Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you drive a 2011-2019 Ford Explorer and want more capability without sacrificing daily comfort, choosing the right all terrain tires is one of the most effective upgrades you can make. The correct all terrain tire changes how your Explorer handles wet pavement, loose gravel, light mud, and snow while influencing ride comfort, noise, and fuel economy.This guide shortlists the seven top options for this Explorer model range, focusing on real-world performance factors like wet and dry traction, tread life, load rating, and ride refinement. Below you will find the evaluation criteria used and practical notes to help you match an all terrain tire to how you use your Ford Explorer, whether you tow occasionally, carry heavier loads, or need added winter capability. Read on to compare the shortlisted choices and decide which fitment and features matter most for your driving needs.
Looking for other parts? See all Ford Explorer parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT All-Terrain Tire 225/65R17 102H |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Tire |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | GT Radial Adventuro AT3 All-Terrain Tire P245/65R17 105T |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Zeetex AT1000 All-Terrain Tire 235/75R15 |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT All-Terrain 235/75R15 109S Tire (Tire Only) |  |
1. Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT All-Terrain Tire 225/65R17 102H
| Rim Size | 17 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 102 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Cooper Discoverer Road + Trail AT is an all-terrain tire built to deliver a mix of highway comfort and off-road traction for SUVs and light trucks. It uses a continuous, interlocking tread pattern that extends partway down the sidewall for extra bite on soft surfaces while connected center lugs improve stability in snow. Expect smoother, quieter driving on pavement than aggressive off-road tires and competent handling on dirt, gravel, and light trails. The construction emphasizes even tread wear and resistance to cutting and tearing, and Cooper backs the tire with a 65,000-mile treadwear limited warranty. Limitations include a 2-ply construction and a focus on balanced performance rather than extreme off-road mud or rock capability, so drivers who need maximum load capacity or severe off-roading performance may prefer a different, heavier-duty option.
Best for: Buyers who want one tire that handles daily highway driving, occasional trail work, and winter roads with an emphasis on a comfortable, long-lasting all-round solution.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently carry maximum loads, tow heavy trailers, or regularly tackle very aggressive off-road terrain should look at heavier-duty or specialized off-road tires instead.
- Balanced on-road comfort with reduced road noise compared with aggressive off-road tires
- Interlocking tread and connected center lugs that improve traction on mixed surfaces and in snow
- Tread extends down the sidewall for added grip on soft or uneven terrain
- Designed for even wear and resistance to cutting, cracking, and tearing
- Backed by a 65,000-mile treadwear limited warranty
- Not intended for extreme rock crawling or deep mud where reinforced heavy-duty tires perform better
Verdict: A well-rounded all-terrain tire that balances quiet street manners, competent trail traction, and long tread life for everyday SUV use.
2. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 225/65R17 102H Tire
| Size | 225/65R17 102H |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1874 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 12 Inches |
| Maximum Pressure | 44 Pound per Square Inch |
| UTQG | 640 A B |
The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is an all-terrain tire engineered to deliver durable on- and off-road performance for SUVs and light trucks. It uses a cut-and-chip resistant rubber compound and reinforced shoulder blocks to extend tread life, while alternating tread blocks, deep grooves, and conical stone ejectors provide traction and self-cleaning capability across dirt, mud, and light snow. Typical use is daily driving mixed with occasional off-road routes where drivers want predictable grip and lower wear rather than extreme off-road performance. Notable features include a high UTQG rating and a 50,000 mile limited treadwear warranty that reflect the focus on longevity, and the 102 load index supports midweight SUVs. Trade-offs are that the pattern is tuned more for life and mixed-surface traction than for quiet highway refinement or aggressive mud performance, and you may notice slightly higher road noise compared with touring-focused tires. Installation and handling are straightforward for a 17-inch tire; expect reliable performance for owners who prioritize durability and capability on varied surfaces.
Best for: Drivers who want a long-wearing all-terrain tire that balances on-road manners with capable off-road traction for regular use and occasional trail driving.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prioritize the quietest possible highway ride or who need extreme mud or rock-crawling capability should look at more specialized touring or aggressive mud-terrain tires.
- Durable compound and reinforced shoulders resist cuts and chips for longer tread life
- Deep tread grooves with stone ejectors help maintain traction off-road and clear debris
- Alternating tread blocks provide capable mixed-surface grip in mud and light snow
- 50,000 mile limited treadwear warranty signals long service life
- Pattern prioritizes durability and mixed traction over low road noise or a silent highway ride
Verdict: Choose the Scorpion All Terrain Plus when you want an all-terrain tire built for long tread life and dependable mixed-surface traction for a midweight SUV like the Ford Explorer.
3. GT Radial Adventuro AT3 All-Terrain Tire P245/65R17 105T
| Rim Size | 17 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 105.0 |
| Speed Rating | T |
| Load Capacity | 2039 Pounds |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Adventuro AT3 targets drivers who need a tire that performs both on pavement and on rougher surfaces. Its interlocked tread blocks, s-shaped central rib, and 3D grooves provide improved wet grip and predictable handling, while the enhanced tread compound and 14/32nds tread depth deliver durable wear for mixed use. Fitment in P245/65R17 105T size makes it a common replacement size for 2011–2019 Ford Explorer models that accept that tire specification. Expect a relatively comfortable ride and lower road noise than more aggressive mud tires, with respectable off-road traction on dirt and gravel. The XL load range and 2039 pound load capacity add margin for heavier loads or roof cargo. Trade-offs are typical of all-terrain designs: you will not get the same mud-shedding or extreme off-road grip as a dedicated mud tire, and winter traction on deep snow may be limited compared with a dedicated winter tire.
Best for: A practical buyer who wants one tire that handles daily highway driving and light to moderate off-road use on a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer, prioritizing comfort, longevity, and predictable wet performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly tackle extreme off-road trails, deep mud, or who need a winter-focused tire should choose a specialized mud-terrain or winter tire instead.
- Balanced on-road comfort with reduced noise compared to aggressive off-road tires
- Tread design and compound that improve wet traction and handling
- XL load range and 2039 lb capacity for heavier loads or passengers
- 14/32nds tread depth for longer wear life in mixed driving
- Not as capable in deep mud or extreme off-road conditions as dedicated mud-terrain tires
Verdict: Choose the Adventuro AT3 if you need a durable, comfortable all-terrain tire that balances on-road manners with capable light off-road performance for a 2011–2019 Ford Explorer.
4. Zeetex AT1000 All-Terrain Tire 235/75R15
| Size | 235/75R15 |
|---|---|
| Tread Depth | 12 32nds |
| Load Capacity | 2900 Pounds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Tread Type | Symmetrical |
The Zeetex AT1000 is an all-terrain radial tire built to deliver basic durability and traction for light trucks and SUVs in size 235/75R15. It uses a symmetrical tread pattern with a 12/32nds tread depth that gives predictable grip on dry roads and acceptable performance on dirt and gravel. With a load capacity listed at 2900 pounds and a load range L rating, this tire is intended for everyday driving and occasional off-pavement work rather than heavy-duty hauling. Installation and balancing are straightforward thanks to the common 15-inch rim fitment. Expect a firm ride and higher road noise compared with premium all-terrain models, but the AT1000 provides a cost-effective replacement option that keeps Explorer-sized vehicles mobile across mixed surfaces. Longevity and wet traction will be average compared with more expensive all-terrain tires, so plan replacements sooner if you drive aggressively or in very wet conditions.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing a low-cost, serviceable all-terrain tire for routine driving and occasional unpaved roads who want to keep a 2011–2019 Explorer on the road without paying for premium rubber.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently tow heavy loads, drive aggressively off-road, or need top-tier wet traction and long tread life should consider a more capable, higher-priced all-terrain tire.
- Affordable price for an all-terrain replacement
- Symmetrical tread and 12/32nds depth offer consistent wear and basic off-road grip
- Common 15-inch rim fitment makes mounting and replacement simple
- Decent load capacity suitable for light SUV use
- Not tuned for premium wet traction or severe off-road conditions
- Higher road noise and firmer ride than higher-end all-terrain tires
Verdict: A cost-conscious all-terrain replacement that keeps Explorer models mobile on mixed surfaces without the premium performance of higher-end tires.
5. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire (225/65R17)
| Size | 225/65R17 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1874 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 11 32nds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| UTQG | 680AA |
The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is an all-terrain tire built for CUVs and smaller SUVs that need capable off-road grip without losing on-road composure. It uses a crossover-specific construction and a silica-based compound to resist uneven wear and provide steady performance in dry, wet, and winter conditions, backed by a 65,000 mile limited tread-life warranty. Deep 3D Canyon sipes and an aggressive tread pattern give strong bite on loose surfaces and snow while a rugged upper sidewall and 2-ply polyester carcass add protection against trail damage. In daily use this tire feels confident on pavement with predictable steering and reduced irregular wear, and it steps up when the route turns to gravel or light trails. Expect slightly more road noise and a firmer ride compared with highway-focused touring tires, and true heavy-rock or deep-mud off-roading will expose its crossover-oriented limits. For Explorer drivers prioritizing durability and season-round traction, it is a sensible, reliability-minded choice within its intended use.
Best for: Buyers who want a durable, dependable tire for a crossover or SUV that spends most time on pavement but needs reliable grip for occasional light off-road and winter use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who primarily tow heavy loads, do frequent heavy-rock or deep-mud off-roading, or who prioritize a silent, plush highway ride should consider a different tire.
- Crossover-specific construction tuned for SUV handling and stability
- Aggressive tread with 3D Canyon sipes for improved wet and winter traction
- Rugged upper sidewall and 2-ply construction for added off-road durability
- Silica-based compound and optimized design to resist uneven wear over time
- More road noise and firmer ride than highway-focused touring tires
Verdict: A dependable, crossover-tuned all-terrain tire that gives Ford Explorer drivers reliable year-round traction and added durability for light off-road adventures.
6. TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT All-Terrain 235/75R15 109S Tire (Tire Only)
| Rim Size | 15 Inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 109 |
| Speed Rating | S |
| Tread Type | All-Terrain |
| Maximum Pressure | 50 Pound per Square Inch |
The TRAVELSTAR Ecopath AT is an all-terrain radial intended for light trucks and SUVs that need a balance of on-road comfort and off-road traction. It is typically used as a replacement or upgrade on 15-inch wheel setups and features a 12.6/32nds tread depth and a reinforced 4-ply construction for durability. The tire carries a 109 load index (about 2,270 lb capacity) and an S speed rating, and it is rated for up to 50 psi and an XL load range for heavier loads. In practice you can expect confident grip on gravel and dirt and predictable handling on pavement, with a focus on tread life supported by the stated 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty and an included three-year road hazard warranty. Trade-offs are the basic S speed rating rather than a higher highway rating and a heavier, more aggressive tread that can raise road noise compared with highway tires. Fitment is for vehicles that accept 235/75R15 tires and is sold as the tire only without a wheel.
Best for: Buyers who want a durable, long-wearing all-terrain tire backed by user approval and warranty coverage, and who prioritize confident mixed-surface performance over low road noise or high-speed capability.
Less Ideal for: Drivers looking for the quietest highway ride, highest speed ratings, or those whose Explorer uses non-15-inch wheel sizes should look elsewhere.
- All-terrain tread with deep 12.6/32nds pattern for off-road traction
- XL 109 load rating supports heavier SUV/light-truck loads
- 4-ply construction aimed at durability and long tread life
- Includes a three-year road hazard warranty and a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
- S speed rating limits sustained high-speed performance compared with higher-rated tires
- Tread design may produce more road noise than highway-focused tires
Verdict: A durable, warranty-backed all-terrain tire for 15-inch equipped Explorers that balances off-road grip and long tread life.
Choosing the Right 2011-2019 Ford Explorer All Terrain Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Traction in Wet and Dry Conditions
Traction affects everyday safety and confidence on the road. For the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer, good wet traction reduces braking distance and helps prevent hydroplaning during heavy rain, which is a common concern for families and commuters. Dry traction governs cornering stability and steering response, influencing how the SUV feels at highway speeds and during quick maneuvers.
Tread compound, siping patterns, and shoulder block design collectively determine grip levels. When comparing all terrain tires for this Explorer, look for demonstrable wet-braking performance and user feedback about consistent grip across temperature ranges. Tires that compromise too much on wet or dry grip in the name of off-road aggressiveness can undermine everyday safety.
Tread Life and Warranty
Tread life determines long-term ownership cost and how often you will need replacements. For Explorer owners who put substantial miles on their SUVs, a tire with a longer tread life rating and a robust mileage warranty can be more economical even if initial cost is higher.
Treadwear indicators, warranty length, and expected mileage should be compared alongside real-world reports because driving style, vehicle alignment, and maintenance influence longevity. Consider whether you regularly tow, carry heavy loads, or drive on rough surfaces, as these factors accelerate wear and may warrant a tire with a tougher compound and stronger warranty provisions.
Ride Comfort and Road Noise
All terrain tires vary widely in how they impact ride comfort and cabin noise. The Ford Explorer is often used as a family hauler or daily commuter, so excessive noise or a harsh ride can make long trips fatiguing. As tread aggressiveness increases, so can noise and vibration felt in the cabin.
Evaluate sidewall construction, pattern design, and manufacturer claims about noise reduction. User reports about comfortable highway cruising and minimal road roar are especially relevant for Explorer owners who spend much time on paved roads. Balancing off-road capability with acceptable in-cabin comfort is key for this vehicle.
Load Rating and Speed Rating
Load capacity and speed rating are safety-critical for the Explorer, particularly if you tow, carry passengers, or mount a roof cargo box. Selecting tires with the correct load index ensures the tires can handle the vehicle's weight plus cargo without overheating or premature failure.
Match tire load ratings to the factory or recommended pressures and check that replacement sizes retain necessary capacity. A higher load rating can provide durability benefits when frequently carrying heavy loads, while the appropriate speed rating maintains handling characteristics and stability at highway speeds.
Winter Performance and Snow Capability
Many Explorer owners encounter snow or icy roads during the colder months, so winter capability matters even when choosing an all terrain tire. Look for all-season compounds with aggressive siping, or tires certified with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol when winter traction is a priority.
Consider how often you drive in sustained snow versus occasional flurries. All terrain tires that balance bite in packed snow with reasonable on-road manners are often the best compromise for Explorer owners who need a single tire year-round.
Sidewall Strength and Off-Road Durability
If you use your Explorer for light off-road trails, dirt roads, or construction site driving, sidewall strength becomes important. Reinforced sidewalls and protective ribs help resist cuts, impacts, and punctures from rocks and debris encountered off pavement.
Stronger sidewalls can slightly reduce ride compliance and increase weight, which affects fuel economy, but they also reduce the risk of roadside failures. For owners who occasionally encounter rough surfaces, prioritizing durability can prevent inconvenient breakdowns and costly damage.
Common Explorer Tire Sizes and Fitment Notes
The 2011-2019 Ford Explorer came with a range of factory wheel and tire sizes across trims. When shopping for all terrain tires, verify the replacement size matches your vehicle's wheel diameter and maintains the correct overall diameter to preserve speedometer accuracy and proper suspension geometry. If you are considering an alternate size, confirm it leaves adequate clearance in the wheel wells and around the suspension components.
Pay attention to load index requirements listed on the placard located on the driver door jamb. Replacements must meet or exceed that load capacity. Also check manufacturer recommendations for tire pressure to ensure proper handling and to maximize tread life.
- Confirm wheel diameter and overall tire height before ordering
- Ensure replacement tire load index meets or exceeds factory rating
- Alternate sizes may affect ride height and require speedometer recalibration
How Tread Patterns Affect Off-Road Behavior
All terrain tread patterns range from mild, highway-friendly designs to aggressive, chunky blocks. Less aggressive patterns provide quieter on-road manners and longer tread life but sacrifice some traction in soft mud or deep ruts. More aggressive patterns bite better in loose surfaces and snow but increase noise and can wear faster on pavement.
Consider the types of terrain you encounter most often. For light gravel roads and occasional muddy patches around campsites, a balanced tread with open shoulder blocks and moderate voids often gives the best compromise for Explorer owners.
- Moderate voids improve mud and snow evacuation without excessive noise
- Open shoulder blocks help clear debris and improve bite off-road
- Continuous ribs and variable pitch elements reduce highway noise
Maintaining All Terrain Tires on the Explorer
Regular maintenance extends tire life and preserves performance. Rotate tires at recommended intervals to promote even wear, and check inflation pressure monthly when tires are cold. Improper pressure accelerates wear and can negatively affect handling and fuel economy.
Wheel alignment should be checked if the Explorer pulls or exhibits uneven wear. Replacing tires in matched pairs or axles helps maintain predictable handling, particularly on slippery surfaces.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or per owner manual guidance
- Check and set pressures when tires are cold
- Inspect tread and sidewalls for cuts, bulges, and uneven wear
Tire Noise and How to Minimize It
Tire pattern and compound both influence cabin noise. For Explorer owners sensitive to road roar, look for tires with features such as staggered block sizes, variable pitch tread patterns, or manufacturer noise-attenuating designs. These traits help break up harmonic frequencies produced by the tread.
Proper inflation, correct wheel balancing, and keeping tires within recommended wear limits also reduce perceived noise. If you experience increased vibration, have the tires balanced and the suspension inspected.
- Balance tires after installation and after any repair
- Keep tires aligned to prevent irregular wear and noise
- Select patterns with variable pitch and continuous ribs for quieter cruising
When to Consider Specialized Tires Instead
If you frequently drive in deep mud, rock crawl, or require maximum traction under extreme off-road conditions, dedicated mud-terrain or dedicated winter tires may be a better choice than an all terrain. Those specialized designs provide exceptional bite in specific conditions but compromise highway comfort and tread life.
Decide based on your primary driving environment. For most Explorer owners who split time between highway commuting, family trips, and occasional dirt roads, all terrain tires provide a practical balance of capability and everyday comfort.
- Choose mud-terrain for rare but extreme off-road needs
- Choose winter tires if you routinely encounter prolonged icy or snowy conditions
- Use all terrain tires to cover varied conditions without frequent tire changes
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford Explorer configuration to see the most relevant All-terrain Tires recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2011-2019 Ford Explorer All Terrain Tires
We created the shortlist by applying fitment and performance filters specific to the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. First, we limited selections to tires available in sizes and load ratings commonly used on Explorer trims within that year range. We prioritized tires with documented wet-traction performance and all-season or three-peak mountain snowflake ratings where winter capability matters.Key evaluation criteria included wet and dry traction, tread life estimates and warranty coverage, ride comfort and noise characteristics, load carrying capacity and speed ratings appropriate for towing or roof loads, and resistance to punctures and sidewall damage for light off-road use. We also considered rolling resistance impacts on fuel economy and manufacturer-provided treadwear indications as a proxy for longevity.Excluded from consideration were full mud-terrain designs that sacrifice highway manners, and tires whose available sizes did not meet Explorer load-rating requirements. The result is a focused set of all terrain tires that balance on-road civility with improved off-road grip for the Explorer owner.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I use larger all terrain tires on my 2011-2019 Ford Explorer?
You can fit larger tires only if they maintain proper clearance and the load rating meets or exceeds factory requirements. Larger tires can affect speedometer accuracy, fuel economy, and suspension clearance. Confirm fitment by checking wheel well clearance and consult a professional installer if you are unsure.
How often should I rotate all terrain tires on the Explorer?
Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or according to the vehicle owner's manual. Regular rotation promotes even wear, which helps preserve traction and extends tread life especially on front-wheel or all-wheel drive Explorers.
Are all terrain tires noisy on the Ford Explorer?
All terrain tires can be noisier than highway-focused tires depending on tread aggressiveness. Choosing patterns with variable pitch and continuous rib features, maintaining correct pressure, and ensuring proper balancing will reduce perceived cabin noise.
Do all terrain tires affect fuel economy for the Explorer?
Yes, more aggressive all terrain tires often increase rolling resistance and aerodynamic drag, which can lower fuel economy slightly. The impact depends on the tire design and driving conditions, with heavier or more aggressive patterns typically producing greater fuel economy penalties.
Can I use all terrain tires year-round on the Explorer?
Many all terrain tires are designed for year-round use and offer acceptable winter performance, but performance varies. If you encounter sustained deep snow or icy roads, dedicated winter tires are usually safer. Look for tires with a three-peak mountain snowflake rating if winter capability is important.
What load rating should I pick for an Explorer that tows occasionally?
Choose tires with a load index that meets or exceeds the vehicle's placard rating and the expected trailer tongue weight. A higher load rating provides a safety margin when towing and helps the tires cope with extra heat and stress under load.
Final Verdict
Prioritize traction, correct load rating, and expected tread life when selecting all terrain tires for a 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. Balance off-road capability with ride comfort and noise to match how you use the vehicle. If you tow or carry heavier loads, favor tires with higher load indexes and durable sidewalls.Ultimately, pick the option that aligns with your most common driving conditions. For daily highway driving with occasional dirt roads, choose a balanced all terrain that emphasizes wet traction and moderated tread aggressiveness. If winter or heavy off-road use is frequent, consider options with stronger snow certification or switch to specialized tires for those seasons.
Explore More:
- Check out all Ford Explorer parts & accessories
- Explore All-terrain Tires Maintenance & Repair Guides
- Explore Wheels & Tires
- Browse all Auto Parts
