7 Best All Terrain Tires for Ram 3500: Durable Load-Carrying Options for Work and Off-Road

Mike
By Mike
Certified Professional Automotive Mechanic – Owner and Editor of VehicleRuns
Last Updated: March 24, 2026

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If you drive a Ram 3500, the tires you choose affect towing stability, load capacity, and off-road confidence. Picking the right all terrain tires means balancing on-road comfort with the traction and durability needed for heavy-duty tasks and occasional off-pavement use. This guide collects the top shortlisted options for Ram 3500 all terrain tires and explains the practical factors that matter in real-world driving. Below we summarize how each pick performs across core criteria like load rating and tread life before diving into the full list of recommended tire options.

Top Picks at a Glance

Best Reviewed
A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire (LT235/85R16)BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire (LT235/85R16)
Most Popular
A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence
Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus LT265/70R17 Light Truck TirePirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus LT265/70R17 Light Truck Tire
Best Quality
Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid
Mastertrack BADLANDS AT LT245/75R16 All-Terrain Tire — Set of 4Mastertrack BADLANDS AT LT245/75R16 All-Terrain Tire — Set of 4
Best Budget
The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably
Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Light Truck Tire — 225/75R16Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Light Truck Tire — 225/75R16
Most Sold
A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again
Thunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain LT275/70R18 Light Truck TireThunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain LT275/70R18 Light Truck Tire
Best Value for Money
The sweet spot between price and what you get
Firestone Transforce AT2 LT235/80R17 All-Terrain Light Truck TireFirestone Transforce AT2 LT235/80R17 All-Terrain Light Truck Tire
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 LT265/65R18 E Load-Range EBFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 LT265/65R18 E Load-Range E

1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire (LT235/85R16)

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire (LT235/85R16)
Best Reviewed
A rugged all-terrain light truck tire engineered for durability, off-road traction, and long tread life.
SizeLT235/85R16/E 120/116S
Load Capacity3085 Pounds
Tread Depth15 32nds
Maximum Pressure80 Pound per Square Inch
Construction TypeRadial

The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is built as a tougher evolution of the KO2, aimed at drivers who need a durable all-terrain tire for heavy-duty use on a Ram 3500. It combines a more streamlined tread pattern and upgraded compound for improved wet-road handling and longer wear while retaining aggressive shoulder siping and mud-phobic bars for off-road grip. CoreGard Technology and an Advanced Deflection Design strengthen the sidewall against sticks and stones, which reduces risk of sidewall damage when towing or carrying heavy loads. Expect a firm, controlled on-road ride with comparatively low noise for an all-terrain tire and straightforward maintenance through regular rotation to maximize mileage. Limitations include the inherent compromise of all-terrain tread: it will not match a dedicated mud-terrain in extreme rock crawling or an all-season tire in refined highway comfort, and fitment must match the 3500's recommended tire sizes and load ratings.

Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize long-lasting, damage-resistant tires for a Ram 3500 used for heavy towing, frequent off-pavement work, and year-round mixed driving.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who need maximum off-road rock crawling or highest possible highway comfort should consider specialized mud-terrain or highway tires instead.

Pros:
  • Designed for heavy use with reinforced sidewalls for improved resistance to punctures and cuts
  • Improved all-terrain tread compound and pattern for longer tread life and better wet traction
  • Good mud and snow capability from serrated shoulders and mud-phobic bars
  • Relatively quiet and controlled on-road manners for an aggressive A/T tire
Cons:
  • All-terrain tread cannot match specialized mud-terrain traction or the ride refinement of highway tires
  • Requires correct load-rating and size selection for Ram 3500 applications to meet capacity needs

Verdict A durable, higher-mileage all-terrain tire engineered for Ram 3500 owners who need rugged sidewall protection and dependable mixed-surface performance.

2. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus LT265/70R17 Light Truck Tire

Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus LT265/70R17 Light Truck Tire
A Pirelli light-truck all-terrain radial tire designed for mixed on- and off-road use with a reinforced load range E construction.
SizeLT265/70R17
Load Capacity3195 Pounds
Tread Depth15.5 32nds
Maximum Pressure80 Pound per Square Inch
Load RangeE

The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is an all-terrain light-truck tire built for mixed pavement and dirt-road driving. It is typically used on trucks like the Ram 3500 to provide better off-road traction while keeping highway manners relatively quiet. Notable features from the listing include a 10-ply construction and a high load capacity consistent with a load range E tire, a symmetrical tread meant to balance traction and rolling comfort, and an 80 psi maximum pressure for heavy loads. In real use that translates to confident handling on gravel and forest roads, a smoother and quieter ride than many aggressive AT tires, and the ability to carry heavy payloads without sacrificing stability. Limitations seen in user feedback include variability in manufacture dates and some reports of premature tread damage on high-mileage, severe-use examples, so longevity may vary by driving conditions. Also the product is black-walled despite some photos showing white lettering, which may affect appearance expectations.

Best for: Buyers prioritizing convenience who want a ready-to-fit all-terrain tire for a Ram 3500 that combines decent off-road capability with quiet highway manners and load-carrying reliability.

Less Ideal for: Do not choose this tire if you need maximum off-road traction for rock crawling or if you require the longest possible service life under heavy off-road abuse without closely monitoring wear.

Pros:
  • 10-ply, load range E construction suitable for heavy loads and towing on a Ram 3500
  • Symmetrical tread that balances on-road comfort with off-road grip
  • High maximum inflation pressure (80 psi) for maintaining load support under heavy use
  • Generally quiet ride and reduced road noise compared with more aggressive AT tires
Cons:
  • Some users report inconsistent manufacture dates on shipped tires
  • A few reports of early tread delamination or cupping under severe use and high mileage
  • Photos may show raised white lettering but the actual tire is black-walled

Verdict A convenient choice for Ram 3500 owners who want a quiet, load-capable all-terrain tire that balances on-road comfort with off-road ability, though longevity can vary with heavy off-road use.

3. Mastertrack BADLANDS AT LT245/75R16 All-Terrain Tire — Set of 4

Mastertrack BADLANDS AT LT245/75R16 All-Terrain Tire — Set of 4
Best Quality
A set of four Mastertrack BADLANDS AT LT245/75R16 all-terrain tires designed for light trucks and SUVs, offered with a multi-year road hazard warranty.
SizeLT245/75R16(10PR)
Load Capacity3042 Pounds
Tread Depth15.3 32nds
Maximum Pressure80 Pound per Square Inch
Construction TypeRadial

The Mastertrack BADLANDS AT in LT245/75R16 is an aggressive all-terrain tire packaged as a four‑tire set for light trucks and SUVs. It is built with a reinforced casing and a self‑cleaning, aggressive shoulder pattern that sheds mud, gravel, and snow, making it suitable for mixed on‑road and off‑road duty. Deep circumferential grooves help channel water to reduce hydroplaning and improve wet braking, while a wear‑resistant compound and optimized tread design aim for long life backed by a 50,000‑mile limited treadwear warranty. In real use on a Ram 3500, these tires should provide confident traction when towing or carrying heavy loads and better off‑road bite than highway‑focused tires. Buyers should expect a firmer ride and increased road noise compared with highway tires due to the aggressive tread; some owners report slight howl at higher speeds. The included road hazard coverage for common failures is a practical bonus for heavy‑use trucks, but buyers who prioritize the quietest highway manners may prefer a more touring‑oriented tire.

Best for: Performance-oriented Ram 3500 drivers who need rugged, confident all‑terrain traction for towing, hauling, and regular off‑road or mixed‑surface use and prioritize capability over the quietest highway ride.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who mostly cruise long highway miles and want the lowest possible road noise and the plushest ride should consider a highway‑touring tire instead.

Pros:
  • Aggressive self‑cleaning tread and shoulder design for traction in mud, snow, and loose terrain
  • Deep circumferential grooves that improve water evacuation and reduce hydroplaning risk
  • Reinforced casing for better resistance to cuts and impacts on rough surfaces
  • 50,000‑mile limited treadwear warranty that targets longer service life
  • Set of four tires with complimentary multi‑year road hazard coverage
Cons:
  • More road noise and a firmer ride compared with highway/touring tires
  • Longevity and wear characteristics depend on use and may differ from name‑brand premium tires

Verdict A rugged, warranty-backed all‑terrain tire that gives Ram 3500 owners stronger off‑road traction and towable durability at the cost of some road noise and firmer ride.

4. Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Light Truck Tire — 225/75R16

Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T All-Terrain Light Truck Tire — 225/75R16
Best Budget
An aggressive all-terrain light-truck tire designed for off-road traction with a 50,000-mile limited tread life and a reinforced radial construction.
Size225/75R16
Load Capacity2649 Pounds
Load RangeE
Construction TypeRadial
UTQG400 AA A

The Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T is an aggressive all-terrain tire aimed at light trucks and heavy-duty use. It pairs deep, angled tread grooves and open shoulders with a reinforced radial construction to clear mud and debris and resist punctures during off-road use. Typical use cases include mixed on/off-road driving where traction in mud, dirt, and wet conditions is a priority; the manufacturer advertises a 50,000-mile limited tread life for long highway service. Practical benefits include solid wet and off-road grip, durable construction with a Load Range E rating for higher load carrying, and a tread pattern that self-cleans. Expect more highway noise and a firmer ride than highway-focused radials because of the aggressive tread design, and real-world treadwear may vary depending on load and driving style. For Ram 3500 owners who want an affordable XT-style tire that balances off-road capability and load capacity, these deliver strong value but will sound louder on long highway runs and may not match premium-brand longevity in all cases.

Best for: Budget-conscious Ram 3500 drivers who prioritize off-road traction and load-carrying ability over quiet highway refinement and want the most capability for their money.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who spend the majority of miles on highways and prioritize a quiet, cushioned ride or those seeking maximum long-term tread life from a premium brand.

Pros:
  • Aggressive tread with angled grooves and open shoulders for improved mud and debris clearing
  • Reinforced radial construction and Load Range E rating for higher load capacity and puncture resistance
  • Manufacturer-backed 50,000-mile limited tread life for long-distance use
  • Good wet traction and off-road grip for an extreme-terrain pattern
Cons:
  • Aggressive tread is noticeably louder on the highway compared with highway-focused tires
  • Treadwear in real use may be shorter than the advertised 50,000 miles depending on load and driving style

Verdict A budget-friendly extreme-terrain tire that gives Ram 3500 owners strong off-road traction and load capacity at the cost of extra road noise and potentially variable tread life.

5. Thunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain LT275/70R18 Light Truck Tire

Thunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain LT275/70R18 Light Truck Tire
Most Sold
A light-truck all-terrain radial tire designed for SUVs and light trucks with a rugged tread, stud-ready design, and a manufacturer-rated tread life.
SizeLT275/70R18
Construction TypeRadial
Tread Depth16 32nds
Maximum Pressure80 PSI
UTQG550 AA B

The Thunderer Ranger ATR is an all-terrain radial tire built for light trucks and SUVs in LT275/70R18 size. It is intended for mixed on- and off-road use and features rigid tread blocks with 3D sipes, an optimized rubber compound for traction, and a full nylon overwrap ply for extra strength. The tread can be studded for improved winter grip where allowed, and the manufacturer advertises up to 50,000 miles of tread life depending on size. In daily use on a heavy-duty pickup like a Ram 3500 this tire gives confident wet and off-road traction and a firmer, durable feel under load. Some users report quiet highway manners and good initial balance, while others note the aggressive tread can trap rocks over time and affect balance. Expect a durable, budget-friendly AT that handles loads and rough surfaces well but may need occasional attention to remove lodged debris and monitor wear patterns.

Best for: A risk-averse mainstream buyer who wants a durable, affordable all-terrain tire for a Ram 3500 and prioritizes predictable wet and off-road grip and load-carrying robustness.

Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking the absolute quietest highway ride or the longest, most consistent premium treadwear should consider higher-end branded alternatives or touring/light-truck highway tires.

Pros:
  • All-terrain tread with 3D sipes and rigid blocks for improved wet and off-road traction
  • Full nylon overwrap ply adds strength for heavy-duty use and hauling
  • Pre-drilled for studs to increase winter traction where permitted
  • Manufacturer-stated long tread life up to 50,000 miles depending on size
Cons:
  • Aggressive tread can trap stones that may affect balance and require cleaning
  • Mixed review history on long-term wear consistency across different driving styles

Verdict Sturdy, stud-ready all-terrain tire that suits a Ram 3500 when you need load-capable off-road traction at a budget-friendly value, but expect to check for lodged stones and monitor wear.

6. Firestone Transforce AT2 LT235/80R17 All-Terrain Light Truck Tire

Firestone Transforce AT2 LT235/80R17 All-Terrain Light Truck Tire
Best Value for Money
An all-terrain light truck tire designed for durable on- and off-road use with deeper tread for improved wet and snow traction.
SizeLT235/80R17
Load Capacity3085 Pounds
Tread Depth17 32nds
Construction TypeRadial

The Firestone Transforce AT2 is an all-terrain light truck tire built to handle mixed road and work duties on a Ram 3500. It combines a chip- and tear-resistant compound with a deeper, non-directional tread to improve wet and snow grip and resist rough surfaces like gravel. In real-world use on heavy-duty pickup work the tire aims to deliver longer tread life and a quieter ride than aggressive off-road tires while providing competent off-pavement traction when needed. Buyers should appreciate easy balancing and predictable handling at typical highway speeds, though a few users report vibration above higher speeds. This tire is a practical choice if you need ruggedness and mileage rather than extreme mud or rock crawling performance. Limiting factors are the more conservative all-terrain pattern compared with specialized mud tires and the occasional high-speed shake reported by some owners, so precise mounting and balancing are important for best results on a dually Ram 3500 setup.

Best for: Practical optimizers who own a Ram 3500 and prioritize durable, long‑lasting tires that balance on-road comfort with capable off-road performance for work and hauling.

Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking maximum mud or rock traction or who regularly run sustained very high speeds should consider a more specialized tire or a setup tuned for high-speed stability.

Pros:
  • Built with chip- and tear-resistant compound for better durability on rough roads
  • Deeper tread pattern improves wet and snow traction compared with highway tires
  • Non-directional tread and design aimed at longer-lasting, consistent performance
  • Typical users report easy balancing and a relatively quiet ride for a light truck tire
Cons:
  • Not as aggressive off-road as dedicated mud-terrain tires for deep mud or rock crawling
  • Some owners report high-speed vibration above typical highway speeds

Verdict A work-oriented, value-focused all-terrain tire that gives Ram 3500 owners durable, longer-lasting performance without sacrificing everyday comfort.

7. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 LT265/65R18 E Load-Range E

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 LT265/65R18 E Load-Range E
Best Overall
A rugged all-terrain radial tire designed for light trucks and SUVs that balances off-road traction, severe-winter capability, and long wear.
SizeLT265/65R18
Load Capacity3305 Pounds
Tread Depth15 32nds
Maximum Pressure80 PSI
Load RangeE

The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is an aggressive yet well-rounded tire built for light trucks like the Ram 3500 that need dependable on- and off-road performance. It uses interlocking tread elements and Locking 3-D sipes to stabilize tread blocks for better handling and more even wear, while CoreGard technology and a serrated shoulder improve sidewall toughness and traction in mud, snow, and rock. For Ram 3500 owners this tire provides severe-snow (3PMSF) capability, deep tread depth for longevity, and a load-range E rating suitable for heavier duty use. In daily driving it still feels composed and quieter than many aggressive A/T designs, and owners report long service life with proper rotation. Expect heavier rotating mass compared with highway tires, which can slightly reduce acceleration and fuel economy, and the aggressive tread will be noisier than premium highway tires under certain conditions. Mounting on a Ram 3500 may require checking wheel and clearance fitment, but the KO2 delivers the durability and year-round traction many truck owners want.

Best for: Balanced owners of a Ram 3500 who want one tire that performs well on pavement, in snow, and on occasional off-road trails without specializing exclusively in racing or highway comfort.

Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize the quietest possible highway ride or maximum fuel economy over rugged traction should consider a highway-terrain or fuel-efficient tire instead.

Pros:
  • Severe-snow 3PMSF rating for confident winter traction
  • Interlocking tread and 3-D sipes for stable handling and even wear
  • CoreGard sidewall reinforcement improves resistance to sidewall damage
  • Aggressive shoulder design adds mud, snow, and rock bite while off-roading
Cons:
  • Heavier rotating weight than highway tires can reduce acceleration and fuel economy
  • More aggressive tread produces higher road noise than touring tires

Verdict A durable, severe-weather-capable all-terrain that suits Ram 3500 owners seeking a single tire for work, winter, and weekend off-road use.

Choosing the Right Ram 3500 All Terrain Tires: Key Factors to Consider

Load Rating and Ply Construction

Load rating determines how much weight each tire can safely carry and is essential for a truck like the Ram 3500 that often tows or hauls heavy loads. Choose tires with a load index and ply rating that meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer recommendations and your typical towing or payload needs. Mismatched load capacity can lead to premature wear, heat buildup, and reduced stability when loaded.

Ply construction and sidewall reinforcement affect long-term durability under heavy loads. Higher ply ratings or reinforced sidewalls reduce sidewall flex, improving stability and resistance to cuts or punctures when operating off-road or on rough surfaces.

Tread Pattern and Off-Road Traction

Tread design determines how well a tire grips loose surfaces such as gravel, mud, or sand. Deeper, more aggressive tread blocks and open voids typically improve traction in soft terrain but can increase road noise and reduce ride smoothness on pavement. For mixed use, look for tread patterns engineered to shed mud and maintain contact patches for consistent traction.

Directional and asymmetric tread elements can enhance water evacuation and improve wet-road handling. Consider how often you will be off-road versus on highway surfaces to choose a tread that balances bite and comfort.

Tread Life and Wear Warranty

Tire longevity affects total cost of ownership and convenience. Tread compounds and the overall design influence wear rates. Harder compounds and optimized tread contact areas generally yield longer tread life on paved roads, while softer compounds can offer better grip at the expense of faster wear. Review manufacturer wear ratings and warranty terms to set expectations for lifespan.

Consistent rotation, correct inflation, and alignment also play major roles in achieving expected tread life. When selecting tires, factor in how many miles you typically drive and whether you prioritize longer replacement intervals or maximum off-road performance.

Load Carrying and Towing Performance

For owners who tow trailers or carry heavy payloads, predictable handling under load is a priority. Tires designed for heavy-duty applications maintain sidewall stiffness and heat resistance to prevent performance degradation during sustained towing. Look for tires with reinforced construction and load indexes that match trailer tongue weights and the truck's payload.

Heat buildup during long hauls can accelerate wear and lead to failure in extreme cases. Tires optimized for towing usually feature compounds and constructions that dissipate heat more effectively, preserving performance on highway drives with heavy loads.

Ride Comfort and Road Noise

All terrain tires range widely in ride quality and noise levels. More aggressive tread patterns often produce louder road noise and a firmer ride, which may be tolerable for off-road utility but fatiguing on long highway trips. If you spend most miles on pavement, prioritize designs that incorporate noise-reducing features and balanced tread blocks for smoother road manners.

Comfort also depends on sidewall flex and tire construction. Heavy-duty tires can be stiffer to handle loads, so weigh the tradeoff between load-carrying ability and ride refinement based on your typical driving conditions.

Size Compatibility and Fitment

Selecting the correct tire size ensures proper speedometer readings, steering response, and clearance with the vehicle's suspension and fenders. Use the Ram 3500 recommended fitment ranges as a starting point and verify load rating within that size. Oversized tires may offer better off-road capability but can affect gearing, braking, and warranty coverage if not matched to vehicle specifications.

Also consider wheel diameter and width to maintain correct tire profile and mounting compatibility. Proper fitment reduces the risk of rubbing, premature wear, and handling compromises.

FAQ

Are all terrain tires a good choice for a Ram 3500 used for towing?

All terrain tires can be suitable if they have the appropriate load rating and reinforced construction for towing. Prioritize tires with higher load indexes and stronger sidewalls to handle sustained highway loads and heat. Confirm the tire's rated capacity matches or exceeds your typical trailer and payload weights.

How does tread life compare between all terrain and more aggressive off-road tires?

All terrain tires usually offer a compromise between grip and longevity. They often have longer tread life than very aggressive off-road or mud-terrain tires because of firmer compounds and optimized contact patches. However, actual wear depends on driving style, maintenance, and the mix of highway versus off-road use.

What tire size should I choose for my Ram 3500?

Start with the factory-recommended sizes listed for the Ram 3500 and ensure any alternative size maintains the required load rating. Consider how a different diameter or width will affect speedometer accuracy, ground clearance, and potential rubbing. When in doubt, consult a professional installer to verify fitment.

Do all terrain tires affect fuel economy on heavy-duty trucks?

Tire design can influence rolling resistance and thus fuel economy. More aggressive treads and larger diameter tires tend to increase rolling resistance and may reduce fuel efficiency slightly. For heavy-duty trucks, the impact is often secondary to vehicle load and driving conditions, but it is worth considering if fuel consumption is a priority.

How often should I inspect and rotate all terrain tires on a Ram 3500?

Regular inspections and rotations help maximize tread life and detect damage early. Check tire pressure and condition at least once a month and rotate tires according to the vehicle or tire manufacturer's recommendations, typically every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Inspections are particularly important after off-road trips or heavy towing.

How We Chose the Best Ram 3500 All Terrain Tires

We prioritized tires designed to meet the heavy-duty demands of a Ram 3500, focusing on metrics that matter for owners who tow, haul, or use their truck off-road. Key filters included minimum load rating and ply construction to ensure compatibility with high gross vehicle weights and trailer demands. We also evaluated tread compound and pattern for mixed-surface traction, assessed expected tread life from manufacturer wear warranties and design features, and considered sidewall strength and puncture resistance for off-road durability. Additional criteria included ride comfort and noise management for highway driving and documented manufacturer fitment sizes for Ram 3500 wheel options. We excluded passenger-car and light-duty SUV tires, as well as any tires not rated for heavy-duty or high-load use. Tires lacking published load indexes or with insufficient construction details were also removed from consideration. The remaining selections balance load capacity, tread longevity, and all-terrain traction for Ram 3500 duty cycles.

Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.

Conclusion

Choosing the right all terrain tires for a Ram 3500 means balancing load capacity, tread life, and off-road traction. Prioritize tires with load ratings and construction that match your towing and payload needs, then weigh how much off-road performance you require against ride comfort and noise. Keep in mind the tradeoffs between aggressive tread for traction and firmer compounds for longevity. Regular maintenance, correct inflation, and proper fitment will help you get the expected performance and service life from your chosen tires.

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Mike - Certified Professional Automotive Mechanic

About the Author: Mike

Mike is an experienced professional automotive mechanic with hands-on experience maintaining and repairing a wide range of vehicles. At VehicleRuns, he focuses on helping car owners make better decisions about parts, tools, and repairs by combining real-world experience with clear, practical guidance.