7 Best 285/70R17 All Terrain Tires of 2026
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The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 stands out as the best overall 285/70R17 all terrain tire, combining proven durability and balanced performance. For those watching their budget, the Barkley Rammus X/T delivers aggressive looks and solid capability without the premium price, while the Sailun Terramax R/T is the top pick if you need strong winter traction and studdable options.
Out here where pavement gives way to dirt, rock, and snow, your tires are the only thing between you and the middle of nowhere. A lot of 285/70R17 tires promise versatility, but only a few deliver when the road stops and the trail gets tough. I looked at specs, owner experiences, and real-world feedback to find the ones that actually hold up. This guide cuts through the hype to show you which models earn their stripes in durability, grip, and value, so you can pick with confidence, not guesswork.
Top 7 285/70R17 All Terrain Tires in the Market
The Best 285/70R17 All Terrain Tires, Reviewed
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3
Strengths
- Superior sidewall protection
- Improved mud clearance
- Strong treadwear warranty
Trade-offs
- Higher price point
- Slight increase in road noise
The KO3 isn’t just an update, it’s a meaningful evolution. With CoreGard sidewall tech and an improved tread compound, it’s visibly tougher than the KO2, and reviewers confirm it shrugs off gravel and sharp rocks better. The serrated shoulder design actually does enhance mud ejection, and the snow traction feels more confident, even if it shares the same 3PMSF rating.
It’s also one of the few tires in this segment that backs its toughness with a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty, something many aggressive all-terrains skip. Yes, it costs more, but for those who regularly drive on rough terrain and want longevity, this is the smarter buy. I’d choose the KO3 over the KO2 for any serious off-pavement use.
Video review
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Strengths
- Proven off-road traction
- Excellent snow rating
- Long-term durability
Trade-offs
- Moderate road noise
- Slightly stiff ride
The KO2 set the benchmark, and even now, it remains a gold standard in the all-terrain world. Its combination of off-road grit, snow capability, and on-road stability is why so many truck and SUV owners stick with it. The interlocking tread design really does deliver on uniform wear, and the 3PMSF certification means it’s legit in winter, no compromises there.
It’s not the quietest tire out there, and some newer rivals have improved on refinement, but the KO2’s proven durability still wins loyalty. For those who want a tire that’s been tested in Baja and on snowy backroads alike, this one’s hard to beat. I’d still pick it over flashier options if I wanted balanced, no-surprises performance.
Video review
Barkley Rammus X/T
Strengths
- Very aggressive tread
- Strong sidewall protection
- Low cost
Trade-offs
- Noisy on pavement
- Poor snow rating
- Rough ride quality
The Barkley Rammus X/T leans hard into the budget-mud category, and it shows. With a deep void design and reinforced sidewalls, it’s clearly built for rougher terrain than most in this list. The 10-ply rating and aggressive tread give it credibility off-road, and owners report it handles rocks and ruts better than expected for the price.
But that toughness comes at a cost, on-road refinement isn’t great. It’s louder than average, and the ride can be jarring on long hauls. It lacks 3PMSF certification, so winter performance is questionable. Still, if you’re on a tight budget and need a tire that looks and acts tough, this one gets the job done.
Product photos
Thunderer Ranger ATR
Strengths
- Can be studded
- Longest tread warranty
- Good value
Trade-offs
- Average off-road grip
- Limited brand presence
- Not quiet on highway
The Thunderer Ranger ATR stands out for one key reason: it can be studded. That’s a rare feature in this segment and a big deal for drivers in ice-prone areas. Combined with its 55,000-mile treadwear warranty, it’s clearly built for longevity and extreme winter use. The 3D siping helps on wet roads, and the nylon overwrap adds durability without inflating the price.
It’s not the most refined tire, similar to the Barkley and Sailun in ride stiffness, but the studdability makes it a niche winner. For someone in the northern Rockies or Upper Midwest who faces ice but still wants trail capability, this is a smart, underrated pick. I’d take it over non-studdable rivals if winter was my top concern.
Product photos
Sailun Terramax R/T
Strengths
- Winter-rated tread
- Aggressive off-road pattern
- Deep tread life
Trade-offs
- Noisy at highway speeds
- Ride can be harsh
The Sailun Terramax R/T surprises with its serious winter chops, earning the Three Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, a rare find at this price point. On paper, it’s built like a proper rugged terrain tire, with deep tread depth and an aggressive pattern that owners say holds up well in snow and loose off-road conditions. It’s clearly tuned for buyers who face harsh winters but still want credible off-pavement ability.
Still, while it matches premium tires in winter certification, it doesn’t quite match their on-road refinement or long-term durability. Reviewers note it can get noisy as it wears, and the ride is a bit stiff compared to more refined all-terrains. But if your priority is snow performance without paying a premium brand tax, this one deserves attention.
Product photos
Atturo Trail Blade X/T
Strengths
- Aggressive looks, calm ride
- Good wet and snow traction
- Strong hybrid performance
Trade-offs
- Not top-tier in deep mud
- Treadwear below premium rivals
The Trail Blade X/T walks a fine line, and pulls it off. It looks like a mud-terrain but rides like a proper all-terrain, which is exactly what hybrid drivers need. The linked center blocks reduce highway squirm, and the alternating sipes do a noticeable job cutting road noise. Owners consistently praise how well it transitions from wet pavement to loose trails without drama.
It’s not the best in deep mud or heavy snow, but it’s more than capable in both. The 45,000-mile warranty is fair, and the 18/32” tread depth means it’ll last. If you’re someone who hits fire roads on weekends and commutes on highways Monday through Friday, this tire delivers the right balance. I’d pick it over pure A/Ts if I wanted more aggressive looks without sacrificing daily drivability.
Product photos
Travelstar Ecopath AT
Strengths
- Affordable in bulk
- Quiet on pavement
- 50k mile warranty
Trade-offs
- No snow rating
- Marginal off-road grip
- Not for serious terrain
At first glance, the Travelstar Ecopath AT looks like a budget steal, especially as a set of four. It offers a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty and 3D siping, which suggests decent wet and dry grip. The specs align with standard SUV needs, and the T-speed rating means it’s not built for high-performance rigs.
But this is where category experience tells me to be cautious. While owners report it’s quiet and smooth on pavement, off-road and winter performance fall short of true all-terrain expectations. It lacks 3PMSF certification, and feedback consistently points to slipping in snow and mud. It’s more of an all-season highway tire with a rugged look.
Product photos
How We Tested 285/70r17 all terrain tires
My approach to evaluating 285/70R17 all terrain tires centered on a detailed comparison of published specifications and features, combined with a careful review of owner experiences and insights from trusted automotive publications. Rather than a hands-on lab test, this is a research-led comparison. I weighed data points across numerous models to identify those offering the best balance of on- and off-road performance, durability, and value. This involved analyzing tread patterns, rubber compounds, and construction details.
For this category, sidewall strength and compound durability were heavily weighted. All-terrain tires face a lot of abuse, so resistance to cuts, punctures, and chipping is paramount. Equally important was traction in varied conditions – not just mud and gravel, but also snow and wet pavement. Those tires demonstrating superior performance in these areas, backed by positive owner feedback, ranked highest. You can find a broader look at options in our guide to the best truck all-terrain tires.
Specifications reliably indicate a tire’s physical dimensions, load capacity, and speed rating. However, real-world performance, particularly concerning things like road noise, winter grip, and long-term wear, is best understood through owner reviews. I focused on consistent themes in owner feedback – patterns of praise or complaint – and cross-referenced that with expert opinions. For those considering a slightly different size, our look at 275/70R17 tires may also be helpful.
Choosing The Right 285/70r17 all terrain tires
Choosing the right all-terrain tire is about balancing capability with your typical driving. It’s not simply about aggressive looks; it’s about matching the tire to the terrain you actually encounter.
A truly good all-terrain tire blends on-road comfort with off-road grip. Key considerations include tread pattern, rubber compound, sidewall strength, and load rating. Buyers should prioritize tires with a construction that balances durability, traction in various conditions, and reasonable noise levels for everyday driving. Examining the UTQG rating can also provide a baseline for treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance.
Tread Pattern & Terrain
The tread pattern is the most visually obvious difference between all-terrain tires, and for good reason. It dictates how the tire performs in different conditions. More aggressive patterns with larger voids (the spaces between the tread blocks) excel in mud and loose dirt, but can be noisy on pavement and wear faster. Denser patterns, like those found on the Barkley Rammus X/T, prioritize on-road stability and quieter operation, while still offering decent grip on moderately rough terrain. Think about where you spend 80% of your time driving. If it’s highway miles with occasional dirt roads, a more road-focused all-terrain is the better choice.
Sidewall Strength & Construction
Sidewall strength is crucial if you frequently drive on rocky terrain. Tires like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 boast CoreGard Technology, designed to resist cuts and abrasions. A reinforced sidewall protects against punctures and damage from rocks, roots, and other obstacles, preventing costly repairs or roadside failures. However, stiffer sidewalls can sometimes result in a harsher ride on pavement. For those looking at options for their SUVs, consider the Travelstar Ecopath AT, which balances durability with a comfortable ride.
Value, Winter Performance & Studding Options
All-terrain tires vary significantly in price, and you don’t always need to spend a fortune to get a capable tire. The Thunderer Ranger ATR and Sailun Terramax R/T demonstrate that solid performance doesn’t necessarily require a premium price tag. Here’s what to consider when balancing price with features:
- Tread Life Warranty: A longer warranty (like the 55,000-mile warranty on the Thunderer Ranger ATR) offers peace of mind, even if it doesn’t guarantee the tire will last that long.
- Winter Rating: The Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol indicates the tire meets specific snow traction requirements, a must-have if you live in an area with significant snowfall.
- Stud Compatibility: If you regularly encounter icy conditions, the ability to add studs (where permitted) can dramatically improve winter traction. Tires like the Sailun Terramax R/T and Thunderer Ranger ATR offer this option, setting them apart from many other all-terrain tires.
Don’t overspend on features you won’t use. A tire designed for extreme rock crawling won’t necessarily be the best choice if your off-roading is limited to gravel roads and occasional snowy conditions.
If you’re considering downsizing or upsizing from your current tires, be sure to check out our guide to the best 265/70R17 all-terrain options, or explore our broader all-terrain tire reviews to find the leading all-terrain tire models for your needs.
285/70R17 All Terrain Tires Compared
The following table provides a specification comparison of various 285/70R17 all terrain tires to aid in informed decision-making.
| Tire Model | Best For | Treadwear Warranty (Miles) | Winter Rating | Studdable | Sidewall Tech. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | Best Overall | 50,000 | N/A | N/A | CoreGard |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | Best for Snow & Off-Road | N/A | 3PMSF | N/A | N/A |
| Barkley Rammus X/T | Best Budget Aggressive | 50,000 | N/A | N/A | Reinforced |
| Thunderer Ranger ATR | Best Value w/ Stud Option | 55,000 | N/A | Yes | N/A |
| Sailun Terramax R/T | Best Winter All-Terrain | N/A | 3PMSF | Yes | N/A |
| Atturo Trail Blade X/T | Best Hybrid On/Off-Road | 45,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Travelstar Ecopath AT | Best Budget SUV | 50,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What load range should I prioritize for 285/70R17 all-terrain tires?
A load range of E is generally recommended for 285/70R17 all-terrain tires, especially if you have a heavier vehicle or frequently haul or tow. This provides the necessary strength and stability to handle increased loads without compromising tire performance or safety.
Do all all-terrain tires offer the same level of snow traction?
No, snow traction varies significantly between models. Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol to identify tires that meet specific snow performance requirements, like the Sailun Terramax R/T, and provide better grip in winter conditions.
Can I add studs to all 285/70R17 all-terrain tires for better ice grip?
Not all tires are studdable; stud compatibility depends on the tire’s construction. The Thunderer Ranger ATR and Sailun Terramax R/T are examples of tires that offer this option, which can be beneficial if you regularly drive on icy roads.
How much louder will all-terrain tires be compared to standard highway tires?
Expect an increase in road noise with all-terrain tires, typically between 3-8 decibels. More aggressive tread patterns create more noise, but tires like the Barkley Rammus X/T attempt to balance grip with a quieter ride, making them a good choice if highway comfort is a concern – you can explore options for all-terrain tires highway driving.
Are 285/70R17 all-terrain tires a good fit if I sometimes need a tire for different sizes?
If you’re flexible on size, you may want to look at alternatives. For example, a comparison of 285/70R18 tires may reveal options better suited to your needs if you have the wheel size to accommodate them.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right 285/70R17 all-terrain tire often comes down to how much you value ultimate capability versus everyday comfort. While a tire like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 delivers a robust blend of durability and performance, making it our overall top pick, it’s important to remember that the “best” tire is the one that best fits your needs. There’s a trade-off between aggressive tread and quiet highway manners, and the KO3 strikes that balance exceptionally well.
For those prioritizing value or specific conditions, several excellent alternatives exist. If you need a studdable tire for serious winter traction, the Thunderer Ranger ATR is a standout. Meanwhile, the Travelstar Ecopath AT offers a compelling option for SUV owners seeking a durable and comfortable ride without breaking the bank, and if you’re looking at sizes slightly larger, exploring 285/75R17 tires might open up additional possibilities.
Ultimately, remember that specifications are only part of the story. Focus on matching the tire’s strengths to your typical terrain and driving style, consider whether you truly need maximum sidewall protection or if a quieter ride and better fuel economy (influenced by all-terrain tires gas mileage) are higher priorities. A well-informed decision, based on honest self-assessment, will deliver far more satisfaction than chasing the most hyped or feature-rich option.
