Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W represent off-road all-terrain tire options suitable for a variety of vehicles, including pickup trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. These tires both sport the 3PMSF marking, indicating their capacity for year-round use. Even though these are close-rated tires, both have pros and cons. Let’s embark on this journey of exploration!
| Toyo Open Country AT3 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | |
|---|---|---|
| Better for | Camping and hunting, working trucks, 3/4 ton or above light trucks, responsiveness | SUV and LT owners who are looking for an aggressive appearance, quiet ride(especially for p-metric sizes) |
| Pros | Rigid tire, Great for towing, LT sizes are perfectly optimized | Insane wet and snow traction, mild off-road traction, SL sizes are perfectly optimized |
| Cons | Slightly noisy ride for SL sizes, Sometimes lost traction on wet | It can’t handle severe off-road conditions very well, you might feel a bit delayed in steering |
As a former Bridgestone engineer, in my opinion, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W(review) leans more towards on-road performance, providing a slightly smoother ride, especially for SL and XL sizes. However, Toyo Open Country AT3(review) excels in other aspects. Its LT sizes provide better MPG, responsiveness, and on-road performance. While both tires are trustworthy options for winter conditions, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a slightly better option for wet conditions.
Nobody Knows Better Than Data
As a former Bridgestone test engineer, I’ve tested hundreds of tires—and trust me, data never lies. Discount Tire Treadwell is a goldmine. Just enter your location and vehicle—boom, it shows you the best picks! You can even prioritize what matters most (comfort, durability, winter traction—you name it).
Want a full walkthrough? Check out my simple guide here—I explain how to use Treadwell to match your exact needs.
All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports.
Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.
Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.
I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:
- DiscountTire Deals:
https://www.discounttire.com/promotions - TireRack Deals:
https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers - SimpleTire Deals:
https://simpletire.com/tire-deals
Table of Contents
Durability
Since they are built to perform in severe conditions, durability is essential for all-terrain tires. In this case, I generally prefer USA-made tires. However, things are a bit different this time.
Regarding online customers, both fellows do not have an issue with durability. Yet, I wanted to stay on the safe side and talk with my friends who worked for Toyo and Falken.
Here is the deal,
- If you go with LT sizes, Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are extremely durable tires.
- For passenger metric tires, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a bit more durable since it has high ply turn-ups wrapping around the bead and rising back up
- Both tires have step-down features that decrease the chunking and cracking issues on the tread.
Note: One of our SL Toyo Open Country AT3 has sidewall damage due to a hit sidewalk. However, the warranty process was the easiest ever. Toyo immediately replaced our tire with a new one.
Noise Comparison
Road noise in tires is primarily generated by the tread design, and it’s important to understand how it works. Deeper treads tend to produce more noise because of a specific phenomenon. As the tire rotates and comes into contact with the road, it compresses the air within the grooves of the tread. When the tire leaves the ground, this compressed air is released and pushed back into the grooves, creating a continuous pumping action. This phenomenon is responsible for the noise you hear at certain speeds when driving.
In the case of all-terrain tires, there are some differences in road noise depending on the load range and tread depth. Here’s a breakdown:
For LT (Light Truck) metric sizes, the Toyo Open Country AT3 tends to be a better option in terms of road noise. This is because it has a shallower tread design and connected shoulder lugs.
However, if you’re considering SL (Standard Load) sizes, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has an advantage due to its shallower tread depth. Both tires have an interlocked center section, which helps reduce road noise. Additionally, the Toyo Open Country AT3 has shoulder blocks that are connected with small ribs, increasing the tire’s rigidity and further decreasing noise levels.
In my opinion, when it comes to LT sizes, the Toyo Open Country AT3 produces less road noise. However, for SL sizes, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a slight advantage due to its more compact tread pattern and lower void area. This subtle difference can impact noise levels when driving.
A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.
I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;
How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
Riding Comfort
I have a similar approach to riding comfort. The only differance is, since these tires are high profile and have variable pitch designs, both tires provide a smooth ride.
In this case, you can still choose the lower tread depth one if you’d like to maximize your comfort level.
Here is a perfect article on what to expect from all-terrain tires for daily driving –> https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
Dry Performance
I’ve made the most of the dry performance evaluation on the above sections. But I left steering response, cornering, and dry traction for here. In this section, I would like to talk about these features.
Both tires have awesome reviews on e-commerce sites. Yet, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is weighter. Therefore, they will not balance as easily as Toyo’s. That might cause some shaking and decrease your handling in further wearing levels.
In a nutshell, these tires are head to head in this section. You can pick either one. Well, the price difference direct me to Falken’s.
Dry Traction
Due to their blocky patterns and notched rubber, all-terrain tires generally don’t have any issue with dry traction. Well, the equation is similar out here.
Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W have extremely well dry traction. I strongly recommend both of them.
Steering Response
When it comes to all-terrain tires, achieving the same level of center section continuity as seen in other tire types is a challenging task. In this context, two key metrics come into play: compound stiffness and rigidity.
For SL (Standard Load) sizes, Falken Wildpeak AT3W stands out, even with its shallower tread depth. This is evident from its higher UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) rating compared to the Toyo Open Country AT3. A higher UTQG rating generally indicates a stiffer compound. Therefore, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is likely to offer better steering response and handling, despite its wider tread pattern.
Conversely, in the case of heavier vehicles and LT (Light Truck) sizes, the Toyo Open Country AT3 has certain advantages. Its shallower tread depth and connected shoulder blocks play a significant role here. Since UTQG isn’t typically applicable to LT sizes, it’s reasonable to assume that Toyo uses a harder compound for these tires. This allows them to maintain tread depth levels more effectively compared to Falken Wildpeak AT3W.
In summary, Toyo Open Country AT3 is better suited for LT sizes, while Falken Wildpeak AT3W shines in p-metric sizes, particularly when it comes to steering response and compound stiffness.
Cornering Stability
Cornering stability could be an issue for all-terrain tires if the manufacturer can’t optimize sidewall stiffness with a bead stiffness. If the bead and shoulder sections are too stiff compared to the sidewalls, you may feel the floating feeling while cornering in the high velocity.
Since both tires have a strong internal sidewall structure, Falken Wildpeak AT3W and Toyo Open Country AT3 have solid cornering stability. However, the tread depth of Wildpeak AT3W is too high. For this reason, it has slight stability issues while cornering.
Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are trustworthy options in this case. Though, Toyo Open Country AT3 offers more.
Wet Performance
The wet performance of all-terrain tires is a critical aspect to consider because it directly relates to their ability to resist hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when a tire loses contact with the road due to a layer of water between the tire and the road surface. This loss of contact can result in a loss of traction and control, making it a significant safety concern, especially in wet driving conditions.
In this section, we will evaluate the wet traction and hydroplaning resistance of all-terrain tires separately to provide a comprehensive understanding of their performance in wet conditions.
Wet Traction
Wet traction is related to compound stiffness and the sipe density. In this case, both tires have enough UTQG rating for reliable wet traction for SL sizes.
Side note: The tires with over 700 UTQG generally have traction issues on wet and snow.
Since both tires have a similar footprint and compound stiffness, their wet performance is close-rated. In this case, Falken Wildpeak AT3W’s sipe density is superior moreover its LT sizes have softer compound.
Well, I think these two are balancing each other.
Falken Wildpeak AT3W provides slightly better wet traction. Yet, Toyo Open Country AT3 is also reliable option.
Hydroplaning Resistance
Hydroplaning resistance, also known as aquaplaning resistance, is a crucial aspect of tire performance in wet conditions. It refers to the tire’s ability to efficiently evacuate water from its tread pattern to maintain contact with the road surface. When a tire cannot effectively expel water, it can lead to a loss of traction and control, posing a significant safety risk in wet driving conditions.
To enhance hydroplaning resistance, tires often feature circumferential grooves and open shoulder blocks that help channel water away from the tire’s contact patch. Additionally, deeper tread depths are known to be effective in improving water evacuation.
In the case of Falken Wildpeak AT3W, it offers better hydroplaning resistance, particularly for LT sizes. While the difference may not be as pronounced for SL sizes, it’s a noteworthy advantage for those seeking enhanced wet performance, especially in larger tire sizes.
Note: Hydroplaning is vital for a safe ride under the pouring rain. However, it might occur even with the best tire. Maybe you can’t prevent it but if you know what it is and how to deal with it, you can easily stay on the safe side.
Here is an extremely efficient guide about ‘How to Deal with Hydroplaning?‘ –> https://www.discounttire.com/learn/hydroplaning
Winter Performance
It’s a battle between two tires with 3-peak mountain snowflake marking. Those tires are a phenomenon on snow. Well, they will not pick you up to Everest but will satisfy you on daily driving.
Alright, I love Toyo’s winter performance. It’s the truth. They are heroic. But, I was pretty impressed by Falken’s. They clean up really well and that will increase your traction on deep snow significantly. Here is the little video about Falken!
Regarding light snow,
It’s similar to wet traction. Both are extremely trustworthy tires. Yet, Falken is a bit more notched. It’s a slightly better tire on light snow.
Regarding deep snow,
It’s a bit more complicated. If you’ll buy a new tire, you’ll definitely notice how the beast is Falken Wildpeak AT3W. Well, this is caused by deep tread and it’ll decrease in time. Yet, no worries, Wildpeak AT3W has a long-lasting rubber.
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a better deep snow tire in general
- If we’ll talk about the last stages of the tread, I prefer Toyo Open Country AT3
Regarding ice traction,
Here is the deal. Due to narrower gaps and a better-optimized contact patch, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a better tire on ice. Yet, the difference is minor. You can go either way.
Verdict, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is a better winter tire in general. Yet, Toyo Open Country AT3 is very close rated, and in my point of view, its performance is more consistent. Thought, both are worth buying for their phenomenal light snow performance. (Are all-terrain tires good in snow?)
Off-Road Performance
Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a more capable tread design for off-road. I’ve mentioned it at the beginning. It can be considered a rugged-terrain tire. Does that mean, it’s a better off-road tire? Let’s continue below and find out!
Both of our tires are perfect all-around off-road tires. They are working very well in every condition. However, Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a huge cleaning ability. That will increase your traction dramatically on mud. Moreover, they have better gripping ability and durability for rock driving.
In short,
- Gravel: Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to hold stones. Therefore, Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better pick for gravel.
- Dirt and Mud: Both can handle dirt pretty well. However, due to its self-cleaning capability, Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better tire for mud driving.
- Rock: LT sizes of Toyo Open Country AT3 can handle rock crawling, it’s better pick for rock crawling
- Sand: Due to deeper tread and stiffer compound, Falken Wildpeak AT3W can stick you into the sand. However, Toyo doesn’t have any of them. Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better tire for sand.
For this section, picking the right size for yourself is key. Therefore, I recommend you to follow ‘Take-Home Point’ in the conclusion section.
Gravel
Due to its deep tread, Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to hold too much stone. It might negatively affect your traction.
However, gravel is a mild off-road. That means you might face it day in and day out. Hence, I’m going to execute it regarding tire sizes,
- If you want XL and SL load range, I recommend Falken Wildpeak AT3W due to its more durable sidewalls
- If you want LT sizes, I recommend Toyo Open Country AT3. Its gaps are wider. Hence, it offers better gravel traction.
Dirt
Dirt is nothing for these two. I’m pretty sure, you’ll not have any issue with both of them.
Here is the deal, due to its self-cleaning capability, Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better tire on dirt.
Sand
Sand driving is tricky. You need enough width to don’t get stuck. However, this isn’t individually enough.
Since Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a deep tread, you must be careful with the gas pedal. It digs better than Toyo Open Country AT3. Yet, this isn’t what you want for this time. You wanna move forward, not deep.
I recommend Toyo Open Country AT3 for sand driving. Falken Wildpeak AT3W is also good option. Well, if you’re an experienced sand driver.
Mud
Even though Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a deeper tread and this’s a solid advantage for mud traction, for the tires like Falken Wildpeak AT3W (more lug but narrowed gaps), it becomes a disadvantage.
Even though its beefy sidewalls and staggered shoulders help it a lot, it still has some self-cleaning issues on mud.
I recommend Toyo Open Country AT3 for mud driving. Especially for deep mud. For light mud, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is also a good option.
Rock
Due to its wider gaps and softer compound, Toyo Open Country AT3 is a better tire for rock crawling.
Note: This equation is only valid for LT sizes.
Tread Life
The Tread life of all-terrain tires is a game-changer. In fact, it’s the most complicated part of all-terrain tires. They need a stiff compound to last more and a soft compound to grip more. This is hard to reach. You’re a lucky guy, both have outstanding tread life for an all-terrain tire.
In this case, two metrics are highly important. The weight of the tire and the stiffness of the tread.
- Since both tires have cut & chipping resistance, they’re equal in this case
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a stiffer compound ( Toyo AT3 –> 600 UTQG, Wildpeak AT3W –> 660 UTQG)
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a deeper tread ( depends on size 2/32” – 3/32”)
Falken Wildpeak AT3W is the winner of this section that is for sure. Yet, if you have a 3/4 ton or above pickup, I recommend Toyo Open Country AT3 instead. In that case, even wearing capability is way much more crucial than UTQG rating which Toyo AT3 is better. (How long do all-terrain tires last?)
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:
Warranty
- Toyo Open Country AT3 has a tread warranty of up to 65,000 miles. Toyo also has a 45-day trial which is limited to 500 miles.
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W has a tread warranty of up to 55,000 miles. Yet, they do not offer a trial.
Toyo Open Country AT3 Warranty Document –> https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/TO0315.pdf
Falken Wildpeak AT3W Warranty Document –> https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/FA0119.pdf
Specification Comparison for Popular Sizes
When it comes to assessing the performance of Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W, it’s crucial to consider that their characteristics can vary depending on the tire size. Before diving into a side-by-side comparison, let’s highlight some key points:
Wheel Sizes: Both Toyo Open Country AT3 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are available in a range of wheel sizes, including 15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, and 22”.
Load Ranges: These tires are designed to accommodate different load ranges. For LT sizes, they are available in C, E, and F load ranges, while for p-metric sizes, you can find them in SL and XL load ranges.
Weight: Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to be heavier compared to Toyo Open Country AT3W for most sizes.
Height: Falken Wildpeak AT3W also tends to be taller than Toyo Open Country AT3W for most sizes.
These variations in wheel sizes, load ranges, weight, and height should be taken into account when selecting the right tire for your specific needs. Now, let’s proceed with a detailed comparison of popular sizes.
35×12.5R20
| Toyo Open Country AT3 | Toyo Open Country AT3 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W |
|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| E | F | F |
| 67 lbs | 67 lbs | 77 lbs |
| 16.9/32″ | 16.9/32″ | 19/32″ |
| 10.9″ | 10.3″ | 10.9″ |
| United States | United States | Thailand |
When we delve into a comparison between the Toyo Open Country AT3 and the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, we must take into account their respective load range options, as these choices significantly influence their performance characteristics:
Load Range Options:
- I appreciate that the Toyo Open Country AT3 offers both E and F load range options. For those like me who value a smoother ride and on-road comfort, opting for the E load range is a wise decision.
- Falken Wildpeak AT3W, on the other hand, is exclusively available in the F load range. This selection not only provides a more aggressive aesthetic but also enhances its load-carrying capacity.
Tread Depth and Wet Performance:
- It’s worth noting that Falken Wildpeak AT3W boasts a deeper tread depth, a feature that contributes to its superior wet performance and heightened resistance to hydroplaning. This makes it an enticing choice for tackling wet road conditions.
- In contrast, the Toyo Open Country AT3, especially in its E load range variant, may feature a slightly shallower tread depth, which could potentially affect its wet weather performance.
Treadwear Warranty:
- Both of these tire options come with comparable treadwear warranties for LT sizes. The Toyo AT3 is rated at 50,000 miles, while the Wildpeak AT3W offers a 55,000-mile warranty.
Traction and Usage Scenarios:
- I’d like to point out that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to incorporate a slightly softer compound, a characteristic that enhances its traction.
- It’s essential to be aware, though, that a softer compound coupled with a deeper tread can lead to increased vibrations and potentially elevate wear rates, especially in scenarios involving towing and hauling.
Note: If you’re seeking recommendations for tires in this specific size, you can find them here –> [https://tireterrain.com/best-35×12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/]
285/70R17
| Toyo Open Country AT3 | Toyo Open Country AT3 | Toyo Open Country AT3 | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| E | SL | C | C | E | SL |
| 55 lbs | 47 lbs | 54 lbs | 63 lbs | 58 lbs | 50 lbs |
| 16.5/32″ | 13.6/32″ | 16.5/32″ | 18/32″ | 18/32″ | 13/32″ |
| 9″ | 9″ | 9″ | 9.6″ | 9.6″ | 9.6″ |
| United States | Japan | United States | Thailand | China | Thailand |
I’ve got a soft spot for this tire size because it tends to offer a versatile range of load range options, allowing us to fine-tune our choice to our exact needs.
When it comes to SL sizes, my personal recommendation leans heavily toward the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, despite it being the heavier contender in this category. The Falken tire sports a shallower tread depth but a broader tread, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and superior traction. To be frank, I’m not particularly enamored with the SL Toyo Open Country AT3 for this particular size.
Now, for C and E-rated sizes, my preference firmly gravitates toward the Toyo Open Country AT3. It strikes a balance of efficiency, offering a smoother ride. However, it’s worth noting that if you’re looking to bolster your wet weather driving capabilities, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W inches ahead, albeit with a slight trade-off of potentially increased vibration. Speaking of vibration, it’s crucial to mention that the C load range option can be on the heavier side.
In essence, your choice between these two tire models in this size range should hinge on your specific priorities. If you value fuel efficiency and a smoother ride, the Toyo Open Country AT3 in C or E load range is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re willing to make a compromise on fuel efficiency for improved wet weather performance and can tolerate a bit more vibration, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W remains a viable option. Just steer clear of the C load range if you’re keen on minimizing weight.
Note: If you’re interested in tires known for longevity, especially for 2500 series vehicles, you can explore my full list of recommendations here –> [https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/]
275/60R20
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Toyo Open Country AT3 | Toyo Open Country AT3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| D | SL | E | SL |
| 58 lbs | 50 lbs | 55 | 42 lbs |
| 18/32″ | 13/32″ | 16.4 | 13.5/32″ |
| 9.2″ | 9.6″ | 9.4″ | 9.1″ |
| Thailand | Thailand | United States | United States |
I have a similar perspective when it comes to the Toyo Open Country AT3 in this context. While I hold this tire in high regard, I don’t find it to be particularly well-suited for the SL load range. It could be a reasonable choice if your primary goal is to compromise your fuel efficiency.
However, let’s pivot our attention to the LT-metric 275/60R20 size. In this scenario, Falken Wildpeak AT3W is available in the D load range, whereas the Toyo Open Country AT3 offers the advantage of an E load range. This is especially advantageous for those who own 3/4 ton or larger pickup trucks. That being said, if you’re more inclined toward enhancing your riding comfort and don’t engage in heavy towing, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, with its wider and taller tread design, emerges as an attractive option.
265/70R17
| Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Falken Wildpeak AT3W | Toyo Open Country AT3 | Toyo Open Country AT3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire | Off Road AT Tire |
| E | SL | E | SL |
| 51 lbs | 45 lbs | 48 lbs | 42 lbs |
| 17/32″ | 13/32″ | 16.3/32″ | 13.4/32″ |
| 8.9″ | 9″ | 8.4″ | 8.4″ |
| Japan | United States | United States | Japan |
For this particular size, both tires are available in the SL and E load range.
I maintain a similar stance when it comes to the SL load range, with the added note that the Falken Wildpeak AT3W in this size is manufactured in the United States. Additionally, I would like to recommend the LT-rated Falken Wildpeak AT3W for this specific size.
In the case of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W in this size, it features a shallower tread depth(other Wildpeak AT3W sizes), which contributes to a lighter tire overall. This doesn’t necessarily mean it will be more fuel-efficient than the Toyo AT3, but for this size, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W certainly presents a reasonable option. However, I still endorse the Toyo Open Country AT3 for situations involving heavy loads. For those seeking a more aggressive aesthetic, I believe the Falken Wildpeak AT3W fits the bill.
Size Selection
Before we dive into selecting the right tire size, it’s essential to understand the tire standards that manufacturers follow.
Technical Standards & Regulations
In Europe, the tire standardizing organization is called ETRTO. In the United States, it’s The Tire and Rim Association (TRA), while in Japan, it’s the Japanese Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA). Although there may be other organizations, they generally align with one of these three.
When it comes to passenger car tires, TRA designates them by placing the letter “P” in front of the size to indicate conformity to the TRA standard. On the other hand, ETRTO and JATMA do not use any letters, which can sometimes be confusing when determining which standard is being used.
For light truck tires, TRA uses the letters “LT” in front of the tire size, while JATMA places the letters “LT” after the size. ETRTO, however, uses the letter “C” after the size to indicate tires of this type.
In the realm of medium truck tires, ETRTO uses the letter “C” after the size to designate tires designed according to their standard. In contrast, TRA and JATMA do not use any letters in this context.
Now, here’s what’s essential: Tires with the same dimensions (size) may have different maximum load capacities depending on the standard being followed. So, it’s crucial to consider the relevant standard when choosing tires.
When it comes to load capacity designations, “SL” (Standard Load) and “XL” (Extra Load) are used for all passenger car tires, regardless of which standard is being followed. In the ETRTO standard, “Reinforced” is also used as an alternative to “XL.”
Load Range, on the other hand, is specific to TRA. ETRTO and JATMA use the term “Load Index.” While TRA references Load Indexes, it’s important to note that the values provided are approximate.
To sum it up, understanding the tire standards and designations is vital as they play a significant role in determining the right tire size and load capacity. By considering the appropriate standards, you can make an informed decision when selecting tires that meet your vehicle’s requirements.
Here are two great articles if you wanna dive deeper:
Load Range vs Load Index: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/load-range-load-index
Tire Sizing System: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/euro-vs-pmetric-tires
How to Select the Right Tire Size Based on Your Requirements?
When it comes to selecting tire sizes for your vehicle, it’s important to keep in mind that most vehicles offer more than one original equipment size. Let’s take the 2019 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 4WD as an example. You have three different tire size options: 275/55R20 SL, 275/65R18 Load Range C, or 275/65R18 SL.
Note: I use Toyo Open Country AT3 for an example tire. You can use this link to see tire options for your vehicle and then make a comparison between the sizes:
https://www.discounttire.com/fitment/vehicle
If you don’t know your tire size: https://tireterrain.com/find-tires-by-vin-number/
Let’s focus on comparing the 275/65R18 SL and 275/65R18 Load Range C options for a more detailed comparison. Your decision should be based on your priorities. If you prioritize a smooth ride and better handling, the SL option is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value hauling or towing performance and tire longevity, the Load Range C option would be a better fit.
As a tire engineer, my perspective often revolves around load-carrying capacity. Generally, tires with higher load capabilities tend to provide a stiffer ride. However, there’s a bit of an illusion to consider. When you compare the two tires in the same size, the SL-rated tire may initially appear to have a higher load capability. But here’s the catch: P metric tires, like the SL option, need to be derated by a factor of 1.1 when used on a truck. Crunching the numbers reveals that the SL option actually has a lower maximum load capability. Additionally, it boasts a lower tread depth, which translates to better responsiveness.
The same principles I mentioned earlier also apply when comparing XL and E Load range tires. In summary, if your vehicle allows for Passenger Car or LT (Light Truck) tires, going with a passenger option will provide you with better on-road manners. However, if you find yourself venturing off-road frequently, own a working truck, or regularly engage in towing and hauling heavy loads, then LT tires are generally the better choice for your needs.
Couple of tips for towing;
- Even though the load index of passenger car tires fits, when it comes to towing, sidewall stability is the issue. Hence, LT tires with Load Range C, D, or E provide better stability.
- Generally, a load index higher than 119 is recommended for towing
- Proper loading is important for even wearing. 60/40 rule should be followed. 60% of the weight should be on the front axle and 40%of weight should be applied rear axle of the trailer. Besides that, try to center load. Start with heavier ones if you gonna stack them up.
To wrap it up, selecting the right tires comes down to choosing the ones that align with your driving preferences and specific requirements.
Conclusion
In summary, these are perfect tires for snow and wet conditions. Moreover, they have exceptional dry traction on all surfaces. You can go either way in this comparison. But, before doing that check our latest tips below.
A Quick Check List:
Hope this comparison was helpful. If you have any further questions, please leave them below and I’ll answer them ASAP!
For those who prefer to see whole market analyze:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
- https://tireterrain.com/on-road-all-terrain-tires-highway/
A couple of popular size analyses:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-35x12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/
Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:
- https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
- https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
- https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
- https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
- https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/
Great info, 250 4x crew, tow a 35′ 5thwheel
mainly 85% roads.Retired like the Warranty
info and your comparisons. I think I’ll go To
Toyo at3 , I have Cooper 35×12.5 x 20 now
thinking 33 x 12.5x 20 ? Bought truck 6 months ago .
Hey Rusty,
I think Toyo AT3 is a better selection based on the information you gave.
A smaller size also prevents spinning while towing.
In my point of view, Toyo AT3 33×12.5×20 will work best for you.
With the falken wildpeak tires Exactly how much will they affect your fuel mileage
Hey Jon,
About %15 but that’s for LT size. If you’ll go with SL or XL size, I guess you’ll lose around %5.
I currently am running a 18 Jeep Rubicon JL with a two and a half inch lift and 37 inch mid tires.
I am looking to go to 35/12.50/17. Majority of driving will be on road but I want to do some light to moderate wheeling off road. Debating between the TOYO AT3 and the Wildpeak AT3.
Your thoughts. Thanks.
Hello Troy,
I hope you’re doing well.
Since you do spend most of your time on the road, I think the lighter Toyo AT3 is a better option for better fuel mileage (MPG). Besides that, it’s going to last more than Wildpeak AT3W.
On the other hand, I love Falken Wildpeak AT3W’s look. If you’re not an aggressive driver on highways, Wildpeak AT3 is also a good option. I found its cornering stability slightly poor.
I recommend sticking with the ‘C’ rated tires for your vehicle.
I hope this helps.
I am waiting on my 2023 Ford Super Duty XLT Crew Cab 6’3/4 box 4×4 7.3L. I am looking at a Carli Backcountry 2.0 suspension upgrade. I am getting Method 704 HD 17×9 wheels and want to get Toyo AT3 35×12.5r17 tires E rated.
Combination of on road, off road, light towing, and winter snow. Looking for your thoughts on running this tire on my 3/4 ton all purpose truck.
Hello Bob,
Sorry for the late reply.
First of all, your vehicle gonna look dope.
I find Toyo AT3 better on 3/4 ton or above trucks. Besides that E-rated Wildpeak has a deep tread which decreases the responsiveness. Since you’re gonna do a light towing, I think Toyo AT3 is a great option for you.
Great video and information!!! I am looking to upgrade my 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee High Altitude with either a Falken Wildpeak AT3W’s or the Toyo Open Country AT3’s. Currently have the stock 265/50 20 but would like to fill the wheel well a little more with a larger side wall but don’t want to add a lot of width. I mostly drive on road and love snowboarding so snowy road performance is important. I do plan on some light off roading. I also don’t want to kill too much fuel efficiency. Just want to add that the aggressive look of the wild peak is my favorite of the 2 tires. What are your thoughts. Thanks for the help deciding.
Hello Kevin,
I hope you’re doing well.
Here is the deal, if you’re not going to change your wheel size or lift your vehicle, 255/55R20 tire size is the only one meet with your terms. This tire size will come up with better responsiveness and, fuel efficiency. So, increasing sidewall height and decreasing width is a wise move for efficiency and winter performance.
Well, Falken’s aren’t available in this size, hence, Toyo Open Country AT3 is your only option.
I’m leaving the suitable tire link below to make things easier for you:
https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/toyo-tire-open-country-a-t-iii/p/88401
I’m in New Zealand & looking at tire options for my 2021 Ford Everest which I don’t think you guys have over there.
I’m looking at going for 275/55R20 tires.
The two choices that I am looking at are are the Falken Wildpeak AT3W & the Toyo Open Country AT3.
My Everest is used for 400 km a week of open road commuting to work.
In the weekends over the summer it does a lot of gravel road work along with shingle, rocks and sand around lakes and rivers, also a little bit of mud. Quite often, this is while towing a medium-sized boat.
In the winter time, my commute can have a little bit of snow or ice, but most of the time it is either fine or rainy. In the weekends it involves a lot of snow, ice & slush on sealed roads or gravel along with mud occasionally and again, shingle, rocks and sand around lakes and rivers.
Our gravel roads are particularly hard on weaker tyres with very sharp rocks, puncturing straight through the tread or occasionally the side walls.
Over here the Falken Wildpeak is around 30% cheaper than the Toyo Open Country but I’m not too worried about price more about getting something that is going to last a long time and perform well.
The LT Version of the Falken is not available here, but the LT version of the Toyo is available to be imported.
What would be your recommendations? Thanks very much.
Everything you told me says go with the Falken Wildpeak AT3W but going with not LT sizes isn’t a good option in your case.
So, I would also offer Toyo AT3 but its LT sizes are only available in E-rated which is a bit too stiff for your daily driving conditions.
If you can find D-rated Falken Wildpeak AT3W, go with it.
For other options,
1) General Grabber ATX LT275/55R20 Load Range: D
2) BF Goodrich KO2 LT275/55R20 Load Range: D
3) Toyo Open Country AT3 LT275/55R20 Load Range: E
If you think that, you can avoid sharp rocks or at least you’re an aggressive driver
1) Falken Wildpeak AT3W 275/55R20 XL
2) Vredestein Pinza AT 275/55R20 XL
3) Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S 275/55R20 XL
Before buying XL-rated tires please check the speed index of your tires.
I hope it helps, let me know if you need any further help.
Thank you very much for your help.
I forgot to mention that I had the Falken Wildpeak AT3W 275/55R20 XL on my previous Jeep Grand Cherokee. They were good & I never got a puncture but they didn’t wear very well having only 4mm approx of tread after 40,000km. I thought the Toyos might be a slightly better / newer option?
Maybe I’ve been exaggerating what it gets used for each weekend a bit but it does happen every few weekends, just most of the time is on dry asphalt.
Our tire options in New Zealand are quite limited / some are cheap & some very expensive. The BFG KO2 LT is double the price of the Falken Wildpeak AT3W XL & the Cooper is about the same.
How much difference in ride quality do you think I would notice between the XL tires vs LT D vs LT E ratings if I run them all at the same psi?
Since the tread depth is a lot more on the LT version they should last a lot longer or is it a different compound?
Are the standard non LT versions of the Toyo & Falken the same construction / durability?
Thanks again.
Cheers,
Craig
XL tires have a higher load rating and strong internal structure compared to SL tires for this reason they’re close to LT tires. However, manufacturers generally use harder compounds on LT tires due to decrease wear. Still, they provide similar traction because LT tires are used on heavy vehicles or carry loads. The situation is similar in your case. In my point of view, 40k tread life isn’t bad after all for your conditions.
If tread life is your priority, you should go with Toyo AT3. However, since LT Toyo AT3 has one of the toughest internal structures and compounds in the market, it most probably will decrease your riding comfort. Besides that, these kinds of tires generally spin on wet surfaces before heating up.
Regarding riding quality, it depends on the weight of your vehicle or towed & hauled load. For instance, if you have a 1-ton truck, E-rated will make you feel on the clouds. Moreover, If you run all of them at the same psi, some of them will probably wear unevenly. You should notice the difference if you switch over XL Falken AT3W to LT Toyo AT3. Yet, it seems like you need Toyo AT3 anyway.
Since the tread depth is higher, it decreases the responsiveness first of all. But you’re right, they last way much longer than P-rated tires(SL or XL). Yet, it’s still a different compound.
No, Non-lt tires don’t have the same construction. Sometimes, they don’t even have the same tread.
I definitely prefer D-rated tires but if you mostly drive on the dry asphalt, E-rated Toyo AT3 will be fine with a little comfort decrease.
I went from a factory provided C rated BFG mud tire using 37 PSI per factory spec, to a Toyo AT III E rated tire. The E rated tire runs at 30 PSI per chalk test. In this case I see no ride difference between the tires.
Hey Martin,
Thanks for your comment.
I’m not a fan of this test. It leads people to low inflation pressure but it may cause a structural failure.
While decreasing the inflation pressure, you also decrease the load-carrying capacity of your tire.
I’m going to write an article about it and share it with you as soon as possible.
For now, I recommend keeping PSI at least at 35PSI. You can also use the below link for proper information:
https://www.toyotires.com/media/pxcjubjs/application_of_load_inflation_tables_20200723.pdf
Hi, great informative article. I am running 255-65-R17 114T Falken AT3W tyres (stock factory size) and am looking at the Toyo AT3 tyres in a LT255-65-R17 119/116S. I was wondering what your thoughts are of each as daily drivers. Ride, noise etc. I am only really concerned with wet performance and longevity as I live in a rainy part of Australia. I do prefer the look of the Falkens though but would like a deeper tread. I do have the option of running LT265-70-R17 in the Falken, but that will have other problems.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Cheers
Dan
Hey Dan,
Appreciate your input, and you bring up some solid points. When it comes to the relationship between ride quality and noise, I’d argue the gap isn’t as wide as one might think. However, moving from stock factory tires to alternatives like Falken Wildpeak AT3W or Toyo Open Country AT3 could yield subtle shifts in your ride’s comfort level. That’s because OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tires are engineered with a specific set of performance criteria in mind for your vehicle.
Now, let’s dive into the rain factor. Falken Wildpeak AT3W tends to have a slight edge when it comes to wet conditions, but your situation has its own set of considerations. You’re looking to transition from P-metric to LT (Light Truck) tires, primarily for the benefit of a deeper tread pattern, correct? In that case, you’ll want to pay close attention to the load range.
Here’s where it gets interesting: Toyo’s AT3 option is D-rated for load, while Falken’s AT3W carries an E-rating. If on-road manners, particularly ride comfort, are a priority for you, then a D-rated tire is your best bet.
So, given your specific conditions and needs, I’d lean toward the Toyo Open Country AT3. It offers a balanced package that should suit your criteria quite well. It’s a strong contender that wins the day for me.
Hope this helps you make an informed decision, Dan. Safe travels!
Hey Emre,
I just put on K02 Load Range E tires on my truck to replace my worn-out cooper discoverer 4s tires. However, I now got a 10%+ drop in fuel economy and a harsher ride which I don’t like. Also I’m not very happy with the K02’s performance on icy roads. I live in Canada and drive 90% highway and 10% gravel with some offroading as well, basically no towing. Which of these two tires would you go with if I want better fuel economy and great performance on ice and snow? I’d definitely stick with SL rated tires this time.
Kyle
Hello Kyle,
Thank you for your comment. It’s expected to have some compromises with E load range tires. I generally don’t recommend E load range tires for primarily on-road usage, unless you regularly tow medium or heavy loads.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S falls into the category of on-road all-terrain tires. These tires are less aggressive but offer enhanced efficiency and stability on paved roads.
I recommend reading this article to help you with your future tire selections: https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
Since you need ice traction, it’s advisable to choose something slightly more aggressive. Options like the Falken Wildpeak AT Trail or Nitto Nomad Grappler might be suitable. However, I would need to know your tire size for more specific recommendations. If it’s available in your size, the Vredestein Pinza AT is also worth considering.
Here are my top picks:
Vredestein Pinza AT for overall performance.
Falken Wildpeak AT Trail, which excels in ice traction and fuel economy, although it might have slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to the Cooper AT3.
If you prefer a tire similar to the BF Goodrich KO2, consider the Falken Wildpeak AT3W (SL). It’s good for winter conditions but may slightly reduce fuel economy compared to the Cooper.
Feel free to explore these recommendations, and if you have any more questions or need further assistance, please let me know.
I’m running 275/65/R18 tires. I’d prefer to get something that looks somewhat aggressive like the wildpeak at3w or open country at3 and performs well on snow and ice. I understand I might lose a bit of fuel economy due to the more aggressive tread pattern compared to the discoverer 4s but it would probably be very minimal compared to the K02 E-rated that I want to get rid of, correct?
Certainly, SL-rated tires are lighter and have a lower tread depth, which means your vehicle won’t be as tall as it was at the beginning of the tread life. However, this doesn’t necessarily result in inferior tread life. Lower tread depth can mean less vibration, less heat, and consequently, less wear over the tire’s life.
After rechecking the specifications for your tire size, I would recommend the Toyo Open Country AT3. It’s produced in the US and is 7 lbs lighter, which could contribute to better fuel efficiency.
I also link to Toyo Open Country AT3 – SL here. In case, you struggle with selection.
Would you be confident that the ice traction is better on the open country at3 compared to the K02? Or will I have to go with the wildpeak at3w to get noticeably better traction on icy roads compares to the K02?