No matter where your RV adventures take you, your RV trailer needs a quality set of tires to keep you safely on the road.
The right tires on your trailer ensures a safe journey for your, your passengers and your fellow travelers on the road.
Choosing the right tire can be an intimidating process, but there’s no need to worry.
We’ve selected and reviewed the five best RV trailer tires to give you peace of mind when putting a new quality set of tires on your RV trailer.
All you have to do is give these a quick read, parse the buyer’s guide for some shopping tips, and pick the tires that are right for your trailer and budget.
Check out what we’ve got for you:
COMPARISON CHART
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
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1. Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire-ST205/75R15 107M 8-ply
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2. Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire (2057515)
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3. Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire - 225/75R15 117L (Rims Not Included)
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4. WE 14-2B Trailer 14" White Spoke Trailer Wheel with Bias ST205/75D14 Tire Mounted (5x4.5) bolt circle
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5. Grand Ride Free Country Trailer Tires ST 225/75R15
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OUR TOP 5 PICKS
#1 Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire
Specifications
Load Range | D |
Ply Rating | 8 Ply |
Mounted Diameter | 27.1 inches |
Mounted Width | 7.8 inches |
Recommended Rim Width | 5.50 inches |
Max Load Capacity | 2150 lbs |
Max Pressure | 65 psi |
Tread Depth | 9/32nds |
Speed Rating | 81 mph |
Tire Weight | 25 lbs |
Features
A versatile and high quality radial from Carlisle, the ST205/75R15 is an excellent choice for the discerning RV owner looking for a new set of tires. The tire compound is both heat and wear resistant, making it ideal for travel and storage in any climate. Moreover, the tread design and matched rims provide exceptional stability and traction at speed.
- WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- PROS/CONS OVERVIEW
The chief selling point of these tires is their resistance to wear, heat damage and dry rot. If you only travel a few times per year, you have less to worry about in terms of dry rot or sun damage.
These tires were designed and built from the ground up to resist the effects of any climate, and they have an excellent reputation for lasting for years even after extensive road use. So, whether you’re a frequent traveler or a twice a year trip family, these are going to give you many years of excellent service.
Video
#2 Freestar M-108 8 Ply D Load Radial Trailer Tire (2057515)
Specifications
Load Range | C |
Max Load | 1,820 lbs (single), 1,610 (dual) |
Sidewall Style | Black Side Wall |
Load Index | 113/108 |
Section Width | 225 |
Wheel Diameter | 15” |
Construction | 8 Ply Rated |
Tire Construction | Radial |
Tread Depth | 10/32nds |
Max Pressure | 50psi |
Speed Rating | 62 mph |
Features
Freestar makes a high quality tire at a quality price, and the M108 is no exception. An 8-ply tire with heat-resistant, fast-cooling compound, the M108 is a great choice for RV trailers under 1800 lbs.
- WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- PROS/CONS OVERVIEW
The best feature of the M108 is in its unique tread pattern that both prevents hydroplaning and keeps tires cool on scorching summer highways. Traction for trailer tires is critical since towing stability is top priority. The M108 also has an exceptionally strong and durable 8-ply construction, providing excellent longevity in addition to safety.
#3 Trailer King ST Radial Trailer Tire - 225/75R15 117L (Rims Not Included)
Specifications
Max Load Rating | E |
Max Load | 2,540 (single) |
Sidewall Style | Black Side Wall |
Load Index | 117/112 |
Section Width | 225 |
Wheel Diameter | 15” |
Construction | 8 Ply Rated |
Tire Construction | Radial |
Tread Depth | 8/32nds |
Max Pressure | 65psi |
Speed Rating | M (81 mph) |
Features
Designed and built specifically for trailers, Trailer King’s radial has versatility and longevity at an affordable price point. These versatile tires are perfect for 5th wheels, RV trailers, boat trailers and utility trailers.
- WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- PROS/CONS OVERVIEW
The tread and compound are both excellent quality, and the tire is reputed to have excellent heat resistance and traction. The nylon overlay system increases durability and enhances the strength of the tire structure, and the enhanced shoulder structure provides a longer tread life and superior stability at speed on the highway.
#4 WE 14-2B Trailer 14" White Spoke Trailer Wheel with Bias ST205/75D14 Tire Mounted (5x4.5) bolt circle
Specifications
Max Load Rating | C |
Max Load | 1,760 lbs. (single) |
Sidewall Style | Black Side Wall |
Load Index | 117/112 |
Section Width | 225 |
Wheel Diameter | 15” |
Construction | 6 Ply Rated |
Tire Construction | Radial |
Tread Depth | 8/32nds |
Max Pressure | 50psi |
Speed Rating | J (62 mph) |
Features
This is a bargain tire that’s less than ideal for RV trailers, but a great choice for toy haulers and equipment trailers. It’s designed for short distance trips while pulling heavier loads, but it falls short on performance and longevity as an RV trailer tire.
- WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- PROS/CONS OVERVIEW
The quality of the included wheels and the tire compound is adequate for short distance hauling. The tread depth and pattern provide sufficient grip and stability for A to B trips, and they are exceptionally reliable for short trips.
#5 Grand Ride Free Country Trailer Tires ST 225/75R15
Specifications
Max Load Rating | E |
Max Load | 1,285 lbs. (single) |
Sidewall Style | Black Side Wall |
Load Index | 117/112 |
Section Width | 225 |
Wheel Diameter | 15” |
Construction | 10 Ply Rated |
Tire Construction | Radial |
Tread Depth | 8/32nds |
Max Pressure | 80psi |
Speed Rating | L (75 mph) |
Features
Grand Ride makes great trailer tires, though they are specifically built and rated for trailers only. RV travel trailers may be a bit of a stretch for their capabilities, though they work well for equipment trailers, toy haulers and small boat trailers. They will do in a pinch for smaller RV travel trailers in a pinch, but only for those weighing under 1200 lbs.
- WHAT WE DON’T LIKE
- PROS/CONS OVERVIEW
Everything on these tires is nylon reinforced for added stability and durability. The treads are nylon capped and the sidewalls have nylon scuff guards to protect them against wear and tear over rough terrain like new construction sites or short distances off road. They are also much easier to mount than most trailer tires thanks to their unique design and minimal mounting and balancing weight.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD TRAILER TIRE?
Quality - A good trailer tire not only makes your ride comfortable, but it also keeps you safe. In addition to being consistent, quality trailer tires will perform for years to come. You can also travel farther with it. The most important aspect of long trips is a smooth and comfortable ride. Don't let bumpy and uncomfortable rides ruin your ride by investing in quality tires.
Pressure Rating - Ensure that the trailer tires you are planning on buying have the proper pressure rating. The pressure rating of every tire brand and model is different. Verify that it is the same as the required pressure for your trailer.
Weight and load Rating - Weight ratings of the tires and the weight of your trailer should be known. Underperforming tires can result from using a tire whose weight rating is lower than that of your trailer. A blowout could be dangerous at the very worst.
Speed Rating - You can have a dangerous blowout if you exceed this speed on the highway with your trailer. For any trailer, it is important to know that trailer tires almost always have lower speed ratings than cars.
BUYER'S GUIDE
What To Consider When Shopping For RV Trailer Tires
Here is a quick rundown of important questions to ask when you go to buy some new RV trailer tires.
- How do you plan to use your RV Trailer?
If you are only hauling camping gear, most trailer tires will be fine for what you need. If you have a live-in RV travel trailer, you need to check over the tire specifications carefully and prepare to spend more. Travel trailers need higher quality tires rated for heavier loads and extended driving.
- What’s the difference between automotive tires and RV trailer tires?
Automotive tires are designed to handle the torque and power of being mounted on a self-propelled vehicle like a car, truck or SUV. They are capable of providing steering under power.
Trailer tires are designed to provide stability and control under heavy loads without concern for power, steering or torque. Trailer tires also have reinforced sidewalls to bear up under more weight.
- How long should my trailer tires last?
The average lifespan of most trailer tires rated for RV travel trailers is around 25,000 miles. Other factors like climate, frequency of travel and conditions while traveling can push this number in either direction by a few thousand miles. Get your trailer tires professional inspected at least annually so you don’t run the risk of taking a long trip on worn out tires.
- What should I do to prevent trailer tire dry rot?Here are the top three dry rot prevention methods:
- Take them out on the road at least every sixth months for a short trip.
- Maintain tire pressure on all tires even if your trailer is not in use
- If possible, store your trailer in climate controlled environment, use tire covers to prevent sun damage, or put your trailer up on blocks/jack stands and store your tires in the garage.
- What type of RV trailer tires should I buy?
Radial trailer tires last longer and provide the best performance compared to bias trailer tires. Radials offer better road/highway performance, whereas bias tires are meant for farm use or off road applications.
CONCLUSION
My choice for best value and product quality is the Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire-ST205/75R15. It’s a versatile, truly all-weather tire that will last for years even in harsh climates. The Carlisle also offers exceptional on-road stability and smooth, steady towing for those long road trips. They may be a bit pricey and tough to mount on existing wheels, but they are well worth the time and money for the performance and longevity they provide.