OFF-ROAD TIRE SIZE GUIDE
Understanding Off-Road Tire Sizes
When shopping for tires manufactured specifically for off-road use, you’ll come across various sizing designations. Some may have standard sizing, and some may have flotation sizing.
When it comes to tire specs, off-road tires are often described by a measurement of their outer diameter in inches. There are other important tire dimensions to consider, but the total outer diameter serves as a key tire size comparison reference for calculating clearance in the vehicle’s fender.
To learn more about sidewall tire markings and how to decode sizing information, visit our How To Read Off-Road Tire Sidewalls guide.
Why Use Off-Road Tires?
Off-road tires have a blocky, heavy-duty tread pattern and puncture-resistant sidewalls manufactured to endure extreme off-road conditions. These tread designs also offer higher traction in mud or soft and wet debris. Dedicated tires could be the difference between maintaining traction in extreme circumstances and spending hours attempted to get your vehicle unstuck.
Although getting stuck isn’t guaranteed, it’s still risky to drive off the pavement with tires not suited for off-road use. Dedicated tires have the ability to safely move a vehicle over mud, rocks, logs, and other unpredictable road conditions.
To learn more about types of off-road tires and their benefits, visit our How To Choose Off-Road Tires guide.
Getting Started
Before buying tires, it’s important to know what tire size your vehicle currently has. You can use an online tool such as this to search your vehicle’s year, make and model. From there, you can simply find a tire that matches the factory sizing.
As mentioned above, if you’re not modifying factory suspension, the tool above can provide reliable info when it comes to tire clearance. Additionally, this information can be found in the owner’s manual or on the vehicle’s door placard.
If you plan on installing a lift kit, you will be able to achieve extra clearance that will allow for bigger tires. Because of suspension design and layout, the exact amount of clearance will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Luckily, most lift kit manufacturers provide a suggested tire size for their kits.
*It’s important to note that some bigger tires may have clearance issues and may require modification of suspension components and/or control arms.
Popular Off-Road Tire Sizes
The most popular off-road tire sizes are 33”, 35”, 37” and in some cases 40”. Here at RBP we offer off-road tires ranging from 31” up to 40”, making finding the right tire for your SUV, CUV or truck simple. Additionally, our tires support wheel diameters from 15” up to 26”.