | Light-Duty | 65,000 Miles | N/A | Falken Wildpeak AT Trail |
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Fairy Well | Light-Duty | 65,000 Miles | N/A | Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S |
Firestone Destination AT2 | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Average | Decent | Average | Light-Duty | 55,000 Miles | N/A | Firestone Destination AT2 |
On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Average | Light-Duty | 60,000 | N/A | BF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A | |
Toyo Open Country R/T Trail | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Heavy-Duty | 45,000 Miles | 45,000 Miles | Toyo Open Country R/T Trail |
Falken Wildpeak R/T | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | No | Decent | Decent | Average | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Heavy-Duty | 50,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | Falken Wildpeak R/T |
Pathfinder AT Tire | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Average | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Average | Light-Duty | 55,000 | 50,000 | Discount Tire Exclusive Product |
Nitto Ridge Grappler | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | No | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Heavy-Duty | N/A | N/A | Nitto Ridge Grappler |
General Grabber APT | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Fairy Well | Medium-Duty | 60,000 Miles | 60,000 Miles | General Grabber APT |
Vredestein Pinza AT | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Medium-Duty | 70,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | Vredestein Pinza AT |
Nitto Recon Grappler | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | No | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Elegant | Decent | Medium-Duty | 65,000 Miles | 55,000 Miles | Nitto Recon Grappler |
Michelin Defender LTX M/S | Highway Tire | Review | No | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Fairy Well | Decent | Fairy Well | Heavy-Duty | 55,000 – 70,000 Miles | 55,000 – 70,000 Miles | Michelin Defender LTX M/S |
Kenda Klever R/T | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | No | Average | Decent | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Fairy Well | Decent | Decent | Heavy-Duty | N/A | N/A | Kenda Klever R/T |
Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | No | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Elegant | Decent | Medium-Duty | N/A | N/A | Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT |
Goodyear Wrangler UltraTerrain AT | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Fairy Well | Medium-Duty | N/A | N/A | Discount Tire Exclusive Product |
Continental Terrain Contact H/T | Highway Tire | Review | No | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Average | Poor | Decent | Poor | Heavy-Duty | 70,000 Miles | 60,000 Miles | Continental TerrainContact H/T |
Patriot R/T | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Average | Average | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Medium-Duty | N/A | N/A | Patriot R/T+ |
Kenda Klever AT2 | Off Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Decent | Average | Average | Decent | Decent | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Average | Medium-Duty | 60,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | Kenda Klever AT2 |
Yokohama Geolander AT G015 | On Road All Terrain Tire | Review | Yes | Elegant | Decent | Average | Elegant | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Average | Average | Poor | Light-Duty | 60,000 Miles | 50,000 Miles | Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 |
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT | Rugged Terrain Tire | Review | Yes (315 or narrower width) | Decent | Decent | Average | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Decent | Decent | Elegant | Decent | Medium-Duty | 50,000 Miles | 60,000 Miles | Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT |
For those who prefer a more textual representation and dislike sifting through tables of data:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
A couple of popular size analyses:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-35×12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/
Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:
- https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
- https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
- https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
- https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
- https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/
I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:
- DiscountTire Deals:
https://www.discounttire.com/promotions - TireRack Deals:
https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers - SimpleTire Deals:
https://simpletire.com/tire-deals
Table of Contents
Dry Performance
Rugged terrain tires are a bit more aggressive in design than all-terrain tires.
Their main duty is traction. Hence, dry traction is easy-peasy for them.
Due to its interlocked and robust tread blocks, Nitto Ridge Grappler can put too much rubber on the ground which is the key to dry traction.
Due to its optimized pattern, Nitto Ridge Grappler offers elegant dry traction.
Handling
The handling capability of rugged-terrain tires is questionable to me.
Well, that might be my fault because I prefer to divide handling capability into two.
While one of the is cornering stability which mud-terrain tires are great, the other one is steering response which all-terrain tires are better.
Let’s analyze them one by one for a better understanding.
Cornering Stability
Cornering stability is related to the toughness of the inner structure.
While talking about this inner structure, I mostly talk about the sidewall strength.
In fact, this section is why Nitto Ridge Grappler is the explanation of why Nitto Ridge Grappler should call a rugged-terrain tire instead of an all-terrain tire.
Normally, all-terrain tires have a 1-ply polyester casing to increase durability and high-speed stability which is almost the same as cornering stability.
Nitto Ridge Grappler has a 2-ply polyester casing that helps the tire to keep its shape even under the 1-ton for above trucks. For this reason, Nitto Ridge Grappler offers excellent cornering stability.
Steering Response
Steering response is related to pattern design and compound stiffness.
If you ever drive a mud-terrain tire, you probably know that these tires aren’t responsive as your highway terrain or even all-terrain tire.
Well, mud-terrain tires have a fluffier compound and they need tons of void area to provide a decent level of loose ground traction.
In fact, Nitto Ridge Grappler is similar to mud-terrain tires. But it has one advantage. Reinforced block foundation.
This reinforced block foundation increases the rigidity of the tread and reduces flex which is a key to quick steering response.
Normally, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s highly blocky center section decreases its steering response slightly. However, its variable tread pitch design decreases this effect slightly.
If you’ll change from mud-terrain tires, you’ll have way much responsive tires.
If you’ll change from all-terrain tires, you’ll feel a bit dropped regarding responsiveness.
Wet Performance
All-terrain and mud-terrain tires generally fail on wet ground.
While mud-terrain tires have a low hydroplaning resistance due to their wide tread patterns, all-terrain tires have a stiff compound that sometimes causes a lack of traction on wet surfaces.
Well, rugged terrain tires are a bit different.
Let me explain these two via Nitto Ridge Grappler!
Wet Traction
Wet traction is related to compound stiffness and sipe density of the tread.
Even though Nitto Ridge Grappler’s sipe density is low, this tire has a fluffy compound that offers highly satisfying wet traction.
Nitto Ridge Grappler’s p-metric sizes have a 500 UTQG rating which is one of the lowest in its segment. Besides that Nitto Ridge Grappler get an A-rated wet traction grade.
Besides all of these, this tire has tons of biting edges because of its center section design. The design contains alternating tapered edges and steps block edges that increase any kind of traction.
In my point of view, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s wet traction is the maximum you can get from this aggressive tread pattern. I strongly recommend it if the wet traction is your priority.
Note: Since Nitto Ridge Grappler doesn’t mark with 3PMSF, its wet traction will decrease under the 7 Celcius degrees
Hydroplaning Resistance
Hydroplaning resistance is the water evacuation capability of the tread.
Since off-road tires have tons of void areas, they don’t have an issue with water evacuation. However, since mud-terrain tires have wide treads, they tend to hydroplane.
Let’s be honest, people prefer rugged-terrain tires to all-terrain tires mostly because of their appearance. So, we all know wider tires look better.
In this case, compared to mud-terrain tires, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s tread is slightly narrower. For this reason, it looks smaller.
Well, this is a must for manufacturers. These tires should have better highway performance than mud terrain tires.
Regarding Nitto Ridge Grappler, expect a slightly narrow tread, due to its 2 wide circumferential grooves and open shoulder blocks, Nitto Ridge Grappler doesn’t tend to hydroplane at all.
Note: Hydroplaning is vital for a safe ride under the pouring rain. However, it might occur even with the best tire. Maybe you can’t prevent it but if you know what it is and how to deal with it, you can easily stay on the safe side.
Here is an extremely efficient guide about ‘How to Deal with Hydroplaning?‘ –> https://www.discounttire.com/learn/hydroplaning
Winter Performance
You may see tons of different reviews about Nitto Ridge Grappler’s winter performance.
The weird thing is some people claim that this tire performs great, the other says this tire sucks.
This is completely normal because most people don’t know how to evaluate winter performance.
Besides that, it’s highly important to changing from which tire.
For instance, if you have a 3/4 ton above pickup truck or Jeep, you probably gonna love these tires’ winter performance because this is one of the best you can get.
On the other hand, if you have an SUV, you’ll probably feel unsafe with these tires because you need a different kinds of winter traction.
To explain myself better, I’m going to divide this section into three.
Light-Snow Traction
Even though it seems the opposite, light-snow traction is the hardest one.
The light snow can easily turn to slush and this is one of the most slippery conditions you might get.
So, in this case, compound stiffness and sipe density is important.
However, there is something more important, the 3PMSF label.
3PMSF label is becoming more crucial if the tire doesn’t have enough sipe on it.
3PMSF actually means the compound stays fluffy even under freezing conditions and doesn’t lose grip. Well, Nitto Ridge Grappler doesn’t have 3PMSF.
So, due to its soft compound, Nitto Ridge Grappler can perform on the light-snow. However, this isn’t a dedicated winter tire. You need to warm it up before expecting decent light snow traction.
Deep Snow Traction
Deep snow traction is actually what you can expect more from Nitto Ridge Grappler.
Due to its blocky pattern and staggered shoulders, Nitto Ridge Grappler has tons of biting edges that help it to provide traction on loose ground like deep snow.
So, here is the deal, this can take you out of unexpected situations, and can provide you good level o traction on the deep snow. I can accept that. However, I’m pretty sure that if you wake up in a 4-5 inch of snow. You can take yourself out of your garage.
Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great tire for snowy adventures. However, expecting decent highway or street performance is a bit never-never for me.
Ice Traction
I don’t recommend using non-3PMSF off-road tires on icy surfaces. Yet, Nitto Ridge Grappler has a slight advantage in this case.
Nitto Ridge Grapplers’ rigid block foundations decrease the flex. Hence, the tire can grip the icy surface with its biting edges without sliding. Advantage but doesn’t have something to trust with.
Due to its soft compound and variable pitch design, it provides average ice performance. Yet, I still don’t recommend this tire as a dedicated winter tire.
Riding Comfort
Regarding riding comfort, Nitto Ridge Grappler is closer to mud terrain tires.
As I’ve mentioned before, Nitto Ridge Grappler’s sidewalls and inner structure are tough. Well, this is a piece of bad news, at least for SUV owners.
Besides that, Nitto Ridge Grappler has a fluffy compound. For this reason, Nitto uses a reinforced block foundation which reduces the flex significantly.
Since the flex is reduced, Nitto Ridge Grappler offers a bit rough ride.
However, this equation is only valid for relatively lighter vehicle owners, in a word, p-metric tire users.
Nitto Ridge Grappler offers a rough ride for p-metric sizes, yet, LT sizes offer a smooth ride for light-truck and jeep owners.
For all-terrain tire newbies: All-terrain tires wear well. We all know this. Yet, compared to the all-season tires these tires offer a rough ride. If your interest in all-terrain tires is fresh, I highly recommend reading the linked article before making any purchase.
Road Noise
Road noise is where Nitto Ridge Grappler shines, well, at least if you’re changing from the mud-terrain tire.
Nitto Ridge Grappler is a rugged terrain tire which actually means that this tire doesn’t have the same on-road manners as your former all-terrain tire has.
Nitto Ridge Grappler is built for traction, hence, it has a blocky pattern that tends to make noise.
So, the main target group is the people who wanna change from mud-terrain tires and want something more efficient and quiet.
I think Nitto make a great job out here. The variable pitch design is a great way to decrease road noise. However, there is another trick they use.
The tread section of Nitto Ridge Grappler is narrow. The narrow tread is easier to optimize and the airflow inside it is more predictable.
In summary, Nitto Ridge Grappler is a quiet tire for its aggressive design. If you’re changing from mud-terrain tires, you’ll love it. If you’ll change from all-terrain tires, you’ll be okay with it. If you’ll change from highway-terrain or all-season tire, you’ll hate it.
A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.
I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;
How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
Longevity
Tread life is related to a couple of features.
While one of them is tread life, the other one is sipe density.
Nitto Ridge Grappler’s sipe density is great for long-lasting rubber.
Nitto Ridge Grappler has a 500 A B UTQG rating.
The second letter B rates the heat resistance of the tire.
Even though B is the second-best rate, it actually means that the tire has a thick, tough, and durable inner structure which makes it heavier.
If I have to sum it up, Nitto Ridge Grappler has deep tread but its compound is soft and it’s a relatively heavy tire.
Because of the above reason, Nitto Ridge Grappler offers average tread life if you’re changing from the all-terrain tire. Yet, if you’re changing from mud-terrain, you’re gonna love it!
Getting maximum wear life from a tire is related to you as well as your tire,
If you’d like to learn how to get maximum tread life:
Off-Road Performance
I’ve repeated it a couple of times but Nitto Ridge Grappler is built for this section.
As a purpose-oriented tire, Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great option if you’re looking for a tire that can handle your off-road trips or severe working conditions. The best side is it can do it without sacrificing MPG.
But, how can Nitto Ridge Grappler do it? There are a couple of reasons behind this.
Let’s categorize the off-road conditions for a better understanding.
Dirt
Dirt traction is the main duty of any off-road tire.
For this reason, even light-duty all-terrain tires can handle dirt with ease.
In this case, the biting edges do the work.
Due to its lateral Z grooves that provide tons of biting edges, Nitto Ridge Grappler offers excellent dirt traction.
Gravel
Gravel could be tricky.
Even though it’s easy to handle for off-road tires, the real game changer out here is the continuity of this traction.
To achieve these, there are two important features.
The first one is the self-cleaning capability of the tread.
To achieve this, Nitto placed stone ejectors on the shoulder grooves.
The second one is sidewall durability.
Nitto Ridge Grappler has great sidewall durability because of its 2-ply reinforced nylon cap. In fact, that’s the reason this tire is highly usable for commercial usage.
Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great tire for gravel usage.
Rock Crawling
The center section of the all-terrain tires is called the step block.
If you can look closely, you can see that 4 of these blocks generate a rectangle.
All of these 4 blocks have differently angled biting edges that provide great traction for rock crawling.
More importantly, Nitto Ridge Grappler is extremely durable. Besides, reinforced block foundations reduce the flex and provide extra grip for tough rigid surfaces like rock or highways.
Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great option for rock crawling.
Mud
The mud traction is mostly related to self-cleaning capability.
Nitto Ridge Grappler has differently-sized shoulder blocks that increase the self-cleaning capability significantly and maintain traction.
Besides that its staggered shoulder blocks work perfectly on soft and challenging surfaces like mud.
So, Nitto Ridge Grappler provides great traction in the mud. Though worth reminding, this isn’t your regular mud-terrain tire. The below video will help you to set your limits.
Sizes
16” | 17” | 18” | 20” | 22” | 24” |
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265/70R16 116T XL BSW 500 A B | 245/65R17 111T XL BSW 500 A B | 255/55R18 109T XL BSW 500 A B | 265/50R20 111T XL BSW 500 A B | 285/45R22 114Q XL BSW 500 A B | LT 315/45R24 123Q F BSW |
265/75R16 116T SL BSW 500 A B | LT 255/80R17 121/118Q E BSW | 255/70R18 116T XL BSW 500 A B | LT 265/60R20 121/118Q E BSW | LT 285/50R22 121/118Q E BSW | LT 315/50R24 127/124Q F BSW |
LT 265/75R16 123/120Q E BSW | 265/65R17 116T XL BSW 500 A B | 265/60R18 114S XL BSW 500 A B | 275/55R20 117T XL BSW 500 A B | LT 285/55R22 124/121Q E BSW | LT 37X13.50R24 124Q F BSW |
LT 285/75R16 126/123Q E BSW | 265/70R17 115T SL BSW 500 A B | 265/65R18 116T XL BSW 500 A B | LT 275/55R20 120/117Q E BSW | LT 295/50R22 122/119Q E BSW | LT 38X13.50R24 127Q F BSW |
LT 295/75R16 128/125Q E BSW | LT 265/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 265/65R18 122/119Q E BSW | 275/60R20 116T XL BSW 500 A B | LT 295/55R22 125/122Q E BSW | |
LT 305/70R16 124/121Q E BSW | LT 265/70R17 112/109S C BSW | 265/70R18 116S SL BSW 500 A B | LT 275/60R20 123/120Q E BSW | 305/45R22 118T XL BSW 500 A B | |
LT 315/75R16 127/124Q E BSW | LT 275/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 265/70R18 124/121Q E BSW | LT 275/65R20 126/123Q E BSW | LT 315/45R22 121/118Q F BSW | |
285/70R17 116Q SL BSW 500 A B | 275/65R18 116T XL BSW 500 A B | 285/50R20 116Q XL BSW 500 A B | LT 325/50R22 127Q F BSW | ||
LT 285/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 275/65R18 123/120Q E BSW | LT 285/55R20 122/119Q E BSW | LT 33X12.50R22 114Q F BSW | ||
LT 285/70R17 116/113Q C BSW | LT 275/70R18 125/122Q E BSW | LT 285/60R20 125/122Q E BSW | LT 35X12.50R22 121Q F BSW | ||
LT 285/75R17 117/114Q C BSW | 285/60R18 120T XL BSW 500 A B | LT 285/65R20 127/124Q E BSW | LT 37X12.50R22 127Q F BSW | ||
LT 285/75R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 285/60R18 122/119Q E BSW | LT 295/55R20 123/120Q E BSW | LT 37X13.50R22 128Q F BSW | ||
LT 295/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 285/65R18 125/122Q E BSW | LT 295/60R20 126/123Q E BSW | LT 38X13.50R22 126Q E BSW | ||
LT 305/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 285/70R18 127/124Q E BSW | LT 295/65R20 129/126Q E BSW | |||
LT 315/70R17 121/118Q E BSW | LT 285/75R18 129/126Q E BSW | 305/50R20 120Q XL BSW 500 A B | |||
LT 33X12.50R17 120Q E BSW | LT 295/70R18 129/126Q E BSW | 305/55R20 116Q XL BSW 500 A B | |||
LT 35X11.50R17 128Q E BSW | 305/60R18 116Q SL BSW 500 A B | LT 305/55R20 125/122Q F BSW | |||
LT 35X12.50R17 121Q E BSW | LT 305/65R18 128/125Q F BSW | LT 325/60R20 126/123Q E BSW | |||
LT 37X12.50R17 124Q D BSW | LT 325/60R18 124/121Q E BSW | LT 33X11.50R20 118Q E BSW | |||
LT 37X13.50R17 121Q E BSW | LT 325/65R18 127/124Q E BSW | LT 33X12.50R20 119Q F BSW | |||
LT 38X12.50R17 118Q C BSW | LT 33X12.50R18 122Q F BSW | LT 35X11.50R20 124Q E BSW | |||
LT 35X12.50R18 128Q F BSW | LT 35X12.50R20 125Q F BSW | ||||
LT 37X11.50R18 127Q D BSW | LT 35X13.50R20 126Q F BSW | ||||
LT 37X12.50R18 128Q E BSW | LT 37X11.50R20 128Q E BSW | ||||
LT 37X13.50R18 124Q D BSW | LT 37X12.50R20 126Q E BSW | ||||
LT 37X13.50R20 127Q E BSW | |||||
LT 38X13.50R20 128Q E BSW |
A side note here: If you are planning to upsize or downsize from your original equipment size (changing tire size with a smaller or bigger size), or if you have already done, it’s crucial to remember that changing tire size will decrease the accuracy of your speedometer. If this is the case, I strongly recommend checking DiscountTire Speedometer Guide.
Size Selection
Before we dive into selecting the right tire size, it’s essential to understand the tire standards that manufacturers follow.
Technical Standards & Regulations
In Europe, the tire standardizing organization is called ETRTO. In the United States, it’s The Tire and Rim Association (TRA), while in Japan, it’s the Japanese Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA). Although there may be other organizations, they generally align with one of these three.
When it comes to passenger car tires, TRA designates them by placing the letter “P” in front of the size to indicate conformity to the TRA standard. On the other hand, ETRTO and JATMA do not use any letters, which can sometimes be confusing when determining which standard is being used.
For light truck tires, TRA uses the letters “LT” in front of the tire size, while JATMA places the letters “LT” after the size. ETRTO, however, uses the letter “C” after the size to indicate tires of this type.
In the realm of medium truck tires, ETRTO uses the letter “C” after the size to designate tires designed according to their standard. In contrast, TRA and JATMA do not use any letters in this context.
Now, here’s what’s essential: Tires with the same dimensions (size) may have different maximum load capacities depending on the standard being followed. So, it’s crucial to consider the relevant standard when choosing tires.
When it comes to load capacity designations, “SL” (Standard Load) and “XL” (Extra Load) are used for all passenger car tires, regardless of which standard is being followed. In the ETRTO standard, “Reinforced” is also used as an alternative to “XL.”
Load Range, on the other hand, is specific to TRA. ETRTO and JATMA use the term “Load Index.” While TRA references Load Indexes, it’s important to note that the values provided are approximate.
To sum it up, understanding the tire standards and designations is vital as they play a significant role in determining the right tire size and load capacity. By considering the appropriate standards, you can make an informed decision when selecting tires that meet your vehicle’s requirements.
Here are two great articles if you wanna dive deeper:
Load Range vs Load Index: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/load-range-load-index
Tire Sizing System: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/euro-vs-pmetric-tires
How to Select the Right Tire Size Based on Your Requirements?
When it comes to selecting tire sizes for your vehicle, it’s important to keep in mind that most vehicles offer more than one original equipment size. Let’s take the 2019 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 4WD as an example. You have three different tire size options: 275/55R20 SL, 275/65R18 Load Range C, or 275/65R18 SL.
Note: I use Toyo Open Country AT3 for an example tire. You can use this link to see tire options for your vehicle and then make a comparison between the sizes:
https://www.discounttire.com/fitment/vehicle
If you don’t know your tire size: https://tireterrain.com/find-tires-by-vin-number/
Let’s focus on comparing the 275/65R18 SL and 275/65R18 Load Range C options for a more detailed comparison. Your decision should be based on your priorities. If you prioritize a smooth ride and better handling, the SL option is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value hauling or towing performance and tire longevity, the Load Range C option would be a better fit.
As a tire engineer, my perspective often revolves around load-carrying capacity. Generally, tires with higher load capabilities tend to provide a stiffer ride. However, there’s a bit of an illusion to consider. When you compare the two tires in the same size, the SL-rated tire may initially appear to have a higher load capability. But here’s the catch: P metric tires, like the SL option, need to be derated by a factor of 1.1 when used on a truck. Crunching the numbers reveals that the SL option actually has a lower maximum load capability. Additionally, it boasts a lower tread depth, which translates to better responsiveness.
The same principles I mentioned earlier also apply when comparing XL and E Load range tires. In summary, if your vehicle allows for Passenger Car or LT (Light Truck) tires, going with a passenger option will provide you with better on-road manners. However, if you find yourself venturing off-road frequently, own a working truck, or regularly engage in towing and hauling heavy loads, then LT tires are generally the better choice for your needs.
Couple of tips for towing;
- Even though the load index of passenger car tires fits, when it comes to towing, sidewall stability is the issue. Hence, LT tires with Load Range C, D, or E provide better stability.
- Generally, a load index higher than 119 is recommended for towing
- Proper loading is important for even wearing. 60/40 rule should be followed. 60% of the weight should be on the front axle and 40%of weight should be applied rear axle of the trailer. Besides that, try to center load. Start with heavier ones if you gonna stack them up.
To wrap it up, selecting the right tires comes down to choosing the ones that align with your driving preferences and specific requirements.
Spec
Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
---|---|
Vehicle | SUV, Jeep, Light Truck |
Available Sizes | 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24” |
Articles | vs BF Goodrich KO2 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 vs Toyo Open Country RT vs Terra Grappler G2 & Trail Grappler vs Exo Grappler |
Made In | US, Japan |
Labels | M+S |
Warranty | N/A |
Prices | Check Price Section to See Possible Best Prices |
Price
The tire market has a dynamic price policy. Hence, in my point of view, sharing tire price is pointless.
Though, I’ve analyzed the top 10 brands of most popular tire brands.
Here are the dealers with a reasonable price range,
DiscountTire
- Biggest dealer in the US. Founded in 1960
- 1000 stores in 35 states. You most probably find one on your parallel street
- Free rotation and balancing
- 5% off for DiscountTire cardholders on online purchases
- Highest-rated online tire dealer in Consumer Affairs
- Almost all brands are available
- Delivery takes 2-4 days (30% shorter average waiting time when you book online)
- Frequent discounts and promotions
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/nitto-ridge-grappler
TireRack
- Fast and Free shipping
- Usually delivered in 1 day
- Joint venture with DiscountTire(their installers and dealers are on your service)
- Tons of installer options, and they also help you to choose the best one
- Mobile installers in many areas, your tires will be replaced while you’re working in the office
- Tire test results and comparisons can be found on the most product page
- 4.6/5 points on Google rate
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/nitto-ridge-grappler
SimpleTire
- Free shipping
- Delivered in 2 days
- Verified shops near you(for mount and balance)
- Mobile installation option
- 7 million customers since 2021
- 4.7/5 points on Google rate
- Top-notch customer service, you may even request a price match
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/ridge-grappler
Amazon
- Fast and free shipping (mostly in a day)
- Get your tires shipped to a selected service center or get them installed at home or work (how does it work?)
- Installation on Mavis Discount Tire (15$ per tire)
- Installing new stem valves supplied by pro
- Balancing your tires
- Road/safety test
- Since Amazon provides wholesale and affordable prices, they don’t offer a road hazard warranty
Nitto Ridge Grappler: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=nitto+ridge+grappler
While choosing dealers, I especially pay attention to reliability. All of the dealers on this list have 15-20 years of experience in the online tire business. Therefore, I can guarantee a smooth and fast tire-buying process.
Conclusion
Nitto Ridge Grappler is a great tire if you’d like to avoid the disadvantages of the mud-terrain tire but wanna keep the off-road traction capability.
Even though manufacturers offer this tire to SUVs also, it’s not a good option unless your vehicle uses LT or flotation metric tires.
Nitto Ridge Grappler | |
---|---|
Best for | Light trucks or Jeeps who prioritize off-road traction but want something fuel-efficient and quiet, Mostly warm regions if your usage is gonna be mostly highway |
Pros | Great off-road traction, Durability, Commercial usage |
Cons | Rough ride for SUV, Limited winter performance on the highway, P-metric sizes offer poor wearing |
Vehicle | SUV, Jeep, Light Truck |
Available Sizes | 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”, 24” (Check if it fits your vehicle) |
Articles | vs BF Goodrich KO2 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 vs Toyo Open Country RT Where does it stand in Nitto’s all-terrain tire line-up? vs Exo Grappler |
Made In | US, Japan |
Labels | M+S |
Warranty | N/A |
Take-Home Points:
- LT sizes have stronger sidewalls. That feature makes them more durable. Yet, these tires offer a rougher ride. (LT vs P-Metric tires)
- XL sizes tend to carry more load and offer better handling. Hence, if you’ll go with p-metric sizes, they might be a better pick for hauling and towing( XL vs SL tires)
- Please pay attention to the load index & load range and speed index. These metrics are essential if you expect decent tread life
- There isn’t a bad tire in the market right now, you should just know what to expect from tires
I hope the article was helpful. If you need any further support, please leave a comment below. Have a safe ride folks!
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