Tire Selection

When it comes to off-road tires, performance should always take priority over looks.

Choosing between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires is one of the most important decisions when getting your rig trail-ready. Unless you’re building a race truck or planning some serious rock crawling, these two categories will cover most off-road needs.

Don’t let aggressive tread patterns be your only guide. A mud-terrain tire might look tougher, but that doesn’t automatically make it the best choice for your driving style or terrain. Real-world performance is what counts.

Think about where you drive, how often you hit the trails, and what you truly need your tires to do. Do your research, ask around, and choose based on performance, not just appearance.

• All-Terrain Tires

• Mud-Terrain Tires

• Sizing

• Tire Pressure

All-terrain tires are made to perform well across a wide range of surfaces while offering a more balanced ride. Their milder tread patterns deliver better comfort and quieter driving on highways, while still offering solid grip on moderate trails.

Best for:

• Long-distance overlanding and backcountry trips

• Combining trail adventures with regular highway use

• 4x4 trucks used for towing, hauling or daily driving

• Winter conditions where dependable traction is essential

Mud-terrain tires are built for serious off-road performance. With large tread blocks and wide voids, they’re designed to clear out mud, snow, and loose soil while gripping uneven terrain like rocks, ruts, and steep inclines.

They’re not the quietest on pavement and can impact fuel efficiency—but if your rig spends more time in the bush than on the road, the trade-off is worth it. Mud-terrains are all about maximum control when conditions are unpredictable.

Best for:

• Deep mud, sand, and loose terrain

• Technical rock crawling and rough, uneven trails

• Aired-down driving where grip and flex matter most

Not every off-road setup is made for street use. For Canadian drivers pushing the limits, whether in competitive racing or remote backcountry, there are purpose-built tires made for extreme conditions.

BFGoodrich offers high-performance options like the Baja T/A KR3 for desert-style racing and the Krawler T/A KX for serious rock crawling. These tires are typically made to order, so connect with your local BFGoodrich dealer to find the right fit for your build.

Pro Tip

Trail rides can knock your alignment out of spec, but a quick adjustment at home can help restore handling and extend tire life.

How to set toe-in at home:

• Measure the distance between the front and rear of your front tires.

• Loosen the sleeves on both ends of the tie rod.

• Rotate the tie rod 1/16" to 1/8" inward.

• Re-tighten the sleeves when alignment is set.

• Centre your steering wheel before you hit the road.

Keeping your alignment in check means more even tread wear, smoother highway driving, and more confidence on the trail.

When it comes to off-roading, tire size really does matter. The right tire size can improve ground clearance, boost stability, and help your rig power through loose or uneven terrain.

Thinking about sizing up? Be sure to consider what comes with that choice. Larger tires often require aftermarket upgrades like lift kits, and with those come additional changes to brake lines, suspension, and steering. These mods can affect how your vehicle handles, especially on sharp inclines or when cornering.

The rule of thumb: Choose a size that fits your setup and your trail goals. Recovery in remote parts of Canada can be challenging, so it’s best to be smart and plan ahead before you roll out.

Most off-road tires fall into two categories: LT-metric and high-flotation.

You don’t need a physics degree to understand tire pressure, but managing it is essential. The right pressure boosts grip, protects your tires from premature wear, and helps you stay in control on everything from forest roads to frozen terrain.

Since pressure needs change with your environment, always travel with a trustworthy tire gauge and portable air compressor. You’ll want to air down for better off-road traction, and air back up when it’s time to hit the highway home.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is key to safe, smooth driving on pavement. It directly impacts your vehicle’s handling, traction, and tire longevity.

If you’re using the original equipment (OE) tires, follow the air pressure recommendations provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer. These can be found:

-In the owner’s manual

-On the tire information placard, typically located inside the driver’s side door

If you’ve switched from P-metric tires to LT-metric or high-flotation sizes, keep in mind that these tires have different load and pressure needs. The manufacturer’s listed PSI no longer applies. To ensure you’re driving safely on-road, refer to the tire manufacturer’s specifications for the correct air pressure based on your setup and load.

Following the right tire pressure guidelines will help you stay in control and get the most from your off-road tires—both on and off the trail.

Changing Tire Size Affects Recommended Pressures

When you move up to larger tires, the recommended pressures listed in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the driver-side door sticker are no longer valid. Bigger tires generally need less PSI to carry the same load, but the only way to know for sure is to do the math, or speak with a tire expert.

Never estimate. Consult a tire professional to calculate the right tire pressure for your upgraded setup. The correct PSI improves safety, preserves tire life, and helps your vehicle handle as it should, on and off the road.

Airing down, lowering your tire pressure before hitting the trail, is one of the most effective ways to improve off-road traction. It increases your tire’s surface contact with the ground, helping you grip through snow, sand, rocks, and ruts while softening the ride.

But there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal off-road pressure depends on your tire type, load, and terrain. If you’re new to the game, chat with an experienced off-roader before experimenting.

A few things to remember:

• Tire pressure fluctuates with temperature. Cold mornings drop PSI. Heat and sun can spike it.

• Always check your tire pressure before your drive, not midway through.

• If your PSI seems right when the tires are hot, it’ll likely be too low when they cool off.

• Drop too much pressure, and you risk popping the tire off the rim. Beadlock wheels can help keep tires secure if you’re regularly airing down low.

Even the most rugged off-road tires can take a hit. Get into the habit of checking your tires for cuts, bulges, and other signs of wear both before and after every trail run.

And always be prepared for a flat. Here’s what you’ll want in your gear kit:

• Full-size spare tire and wheel (within ±1 inch of your primary tire diameter)

• 4x6 wooden block – helps your jack reach safely on uneven ground

• Tire plug kit – quick trail-side fix for punctures

• Portable air compressor and pressure gauge – for reinflation and PSI checks

If you’ve patched a tire to get back, visit a tire professional once you’re on pavement. Tires with sidewall punctures, large gashes, or internal damage should be replaced—not repaired.

Always Air Up Before Returning to the Road

If you’ve aired down for trail traction, don’t forget to air back up before hitting the highway. Driving with underinflated tires can:

• Reduce control and braking performance

• Lead to faster and uneven treadwear

• Cause the tire to overheat, increasing the risk of failures

Pro Tip:

Never head off-road without the tools to reinflate your tires. Whether it’s a reliable portable compressor or a CO₂ tank, having a way to air back up is essential for safe travel once you leave the dirt behind.