The Ultimate Wheel and Tire Guide for 2024!

The Best Rollers and Rubber for Your Ride

It’s time once again for TREAD’s annual wheel and tire buyers guide! This year’s rims and rubber feature the latest technology—and some will make your head turn! Take a look at our top picks for 2024 and beyond!

Wheels

Dirty Life/ Forged Roadkill Race Beadlock

Lightweight 10-spoke design with V-shaped windows, this wheel’s forged beadlock ring is made of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, which reduces weight while maximizing grip where you need it most. Increased rim wall thickness ensures structural integrity under the most severe conditions. Wheel includes 24 grade-8 yellow zinc-plated bolts and is available in size 17×9.

Mickey Thompson/ Sidebiter II

The Mickey Thompson Sidebiter II is styled after the revolutionary “tread-on-the-sidewall” Mickey Thompson Sidebiter tire design. The seven-spoke design is a heavy duty performer with a black satin finish. The Sidebiter II is available in a complete range of sizes from 15×8 through 22×12.

Icon/ Anza

Taking its name from Southern California’s picturesque Anza-Borrego desert, ICON Alloys returns to its roots with the all-new Anza wheel. Featuring a concave profile and deep stepped lip, you will be ready to take on the trails or look good on the streets in unique style. Offered in a 17-inch diameter, 8.5-inch width, and multiple offsets, dialing in the Anza for your specific application will be a breeze. Available in the classic Satin Black, a smart Silver Machined, or an aggressive Gloss Gunmetal, there is a finish that has your name on it. Look the part in any situation with the Anza wheel from ICON Alloys.

Icon/ Hulse

The ICON Alloys Hulse makes a bold statement with its motorsport inspired styling. Hulse features an aggressive concave profile that looks good in the dirt and great in the street. Twelve deep spokes, thick lip, and oversized ring bolts will set your rig apart from the rest. Available in aggressive Double Black or eye-catching Silver Machined finishes with fitments available for 6- and 5-lug applications.

Icon/ Nuevo 

With an offroad pedigree, the Nuevo’s modern take on a classic offroad look means all business. The timeless 8 spokes and deep step lip lend the Nuevo a purposeful look, on or off the trail. A sophisticated Silver Machined as well Satin Black are offered in both 5- and 6-lug applications. Available offsets ranging from -6mm through +25 are perfect for making the Nuevo “at home” on your ride.

Icon/ Rebound SLX 

The Rebound SLX keeps the sharp lines, concave 8-spoke design, and “ICON-optimized” styling of the classic Rebound wheel but features a smooth lip. This new wheel is designed not only to improve the look of your vehicle, but the overall function as well. Available in Satin Black and Charcoal finishes, the Rebound SLX has a style that is anything but ordinary.

Icon/ Recon Pro 

Recon Pro features InnerLock D.O.T.-compliant bead retention technology, replaceable HALO wheel armor, and aggressive 16-spoke styling. Recon PRO is initially available in 17 X 8.5-inch size for popular 5-, 6-, and 8-lug applications. Available wheel finishes are Charcoal and Satin Black, and come with preinstalled HALO Wheel Armor in Satin Black.

Warn/ Epic Wheels Diamond Cutter, Jackhammer, Moonsault 

With a 17×8.5 diameter, 5×5 (5×127) bolt pattern, and 0 offset, these wheels are perfect for Jeep Wrangler JK, JL, and JT fitments. Unique center caps are a nod to the classic WARN Hub. They come in a standard gold finish or optional black/red style, are compatible with TPMS and factory lug nuts, and are tested to meet SAE J2530 certification. They also include a lifetime structural warranty.

Mickey Thompson/ Classic III

The Mickey Thompson Classic III wheel features the classic eight-hole design in a highly polished finish that includes matching polished hand holes. The embossed M/T logo is an assurance of quality, strength, and dependability. The Classic III is available in sizes 15×8 through 17×9.

Mickey Thompson/ Classic III Black

The Mickey Thompson Classic III Black wheel features the classic eight-hole design in a satin black finish with a protective clearcoat. The embossed M/T logo is an assurance of quality, strength, and dependability. The Classic III is available in sizes 15×8 through 17×9.

Tires

Falken/ Rubitrek A/T

Built for every adventure, the Falken RUBITREK A/T provides aggressive off-road ability and rugged terrain driving while maintaining an exceptional ride on the pavement. The optimized tread pattern combined with a silica tread compound provides long lasting wear along with confident performance in rain and snow. This severe snow rated tire is packed with technology, from Falken’s 3D Canyon Sipes to a proprietary lower sidewall for increased durability. Full-depth sipes and grooves deliver consistent traction throughout the life of the tire, and class-leading tread depth ensures enduring all-weather performance.

Falken/ Wildpeak M/T

Trusted by the pros to take on the harshest conditions, the tough WILDPEAK M/T tire is built to get you there and back whether you’re on the pavement, mud, snow or rocks. The M/T features Falken’s proprietary three-ply DURASPEC sidewall technology developed to sustain the most punishing off-road conditions. DURASPEC also features two high ply turn-ups that provide an additional layer of protection and durability. An aggressive upper sidewall provides additional traction at low air pressures on rugged terrain. The WILDPEAK M/T also features exceptional road manners thanks to an optimized variable three-pitch tread pattern and precision manufacturing technology.

Maxxis/ Razr AT-S

Whether conditions are snowy, wet or dry, on or off-road, the RAZR AT-S (AT Sport) delivers what outdoor enthusiasts want most: all-weather traction, rugged wear, and a peaceful ride. Designed for light-duty vehicles, the AT-S features the latest tread optimization and compound technology available from Maxxis. These innovative features deliver a high level of on- and off-road performance plus the rugged design that outdoor enthusiasts expect from Maxxis.

Falken/Wildpeak A/T4W

From backcountry trails to the open road, the all-new Wildpeak A/T4W is built to help you tackle any terrain. Featuring staggered shoulder blocks, and proprietary three-ply DURASPEC sidewall technology on select sizes, the A/T4W provides all-terrain confidence and rugged durability. Updated heat diffuser technology, tread rigidity, and the addition of heavy duty sizes ensure the A/T4W delivers improved towing capability compared to its predecessor. The severe-snow-rated A/T4W was engineered to perform in harsh winter conditions, with full-depth sipes providing traction for the life of the tire. Offering up to a 65,000-mile limited tread life warranty (60,000-mile for LT sizes) and Road Hazard Protection, Falken’s best just got better. Command any road and every adventure with the Wildpeak A/T4W.

Falken/ Wildpeak R/T

Developed for lifted trucks, SUVs, and high-powered diesel pickups, the Falken WILDPEAK R/T sets a new standard for the rugged terrain tire category. Featuring the ultimate hybrid terrain tread pattern, the WILDPEAK R/T provides the tenacious off-road traction of an M/T while retaining the tread life and stability expected from an A/T. Built to deliver an ideal combination of traction, durability, and longevity, the Wildpeak R/T is the tire of choice for those who spend as much time on the road as they do on the rocks. As such, the WILDPEAK R/T carries a 50,000-mile limited tread life warranty, because a tire built to conquer any terrain shouldn’t let you down on the open road. Whether you’re towing, hauling, working, or crawling, modern heavy-duty pickups need tires designed to work hard. Get the job done with the WILDPEAK R/T.

Maxxis/ Razr AT

The Maxxis flagship all-terrain tire, the RAZR AT was engineered with knowhow gained from Maxxis’ involvement in off-road racing. The RAZR AT features a new off-road compound with new chemical fillers for maximum tear and chip resistance as well as longer tread life. The new pattern features 3D tread blocks and bridge reinforcements for minimized pattern noise and irregular wear. A new armor sidewall design gives off-road enthusiasts extra peace of mind by maximizing sidewall traction and puncture resistance. The RAZR AT also features an innovative dual-cord casing design for excellent ride comfort and durability.

Maxxis/ Razr MT

The Maxxis flagship DOT-approved mud terrain tire, the RAZR MT was engineered with know-how gained from Maxxis’ involvement in off-road racing. The RAZR MT features a new off-road compound with new chemical fillers for maximum tear and chip resistance as well as tread life. Innovative armor sidewall design maximizes sidewall traction and puncture resistance, while the new dual-core body-ply technology packs additional casing strength for superior durability and toughness.

Mickey Thompson/ Baja Boss M/T

The Baja Boss M/T is Mickey Thompson’s definitive premium mud terrain featuring a cutting-edge asymmetrical tread pattern optimized for reduced noise, off-road traction, and on-road handling. Extreme Sidebiters offer off-road traction and protection,  Powerply XD three-ply construction offer sidewall puncture resistance and handling, and a silica-reinforced compound offers on-road tread wear, wet performance, and durability. Winner of the 2023 King of the Hammers Every Man challenge, the Baja Boss M/T is competition-proven to provide the ultimate off-road experience with premium on-road handling.

Mickey Thompson/ Baja Boss A/T

The Baja Boss A/T is designed to deliver premium on-road handling, performance, and tread wear while dominating in the mud and snow thanks to its pioneering asymmetric tread design, silica-reinforced compound, extreme Sidebiters, and revolutionary PowerPly XD three-ply construction. Featuring a 50,000-mile tread-wear warranty and 3PMS designation, it’s Mickey Thompson’s most innovative hybrid A/T to date—aggressive looks, low noise, long-lasting tread, and smooth ride.

Mickey Thompson/ Baja Pro X (SXS)

These tires from Mickey Thompson contain X1 Sticky Compound for grip on hard, slick surfaces. A 27/32-inch deep symmetrical directional tread pattern provides excellent traction and cleaning power. Tread Biter Cleats for added traction in soft terrain. Mud scoops provide a concave surface and create a void to help keep mud from clinging to the surface. Angled shoulder scallops help guide loose material into adjacent lug for added traction. Ramped and stepped element features provide additional biting edges, added lug stability, and help reduce stone retention. Dual Decoupling Grooves are engineered for flexibility on irregular surfaces. Massive Sidebiters add traction and sidewall protection. Pro-Tech Construction featuring nylon bias plies enhances off-road durability and flexibility, allowing elements to conform to uneven surfaces. This tire is not D.O.T. certified.

Milestar/ Patagonia X/T

The PATAGONIA X/T is designed to tackle your on- and off-road adventures. A cut-and-chip resistant compound with a rugged three-ply sidewall is utilized for enhanced durability in rough conditions, with alternating open shoulders providing additional biting edges for superior traction on all terrains. Alternating step-down grooves integrated into the shoulder blocks provide tread rigidity for enhanced stability on and off the road, while the tread pattern optimizes the pitch sequence for a quieter ride. With a feature-packed design and a 40K Mile Limited Warranty, the PATAGONIA X/T will meet your on- and off-road needs.

Nitto/ Trail Grappler

The Trail Grappler M/T provides an aggressive mud tread design with on-road quiet ride performance. The three-ply sidewall and thick rubber construction increase puncture resistance. Leading edge tread and side lug blocks provide additional biting edges that command lateral stability and enhance forward traction. Each Grappler has two sidewall designs so you can choose how your tires look. On the Trail Grappler, one side has stylized lettering with V-shaped sidewall lugs, and the other has traditional lettering with flat buttresses. A common complaint with mud terrain tires is their noise level. Nitto’s engineers set out to design an aggressive yet quiet off-road tire. Using 3D computer simulation, Nitto’s engineers were able to systematically adjust the size, shape, and position of the tread blocks. As a result, Nitto produced an off-road tire that is 34% quieter at street speeds and 36% quieter at highway speeds.

Nitto/ Ridge Grappler

The Ridge Grappler provides the best of both worlds from Nitto’s mud-terrain and all-terrain product offerings. Featuring a revolutionary dynamic hybrid tread pattern, the Ridge Grappler provides a quiet and comfortable ride, while deep aggressive sidewall lugs and tread pattern provide capable off-road performance. Advanced sound equipment was used to create a pattern that provides a quiet and smooth highway ride. Shoulder grooves are arranged in alternating widths and lengths to clear mud and maintain traction. Lateral Z grooves are set in a zigzag pattern to provide biting edges for traction. Like all Grapplers, the Ridge Grappler features two bold sidewall designs. One side features a more traditional pattern while the other side features a new, aggressive block design. Stone ejectors protect the bottom of the groove from stone drilling.

Nitto/ Mud Grappler

The Mud Grappler extreme mud terrain tires provide traction over various off-road terrain, whether it’s dirt, rocks or mud. Massive side-lugs, three-ply sidewall construction, and large lug design add more protection when facing the most challenging off-road obstacles. Each Grappler has two sidewall designs so you can choose how your tires look. On the Mud Grappler, one side has lizard skin sidewall lugs and the other has plain sidewall lugs. The sidewall design is as important as the tread pattern for maximum off-road performance. The Nitto Mud Grappler mud terrain tire has one of the most aggressive and functional sidewall designs on the market. The massive side lugs provide additional biting edges, which is especially helpful in rocky terrain. The additional depth also provides punctured resistance. The high void ratio between the tread blocks efficiently clears mud and dirt from the pattern to provide excellent traction in extreme terrain.

Nitto/ Recon Grappler

The Recon Grappler A/T combines versatility and distinctive design into an all-terrain tire that stands out from the crowd. With its tall, prominent sidewall lugs and aggressive tread design proving capable off-road performance and a comfortable highway ride, the Recon Grappler is made to keep you out front. The Recon Grappler’s staggered shoulder lugs provide enhanced off-road traction and the bold sidewall lugs give it eye-catching aesthetics. Recon Grappler features engineered versatility and durability. Not only do you get a quiet comfortable ride and capable performance, but you also get the backing of Nitto’s limited treadwear warranty which covers 55,000 miles for LT-metric and flotation sizes, and 65,000 miles for hard metric sizes. The arrangement of wide and narrow grooves in the tread pattern reduces road noise, while also improving traction. The Recon Grappler comes equipped with two unique sidewall designs, just like every Grappler so that you can choose the design that best fits your vehicle. The center and shoulder grooves are set in a zigzag pattern to provide biting edges for enhanced traction.

Milestar/ Patagonia M/T-02

The all-new PATAGONIA M/T-02 has been developed around years of feedback from real-world enthusiasts and professional rock crawling competitions, and garners much of the original M/T design, yet integrates all-new internal tire construction and rubber formulates to raise the level of performance. The M/T-02 now integrates cross-directional siping to improve tread block strength and resilience with a more stable footprint while reducing the risk of chunking. Redeveloped from the inside out, the much-improved mud terrain integrates Milestar’s MILETECH three-ply sidewall with added rigidity for maximum sidewall durability, yet still pliable and flexible for aired-down bite and rock-crawling grip. A newly formulated silica-enriched tread compound that includes cut and chip resistance, allows for longer tread life without sacrificing off-road traction.

Toyo/ Open Country A/T III

The Open Country A/T III all-terrain tire delivers gripping off-road traction with responsive and predictable on-road handling. With a strong focus on wet performance, durability, and treadwear life, and using Toyo’s proprietary T-mode tire development and modeling technologies, Toyo introduces advanced tread design, construction, and compounding. The Open Country A/T III provides a quiet ride with exceptional stability, instilling driving confidence no matter the terrain. Built tough, it offers peace of mind to safely get there and back home, regardless of terrain or weather. With a treadwear warranty of up to 65,000 miles, outdoor adventurers can rely on the Open Country A/T III for the long haul.

Toyo/ Open Country M/T

The Open Country M/T is legendary for durability, off-road performance, long tread life, and an aggressive tread pattern. It’s designed to help trucks work hard on pavement and then work just as hard when roads are muddy, snowy, and rocky—or when there are no roads at all.

Toyo/ Open Country R/T and R/T Trail

Off-road performance meets on-road comfort with the Open Country R/T and R/T Trail. Built rugged for any terrain, these powerful 4×4 tires offer excellent off-road traction, durable construction, and aggressive styling. Their ability to tackle dirt, sand, and rocks is inspired by the legendary Open Country M/T, while its quieter ride is a nod to Toyo’s best-selling Open Country A/Ts.

Resources: Tires

• Falken | www.falkentire.com
• Maxxis | www.maxxis.com
• Mickey Thompson | www. mickeythompsontires.com
• Milestar | milestartires.com
• Nitto | www.nittotire.com
• Toyo Tire | www.toyotires.com

Resources: Wheels

• Dirty Life | www.dirtylifewheels.com
• ICON Vehicle Dynamics | www. iconvehicledynamics.com
• Mickey Thompson | www. mickeythompsontires.com
• Warn Industries | www. warn.com

Editor’s Note: A version of this article appeared in TREAD Sep/Oct 2024