More Bite Than Bark: Cooper Tires

We tested some tires. Here are our thoughts.

Over the last two and a half years, I’ve had the opportunity to test what is, in my opinion, the “Big 3” Light Truck tire offerings from Cooper Tires… The ST MAXX, STT PRO and AT3.

Real Reviews

While I may not be a former Camel Trophy winner, or a guy who goes rock-crawling every weekend, I have used four-wheel-drive vehicles in just about every scenario, whether through work or out on adventure. I’m no expert, but I have a pretty good idea of what works under certain conditions, and whether a tire exceeds expectations or falls short of them.

This review is simply based on my opinions, experiences and (in typical Scott fashion) absolutely no scientific evidence whatsoever. 

If you’re the kind of person who uses your 4x4 as it was intended—whether it’s used for hunting, fishing, camping, wheeling, overlanding, whatever—you probably already know that the tires spec’d on most vehicles from the manufacturer are garbage. They are built for longevity on normal street conditions with thin lightweight sidewalls to optimize fuel mileage, but little else. So, most of us who enjoy the backcountry generally ditch the highway treads for an All-Terrain, a Mud-Terrain or something in between for better traction and durability. It doesn’t hurt that they look a bit more bad-ass, either—you know it’s true.

Cooper STT Pro M/T

In no particular order, I will start with the Cooper STT Pro Mud-Terrain pictured below. The newest design of the three tested, and Cooper’s most aggressive offering to date, is widely gaining traction among off-road/backcountry travel enthusiasts, and for good reason. It’s 3-2 inner tread ribs and alternating shoulder lugs are every bit as aggressive in loose soil conditions as they look, and the Armor Tek3 construction and rim guards provide a great deal of durability against punctures in the tread pattern itself and in the sidewalls, adding well-earned confidence on rock/root strewn trails.

These tires perform exceedingly well in dirt, over rocks, through mud and deep wet snow, and for a Mud-Terrain… it actually does decent on ice with the bit of siping Cooper has added to the tread pattern. But don’t let it fool you, MT’s have and probably always will, suck on ice. It’s just the nature of more aggressive tread patterns, but these are still on-par with, or better, than most.

Final Thoughts

Street manners are really good. I have not experienced any loss of traction or stability on wet or dry roads, even in corners with a lead foot and exceeding highway speeds, which in my case has been known to happen. The handling characteristics never left me feeling “uneasy” on the asphalt or off. Road noise? Well, they’re pretty loud… and that doesn’t improve with age like someone actually said to me with a straight face once (crickets). But again, this is a Mud-Terrain tire… That’s just what they do, and while we’re at it, you’re not going to get 80,000 miles out of them either!

Road noise and faster tread wear are the two biggest issues with MT’s (shocking, I know) but still, I would say these are comparable on both accounts to the best manufacturers out there, and perhaps even leading the class. And as far as looks go, I think they speak for themselves. Bad ass.  I have used a lot of different Mud-Terrains over the years, and these are by far my favorite. Would I buy them again? Yes, I would.

The AT3

The AT3 pictured below made its debut in 2011. This All-Season, All-Terrain tire is a very popular choice among Light Truck and SUV drivers for its higher-mileage tread-wear warranties, excellent handling and exceptional grip on the road. This tire’s ability to keep you well planted and in control in wet or dry conditions, while providing a very smooth and quiet ride, explains its vast popularity. I was actually quite surprised how much traction there is in dry dirt and on rocks, though I have to admit, I haven’t used a traditional all-terrain in many years.

That said, I was expecting some sort of super-hero grip on ice and snow, and I just did not experience the difference I was hoping for. The thing is this; I’ve driven in the snow more than most 10 people combined will ever in their lifetimes, but most of it was done with an 800-pound snowplow hanging off the front and driving the front wheels into the snow, providing a lot more traction for stopping and accelerating while in four-wheel drive.

Pros and Cons

While I chose this tire for a more comfortable, quiet ride and longer lasting tread wear after the purchase of a small travel trailer, I have some issues with it that a lot of daily drivers/weekend warriors may not. The lack of a rim guard means that airing down for rougher terrain, can present a stronger opportunity for debris to easily get lodged between the rim and tire, creating an air leak. The lack of Armor Tek3 carcass means it is far more susceptible to punctures (particularly in the sidewall) while in the thick of adventure.

And as far as looks go, it is very unimpressive. It looks like something you would not want to run on while travelling to Prudhoe Bay, but you can’t fault it for that. That is not exactly the target audience for a tire like this. Would I buy it again? For my wife’s SUV that gets around town, and actually gets to the woods once in a while? Absolutely. Choosing it again for the adventure truck, when I want to be as confident on the beaches of Baja as driving to the local grocery store? Of course not… and that’s okay. It’s not what they were made for, but there are many things the AT3 does better than the other two reviewed here.

Cooper ST Maxx

Last, but certainly not least, is the Cooper ST Maxx and the focus of my first “More Bite than Bark” review. Rated as a mud and snow tire just like the other two, this is very much an in-between tire that does a mix of most attributes extremely well. With the Armor Tek3 construction, rim guard, shoulder lugs and a more aggressive all-terrain tread, this is truly a jack of all trades as the first article suggests. I have personally put this tire through more testing than the other 2 in this review by quite a bit. That is not to say that my other opinions are incomplete, simply that I had more time with these, in a wider range of adverse situations and different conditions.

As often as I can, I drive a couple of thousand miles to spend a week in the back country. Occasionally, that means towing a trailer, or loading up heavy for RTT camping and wanting reliable capability for the highway along the way, as well as the road less traveled when I get there and getting back home again. This tire is very tough, reliable and has exceptional traction in all conditions tested, and it is my first choice of the three. Would I buy it again? If these AT3s ever wear out?! Most definitely!  

Editor’s Note: A version of this story first appeared on treadmagazine.com in May 2018.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the vehicle and tire specifications used in the review?

When evaluating the vehicle, attention was given to both performance and practical aspects. Here’s a detailed look at the specifications:

Vehicle Specifications:

• Engine: A robust four-cylinder engine delivering impressive horsepower and torque to handle various terrains with ease.
• Transmission: Equipped with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, providing both efficiency and control.
• Suspension: High-performance suspension designed for off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort.
• Brakes: Advanced braking system ensuring quick and reliable stopping power under diverse conditions.

Tire Specifications:

• Type: All-terrain tires specifically chosen for their durability and traction on both rugged trails and highways.
• Size: Standard 265/70R17 size offering a balanced footprint that enhances stability and ride quality.
• Tread Pattern: Aggressive tread pattern for superior grip in mud, gravel, and snow while maintaining quiet performance on paved roads.
• Material: Composed of reinforced rubber compounds to withstand punctures and extend tire lifespan.

These specifications collectively contribute to the vehicle’s versatility and reliability, making it a go-to option for adventurers and daily drivers alike.

How has the tread and tire life of the Discoverer S/T MAXX been over 10,000 miles?

Tread & Tire Longevity After 10,000 Miles

Wear and Tear

After driving nearly 10,000 miles, the wear on the set of four tires has been minimal. With three rotations in this period, there have been no significant issues such as chipping or tread damage. The tires have lost just 3.5/32nds of tread, suggesting they can easily last up to 45,000-50,000 miles. This projection assumes the wear rate remains consistent until the tread depth approaches the replacement level of 2/32 inches.

Durability

The durability of these tires stands out, particularly the sidewalls. Over the 10,000 miles, the tires have endured contact with curbs, rocks, and tree roots without visible damage. This resistance to wear and tear, especially in rugged conditions, is a testament to their robustness. Even the sidewalls, which are often more susceptible to damage, show no signs of wear.

What is the background of the reviewer’s experience with Cooper Tires?

Over the last two and a half years, I’ve had the opportunity to test what is, in my opinion, the “Big 3” Light Truck tire offerings from Cooper Tires… The ST MAXX, STT PRO, and AT3.

We have had an on-again, off-again relationship with Cooper Tires ever since we purchased our 1998 4Runner in 2006. Initially, we ran a set of their Adventurer A/T and a set of their Discoverer S/T tires before embarking on a five-year, 82,000-mile journey with remolded tires. That journey ended tragically last July with a sidewall failure and blowout as we were traveling through Montana. It was then that I reached out to our readership to ask which tire you would want us to review. Much to my surprise, you overwhelmingly asked for us to review the Cooper TireDiscoverer S/T MAXX. So, we reached out to Cooper Tire, and three weeks later I had five brand new 285/75R16 tires sitting at my house.

While I may not be a former Camel Trophy winner or a guy who goes rock-crawling every weekend, I have used four-wheel-drive vehicles in just about every scenario, whether through work or out on adventure. I’m no expert, but I have a pretty good idea of what works under certain conditions, and whether a tire exceeds expectations or falls short of them.

This review is simply based on my opinions, experiences, and (in typical Scott fashion) absolutely no scientific evidence whatsoever.

What is the ride quality of the Discoverer S/T MAXX tire?

Cooper ST Maxx

Last, but certainly not least, is the Cooper ST Maxx and the focus of my first “More Bite than Bark” review. Rated as a mud and snow tire just like the other two, this is very much an in-between tire that does a mix of most attributes extremely well. With the Armor Tek3 construction, rim guard, shoulder lugs, and a more aggressive all-terrain tread, this is truly a jack of all trades as the first article suggests. I have personally put this tire through more testing than the other two in this review by quite a bit. That is not to say that my other opinions are incomplete, simply that I had more time with these, in a wider range of adverse situations and different conditions.

After running a remolded copy of the Goodyear MT/R for over five years, I had forgotten what it was like to not hear the MT/R whine. It boggles my mind that the S/T MAXX are so quiet driving down the highway and interstate, considering the aggressive tread. All of our tires balanced beautifully with minimal counterweights, which is a great test of build quality. Our four primary tires remained balanced until I installed the ARB internal TPMS kit, which forced a rebalance. This tire is very tough, reliable, and has exceptional traction in all conditions tested, and it is my first choice of the three.

As often as I can, I drive a couple of thousand miles to spend a week in the back country. Occasionally, that means towing a trailer or loading up heavy for RTT camping and wanting reliable capability for the highway along the way, as well as the road less traveled when I get there and getting back home again. Would I buy it again? If these AT3s ever wear out?! Most definitely!

How consistent is the performance over time?

The tires maintained their balance and performance over an extended period. Even after installing an internal TPMS kit, which necessitated a rebalance, the tires continued to perform reliably.

How well do the tires balance?

The Cooper S/T MAXX tires balanced exceptionally well with minimal counterweights needed. This indicates high build quality and ensures a smoother ride.

How noisy is the tire?

The Cooper S/T MAXX tires are impressively quiet when driving on highways and interstates, despite their aggressive tread pattern. This is a notable improvement over other tires like the Goodyear MT/R, which can be quite noisy.

What trade-offs does the Discoverer S/T MAXX have between on-road and off-road performance?

When considering the Discoverer S/T MAXX for your vehicle, it’s essential to weigh its strengths and compromises. This tire shines in challenging off-road conditions, making it a top choice for adventurous drivers seeking durability on demanding trails. However, this comes at the expense of some on-road performance.

Key Trade-Offs:

• Off-Road Performance: The tire excels on rugged terrains, providing exceptional grip and resilience against harsh environments.
• On-Road Compromises: To achieve this robust off-road capability, the tire’s performance on regular pavement may not match that of tires designed solely for highway use. This could mean a slightly less smooth ride or decreased fuel efficiency during daily commutes.

In essence, the Discoverer S/T MAXX offers a balance skewed toward off-road prowess, which might involve sacrificing some comfort and efficiency when driving in urban or suburban settings. For those who prioritize adventure, this trade-off may well be worth it.

What was the winter traction experience with the Discoverer S/T MAXX?

Winter Traction Experience with the Discoverer S/T MAXX

Driving with the Discoverer S/T MAXX during winter conditions provided an average level of traction on snow and ice. The tire’s rubber compound, designed to resist cuts and chips, seemed to compromise its ability to grip icy surfaces effectively. When temperatures dropped to sub-zero levels in Central Wyoming, the tread became noticeably stiffer, further reducing traction.

These tires were used year-round without adding studs, which may have impacted their performance on icy roads. Despite these challenges, they managed to handle typical winter conditions with a moderate level of competence.

How did the Discoverer S/T MAXX perform in wet conditions?

Performance of Discoverer S/T MAXX in Wet Conditions

When tackling wet roads, the Discoverer S/T MAXX tires shine. After several weeks of driving on dry roads, encountering a monsoonal rainstorm was quite the test. Impressively, these tires handled the heavy rainfall and standing water with ease. Hydroplaning was minimal, thanks to the innovative 4-5 rib tread pattern paired with a unique natural and silica rubber compound. This combination ensures reliable traction and safety during even the heaviest downpours.

How did the Discoverer S/T MAXX perform on dry pavement?

Performance of Discoverer S/T MAXX on Dry Pavement

When it comes to driving on dry pavement, the Discoverer S/T MAXX presented a unique experience. While it didn’t excel in this area, it wasn’t disappointing either—it was more of a balanced middle ground.

After years of using softer, remolded tires, it became clear that the S/T MAXX’s standout feature, its cut-and-chip-resistant tread compound, contributed to a noticeably firmer and stiffer tread. This enhanced durability does have its drawbacks, primarily in the form of reduced grip compared to more pliable tire models.

On familiar roads, this translated to a need to adjust driving habits slightly. Cornering required more caution, as the tires didn’t provide the same level of traction I’ve come to expect. However, it’s important to note that the tires managed to maintain control on highways, even if they demanded more careful navigation on turns.

What is the overall conclusion and recommendation for the Discoverer S/T MAXX?

Last, but certainly not least, is the Cooper S/T MAXX and the focus of my first “More Bite than Bark” review. Rated as a mud and snow tire just like the other two, this is very much an in-between tire that does a mix of most attributes extremely well. With the Armor Tek3 construction, rim guard, shoulder lugs, and a more aggressive all-terrain tread, this is truly a jack of all trades as the first article suggests. I have personally put this tire through more testing than the other two in this review by quite a bit. That is not to say that my other opinions are incomplete, simply that I had more time with these, in a wider range of adverse situations and different conditions.

This tire excels in versatility, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for an aggressive all-terrain option that handles both rugged trails and daily commutes with ease. Its exceptional traction and toughness have proven reliable in all conditions tested, be it mud, snow, or rocky paths. However, like any product, it comes with trade-offs. The S/T MAXX may sacrifice some on-road performance for its off-road capabilities, a compromise that many, including myself, find acceptable given its outstanding performance in challenging environments.

As often as I can, I drive a couple of thousand miles to spend a week in the backcountry. Occasionally, that means towing a trailer, or loading up heavy for RTT camping and wanting reliable capability for the highway along the way, as well as the road less traveled when I get there and getting back home again. This tire is very tough, reliable and has exceptional traction in all conditions tested, and it is my first choice of the three.

Would I buy it again? If these AT3s ever wear out?! Most definitely! This tire stands out for those ready to embrace the thrill of off-road adventures without compromising their daily drive.

What overall experience does the reviewer have with the tire?

The reviewer enjoyed driving on these tires and appreciated their performance, despite some minor gripes, indicating a positive overall experience.

What trade-offs are involved in choosing this tire?

The tire prioritizes off-road performance, which may result in slightly reduced on-road performance. This trade-off is acceptable for those who value off-road capabilities.

For whom or what situations is this tire most suitable?

This tire is ideal for adventurers who frequently traverse backcountry trails and require a dependable option for both rugged terrains and daily commuting.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the tire?

The tire excels in off-road conditions, offering reliability and toughness, though it has room for improvement in dry and winter traction.

Is the tire recommended?

Yes, the tire is recommended for those seeking an aggressive all-terrain option that handles challenging trails without compromising everyday driving.

How does the Discoverer S/T MAXX perform off-road?

Cooper ST Maxx

Last, but certainly not least, is the Cooper ST Maxx and the focus of my first “More Bite than Bark” review. Rated as a mud and snow tire just like the other two, this is very much an in-between tire that does a mix of most attributes extremely well. With the Armor Tek3 construction, rim guard, shoulder lugs, and a more aggressive all-terrain tread, this is truly a jack of all trades as the first article suggests. I have personally put this tire through more testing than the other two in this review by quite a bit. That is not to say that my other opinions are incomplete, simply that I had more time with these, in a wider range of adverse situations and different conditions.

Off-Road Prowess

When it comes to off-road traction, the S/T MAXX truly shines. Whether plowing through dirt and gravel roads, tackling sandy paths, or maneuvering muddy water crossings, these tires handle the terrain with ease. In the past year, I’ve only encountered traction issues twice—once when my vehicle was buried to the frame in snow, requiring the use of recovery tracks, and another during an off-camber turn where a rear tire slid into a gully. These instances underscore the tire’s impressive capability in challenging scenarios.

After running a remolded copy of the Goodyear MT/R for over five years, I had forgotten what it was like to not hear the MT/R whine. It boggles my mind that the S/T MAXX are so quiet driving down the highway and interstate, considering the aggressive tread. All of our tires balanced beautifully with minimal counterweights, which is a great test of build quality. Our four primary tires remained balanced until I installed the ARB internal TPMS kit, which forced a rebalance. This tire is very tough, reliable, and has exceptional traction in all conditions tested, and it is my first choice of the three.

As often as I can, I drive a couple of thousand miles to spend a week in the backcountry. Occasionally, that means towing a trailer or loading up heavy for RTT camping and wanting reliable capability for the highway along the way, as well as the road less traveled when I get there and getting back home again. Would I buy it again? If these AT3s ever wear out?! Most definitely!

By integrating these real-world experiences with the technical features of the Cooper ST Maxx, it’s clear that this tire offers unmatched versatility, balancing the demands of both highway comfort and off-road efficiency.