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Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Jeremy
When it comes to hitting the open road with your trusty travel trailer in tow, one of the most critical aspects to consider is the quality of your trailer tires.
After all, these rubber companions are responsible for ensuring a smooth and safe journey as you traverse the highways, byways and interstates of Canadaor the USA, from the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie Provinces to the rugged terrain of Wala Wala, Washington.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of best rated travel trailer tires, exploring their construction, durability, and controllability to help you make an informed decision about which ones are the best fit for your adventures.
Trailer Tires: Your Road-Reliable Companions
Trailer tires, as the name suggests, are specially designed to be mounted on towed vehicles, including various types of trailers such as boat trailers, campers, and utility trailers.
These tires are not your average run-of-the-mill rubber; they are purpose-built to meet the unique demands of trailing your precious cargo.
The Sturdy Foundation: Construction Matters
Trailer tires boast a stiffer sidewall construction compared to their counterparts used on passenger vehicles. This structural fortitude serves a crucial purpose – to ensure that these tires can carry hefty loads with grace and reliability.
Whether you’re hauling camping gear, a boat, or even a tiny home on wheels, your trailer tires need to stand up to the challenge.
Trailer tires come in two primary types of construction: radial and bias-ply.
1) Radial Construction:
These tires are known for their ability to handle heavy loads with ease while offering improved fuel efficiency for the towing vehicle.
Radial tires achieve this balance by minimizing rolling resistance, meaning less effort is required to keep your trailer moving forward.
This can be especially advantageous when navigating through the sprawling landscapes of Canada, where long stretches of road can demand efficiency.
2. Bias-Ply Construction:
On the other hand, bias-ply tires are renowned for their smooth and cushioned ride. This makes them an ideal choice for scenarios where maintaining a gentle touch on your cargo is paramount.
For instance, if you’re towing a horse trailer, you’ll want the ride to be as comfortable as possible for your equine companions. Bias-ply construction helps reduce road vibrations, contributing to a smoother journey.
The Dance of Stability: Controlling the Trailer
One of the most crucial functions of trailer tires is to provide stability throughout your journey. When your trailer tires maintain constant contact with the road, it not only enhances control but also minimizes the unsettling sway that trailers can sometimes exhibit.
Picture this: you’re driving through the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia on the way to Fairmont Hot Springs, and the last thing you want is for your trailer to start wobbling uncontrollably.
Potentially, this could lead to further disaster and you could end up with a trailer tire blowout…then what?
Trailer tires play a pivotal role in keeping your towing vehicle in charge of the situation. This is why they are typically mounted on free-rolling axles. This construction choice aligns with their purpose – preventing trailer swaying during the performance.
Also, don’t worry too much about that tire blowout. I have an article that will help guide you in changing it, which you can read here: How to Change a Tire on a Travel Trailer – Your Step-by-Step Guide in 2023.
Choosing the Best Rated Travel Trailer Tires
Now that we’ve delved into the nuances of trailer tires, it’s time to consider what factors to keep in mind when selecting the best-rated travel trailer tires for your specific needs.
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Here are some tips to guide you on your tire-buying journey:
1) Load Capacity: Know Your Cargo –
Understanding the weight of your trailer and its contents is paramount. Trailer tires come with specified load ratings, and exceeding these limits can lead to premature wear and safety hazards.
Calculate the total weight you’ll be towing and select trailer tires with a load rating that comfortably accommodates this weight.
2) Tire Type: Radial vs. Bias-Ply –
As we discussed earlier, the choice between radial and bias-ply construction depends on your intended use. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and are towing a relatively heavy load, radial tires might be the way to go.
Conversely, if a smooth, vibration-free ride is your goal, bias-ply tires could be the better choice.
3) Tire Size: Matching the Right Fit –
Selecting the correct tire size is crucial for your trailer’s safety and performance. Consult your trailer’s manufacturer specifications or seek guidance from a tire professional to ensure you’re using the appropriate tire size for your setup.
4) Tread Pattern: Traction Matters –
Consider the terrain you’ll be traversing. If you’re planning to explore off-the-beaten-path locations in the Prairie Provinces, a tire with a more aggressive tread pattern might provide better traction on rugged surfaces.
On the other hand, if your journeys are primarily on well-maintained highways, a standard tread pattern should suffice.
Understanding “ST” in Trailer Tires
In the world of trailer tires, you’ll often come across the designation “ST” when referring to a specific type of tire. But what does “ST” actually stand for, and what distinguishes these tires from others?
“ST” stands for “Special Trailer” tires. These tires are purpose-built for trailers, whether you’re towing a travel trailer, boat trailer, camper, or utility trailer.
They are not designed for use on standard passenger vehicles. The “ST” classification signifies several key features and characteristics that make them ideal for trailer applications.
Durability: Trailer tires are designed to withstand the stresses of towing and extended periods of stationary storage. They are built to resist sidewall cracking and other forms of wear and tear that can occur when a trailer sits for extended periods.
So, when you see “ST” on a tire sidewall, remember that it’s specifically engineered to meet the demands of trailer towing, making it an essential component for a safe and enjoyable journey with your trailer in tow.
A Message About Tire Ratings
Before we reveal the top 6 best-rated travel trailer tire brands, it’s essential to understand how these ratings work. Tire ratings provide valuable information about a tire’s performance characteristics, including its load-carrying capacity, speed capability, and traction.
Tire ratings typically consist of a series of letters and numbers, such as “ST225/75R15.”
Here’s a quick breakdown for further reference:
- ~ ST: As discussed earlier, this indicates that it’s a Special Trailer tire.
- ~ 225: This number represents the tire’s width in millimeters.
- ~ 75: The aspect ratio, indicating the tire’s sidewall height as a percentage of its width.
- ~ R: Denotes the tire’s radial construction.
- ~ 15: The diameter of the wheel the tire is designed to fit in inches.
Narrowing Down the Top 6 Brands
Now, let’s narrow down the options to the top 6 brands based on the information provided:
1. Transeagle ST Radial ST Radial II 225/75R15 117/112L E (10 Ply) Trailer Tire
- – Price: $84.93 per tire
- – Load Range: E (10 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 75 mph
2. Transeagle ST Radial 235/85R16 132/127M G (14 Ply) All Steel Trailer Tire
- – Price: $180.93 per tire
- – Load Range: G (14 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 81 mph
3. Carlisle Radial Trail HD ST 225/75R15 116M E (10 Ply) Trailer Tire
- – Price: $114.74 per tire
- – Load Range: E (10 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 81 mph
4. Venom Power Primo Hauler All Steel ST 235/85R16 132/127M G (14 Ply) Trailer Tire
- – Price: $163.93 per tire
- – Load Range: G (14 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 81 mph
5. Gladiator QR25-TS ST 235/80R16 126/122N F (12 Ply) Trailer Tire
- – Price: $150.74 per tire
- – Load Range: F (12 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 87 mph
6. Power King Towmax STR II ST 205/75R15 107L D (8 Ply) Trailer Tire
- – Price: $96.74 per tire
- – Load Range: D (8 Ply)
- – All-Season
- – Highway Speed Rated Up to 75 mph
These six brands offer a range of options to suit different trailer types, load capacities, and travel conditions.
Whether you prioritize durability, load capacity, or speed rating, you can find a suitable choice among these top-rated travel trailer tire brands.
Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Travel Safely
As a fellow traveler who appreciates the nomadic lifestyle and the beauty of Canada’s diverse and USA’s admirable landscapes, I understand the importance of reliable trailer tires.
They are the unsung heroes of your journey, ensuring that you and your cargo reach your destination safely.
When it comes to selecting the best-rated travel trailer tires, remember that it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Consider your unique needs, load requirements, and the types of roads you’ll be traversing.
Whether you opt for radial or bias-ply construction, prioritize safety and control. Or if you are satisfied with your current brand on your trailer, don’t hesitate to order them again!
For mine, it’s the Trailer King RST trailer tire, ST205/75R14 , as they’ve gotten us where we are on this journey today.
Lastly, don’t forget that regular maintenance and attentive care for your trailer tires can go a long way in extending their lifespan and ensuring that your adventures in the great North American outdoors are smooth and trouble-free.
So, choose wisely, hit the road, and let your rv and trailer tires be your trusted companions on the journey of a lifetime.
Explore Your Tire Options Today
Ready to equip your travel trailer with the best-rated tires for your upcoming adventures?
Visit Tiremart to explore a wide range of trailer tires, read customer reviews, and make an informed choice for your journey.
The best part is –
Your road to safe and memorable travels begins with the right tires.
Make sure to comment on what your best rated tires have been along your journey! Until then, happy exploring!
Cheers!
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