Real-world test data, Reddit insights, and fitment guidance — harmonizing online test data, customer reviews, and specific comments from friends, all by a former Bridgestone test engineer.
The BFGoodrich KO3 is BFG’s newest Off-Road A/T tire, and its update represents a strategic shift: it delivers stronger wet traction and better on-road comfort than the legendary KO2, but reportedly with a small trade-off in extreme cut/chip resistance and raw off-road performance—leaving the pure heavy-duty title to the KO2 while capturing the mainstream all-terrain market. If you want to see exactly how it stacks up, check out my BFGoodrich KO3 vs KO2 breakdown. The Falken Wildpeak AT4W, meanwhile, is Falken’s latest release—built with a stiffer casing, upgraded chip resistance, and a tread pattern aimed at heavier trucks and harsher off-road use.
Since the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is discontinued, we will use its established performance data as a benchmark throughout this comparison to clearly illustrate the generational steps taken by both the KO3 and the AT4W.
That’s the real choice here — BFG’s evolution toward daily-driver versatility versus Falken’s step-up in modern off-road toughness. In the sections ahead, we’ll break down how both perform across dry, wet, snow, off-road, and comfort testing. You can also use our All-Terrain Tire Decision Tool to line them up by SUV, CUV, or truck class for quick recommendations.
At a Glance
The Falken Wildpeak AT4W offers the best balance of road safety and rugged capability. It stands out with superior wet braking () and powerful snow grip ( stop, launch). It features a mile warranty, a firmer ride, and is built to be steady under load, making it highly capable for off-road use.
The BFGoodrich KO3 is the dedicated off-road bruiser. While it trails the Falken in measured wet and snow performance ( wet stop, snow stop), it dominates off-road with top scores (). It’s louder () and built specifically for abuse, heavy-duty towing, and core off-road toughness.
👉 Bottom line: AT4W = The balanced winter and wet safety leader; KO3 = The ultimate off-road and rock-crawling specialist.
Falken Wildpeak A/T4W
Tire Decision Tool
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Raw Test Data
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W (Discontinued)
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is officially discontinued, but finding remaining stock means you can still buy the performance benchmark for the new AT4W.
Known as the “agile all-terrain athlete,” the A/T3W offered the sharpest dry grip of the entire lineup ( stop). The generational transition to the AT4W focused on what to refine: the new model sacrificed a small degree of the A/T3W’s dry sharpness for improved stability under heavy load, and crucially, saw a trade-off in highway comfort to deliver more ruggedness. This strategic sacrifice in comfort was intended to push the AT4W toward serious capability, allowing the Falken Rubitrek AT01 to be introduced to close the market gap for comfort-focused all-terrain drivers. The result was notable improvements over the A/T3W’s “solid” performance in wet braking (shorter stops than the A/T3W’s ), ice traction, and off-road ruggedness.
Dry Performance — AT4W Edges Braking, KO3 Prioritizes Stability
On dry pavement, the Falken A/T4W is the superior stopping tire, coming to a halt at (with cornering). The BFGoodrich KO3 sits further back, requiring (with cornering).
Behind the wheel, the AT4W is slightly quicker in response but settles firmly when vehicle weight is added. The KO3, meanwhile, leans more toward anchor-like stability than agility, which is why it feels slower in quick transitions.
From an engineering lens, the AT4W stiffens its casing and tweaks its block design, successfully trading a touch of nimble feel for composure under heavy load. The KO3, like its predecessors, carries thicker sidewalls and stiffer lugs, which is why it feels so anchored but sacrifices some braking distance and responsiveness on the road.
SUVs & Crossovers: AT4W offers a better balance of comfort and capability; KO3 feels heavy.
½-ton trucks: AT4W is the steadier mix for daily driving and towing; KO3 is a fine choice if durability is paramount.
¾-ton & HD trucks: KO3 steadies best under extreme weight, due to its carcass design; AT4W is still a good performer.
👉 Verdict: AT4W is the dry stopping leader, KO3 is the stable tank.
Wet Performance — When the Storm Hits
In rain, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W posts the superior performance, stopping at with traction. The BFGoodrich KO3 stretches the stopping distance to with . That difference is clear—Falken significantly outpaces BFG in wet braking power.
Here’s why: Falken loads the Wildpeak with siping density and silica, and its wider circumferential grooves clear water more efficiently, which explains the shorter stop. The KO3, built for durability, uses a firmer compound and fewer micro-edges; its grooves move water, but its adhesion lags.
Owners back it up: AT4W drivers call it “confident in storms” and note its “safest margin.” KO3 drivers admit it is “fine, but give yourself more space” and requires more planning. I noticed the same: Falken inspired more trust, while the KO3 asked me to brake sooner.
Wet Driving Fit
SUVs & Crossovers: AT4W offers the safest margin; KO3 is the least forgiving.
½-tons: Falken again leads; KO3 requires advanced planning.
¾-ton & HD trucks: KO3 tracks straight under load, but Falken still grips more effectively.
👉 Verdict: AT4W is the wet leader, KO3 is improved but still durability-first.
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 & Snow Performance — AT4W Leads Packed Roads, KO3 Excels in Drifts
In snow, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W takes the performance lead in measured tests, stopping shortest at with a swift launch. The BFGoodrich KO3 trails slightly, measuring to stop and requiring to launch, making it usable but noticeably slower out of the hole.
The reason for the split lies in the design: Falken engineers the AT4W with fine siping and pliable tread chemistry to bite into hardpack, along with deeper shoulder voids for powder. The KO3, built with a firmer rubber mix for toughness, excels at digging into loose drifts but sacrifices quick bite on polished or plowed roads, where its adhesion lags.
Drivers agree. The AT4W is praised as “more snow-ready than expected” and has a “quicker bite.” The KO3 is noted as “strong in drifts but longer in plowed lanes.” I felt the same: Falken inspired more confidence, while the KO3 felt solid but delayed in response.
Winter Driving Fit
SUVs & Crossovers: AT4W is better for deeper storms; KO3 is tougher but has less finesse on pavement.
½-ton Trucks: AT4W is steadier; KO3 performs well once is engaged.
¾-ton & HD Trucks: The weight of the KO3 steadies it significantly, though Falken still provides an earlier bite in the initial stop.
👉 Verdict: AT4W leads in snow performance and confidence, while KO3 is capable but less polished on packed roads.
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.
Ice Performance — AT4W Bites First, KO3 Offers Predictable Fade
On glare ice, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W halts in , demonstrating superior stopping distance. The BFGoodrich KO3 runs slightly longer, stopping at .
The engineering explains the difference: ice grip is fundamentally about compound flexibility and micro-siping. Falken packs more of both, allowing the AT4W’s edges to grip earlier. The KO3 hardens slightly in subzero temperatures, relying on block stability instead of siping density. That’s why Falken bites first and the KO3 slides longer but in a predictable, controlled arc.
Forum chatter confirms this: AT4W is called the “best I’ve run on icy mornings,” while KO3 is described as “okay if smooth on pedals.” My drive felt the same — Falken gave earlier grip, the KO3 offered predictable fade.
Ice Driving Fit
SUVs & Crossovers: AT4W is the safest margin; KO3 is the longest stopper.
½-ton Trucks: Falken provides earlier bite; KO3 offers a stable fade.
¾-ton & HD Trucks: The KO3 steadies with mass, but Falken still provides better initial grip.
👉 Verdict: Falken wins on ice, KO3 is safe but requires more space.
Off-Road Performance — KO3 Dominates, AT4W Highly Capable
Off-road, the KO3 dominates with 9.5 dirt / 9.5 sand / 9.2 mud / 9.5 rock, the AT4W follows at 8.5 / 8.2 / 8.5 / 8.8, and the AT3W trails at 7.3 / 7.4 / 7.5 / 7.4. KO3 is built to claw — reinforced sidewalls, deep shoulders, stone ejectors. AT4W adds more toughness than AT3W but still softer than BFG.
On trails, KO3 feels like a hammer — rougher ride but no give in rock or mud. AT4W adds composure in sand and dirt, thanks to casing tweaks. AT3W smooths bumps but loses aggression in technical terrain.
SUVs & crossovers: AT3W plenty; AT4W or KO3 overkill unless frequent trails
½-tons: KO3 perfect for hard trails, AT4W balanced, AT3W milder
¾-ton & HD trucks: KO3 shines under load, AT4W capable, AT3W less armored
👉 Verdict: KO3 leads off-road, AT4W next, AT3W best for light duty.
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.
Comfort & Noise — Falken Leads Refinement, KO3 is Rugged
In the cabin, the Falken Wildpeak AT4W is the clear refinement leader with a comfort score of . The BFGoodrich KO3 trails at and feels noticeably firmer.
Technically, the Falken’s flexible casing and variable pitch tread design dampen road resonance, explaining the smoother, quieter long-term ride. The KO3’s tougher, thick sidewalls transfer more road vibration, which is excellent for load stability and towing but detracts from quiet comfort.
Owners back this up: The AT4W is described as “better than expected” in noise. The KO3 is noted as “quieter than the KO2 but still a growl,” and owners warn that the hum can grow as tread wears if rotation intervals are skipped. My drive echoed this: the KO3 felt fine early on, but the Falken was calmer over the long term.
Comfort Fit
SUVs & Crossovers: AT4W is the better choice for everyday comfort and reduced road noise.
½-ton Trucks: AT4W is smoother for daily driving; KO3 is truck-tough but firmer.
¾-ton & HD Trucks: The KO3’s noise often blends with engine noise (especially diesels), but the Falken remains the more refined tire overall.
👉 Verdict: AT4W leads in refinement; KO3 is rugged but louder.
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 and Durability — AT4W Warranty Wins, KO3 is the Armor
The major difference in this category is the warranty: The Falken Wildpeak AT4W carries an industry-leading warranty, while the BFGoodrich KO3 is expected to match or slightly beat the KO2’s range.
Technically, the KO3 relies on harder rubber compounds and strong, thick lugs designed to resist chipping and abrasion, making it ideal for severe abuse. The Falken focuses on achieving long life through casing balance and construction, which promotes exceptionally even wear across the tread face.
Drivers confirm this difference: The AT4W is noted for “wearing smooth so far,” and my own testing showed the Falken staying more even across the tread. The KO3 showed early signs of even wear, with shoulders resisting cupping better than its predecessor.
SUVs & Crossovers: Falken may stretch longest on mileage due to the warranty, while KO3 offers solid durability if tires are consistently rotated.
½-ton Trucks: KO3 is the more durable choice for frequent off-road use; Falkens offer more even pavement wear.
¾-ton & HD Trucks: KO3 is built specifically for abuse and heavy load; Falken is durable but less armored in extreme conditions.
👉 Verdict: AT4W is the mileage winner with its warranty; KO3 is the toughness winner built for rugged life.
Where They Fit Best
These two heavyweights clearly split their priorities: the KO3 is the off-road bruiser, and the AT4W is the balanced heavy-duty all-rounder.
SUVs & Crossovers: Choose the AT4W if trails and mixed-weather conditions enter the picture. The KO3 is generally overkill unless frequent, technical off-roading is the primary use.
½-ton Trucks: The AT4W offers a better balance across all on- and off-road conditions. The KO3 is the preferred choice if you prioritize extreme durability for towing or hard trailing.
¾-ton & HD Trucks: The KO3 feels purpose-built for the demands of these heavy vehicles, while the AT4W remains a very strong and highly capable alternative.
Regional Fit
Falken Wildpeak AT4W: Thrives in the Mountain West, Rockies, and Cascades, where drivers encounter frequent snow, ice, wet roads, and challenging mountain grades.
BFGoodrich KO3: Ideal for Southwest deserts, job sites, and rural backcountry, where its exceptional chip resistance, low weight, and ultimate durability are essential.
👉 Bottom line: KO3 is your choice for pure toughness and trails; AT4W offers the best balance across mixed conditions.
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.
Final Verdict: Which One’s Best in 2025?
The choice between these two tires hinges entirely on your driving environment and priority:
The Falken Wildpeak AT4W is the ideal all-rounder for areas with mixed severe weather. For a balance of wet grip, confident snow performance, and trail readiness, especially in the Mountain West and Rockies, the AT4W is the safer choice and offers excellent heavy-duty versatility.
The BFGoodrich KO3 is the dedicated choice for extreme durability and abuse. It’s the pick for job sites, desert states, and rural backcountry, proving itself the toughest under heavy rigs by trading road polish for brute off-road performance.
👉 Bottom line:
AT4W = Balance & heavy-duty versatility
KO3 = Toughness & off-road grit
Frequently Asked Questions: BFG KO3 vs Falken Wildpeak AT4W
Which tire has the best dry grip?
The Falken AT4W is sharper (131.8 ft, 0.72 g) and steadier, while the KO3 is a stable, tougher option (140 ft, 0.72 g) that trails slightly in stopping distance.Which tire is safest in rain?
The AT4W is safest, posting the shortest wet stop (171 ft, 0.58 g). The KO3, built for toughness, lags noticeably (184 ft, 0.46 g).How do they perform in snow?
The AT4W claws hardest in measured tests (69-ft stop, 41.5-ft launch). The KO3 is usable but slower in acceleration and stopping (72.3 ft, 46.4 ft).Which tire grips best on ice?
The AT4W grips best, stopping shortest (45 ft). The KO3 is longer (46.2 ft) but offers a predictable fade.Which tire is stronger off-road?
The KO3 dominates with top scores (9.5 dirt, 9.5 rock). The AT4W is the next strongest contender (8.2-8.8 range).Which tire is quieter and more comfortable?
The AT4W (8.3/10) rides smoother and is quieter due to its casing. The KO3 is firmer and louder at 7.5/10.Which lasts longer?
The AT4W carries an industry-leading 65k warranty. The KO3 promises 40–50k miles with better wear patterns, but its warranty is lower.Which tire fits heavy-duty trucks best?
The KO3. Its 3-ply sidewalls and off-road toughness shine under ¾-ton and HD rigs. The AT4W is a solid alternative.
