Which tire is better on-road?

The Toyo AT3. It stops shorter on dry (131.5 ft vs 138 ft) and corners sharper (0.78 g vs 0.72 g), making it more nimble for daily use.

Which tire is safer in rain?

The Toyo AT3. It stops shorter in the wet (185 ft vs 192 ft) and grips better (0.50 g vs 0.43 g), while Recon needs more margin.

Which tire handles snow and ice better?

Toyo is stronger on packed snow (74 ft stop, 44 ft launch), while Recon claws better in loose drifts. On ice, Toyo grabs earlier, though Recon’s 46.5 ft stop is slightly shorter but slides more before it hooks.

Which tire is tougher off-road?

The Recon Grappler. With scores of 8.2 dirt, 8.3 mud, and 8.1 rock, it digs deeper and holds stronger in rugged terrain than Toyo’s more balanced numbers.

Which tire is quieter and more comfortable?

The Toyo AT3. It rates 8.0/10 for comfort versus Recon’s 7.3/10, making it smoother and quieter for commuting.

Which tire lasts longer?

Both run similar mileage (45–55k), but Toyo stays quieter later into life, while Recon resists chips and abuse better under heavy loads.

Which vehicles suit Toyo AT3?

Best for SUVs, crossovers, and ½-ton trucks that need daily comfort, rain/winter safety, and balanced off-road ability.

Which vehicles suit Recon Grappler?

Best for ¾-ton & HD trucks needing towing stability, trail grit, and aggressive styling.

Comparisons

Falken Wildpeak AT3W vs Falken Wildpeak AT3WA

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Falken Wildpeak AT3W is designed as a 50-50 all-terrain tire, balanced for both off-road and on-road use. In contrast, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A leans more toward on-road orientation. While both tires perform exceptionally in their respective areas, they diverge in certain aspects, catering to different driving needs and conditions.

If you want to see how the AT3W stacks up against its newer evolution, check out our Falken Wildpeak AT4W vs AT3W comparison.

Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is an excellent tire for on-road driving in all respects. However, in my observation, its lifespan is shorter since it’s an OEM tire. This shorter lifespan is often due to OEM tires being designed to align with vehicle manufacturers’ homologation tests, which can mean a sacrifice in tread life. So, if longevity and superior loose ground performance aren’t your primary concerns, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is a good choice. Otherwise, I would definitely recommend the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.

Important Note on the AT3W Legacy:

You may have searched for the discontinued Falken Wildpeak AT3W. While production has ceased, some closeout stock is still available. This comparison is based on some popular-sized sized can still be found on retailers like Tire Rack:

Click here for the Full Technical Breakdown: AT4W vs Discontinued AT3W Test Results

Falken Wildpeak AT3W Overview

Falken Wildpeak AT3W stands out as an excellent all-around replacement tire, adeptly handling both on-road and off-road conditions. The only notable drawback is its lateral traction capability in wet and snowy conditions, particularly during hard cornering.

Falken Wildpeak AT3W A Overview

In my experience, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is an on-road oriented all-terrain tire, often used as original equipment by manufacturers. This has led to a diverse range of feedback from users, largely influenced by the specific tire size.

From what I’ve observed, it’s an excellent choice for on-road conditions, but when it comes to off-road capabilities, it doesn’t quite live up to the Falken Wildpeak AT3W.

It’s worth noting, especially for my European readers, that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W isn’t available in Europe, but the AT3W A is. It’s crucial to remember that these are distinct models with different performance attributes.

On Road Performance

In my assessment, while the Falken Wildpeak AT3W delivers impressive on-road performance for a tire with an aggressive tread, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is superior for a few reasons.

Firstly, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A features a more compact tread pattern, allowing for greater rubber contact with the road. This, combined with a softer rubber composition, results in better performance in wet conditions and mild snow, particularly in terms of lateral traction.

Additionally, the less aggressive and interconnected shoulder blocks, along with a continuous center rib, enhance the responsiveness of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A. However, it’s important to note that despite its narrower pattern, which is advantageous for towing and hauling stability, it does have a weaker sidewall that may flex more during cornering.

The Falken Wildpeak AT3W A also tends to produce less road noise, thanks to the tie-bars I mentioned earlier and its reduced void area.

Overall, if aesthetics are not your primary concern, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is a better choice for daily driving. However, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W still offers respectable performance, considering its more aggressive design.

Tread Wear

In this comparison, the stiffer compound and deeper tread of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W give it an advantage. Despite its higher rolling resistance, I’ve found it to be the better option in terms of wear.

Conversely, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A tends to wear more evenly. Therefore, if you’re not a frequent driver and prefer not to rotate your tires often, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A could be a suitable choice for you.

Fuel Efficiency

Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is both lighter and less aggressive than its counterpart. This results in lower rolling resistance, which, in my experience, leads to better fuel efficiency. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for you, I’d recommend the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A based on these attributes.

Off-Road Performance

In terms of loose ground performance, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W unquestionably outshines the AT3W A. While the AT3W handles mild winter conditions well, it struggles with slush and deep snow due to its limited void area, affecting self-cleaning. Therefore, in such conditions, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is the clear winner.

Regarding dirt, I haven’t noticed a significant difference between the two tires. However, in muddy conditions, the AT3W definitely has the upper hand.

Lastly, both tires perform adequately on gravel, but given its more cut-and-chipping resistant compound, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is the more durable choice for longevity.

Conclusion

Although the Falken Wildpeak AT3W A is a solid choice for daily driving, it’s important to note that there are other options in the market that may be more suitable, especially in terms of longevity. As an OEM tire, the AT3W A typically doesn’t last as long as replacement tires.

I hope you found this article informative and useful. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out.

Falken AT4W vs Hankook AT2 Xtreme: Dynamic Control or Highway Efficiency

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

That’s the decision most buyers face — Hankook for smoother highways vs Falken for broader all-terrain confidence. In the sections ahead, we’ll compare them across dry, wet, snow, and off-road test results. You can also line them up in our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool for quick recommendations by SUV, CUV, or truck class.

The Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme and Falken Wildpeak AT4W represent two different angles on the all-terrain market. The AT2 Xtreme is tuned as an On-Road A/T tire — popular among SUV and pickup drivers who prioritize comfort, highway stability, and dependable tread life with light off-road capability. The Falken Wildpeak AT4W, by contrast, is an Off-Road A/T tire that is purpose-built with a stiffer casing and aggressive tread pattern aimed at harsher off-road use, heavier trucks, and snow-certified 3PMSF performance.

That’s the decision most buyers face — Hankook for smoother highways vs Falken for rugged all-terrain capability. In the sections ahead, we’ll compare them across dry, wet, snow, and off-road test results. You can also line them up in our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool for quick recommendations by SUV, CUV, or truck class.

The choice between the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W and the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme is a clear prioritization of performance versus cost efficiency. The Falken A/T4W is the superior all-weather aggressor, dominating every dynamic test category—Wet Handling, Dry Braking, Snow Cornering, and Off-Road Capability—making it the ideal investment for drivers who prioritize maximum safety and control in severe conditions. Conversely, the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme is the highway efficiency champion, offering superior fuel economy, a lighter design, and a best-in-class $65 k -70 k mile$ warranty. While the Hankook provides excellent long-term value and sharp straight-line winter stops, its deficiency in wet handling and lateral stability makes the Falken the decisive winner for confident, year-round perfo

Dry Performance — A/T4W Edges Braking and Cornering

On dry pavement, the battle for stopping power is tight, with the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W stopping $2 feet$ shorter at $132 ft$ (vs $134 ft$ for the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme). Both tires are a statistical tie in Dry Average Cornering ( $0.72$ ), but the sub-category scores reveal a clearer difference in driving feel.

The Wildpeak A/T4W‘s more aggressive shoulders and stronger carcass pay off in sustained grip and composure. It scores higher in Dry Cornering Traction ( $6$ vs $5.5$ ) and Dry Handling and Balance ( $6$ vs $5.5$ ), giving it a slight advantage in overall control when cornering aggressively.

However, the Dynapro AT2 Xtreme offers a slightly better initial feel, scoring $6.25$ in Dry Track Steering Characteristics (vs $6$ for Falken). This is likely because, as an On-Road A/T with a milder design, the Hankook feels quicker and closer to a traditional highway tire’s response.

Wet Performance — Wildpeak A/T4W Dominates in All Metrics

The Falken Wildpeak A/T4W is the undisputed champion in wet conditions, outperforming the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme in every single metric. The Falken provides a superior safety margin, stopping $1 foot$ shorter at $171 ft$ ( $172 ft$ for the Hankook) and maintaining a significantly higher Wet Average Cornering score ( $0.57$ vs $0.53$ ). The Falken posted a winning Wet Lap Time of $37.73$ (over $2.6$ seconds faster than the Hankook’s $40.35$ ), and the overall disparity is reflected in the Falken’s commanding Wet Track Overall Rating of $6.06$ (vs $4.69$ ).

The Hankook’s inferiority on wet pavement comes down to a fundamental design choice. Tires like the Dynapro AT2 Xtreme are often built for long tread life and on-road comfort, resulting in narrower tread widths and shoulder slots. This design makes it significantly harder for the tire to evacuate water, meaning its performance suffers primarily from hydroplaning rather than a simple lack of wet traction. The Falken, with its superior siping and deeper voids, avoids this trade-off.

The Dynapro AT2 Extreme might, however, be an acceptable option for smaller vehicles or those used primarily in rainy regions where aggressive off-roading is not a factor.

Road & Comfort — A/T4W Wins Refinement, Hankook Fails to Capitalize

The data in this category is a critical strategic failure for the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme. Despite being branded as an “On-Road All-Terrain” tire, it failed to surpass the aggressive, Off-Road-labeled Falken Wildpeak A/T4W in its own category.

Both tires score an identical $6.5$ for Noise and Ride Quality. While the Hankook should technically dominate here due to its milder design, the Falken’s advanced engineering successfully counters the stiffness inherent in its Off-Road build.

The Falken pulls ahead in driver confidence, earning a superior $6.75$ in Steering and Road Handling (vs $6.5$ for the Hankook). This performance edge means the Falken offers a more composed and better-handling subjective road experience.

Ultimately, if you are willing to spend money on a premium all-terrain tire, the Falken provides the better-refined road experience and superior handling. The Hankook’s inability to outperform the Falken in basic comfort and road metrics effectively relegates it to a budget or price-point option.

Winter Performance — Confidence vs Objective Distance

This category reveals a striking psychological and technical split: the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme provides superior measured stopping distance, but the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W provides superior driver confidence and control.

The Hankook’s design—optimized for wear life, which often results in a narrower tread profile—pays off directly in a straight line. It stops over $5.5 feet$ shorter in Snow Braking ( $76.78 ft$ vs $82.28 ft$ ) and a critical $6.3 feet$ shorter on Ice Braking ( $41.2 ft$ vs $47.5 ft$ ). These figures mean the Hankook is objectively quicker to halt a sliding vehicle.

However, the Falken is the better-handling tire, earning a significantly higher Overall Snow Rating ( $5.33$ vs $4.67$ ) and superior scores for Snow Cornering Traction and Handling and Balance ( $5.5$ vs $4.5$ ). The driver feedback suggests the Falken takes its time but feels safe and stable in dynamic control due to better adhesion. The Hankook’s quick stopping distance doesn’t translate into a confident feel when cornering or dealing with extreme glaze, making it a tire that is objectively quick to stop, but psychologically challenging for the driver.

The bottom line is a trade-off: The Falken provides superior cornering confidence and stability, while the Hankook’s narrow design maximizes straight-line stopping, even if it creates a less secure feeling when handling.

Off-Road Performance — Mild Capable, Falken Takes the Extreme

Both the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme and the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W are highly capable tires that can comfortably handle mild off-road conditions, such as gravel roads, dirt, and light trails. However, their core design philosophies dictate their performance ceiling when conditions become severe.

The Falken A/T4W is built as the dedicated Off-Road All-Terrain model. It features deeper, staggered tread voids and available multi-ply Duraspec sidewall construction. This superior armor ensures better protection against cuts and superior articulation in deep mud, rock, and technical terrain. This is the tire designed to thrive when conditions are severe.

The Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme‘s capability relies more on structural durability. As noted, the Hankook uses stiff sidewalls. While this construction aids in resisting punctures and maintaining stability under heavy load—which is valuable on job sites—it is also the direct reason the tire fails to achieve premium comfort scores on the highway. This lack of sidewall flexibility and less aggressive tread depth means the Hankook cannot compete with the Falken when trails become seriously challenging.

In summary: The Falken is engineered to seek off-road severity, while the Hankook is engineered to survive job site durability and light trail excursions.

Fuel Efficiency & Longevity — Hankook’s On-Road Advantage

This is where the Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme earns back significant points, as its design philosophy prioritizes efficiency and wear life over outright off-road ruggedness.

The Hankook is a clear winner in Fuel Efficiency because its lighter weight and shallower tread pattern translate to significantly lower rolling resistance. This advantage is crucial for daily drivers seeking to minimize MPG loss, particularly in non-LT (P-Metric) sizes.

This design strategy also directly benefits Longevity. Hankook backs its confidence with a superior warranty, offering up to $65 k -70 k miles$ of coverage, compared to the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W’s $60 k -65 k miles$ . While the Falken is built tougher for abuse, the Hankook’s focus on balanced casing and even wear across pavement use gives it the official edge in predicted lifespan.

Conclusion

The Falken Wildpeak A/T4W is the clear premium performance choice. It provides superior all-weather dynamic safety and control, dominating wet pavement and delivering a more confident feeling in snow handling. If you are prioritizing handling, safety margin in rain, and off-road capability, the Falken is the justified expense.

The Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme is the choice for the highly cost-conscious driver. Its significant advantage is in long-term running costs (fuel efficiency and superior mileage warranty) and straight-line cold-weather braking. However, its inability to beat the Falken in comfort and its poor wet handling limit its appeal to budget or light-duty applications.

Toyo Open Country AT3 vs R/T Trail — Expert Winter & Snow Performance Comparison in 2025

Updated: December 4, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

The Toyo Open Country A/T III and the R/T Trail are massive players in the light truck world, but they’re not equals. The R/T Trail is a Rugged Terrain tire, built specifically for extreme off-road traction and durability. The A/T III? That’s your high-mileage All-Terrain, engineered for maximizing on-road performance and tread life.

Crucially, while much of the raw data is derived from SL (Standard Load) metric tires, our focus here is strictly on the demanding LT (Light Truck) specification. This is where Toyo’s construction truly matters, and it’s how we’ll measure which tire better suits your truck.

At a Glance

Toyo Open Country A/T III

Tested Rating: 8.5/10

Toyo Open Country R/T Trail

Tested Rating: 8.1/10

In summary, both the Toyo Open Country AT3 and Toyo Open Country R/T Trail share a similar construction that delivers a smooth driving experience. The AT3 is the quieter option with better longevity, thanks to its stiffer compound, making it a strong everyday performer. The R/T Trail, on the other hand, shines in mud and snow traction with its aggressive evacuation capability, making it a smart choice for ¾-ton and larger trucks in snowy regions, even though it lacks the 3PMSF marking. Both offer reliable wet performance, but with the R/T Trail, drivers should be cautious of hydroplaning risk in heavy rain.

Dry On-Road Command: Grip and G-Force

Metric	Toyo Open Country A/T III	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Conclusion
Dry Stopping (60–0 mph, ft)	134.0	137.0	A/T III stops 3 ft shorter
Dry Cornering (g-force)	0.72	0.70	A/T III has higher lateral grip

Dry handling is a function of casing stability, tread design, and compound rigidity. While both are built tough with 3-ply sidewalls (LT specs) for heavy duty use, the A/T III demonstrates superior on-road performance due to its compact, interlocked center tread and slightly narrower stance. This design yields crisper Steering Response and less block squirm.

The data confirms this: the A/T III outperforms the R/T Trail in both key dry metrics: it stops 3 feet shorter (134.0 ft vs. 137.0 ft) and registers a higher Dry Cornering g-force (0.72 g vs. 0.70 g), indicating superior absolute grip during lateral maneuvers.

The R/T Trail, with its stiffer sidewalls, variable pitch design, and 0.5-inch wider footprint, prioritizes load stability and ride comfort over absolute handling and responsiveness. In summary, both LT tires excel for 3/4-ton+ trucks, but for owners of 1/2-ton trucks or SUVs who favor aggressive handling, the A/T III offers the clear performance edge.

Wet Performance: Hydroplaning and Compound Chemistry

Metric	Toyo Open Country A/T III	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Verdict
Wet Stopping (60–0 mph, ft)	164.0	184.0	A/T III stops 20 ft shorter
Wet Traction (Standing)	0.57	0.49	A/T III has ~16% better grip

Listen up, this is where you stop thinking about looks and start thinking about emergency stopping. Wet performance in an A/T tire is a balancing act. it is all about dumping water fast, and this is where the A/T III absolutely crushes the R/T Trail.

Braking: The 20-Foot Difference

You talked about hydroplaning, and that is exactly what the data screams. Hydroplaning happens when the tire floats. the water cannot get out fast enough. While both tires have circumferential grooves, the R/T Trail’s variable pitch design with its huge lugs is simply less efficient at high speeds. The A/T III has a much tighter design and better siping density.

The result? The A/T III stops an insane 20 feet shorter (164.0 ft vs. 184.0 ft) in the 60-0 mph test. That is essentially a five-car-length difference in an emergency stop. If you live anywhere that sees serious rain, or you run at highway speeds, this single number makes the A/T III the undisputed winner on wet safety.

Wet Traction and Compound

Wet traction is driven by sipes (the tiny slits) and the compound’s ability to remain tacky. You noted the A/T III has better siping, while the R/T Trail has a slightly softer compound. In this case, the A/T III’s superior siping (which is key to gripping wet asphalt) clearly wins out, delivering 16% better standing wet traction (0.57 vs. 0.49). This reinforces why the A/T III earns those higher speed ratings.

Overall, both tires technically deliver satisfactory wet performance, but if wet traction and braking safety are a top priority, especially in LT sizes, the Open Country A/T III is the clear technical choice.

Note from the Expert: When it comes to rain, I always emphasize two things: compound grip and water evacuation. You can see the full details in my analysis, but if you take just one thing away, remember that an AT tire’s stiff nature makes achieving top-tier wet performance a constant battle. This is why the question, Are All-Terrain Tires Good in Rain?, requires a nuanced answer that balances tread design against rubber stiffness.

Winter Performance: Snow, Ice, and the 3PMSF

Winter performance is complex, pitting the benefits of deep tread self-cleaning against the necessity of siping and compound flexibility for ice. This is the ultimate trade-off battle.

Metric	Toyo Open Country A/T III	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Verdict
Winter Stopping (25–0 mph, ft)	75.10	76.20	A/T III stops 1.1 ft shorter
Snow Acceleration (0–12 mph, sec)	42.70	41.40	R/T Trail 1.3 sec quicker
Stopping Distance Ice (ft)	46.50	53.60	A/T III stops 7.1 ft shorter

The R/T Trail is built for pure forward mobility in snow. Its softer compound, aggressive sidewall biters, and excellent self-cleaning capabilities give it a massive edge in loose, deep snow, confirmed by it being 1.3 seconds quicker in Snow Acceleration (41.40 sec vs. 42.70 sec).

However, the A/T III is the undisputed safety champion in all slick-surface braking tests. Its design, featuring more siping and a compact contact patch, stops the truck 1.1 feet shorter in mixed Winter Stopping (75.10 ft vs. 76.20 ft) and a crucial 7.1 feet shorter on pure Ice (46.50 ft vs. 53.60 ft). This superior braking margin is non-negotiable for daily drivers and anyone prioritizing safety on slush and ice, especially for SUVs and half-ton trucks.

In summary, the A/T III is the superior overall winter tire due to its immense stopping advantage. The R/T Trail is a strong specialized choice only if deep snow starting traction for a heavy duty truck (3/4 ton+) is your top priority.

Note from the Expert: Our discussions often boil down to the core tradeoff. On one hand, you must understand why all-terrain tires are truly effective in deep snow, but not on ice. On the other hand, you face the 3PMSF Paradox—the hidden cost of that badge. The short answer is: The 3PMSF badge certifies traction, but it costs you durability. Dive into our full analysis on the critical 3PMSF rating for severe winter and off-road service, and its hidden costs, before you risk your rig on the trail.

Noise and Comfort: The Daily Driver Test

Metric	Toyo Open Country A/T III	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Verdict
Noise & Comfort (Score)	6.00	5.67	A/T III slightly quieter

Riding comfort is closely tied to the uniformity of a tire, and large, aggressive tires often sacrifice comfort for durability. In the case of these two Toyos, both offer highly decent options given their construction.

The data confirms that the Toyo Open Country A/T III is marginally quieter and smoother, scoring 6.00 vs. the R/T Trail’s 5.67. The A/T III achieves this comfort through its more flexible sidewalls and evenly distributed void area, which are better for absorbing small road imperfections and road resonance.

The R/T Trail benefits from its three-variable pitch pattern designed to break up noise frequencies, but this is offset by its inherently stiffer sidewalls and more aggressive side lugs. While the variable pitch helps, the rugged design is ultimately the louder option.

Overall, both tires offer a high level of riding comfort considering their off-road capability, but if road noise is a priority, the A/T III is the measurable winner.

Tread Life

Tread life is the final test of a tire’s design, boiling down to compound stiffness and how the contact patch distributes load. While specific mileage figures are impossible to guarantee, we can predict usage based on engineering.

The Toyo Open Country A/T III is engineered for longevity. Its stiffer compound and more evenly distributed void area (smaller, tighter tread blocks) minimize flex and reduce heat buildup on the highway. This grants the A/T III a clear advantage in tread life, making it the superior choice for SUVs and 1/2-ton trucks. The only potential drawback is that its higher siping density is great for ice, it can introduce marginally faster wear under the extremely high torque and weight of 3/4-ton or 1-ton trucks.

The Toyo Open Country R/T Trail is built for puncture resistance and durability, not necessarily maximum mileage. Its aggressive, larger tread blocks and wider voids are designed to bite, not necessarily roll smoothly. While it is highly robust and ideal for Jeeps and heavy-duty pickup trucks seeking aggressive looks and superior off-road reliability, you should expect a shorter lifespan compared to the A/T III.

In summary, the Toyo Open Country A/T III generally offers longer tread life due to its engineering focus on asphalt. The R/T Trail is a better option when an aggressive tread pattern and off-road durability are prioritized over maximizing mileage.

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:

https://tireterrain.com/how-to-make-tires-last-longer/

Fuel Efficiency and Rolling Resistance

Fuel efficiency hinges on rolling resistance, which engineers define using three variables: weight, compound stiffness, and tread pattern (or aerodynamic drag).

You noted that the Toyo Open Country A/T III and the R/T Trail share a similar carcass design, leading to nearly identical weights for shared sizes. This minimizes the weight difference as a variable.

The main difference lies in the tread pattern:

A/T III Advantage: The A/T III’s stiffer compound and more compact tread blocks generally provide lower rolling resistance, making it the better choice for smaller vehicles (SUVs and 1/2-ton trucks).
Heavy Duty Exception: However, you astutely point out that the A/T III’s siped pattern—which allows for more tread movement—could be a slight disadvantage for high-torque 3/4-ton or above pickup trucks compared to the R/T Trail’s block stability.

Ultimately, the data suggests the difference in fuel efficiency between the two tires is not substantial. While the A/T III holds a theoretical edge due to lower inherent rolling resistance, drivers should focus on performance and durability trade-offs, not MPG differences.

Off-Road Capability: Dirt, Mud, and Rock

Metric	Toyo Open Country A/T III	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Verdict
Offroad Dirt (Score)	8.8	8.8	Tie
Offroad Sand (Score)	8.7	8.8	R/T Trail slightly better
Offroad Mud (Score)	8.2	8.5	R/T Trail better
Offroad Rock (Score)	8.2	8.5	R/T Trail better
Average Off-Road Score	8.475	8.650	R/T Trail wins

This is the R/T Trail’s natural habitat, where its aggressive design pays dividends. While both tires share crucial features like cut-and-chip resistant compounds and stone ejector blocks for excellent Gravel traction, the R/T Trail’s specialized engineering grants it the overall performance crown.

Dirt: The R/T Trail’s impressive self-cleaning capability gives it an edge in general dirt conditions. However, the A/T III’s higher sipe density provides a better bite and stability in mild, hard-packed dirt, leading to comparable overall performance scores in this environment.

Mud and Rock: This is where the R/T Trail dominates. Its wider void area and variable pitch design work together to maximize self-cleaning and traction in mud (8.5 vs. 8.2). On rocky terrain, the R/T Trail’s more aggressive pattern and stiffer side lugs are particularly beneficial on sloping or technical surfaces (8.5 vs. 8.2). While the A/T III is capable, its compound is likely to wear more quickly when subjected to the torsional stress of heavy mud and sharp rocks.

In summary, the Toyo Open Country R/T Trail is the clear winner for enhancing off-road capability, securing a higher Average Off-Road Score (8.650 vs. 8.475). The A/T III remains a highly solid option for occasional off-road adventures.

When it comes to dirt, the self-cleaning capability of the Toyo R/T Trail is impressive. However, the higher sipe density of the Toyo Open Country AT3 provides an advantage, especially in mild dirt conditions. In conclusion, both tires perform well on dirt terrain.

Mud is where the Toyo Open Country R/T Trail outperforms the Toyo Open Country AT3. Its wider void area and variable pitch design work together to effectively handle muddy conditions. While the Toyo Open Country AT3 performs decently in mud, it may wear more quickly.

Lastly, on rocky terrains, the more aggressive pattern of the Toyo Open Country R/T Trail is particularly beneficial, especially on sloping surfaces. However, it’s worth noting that the Toyo Open Country AT3 still performs well in rocky conditions, although it may experience faster wear.

In summary, if you want to enhance your off-road capability, the Toyo Open Country R/T Trail is an excellent choice. On the other hand, the Toyo Open Country AT3 remains a solid option for occasional off-road adventures.

Note from the Expert: Every successful day on the trail is about preparation and physics, because tire longevity is earned, not given. Before you even start, you must master the critical link between tire pressure and load range for every rig to maximize your contact patch. Once moving, remember your ultimate off-road armor is your sidewall protection against the inevitable pinch flat. And finally, your traction on the obstacle is dictated by choosing the right aggressive vs hybrid tread pattern for your terrain. Master those three steps, and your rig will be ready for anything.

Specification Comparison for Popular Sizes

Tire Size Selection: The Basics You Can’t Skip

Even the best tread design can’t rescue a tire that’s built too weak. Back when I was testing tires at Bridgestone, I saw all-terrain models that should’ve performed but fell short — simply because the basics (size, load strength, and speed rating) weren’t matched to the vehicle.

P-Metric vs. LT (Light Truck) Tires

The first step is knowing whether you need LT or passenger tires. LT (Light Truck) tires are built with extra reinforcement and stiff sidewalls, designed for towing, hauling, or off-road use. Passenger (P-metric) tires are lighter, smoother, and tuned for daily comfort and fuel efficiency — but they’ll flex more under load.

Understanding Tire Load Range: XL vs. E-Load

Then comes the tire load index and load range — essentially your tire’s strength rating. Here’s where things split between passenger XL and LT E:

XL (Extra Load) is a passenger tire with reinforced sidewalls. It can handle a bit more pressure (~41 PSI) than a standard SL tire and is perfect for SUVs, crossovers, or light trucks that carry extra gear, passengers, or small trailers. XL tires ride softer and quieter than LT options, making them ideal for daily use.
E Load Range is an LT tire class built with a much thicker casing. E-rated tires can handle far more pressure (up to ~80 PSI) and heavier loads, which makes them essential for ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks towing trailers or hauling close to max capacity. The trade-off is weight, stiffer ride, more road noise, and a small drop in fuel efficiency.

Put simply: XL is for “extra luggage and family,” while E is for “truck bed full of bricks or a car trailer.”

Why the Tire Speed Rating Matters for Safety

Finally, don’t overlook the tire speed rating. It’s not just about top speed — it measures how well a tire handles heat and stress at highway pace. Lower ratings (like S) tend to ride softer and last longer, while higher ratings (H, T) feel more stable and responsive under sharp maneuvers. Heat build-up is the silent killer of tires, and speed rating is your safeguard.

Bottom line: Match your tire’s construction (LT vs P-metric), load range (XL vs E), and speed rating to your vehicle’s demands. Get those right, and everything else — off-road grip, winter traction, comfort — will finally perform the way it was designed to.

Conclusion and Final Recommendation

Toyo Open Country AT3 and Toyo Open Country R/T Trail both exhibit excellent on-road performance characteristics. While the Toyo Open Country R/T Trail is primarily recommended for 3/4 ton or larger vehicles, owners of 1/2 ton trucks and SUVs can opt for the Toyo Open Country AT3 if they don’t engage in severe off-roading activities.

The data confirms that the A/T III is the superior choice for on-road safety (Dry, Wet, and Ice Braking) and daily comfort, while the R/T Trail is the better choice for structural durability and aggressive off-road performance (Mud and Rock).

I hope the article was helpful. If you have any further questions, please leave a comment below. Have a safe ride folks!

Toyo AT3 vs Nitto Recon Grappler — Winter Grip vs Off-Road Durability in 2025

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Real test data, off-road insights, and daily-driving impact — from a former Bridgestone engineer.

The Nitto Recon Grappler and Toyo Open Country AT3 are both marketed as all-terrains, but they approach the segment differently. The Recon Grappler sits in the Off-Road A/T category with rugged styling and a blockier tread, appealing to truck and Jeep owners who want stability on gravel and dirt while keeping decent highway control. The Toyo AT3, by contrast, is also an Off-Road A/T but emphasizes year-round usability, with a silica-rich compound and snow-certified 3PMSF rating that make it a stronger pick for winter traction and daily comfort on SUVs and pickups.

That’s the real choice here — Recon for bold looks and stability vs Toyo for balanced traction and all-weather drivability. In the sections ahead, we’ll break down wet performance, towing strength, and trail capability. You can also line them up in our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool for quick recommendations by SUV, CUV, or truck class.

⚡ Quick Verdict – Who Wins What?

Toyo Open Country A/T III

Tested Rating: 8.5/10

Nitto Recon Grappler A/T

Tested Rating: 8.1/10

The Toyo Open Country A/T III is the more balanced all-terrain, with sharper dry grip (131.5 ft stop, 0.78 g), safer wet braking (185 ft, 0.50 g), and steadier snow performance (74 ft stop, 44 ft launch). It inspires confidence on packed winter roads, rides smoother (8.0/10 comfort), and wears evenly for 45–55k miles.
The Nitto Recon Grappler A/T plays heavier but tougher, delivering stronger off-road scores (8.2 dirt / 8.0 sand / 8.3 mud / 8.1 rock), with a casing built for durability and chip resistance. It demands more margin on wet roads and grows louder with miles, but rewards ¾-ton and HD trucks with stability under load and rugged trail strength.

Raw Test Data

Tire Test Data

Pick categories to show metrics, then open ☰ to pick tires. Optional chart is hidden by default.

Parentheses show the rank among the currently displayed tires (1 = best for that metric).

Note: Lower is better for Stopping & Acceleration; higher is better for g-force, comfort, traction & off-road ratings. Parentheses show the rank among the currently displayed tires (1 = best for that metric).

Sources worth checking

Tire Rack AT Tire Test Tire Rack On-Road A/T Ratings Tire Rack Off-Road A/T Ratings SimpleTire Reviews Amazon SUV/LT Tires

🔬 Construction & Tech Breakdown

🛠️ Recon Grappler: Hybrid A/T with Street Grip

Large shoulder blocks + symmetrical center rib
Reinforced tread blocks for dry traction
E-load sizes and commercial-grade casing

🧠 Root Cause: Nitto focused on directional stability and braking under load, sacrificing winter and wet adaptability for control and bite on dry pavement.

🏁 Verdict: Ideal for dry towing setups and drivers who don’t need deep winter grip.

🛠️ Toyo AT3: Year-Round Daily Driver

Multi-wave sipes for ice grip
Dual-void pattern with adaptive shoulder lugs
3PMSF-certified for snow

🧠 Root Cause: Toyo’s silica-rich compound and siping enhance grip in all conditions — especially in wet, snow, and ice scenarios.

🏁 Verdict: A safer choice for mixed-weather commutes and moderate off-road use.

Dry Performance — Toyo Feels Lively, Recon Stays Heavy

This comparison draws from the dataset I’ve built — a blend of structured results, community feedback, and my own short driving impressions. On dry pavement, the Toyo AT3 stopped in 131.5 feet with 0.78 g cornering, while the Recon Grappler stretched to 138 feet with 0.72 g. In my short drive, Toyo felt more eager, almost like a sneaker on asphalt — quicker to react, sharper in turns. Recon, by contrast, is more like steel-toe boots — slower to move, but steady once it’s locked in.

Forum chatter mirrors this. On Tundra forums, Toyo drivers often describe it as “settled but responsive,” while Recon owners emphasize that it “feels heavier but more planted under load.” That’s because Toyo’s reinforced carcass and staggered shoulders balance comfort with agility, while Recon’s blockier tread and stiffer casing lean toward stability and durability.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo feels lighter and more responsive
½-tons: Toyo sharper for daily use, Recon steadier with trailers or load
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon the better match, stiffer casing complements heavy rigs

👉 Verdict: Toyo wins on nimble dry grip; Recon delivers heavier, steadier stability when loaded.

Wet Performance — Toyo Bites Quicker, Recon Needs Space

In a downpour, the difference is clear. The Toyo AT3 measured 185 feet with 0.50 g traction, while the Recon Grappler stretched to 192 feet with 0.43 g. Driving them back-to-back, Toyo bit sooner on wet asphalt, while Recon needed extra room to stop — like braking in rain boots versus sneakers.

Community feedback backs this up. On F150 and Tacoma forums, AT3 owners praise its “confidence in storms,” while Recon users often admit it “works if you slow down.” That comes down to chemistry: Toyo’s silica-rich compound and dense siping give better micro-grip, while Recon’s harder rubber prioritizes chip resistance over wet adhesion.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo is the safer rain choice
½-tons: Toyo inspires more confidence; Recon manageable with cautious braking
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon tracks straight with weight, but still stretches distances

👉 Verdict: Toyo leads in wet grip and shorter stops; Recon demands more margin on slick roads.

Winter & Snow — Toyo Holds Pack, Recon Works Loose

Snow tells a similar story. The Toyo AT3 stopped in 74 feet with a 44-foot launch, while the Recon Grappler measured 74 feet to stop and 45.5 feet to launch. On fresh powder, both claw forward well, but Toyo feels more composed on plowed roads. In my drive, Toyo braked with more confidence on packed snow, while Recon spun slightly before hooking in.

Owners reflect this too. On TacomaWorld, Toyo is praised as “predictable on plowed roads,” while Recon gets nods for “plowing through deeper drifts.” That aligns with design: Toyo’s 3PMSF rating, siping, and silica mix hold grip on packed snow, while Recon’s aggressive shoulders and stiffer casing dig harder in loose powder but lose some finesse.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo safer in daily snow commutes
½-tons: Toyo stronger in plowed conditions; Recon works well if snow is deeper and loose
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon steadies with mass; Toyo keeps more predictability in mixed winter

👉 Verdict: Toyo is the better snow-belt choice; Recon claws harder in unplowed or loose conditions.

Ice — Toyo Grabs First, Recon Slides Further

Ice is unforgiving, and both show their limits. The Toyo AT3 measured a 50-foot stop, while the Recon Grappler came in slightly shorter at 46.5 feet — but numbers don’t tell the whole story. In feel, Toyo gave me earlier bite, like boots with small cleats. Recon slid further before engaging, though predictably — more like a rubber sole that glides but doesn’t snap loose.

Community comments mirror this nuance. Toyo owners call it “safer in surprise ice patches,” while Recon drivers often describe it as “forgiving, but you need extra space.”

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo inspires more confidence on icy commutes
½-tons: Toyo grips earlier, Recon manageable with patience
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon steadies with weight, Toyo more consistent in lighter rigs

👉 Verdict: Toyo grabs sooner, giving more confidence. Recon forgives in feel, but slides longer before it hooks.

Off-Road — Recon’s Playground, Toyo More Balanced

Take them off pavement, and the story flips. The Recon Grappler scored 8.2 dirt / 8.0 sand / 8.3 mud / 8.1 rock, while the Toyo AT3 posted 7.8 / 7.7 / 7.9 / 7.8. In mud and rocky climbs, Recon feels like a bulldog — digging, holding, and pushing through where Toyo spins sooner. Toyo is more balanced, better on gravel and fire roads, but lacks the raw aggression of Recon.

Forum chatter reflects it. Recon owners rave “it goes where others quit,” while Toyo users often note it’s “good everywhere, great nowhere off-road.” That’s the trade: Toyo balances all-terrain manners, Recon leans harder toward trail grit.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo better for light trails; Recon is overkill unless you go off-road often
½-tons: Recon shines for serious trail use; Toyo smoother for mixed on/off-road
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon is the off-road pick, with stability under towing or load

👉 Verdict: Recon dominates rugged terrain; Toyo smooths out the milder paths.

Comfort & Noise — Toyo Softer, Recon Rougher

On-road manners tell another story. The Toyo AT3 rates 8.0/10 for comfort, while Recon comes in at 7.3/10. Driving them, Toyo felt calmer — like background music you barely notice. Recon was firmer and hummed more, especially at highway speeds, like a bass line you can’t ignore.

Owners agree. Toyo drivers say it’s “quiet and smooth for an A/T,” while Recon drivers admit “noise grows once miles stack up.” That’s the construction talking: Toyo’s variable pitch tread softens resonance, while Recon’s heavier casing transmits more vibration.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo is far more civil
½-tons: Toyo is easier for commuting; Recon’s hum tolerable if style/off-road matter more
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon’s firmness blends with heavy rigs; Toyo may feel soft under weight

👉 Verdict: Toyo is the daily driver’s choice for comfort; Recon demands more tolerance for hum.

Note from the Expert: For years, choosing all-terrain meant accepting noise—a true compromise for off-road grip. That’s why the question, Are All-Terrain Tires Louder than Highway Tires?, used to have a simple “yes” answer. Now, with the rise of on-road models, the core issue has shifted from noise to overall refinement. To fully understand which side of the comfort spectrum you’re buying into, you need to determine Are All-Terrain Tires Good for Daily Driving?—a question that depends entirely on the tire’s construction, not just the name.

Tread Life & Longevity — Recon Tougher, Toyo Ages Quieter

Both will last, but differently. The Recon Grappler averages ~45–50k miles with proper rotations, resisting chips and cuts thanks to its tough compound. The Toyo AT3 averages ~45–55k miles, wearing more evenly and staying quieter later into life.

Forum voices support it. Recon drivers brag “45k with towing and still solid,” while Toyo owners highlight “50k and still quiet, just slipping in rain now.” In my short test, Toyo’s wear looked even, while Recon’s edges showed early signs of feathering.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo wears smoother and stays quieter
½-tons: both last similar miles; Toyo quieter, Recon tougher
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon resists abuse under load; Toyo better for balanced longevity

👉 Verdict: Recon is built for punishment; Toyo ages more gracefully and stays quieter with time.

Where They Fit Best

Recon Grappler and Toyo AT3 target different drivers. Recon leans harder into toughness and trail grit, while Toyo balances wet/winter safety with daily refinement.

SUVs & crossovers: Toyo is the practical choice for comfort, rain, and winter; Recon is overkill unless looks and trails drive the decision
½-tons: Toyo fits pavement-heavy use with occasional dirt; Recon fits rigs that see job sites or frequent off-road
¾-ton & HD trucks: Recon is the stronger heavy-duty partner; Toyo steadier for lighter-duty daily rigs

👉 Regional fit:

Toyo AT3 shines in the Northeast snow belt, Pacific Northwest, and Midwest — regions with rain, packed snow, and icy commutes.
Recon Grappler thrives in the Southwest deserts, Mountain West, and rural gravel-heavy areas like Texas, Montana, and Alberta.

👉 Bottom line: Choose Toyo AT3 if you want balance, comfort, and winter safety. Choose Recon Grappler if you want durability, aggressive looks, and off-road toughness, even if it costs you polish on wet pavement.

Tire Size Selection: The Basics You Can’t Skip

P-Metric vs. LT (Light Truck) Tires

Understanding Tire Load Range: XL vs. E-Load

Then comes the tire load index and load range — essentially your tire’s strength rating. Here’s where things split between passenger XL and LT E:

XL (Extra Load) is a passenger tire with reinforced sidewalls. It can handle a bit more pressure (~41 PSI) than a standard SL tire and is perfect for SUVs, crossovers, or light trucks that carry extra gear, passengers, or small trailers. XL tires ride softer and quieter than LT options, making them ideal for daily use.
E Load Range is an LT tire class built with a much thicker casing. E-rated tires can handle far more pressure (up to ~80 PSI) and heavier loads, which makes them essential for ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks towing trailers or hauling close to max capacity. The trade-off is weight, stiffer ride, more road noise, and a small drop in fuel efficiency.

Put simply: XL is for “extra luggage and family,” while E is for “truck bed full of bricks or a car trailer.”

Why the Tire Speed Rating Matters for Safety

🏁 Final Verdict: Which One Would I Actually Buy?

If you want a refined daily A/T that handles storms, snow, and commutes with ease, the Toyo AT3 is the clear choice. It’s smoother, quieter, and safer in wet and winter conditions, making it a fit for SUVs, crossovers, and ½-ton trucks in the Northeast, Midwest, or Pacific Northwest.
If your priority is durability, towing, and tougher off-road ability, the Recon Grappler stands out. It’s firmer, louder, and less polished in rain, but it thrives on ¾-ton and HD rigs in the Southwest, Mountain West, and gravel-heavy rural regions.

👉 Bottom line: Toyo AT3 for all-weather safety and comfort. Recon Grappler if you want aggressive toughness and trail grit.

Toyo Open Country AT3 Related Articles

Frequently Asked Questions: Toyo AT3 vs Nitto Recon Grappler

Which tire is better on-road?
The Toyo AT3. It stops shorter on dry (131.5 ft vs 138 ft) and corners sharper (0.78 g vs 0.72 g), making it more nimble for daily use.
Which tire is safer in rain?
The Toyo AT3. It stops shorter in the wet (185 ft vs 192 ft) and grips better (0.50 g vs 0.43 g), while Recon needs more margin.
Which tire handles snow and ice better?
Toyo is stronger on packed snow (74 ft stop, 44 ft launch), while Recon claws better in loose drifts. On ice, Toyo grabs earlier, though Recon’s 46.5 ft stop is slightly shorter but slides more before it hooks.
Which tire is tougher off-road?
The Recon Grappler. With scores of 8.2 dirt, 8.3 mud, and 8.1 rock, it digs deeper and holds stronger in rugged terrain than Toyo’s more balanced numbers.
Which tire is quieter and more comfortable?
The Toyo AT3. It rates 8.0/10 for comfort versus Recon’s 7.3/10, making it smoother and quieter for commuting.
Which tire lasts longer?
Both run similar mileage (45–55k), but Toyo stays quieter later into life, while Recon resists chips and abuse better under heavy loads.
Which vehicles suit Toyo AT3?
Best for SUVs, crossovers, and ½-ton trucks that need daily comfort, rain/winter safety, and balanced off-road ability.
Which vehicles suit Recon Grappler?
Best for ¾-ton & HD trucks needing towing stability, trail grit, and aggressive styling.

Toyo Open Country AT3 vs Cooper Discoverer AT3

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Real test data, off-road insights, and daily-driving impact — from a former Bridgestone engineer.

The Cooper Discoverer AT3 and Toyo Open Country AT3 represent two very different takes on all-terrain performance. Cooper’s On-Road A/T lineup comes in three versions — the AT3 4S for daily comfort, the AT3 LT for towing and highway hauling, and the AT3 XLT with reinforced sidewalls for occasional off-road use — all tuned with road manners first. The Toyo AT3, by contrast, is a true Off-Road A/T, built with a stronger casing, open tread, and versatile fitments that deliver dependable grip in dirt, gravel, and snow while still holding its own on pavement.

That’s the trade-off buyers face — Cooper for on-road comfort with light trail use, Toyo for tougher off-road capability with all-season balance. In the sections ahead, we’ll break down their dry, wet, snow, and off-road test results. You can also compare them directly in our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool for tailored picks by SUV, CUV, or truck class.

Quick Summary

	Toyo Open Country AT3	Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S	Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT	Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT
Better for	Severe off-road usage, Winter performance	Daily driving	1/2 ton or compact SUV owners who wants to add a little towing and hauling capability	3/4 ton pickup owners who don’t see snow often
Pros	Appearance, year-round performance	Insane wet and snow traction Great on-road manners	Towing & hauling capability	Longevity Cornering stability
Cons	A bit rough ride	Can’t handle severe off-road conditions	Can’t handle severe off-road conditions	Can’t handle severe off-road conditions

Based on your perspective as a former Bridgestone engineer, it’s clear that the Toyo Open Country AT3 is your preferred choice for severe off-road usage, given its robust off-road capabilities. However, you acknowledge that its on-road manners are slightly inferior to the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S.

In contrast, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S stands out with better on-road manners, responsiveness, and even wear characteristics. It seems like a solid choice for daily driving and varied conditions.

The Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT offers similar attributes to the 4S but with stronger sidewalls and robust shoulders, making it a suitable option for 1/2-ton pickups and full-size SUVs that require hauling, towing, and mild off-road performance.

Finally, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT is your recommendation for warm climates and heavy-duty vehicles, offering excellent tread life for these applications.

Tire Decision Tool

For those in a hurry: this tool makes it easy. Just pick your vehicle and what matters most to you, and it’ll instantly suggest the best tire options.

Usage Mix

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Dry Performance

Dry performance encompasses three key dimensions: dry traction, steering response, and cornering stability. In the following sections, each of these aspects will be individually assessed for a comprehensive understanding.

Dry Traction

Dry traction hinges on the contact patch between the tire and the road surface. Some mud tires may exhibit subpar dry traction due to their design, which prioritizes off-road performance.

In contrast, all-terrain tires aim to strike a balance between on and off-road capabilities, resulting in a narrower and more compact design. This design approach allows all-terrain tires to deliver a commendable level of dry traction.

In essence, while dry traction is an important factor, it’s not a defining characteristic for these tires. All-terrain tires, including both models in question, generally provide excellent dry traction.

Cornering Stability

Let’s start by discussing cornering stability, as it’s a crucial aspect that influenced the classification of the Cooper Discoverer AT3 series.

Cornering stability is closely tied to a tire’s internal structure, which can vary based on your vehicle and driving conditions.

First, let’s consider the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S. This tire prioritizes a smooth and quiet ride over extreme off-road traction and durability. It’s available in p-metric sizes and provides decent cornering stability, especially for vehicles like 1/2 ton pickups and similarly weighted SUVs and CUVs. However, in terms of cornering stability, the Toyo Open Country AT3 with its more robust design is a better choice.

Next up is the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT. This tire represents a middle-ground option in this comparison. It features a slightly beefier sidewall and thicker construction. It’s well-suited for compact SUVs and 1/2 ton trucks that require towing or hauling capabilities. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 XL comes closest to the Toyo Open Country AT3 in terms of cornering stability.

Lastly, let’s discuss the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT, the most rugged option in the series. Its construction is even tougher than that of the Toyo Open Country AT3, making it a suitable choice for heavy-duty applications.

In summary, when it comes to cornering stability, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is a solid option for a wide range of vehicles. For owners of 3/4 ton or larger pickup trucks, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT is recommended, while SUV and CUV owners can opt for the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S. 1/2 ton pickup owners may find the Toyo Open Country AT3 to be a suitable choice.

Steering Response

Steering response is closely tied to cornering stability, and maintaining tire shape is crucial for responsive handling. However, the tread pattern plays a significant role in determining steering responsiveness.

In terms of responsiveness, all variants of the Cooper Discoverer AT3 (4S, XL, and XLT) outperform the Toyo Open Country AT3 due to their rib-highway type pattern design.

It’s worth noting that for heavier vehicles, such as trucks, a stiff compound is also necessary for quicker steering response, in addition to strong sidewalls.

Considering these factors, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a better choice for CUV and compact SUV owners seeking responsive handling. For owners of 3/4 ton or larger pickup trucks, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT is a solid option. While the Toyo Open Country AT3 remains a decent choice due to its interlocked center section, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 variants offer better steering response in their respective categories.

Wet Performance

Wet performance in all-terrain tires depends on two critical factors: wet traction and hydroplaning resistance.

Hydroplaning can sometimes be a concern for all-terrain tires due to their wide tread patterns. However, effective water evacuation capability plays a significant role in overcoming this issue.

The Cooper Discoverer AT3 series (4S, XLT, and XL) with their 5-rib symmetrical patterns and circumferential grooves offer decent hydroplaning resistance. In contrast, the Toyo Open Country AT3, while lacking rib-type patterns, features two circumferential grooves and increased lateral grooves for efficient water evacuation.

Overall, all these tires provide a decent level of hydroplaning resistance.

When it comes to wet traction, factors like soft rubber compounds and a higher density of siping edges are key.

The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S stands out for compact SUVs and CUVs due to its softer compound, ample rubber contact with the road, and high siping density. The Toyo Open Country AT3 shares similar features but has a slightly stiffer compound, putting its wet performance just behind the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S.

For 1/2 ton pickup trucks and full-size SUVs involved in towing or hauling, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT offers a slightly better option due to its responsiveness.

However, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT sets itself apart, lacking the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) rating but excelling in use with 3/4 ton or larger vehicles under heavy loads. Its cold weather wet traction during towing or hauling is commendable. Still, if you frequently encounter cold weather conditions, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better choice.

Winter Performance

Winter performance of all-terrain tires can be assessed under three distinct conditions.

Starting with light snow, both the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S and the Toyo Open Country AT3 bear the 3PMSF marking, signifying their proficiency in light snow traction. In this category, the Toyo Open Country AT3 and Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S excel, thanks to their abundance of biting edges. Conversely, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT and Cooper Discoverer XLT, with their stiffer compounds, lag slightly behind.

Moving on to deep snow, the Toyo Open Country AT3 takes the lead due to its more aggressive tread pattern. However, all variations of the Cooper Discoverer AT3 series are reliable options when selected based on the provided guidelines.

When it comes to icy conditions, it’s important to note that these tires are not dedicated winter tires and have limited ice performance. Nevertheless, the rib-type pattern on the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S and Cooper Discoverer AT3 XL provides a slight advantage by putting more rubber compound on the ground.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is a better choice for compact SUVs and CUVs, while the Toyo Open Country AT3 shines as the superior option for pickup trucks and full-size SUVs in winter conditions.

A side note here: Understanding the snow performance of all-terrain tires can be quite challenging. For those who find it perplexing, I’d like to direct your attention to a helpful resource: “6 Best All-Terrain Tires for Snow by AT Tire Category“ This article is specifically designed to assist you in making informed decisions regarding all-terrain tires in snowy conditions.

Treadwear

Treadwear in all-terrain tires is significantly influenced by your specific usage conditions and vehicle type, making the right tire selection crucial.

Toyo Open Country AT3 is classified as an off-road all-terrain tire, while Cooper Discoverer AT3 leans towards on-road all-terrain performance. Consequently, these two tires exhibit different traction capabilities.

Comparing the Toyo Open Country AT3 and Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, they share similar UTQG ratings (600 A B for the Toyo AT3 and 620 A B for the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S), indicating a similar compound stiffness. However, Toyo’s compound is better suited for off-road durability, while the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S’s compound wears better during highway usage. Both tires are trustworthy options, and your choice should depend on your off-road usage percentage.

As for the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT, it may not be the best choice for all-terrain use but serves as a solid option for towing with full-size SUVs or 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton pickup trucks that require towing and hauling reliability in winter conditions.

Finally, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT, with its rib-type pattern, stiff compound, and deep tread, stands out as the best option for 3/4 ton or larger pickup trucks. However, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is also a reliable choice if you want to add some off-road aggressiveness to your vehicle.

In summary, all of these tires wear very well, and your choice should be based on your specific driving conditions and needs.

Warranty

Toyo provides a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty for p-metric sizes and a 50,000-mile warranty for LT sizes.

In contrast, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S comes with a 6-year, 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, while the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT and XLT also offer a 6-year, 65,000-mile treadwear warranty.

It’s worth noting that Toyo offers a 45-day trial for the Open Country AT3.

Road Noise

Road noise is a distinguishing factor among these tires, primarily due to the aggressive and lugged-type pattern of the Toyo Open Country AT3.

Tire noise is typically generated by the air trapped within the tire’s tread. Consequently, as the tread design becomes more aggressive, the tire tends to produce more noise. The presence of robust shoulder blocks also significantly contributes to this.

In this context, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S emerges as the clear winner in terms of road noise. Even though the Toyo Open Country AT3 features an interlocked center section, it still has the most void area among the compared tires, along with robust shoulder blocks. Furthermore, uniformity plays a pivotal role, and the Toyo Open Country AT3 tends to wear more unevenly.

For the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XL and XLT, the difference in noise isn’t substantial, mainly due to their beefy and rugged shoulder blocks.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, XLT, and XL are quieter tires, while the Toyo Open Country AT3 is slightly noisier due to its enhanced off-road capability.

Comfort

In this case, a less aggressive tread design and a more elastic internal structure tend to provide a more comfortable ride.

As mentioned in earlier sections, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S offers a more comfortable ride compared to the Toyo Open Country AT3, thanks to its rib-type pattern and flexible internal structure.

Similarly, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT and LT, with their less aggressive pattern, also contribute to a slightly more comfortable ride.

Off-Road Performance

When it comes to off-road performance, the choice often comes down to personal preferences.

Toyo Open Country AT3, designed as an off-road all-terrain tire, boasts a larger void area, a more aggressive shoulder design, and impressive sidewall biters. This gives it a clear advantage in loose ground performance, making it excel in mud and sand scenarios, especially for adventurous off-roaders.

On the flip side, Cooper Discoverer AT3 is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a milder off-road traction that mainly involves dirt and gravel. However, it’s worth noting that Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT shines on gravel due to its exceptionally robust sidewalls and sipes, which provide extra traction.

In summary, Toyo Open Country AT3 is recommended for tackling severe off-road conditions and adventurous terrain, while Cooper Discoverer AT3 is a solid option for those who want a balanced tire with excellent on-road manners.

Specification Comparison for Popular Sizes

Before we delve into a detailed comparison of the Toyo Open Country AT3 and the Cooper Discover AT3, it’s essential to note that their performance can vary depending on the tire size you choose. Let’s start by highlighting some key considerations:

Cooper Discoverer AT3 is a better option for daily driving because it’s an on-road all-terrain tire
Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better option for off-road driving because it’s an off-road all-terrain tire
Cooper Discoverer AT3 is efficiency oriented tire

These variations in wheel sizes, load ranges, weight, and height should be carefully considered when selecting the right tire to suit your specific requirements. Now, let’s proceed with a detailed comparison of popular sizes of these tires.

35×12.5R20

	Toyo Open Country AT3	Toyo Open Country AT3	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	BF Goodrich KO2	General Grabber ATX	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Treak	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Kumho Road Venture AT52	Yokohama Geolander X-AT	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme	Firestone Destination XT	Yokohama Geolander X-AT	Mickey Thompson Baja Legend Exp	Kenda Klever RT
Category	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire
Load Range	E	F	F	E	E	E	F	F	E	E	F	F	E	F	F	F	F	E	E	F	F
Weight	67 lbs	67 lbs	77 lbs	67 lbs	70 lbs	75 lbs	68 lbs	67 lbs	59 lbs	73 lbs	69 lbs	68 lbs	66 lbs	70 lbs	69 lbs	72 lbs	65 lbs	59 lbs	71 lbs	62 lbs	68 lbs
Tread Depth	16.9/32″	16.9/32″	19/32″	15/32″	16/32″	19/32″	16.9/32″	16.5/32″	16/32″	14.5/32″	18.5/32″	18.3/32″	16/32″	‘-	16.9	18.5/32″	15.5/32″	17/32″	19/32″		18.8/32”
Tread Width	10.9″	10.3″	10.9″	11.1″	10.6″	10.5″	11″	10.6″	10.5″	10.8″	9.8″	10.2″	10.1″	11″	10.2″	10.2″	10.3″	10.8″	10″	10.2	10”
Made In	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	United States	Phillippines	Korea	United States	United States	Vietnam	Japan	United States	United States	Korea	Canada	Japan	United States	Taiwan

While Cooper Discoverer XLT is exclusively available in the F load range, its highway-pattern design contributes to a smoother and quieter ride. However, there’s a trade-off as it provides less traction on loose ground, particularly in snowy conditions. On the other hand, if you prioritize winter traction, the E load range Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out as the top choice. If your off-road adventures involve frequent air-down conditions, then the F-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 is the tire for you.

285/70R17

	Toyo Open Country AT3	Toyo Open Country AT3	Toyo Open Country AT3	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	BF Goodrich KO2	BF Goodrich KO2	General Grabber ATX	Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac	Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Firestone Destination AT2	Firestone Destination XT	BF Goodrich KO3	Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	Nitto Nomad Grappler	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S	Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT	BF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A	General Grabber APT	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Kenda Klever R/T	Kenda Klever AT2
Category	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Off Road AT tire
Load Range	E	SL	C	C	E	SL	E	C	E	E	E	SL	D	E	SL	E	C	D	E	SL	SL	SL	SL	E	SL	SL	E	E	SL	E	SL	C	E	C	E	E	E
Weight	55 lbs	47 lbs	54 lbs	63 lbs	58 lbs	50 lbs	58 lbs	51 lbs	59 lbs	60 lbs	62 lbs	52 lbs	51 lbs	60 lbs	41 lbs	51 lbs	56 lbs	55 lbs	54 lbs	45 lbs	48 lbs	45 lbs	43 lbs	55 lbs	46 lbs	46 lbs	54 lbs	61 lbs	48 lbs	57 lbs	48 lbs	55 lbs	55 lbs	56 lbs	57 lbs	56 lbs	56 lbs
Tread Depth	16.5/32″	13.6/32″	16.5/32″	18/32″	18/32″	13/32″	15/32″	15/32″	16/32″	18/32”	18.5/32″	13/32″	18/32”	18/32″	12/32″	16/32″	15/32″	15/32″	16/32″	13.4/32″	13.6/32″	13/32″	14/32″	17/32″	12.5/32″	14/32″	18/32″	15.5/32″	16/32″	18.5/32″	13.5/32″	16.4/32″	16.4/32″	16.5/32″	16.5/32″	16.3/32”	14.87/32”
Tread Width	9″	9″	9″	9.6″	9.6″	9.6″	9.2″	9.3″	9″	9.5″	9.2″	9.2″	9.6″	9.6″	9.2″	8.8″		9.3″	9.1″	9.1″	9.2″	8.5″	9.2″	9.2″	9.1″	9.2″	8.9″	8.9″	9.4″	9.4″	8.9″	8.9″	8.9″	‘-	‘-
Made In	United States	Japan	United States	Thailand	China	Thailand	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	Thailand	Costa Rica	Canada	United States	Brazil	United States	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	United States	United States	United States	Thailand	China	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Taiwan	Taiwan

Tire specifications can be quite confusing, especially when you’re not familiar with them. Let’s break it down for this specific tire size.

If your main concern is daily driving and you don’t often encounter severe winter conditions, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S with SL (Standard Load) specification is your best bet. However, if you also need excellent traction in severe snow conditions, I’d recommend the Toyo Open Country AT3 SL.

On the flip side, if I were in your shoes, I’d opt for the C-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 instead of the SL version. This C rating enhances sidewall stiffness, which is particularly useful when you’re carrying a heavy load. Plus, it’s worth noting that the C-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 is proudly made in the USA.

For those considering E load range tires, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT stands out as the top choice, especially if you need to tow or haul heavy loads. However, if your priority is excellent snow traction, the E-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 is the better option. So, if you’re an off-roading enthusiast or frequently navigate snowy terrain, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is the way to go. For everyone else, don’t overthink it; the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT is the perfect choice.

275/60R20

	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Toyo Open Country AT3	Toyo Open Country AT3	BF Goodrich KO2	General Grabber ATX	General Grabber ATX	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac	Firestone Destination XT	Firestone Destination AT2	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Vredestein Pinza AT	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Xtreme	Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek	General Grabber APT	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	BF Goodrich Trail Terrain TA	Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT	Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT	Toyo Open Country R/T Trail	Kenda Klever AT2	Kenda Klever AT2
Category	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	On Road AT tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire
Load Range	D	SL	E	SL	D	D	XL	SL	SL	E	E	XL	E	SL	D	SL	SL	SL	E	SL	SL	E	XL	SL	SL	E	SL	E	XL	E
Weight	58 lbs	50 lbs	55	42 lbs	55 lbs	56 lbs	50 lbs	49 lbs	46 lbs	52 lbs	42 lbs	46 lbs	55 lbs	44 lbs	57 lbs	45 lbs	44 lbs	44 lbs	56 lbs	47 lbs	45 lbs	58 lbs	45 lbs	44 lbs	47 lbs	64 lbs	48 lbs	57 lbs	53 lbs	56 lbs
Tread Depth	18/32″	13/32″	16.4	13.5/32″	15/32″	16/32″	14/32″	12/32″	16/32″	16/32″	12/32″	13.5/32″	15.9/32″	12.5/32″	14.5/32″	12/32″	12/32″	12.5/32″	16/32″	16/32″	14/32″	16.4/32″	13.5/32″	13.5	12.5/32″	18.5/32″	16/32″	16.4	13.35/32”	14.87/32”
Tread Width	9.2″	9.6″	9.4″	9.1″	9″	9.4″	9.6″	9″	‘-	9.6″	8.8″	9.1″	9.3″	9.1″	‘-	8.3″	8.6″	8.8″	9.2″	9.4″	9.4″	9.2″	8.9″	‘-	9.5″	9.8″	9.3″	‘-	‘-	‘-
Made In	Thailand	Thailand	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	Canada	United States	United States	United States	United States	Korea	Phillippines	India	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Taiwan	Taiwan

In this specific size range, both tires offer SL (Standard Load) and E load range options. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 excels as a top choice for daily driving, providing excellent performance on the road. However, it’s important to note that its off-road capabilities are limited to mild conditions. So, if you require a bit more traction in muddy terrain, opting for the SL Toyo Open Country AT3 might be the better choice between these two options.

On the other hand, when it comes to E load range tires, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT takes the lead for daily driving needs. It offers a comfortable and reliable on-road experience. Nevertheless, one drawback of this tire is its performance on loose ground, where it may not provide the best traction.

265/70R17

	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Falken Wildpeak AT3W	Toyo Open Country AT3	Toyo Open Country AT3	BF Goodrich KO2	BF Goodrich KO2	General Grabber ATX	General Grabber ATX	General Grabber ATX	Cooper Discoverer ST Maxx	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac	Sumitomo Encounter AT	Firestone Destination AT2	BF Goodrich Trail Terrain TA	Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S	Firestone Destination XT	General Grabber APT	Nitto Recon Grappler AT	General Grabber APT	Vredestein Pinza AT	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Yokohama Geolander AT G015	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme	Vredestein Pinza AT	Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT	Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT	Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek	Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Nitto Ridge Grappler	Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT	Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT	Toyo Open Country RT Trail	Toyo Open Country RT Trail	Kenda Klever RT	Kenda Klever AT2	Kenda Klever AT2
Category	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Commercial AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	On Road AT Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Rugged Terrain Tire	Off Road AT Tire	Off Road AT Tire
Load Range	E	SL	E	SL	C	E	SL	C	E	E	E	E	SL	SL	SL	SL	E	C	E	SL	SL	E	SL	SL	E	E	C	E	XL	E	SL	E	E	XL	C	E	E	SL	E
Weight	51 lbs	45 lbs	48 lbs	42 lbs	46 lbs	53 lbs	44 lbs	47 lbs	55 lbs	55 lbs	54 lbs	51 lbs	46 lbs	38 lbs	57 lbs	42 lbs	45 lbs	42 lbs	50 lbs	47 lbs	40 lbs	51 lbs	41 lbs	39 lbs	52 lbs	50 lbs	45 lbs	48 lbs	45 lbs	53 lbs	42 lbs	51 lbs	57 lbs	44 lbs	49 lbs	49 lbs	47 lbs	47 lbs	47 lbs
Tread Depth	17/32″	13/32″	16.3/32″	13.4/32″	15/32″	15/32″	14/32″	16/32″	16/32″	18.5/32″	17/32″	18/32″	13/32″	12/32″	12.5/32″	14/32″	15/32″	12/32″	15.7/32″	14/32″	13/32″	18/32″	13/32″	12.5/32″	16/32″	16.5/32″	16.5/32″	15/32″	16/32″	18.5/32″	13.5/32″	16.4/32″	18.5/32″	16/32″	16.3/32”	16.3/32”	16.3/32”	13.35/32	14.87/32”
Tread Width	8.9″	9″	8.4″	8.4″	8.8″	8.7″	7.2″	8.4″	8.3″	8.7″	8.7″	9″	8.9″	8.3″	8.7″	8.6″	8.7″	8.5″	8.5″	8.6″	8.1″	8.4″	8″	8.4″	7.8″	8.7″	8.7″	8.4″	8.8″	8.9″	8.4″	8.4″	9.2″	8.7″	‘-	‘-		‘-	‘-
Made In	Japan	United States	United States	Japan	Canada	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Thailand	United States	Thailand	United States	United States	United States	Canada	United States	United States	United States	India	Thailand	Thailand	Indonesia	India	United States	United States	Indonesia	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	United States	Taiwan	Taiwan	Taiwan

In this specific tire size, it’s worth mentioning that Cooper also offers the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT option. This tire shines when it comes to heavy towing or extended highway driving. However, it’s important to note that its off-road traction capabilities are not its strong suit. So, while the Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT might provide a smoother ride compared to the E-rated Toyo Open Country AT3 XLT, it’s clear that if you require extra off-road traction, the Toyo Open Country AT3 XLT is the way to go.

When it comes to SL (Standard Load) tires, I won’t reiterate the same points. The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S remains an efficient choice for daily driving, while the Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out for its winter performance and added dirt and mud traction.

Conclusion

Cooper Discoverer AT3 and Toyo Open Country AT3 are specialized tires designed to excel in different usage conditions.

Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is the top choice for daily driving, particularly for SUV and CUV owners.
Toyo Open Country AT3 is the go-to option for extreme off-road conditions, such as mud and challenging terrains.
Cooper Discoverer AT3 LT is ideal for 1/2 ton pickup and compact SUV owners who prioritize reliable on-road performance while needing towing and hauling capabilities.
Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT is recommended for 3/4 ton or larger pickup truck owners, especially in warm regions.

I hope this article has been informative and helps you make an informed tire choice. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to leave them in the comments section. Safe travels, everyone!