A strong 255/55R18 all-terrain tire balances dependable road manners with the grip and construction needed for gravel, dirt, or occasional off-pavement driving. BFGoodrich KO2 is the most capable all-around match here for buyers who prioritize rugged terrain and winter traction, while crossover drivers may prefer the road-focused Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail. The lineup also includes a hybrid-tread Nitto, a tire with explicit wet-traction design features, and 3PMSF-certified Travelstar sets.
Before choosing, confirm your vehicle’s required tire size and load rating, then decide how much winter or off-road capability you need. These are not identical choices: some are sold individually, while the Travelstar and Venom listings specify sets, so check the listing configuration before ordering.
The BFGoodrich KO2 leads this group for drivers who want a distinctly rugged all-terrain tire with year-round traction credentials. Its listed features include Core Gard sidewall technology, an interlocking tread design, and severe-winter-rated three-peak mountain snowflake status. The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is a compelling alternative for CUV and smaller-SUV drivers who spend more time on pavement, with a crossover-specific construction and a 65,000-mile limited tread life warranty.
Choose between them based on your vehicle, driving mix, and required tire specifications.
Our Top Picks

Its all-terrain design targets mud, dirt, snow, sand, and rocks, and the listed severe-winter-rated three-peak mountain snowflake status adds useful winter credentials.
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Best CUV FitDesigned for CUVs and smaller SUVs, it pairs on- and off-road use with a crossover-specific construction and a 65,000-mile limited tread life warranty.
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Best Hybrid TreadIts hybrid tread combines staggered shoulder lugs for off-road grip with variable pitch blocks intended to support quieter, more comfortable road driving.
View on Amazon- Snow-Certified Set Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of Four
Compare the 255/55R18 All-Terrain Options
| # | Product | Size | Rim Size | Load Capacity | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. BFGoodrich KO2Best Overall | LT255/55R18/D 109/105R | 18 in | 2270 lb | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Falken Wildpeak A/T TrailBest CUV Fit | 255/55R18 | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Nitto Ridge GrapplerBest Hybrid Tread | 255/55R18 109T XL | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Gripmax MaxGrip A/TMixed-terrain SUV and truck drivers | 255/55R18 | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/AQuiet everyday paved-road commuters | 255/55R18/XL 109H | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of FourSnow-Certified Set | 255/55R18 | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Venom Power Trail Hunter ATSFour-tire loose-terrain replacement set | 255/55R18 | 18 in | 2535 lb | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of TwoTwo-tire replacement for everyday SUVs | 255/55R18 | 18 in | 2271 lb | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best 255 55 R18 All Terrain

#1 · Best Overall
1. BFGoodrich KO2
- Size: LT255/55R18/D 109/105R
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2270 lb
Best for: Year-round off-road and snow use.
Why it ranks #1: Its all-terrain design targets mud, dirt, snow, sand, and rocks, and the listed severe-winter-rated three-peak mountain snowflake status adds useful winter credentials.
Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake status is the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2’s defining edge, giving drivers of 4x4s, light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers a tire with stated year-round traction even in snow. Its all-terrain brief also spans mud, dirt, sand, and rocks, so it suits varied routes beyond paved roads.
BFGoodrich identifies the KO2 for mud, dirt, snow, sand, and rocks, giving drivers a single all-terrain option for varied surfaces. Its severe-winter rating and Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake branding make the snow capability explicit rather than leaving winter use implied. The listing also cites Core Gard Technology and 20% tougher sidewalls, intended to help handle road hazards. Its LT255/55R18/D specification and 18-inch rim size define the fit, while rims are not included.
- Severe-winter rated with Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake status.
- Listed for traction in mud, dirt, snow, sand, and rocks.
- Core Gard Technology supports sidewall toughness.
- Intended for 4x4s, light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers.
- Its LT255/55R18/D designation differs from the standard 255/55R18 sizing on several options here.
Skip it if you need the standard 255/55R18 designation; the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail lists that size directly.
The KO2 fits drivers who need one tire for varied off-road surfaces and stated severe-winter capability. Choose it only if its LT255/55R18/D designation matches your vehicle requirements; the listing also specifies that rims are not included.
Full product details
| Brand | BFGoodrich |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Rims not included |
| Item Dimensions | 29 x 10.4 x 29 inches |
| Item Weight | 44.6 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2270 pounds |
| Manufacturer | BFGoodrich |
| Part Number | 04785 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 6 Year limited warranty |
| Model Number | 04785 |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | LT255/55R18/D 109/105R |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 Radial Car Tire for Light Trucks, SUVs, and Crossovers, LT255/55R18/D 109/105R
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#2 · Best CUV Fit
2. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail
- Size: 255/55R18
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: CUV drivers facing winter roads.
Why it ranks #2: Designed for CUVs and smaller SUVs, it pairs on- and off-road use with a crossover-specific construction and a 65,000-mile limited tread life warranty.
Falken’s 3D Canyon Sipe Technology, paired with increased tread depth, gives the Wildpeak A/T Trail a stated winter-traction advantage over a traditional all-season tire. Sized 255/55R18 and aimed at CUVs and smaller SUVs, it suits drivers who want one tire for on-road travel and occasional off-road routes.
The CUV- and smaller-SUV focus makes the Wildpeak A/T Trail relevant to drivers who split time between everyday roads and off-pavement travel. Its 3D Canyon Sipe Technology and increased tread depth are specifically tied to more winter traction than a traditional all-season tire, helping address cold-season conditions. Crossover-specific construction is intended to match a CUV’s higher center of gravity and unibody construction for handling. A 65,000-mile limited tread-life warranty is listed; the tire is 255/55R18.
- 3D Canyon Sipe Technology supports winter traction.
- Increased tread depth is specified for added winter traction.
- Crossover-specific construction addresses CUV characteristics.
- Listed for on- and off-road use on CUVs and smaller SUVs.
- Its stated vehicle focus is CUVs and smaller SUVs, not a broad truck-specific application.
Skip it if you need a tire specifically positioned for light trucks; the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 explicitly covers light trucks and 4x4s.
The Wildpeak A/T Trail suits CUV and smaller-SUV drivers wanting 255/55R18 fitment, on/off-road use, and a stated winter-traction upgrade. Its crossover focus is the boundary; check that this application matches your vehicle.
Full product details
| Brand | FALKEN |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 28.9 x 10.5 x 28.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 31 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Falken Tire |
| Part Number | 28712845 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 000 Mile Treadwear Warranty, 65 |
| Model Number | 28712845 |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail 255/55R18 109V XL All Terrain Light Truck Tire
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#3 · Best Hybrid Tread
3. Nitto Ridge Grappler
- Size: 255/55R18 109T XL
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: Off-road drivers concerned about stones.
Why it ranks #3: Its hybrid tread combines staggered shoulder lugs for off-road grip with variable pitch blocks intended to support quieter, more comfortable road driving.
Stone ejectors give the Nitto Ridge Grappler a concrete off-road detail: they help protect the tire from stone drilling. Reinforced block foundations reduce tread flex, while staggered shoulder lugs enhance off-road grip, making this 255/55R18 XL tire relevant to drivers mixing road use with rougher routes.
The Ridge Grappler’s reinforced block foundation reduces tread flex, supporting tread stability as the tire encounters varied surfaces. Stone ejectors address stone drilling, a specific concern on rocky routes, while staggered shoulder lugs enhance off-road grip. Its hybrid tread design and variable-pitch pattern are described as supporting quiet, comfortable road rides, giving the tire a road-use dimension alongside its off-road features. The listing specifies 255/55R18 109T XL, with an 18-inch rim size.
- Reinforced block foundation reduces tread flex.
- Stone ejectors protect against stone drilling.
- Staggered shoulder lugs enhance off-road grip.
- Variable-pitch tread pattern supports quieter, comfortable road rides.
- The listed speed rating is T, rather than the V rating on the Travelstar Ecopath ATX.
Skip it if you require a V speed rating; the Travelstar Ecopath ATX lists 109V, unlike this tire’s 109T specification.
The Ridge Grappler suits drivers who encounter rocky off-road routes but still value a quieter road ride. Its 255/55R18 XL fit and 109T rating are important boundaries to check against your vehicle’s requirements.
Full product details
| Brand | Nitto |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire |
| Item Dimensions | 30 x 30 x 11 inches |
| Item Weight | 39 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Nitto |
| Part Number | 217850 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | MANUFACTURE WARRANTY |
| Model Number | 217850 |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 109T XL |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: NITTO 255/55R18 109T XL NITTO RIDGE GRAPPLER BW
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#4
4. Gripmax MaxGrip A/T
- Size: 255/55R18
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: Mixed-terrain SUV and truck drivers.
Why it ranks #4: An aggressive all-terrain tread targets dirt and gravel, while wide water-evacuation grooves and reinforced shoulder blocks address wet traction and stability.
Aggressive all-terrain tread gives the Gripmax MaxGrip A/T its clearest advantage: added grip on dirt, gravel, and mixed surfaces for SUV and light-truck drivers who leave pavement. Wide grooves also help move water away from the tread, extending its focus to wet-road traction in the same 255/55R18 size.
The aggressive tread pattern targets grip across dirt, gravel, and mixed terrain, making this tire relevant for routes that alternate between pavement and rougher surfaces. Wide grooves evacuate water to improve wet traction and reduce hydroplaning risk, a practical feature for rain-soaked roads. Reinforced shoulder blocks add durability and cornering stability, supporting more composed handling through turns. Its 255/55R18 size and 18-inch rim specification identify the fit category, while the listing specifies a tire only.
- Aggressive tread aims to improve grip on dirt and gravel.
- Wide grooves help evacuate water for wet traction.
- Tread is intended for mixed-terrain use.
- Reinforced shoulder blocks support durability and cornering stability.
- The manufacturer warranty description is listed as none.
Skip it if you need documented manufacturer warranty coverage; the listed warranty description for this tire is none.
Choose the Gripmax MaxGrip A/T if your SUV or light truck regularly moves between pavement, gravel, and dirt, and wet-road grooves matter. Its 255/55R18 specification is the key fit boundary, and listed warranty coverage is none.
Full product details
| Brand | GRIPMAX |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 27 x 27 x 8 inches |
| Item Weight | 48.8 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Gripmax |
| Part Number | GAT077 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | No |
| Model Number | GAT077 |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: Gripmax MaxGrip A/T 255/55R18XL 109H Light Truck & SUV Tire
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#5
5. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A
- Size: 255/55R18/XL 109H
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: Quiet everyday paved-road commuters.
Why it ranks #5: This road-worthy, adventure-ready option lists a 60,000-mile treadwear limited warranty and full-depth 3-D locking sipes for tread block stability.
Closed lateral grooves are the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A’s practical differentiator, supporting a quieter on-road ride for drivers who use a 255/55R18 SUV or crossover tire day to day. Its stated paved-and-unpaved capability keeps occasional gravel or dirt routes in scope, without losing sight of everyday comfort.
An optimized footprint with Full-Depth 3-D Locking Sipes supports tread-block stability and even wear, linking its construction to longer tread life. Closed lateral grooves are specifically associated with a quieter on-road ride, a useful fit for daily driving. BFGoodrich also describes the tire as durable on paved and unpaved roads, giving it a moderate all-terrain role. The 255/55R18/XL 109H specification and 60,000-mile treadwear limited warranty are listed for this tire.
- Closed lateral grooves support a quieter on-road ride.
- Full-Depth 3-D Locking Sipes support tread-block stability.
- Optimized footprint is associated with even wear and longer tread life.
- Listed for paved and unpaved roads.
- The listing describes paved and unpaved-road use, not a specific severe-terrain capability.
Skip it if you want specifically described traction for mud, sand, or rocks; the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 names those surfaces.
This Trail-Terrain T/A suits SUV, crossover, or light-truck drivers prioritizing a quiet daily ride with occasional unpaved-road use. Its listed focus is paved and unpaved travel, so buyers seeking explicitly severe-terrain traction should look elsewhere.
Full product details
| Brand | BFGoodrich |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Rims not included |
| Item Dimensions | 29 x 10.04 x 29 inches |
| Item Weight | 32.6 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Michelin |
| Part Number | 39545 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 6 Years Standard Limited Warranty, 60,000 Miles Manufacturer's Treadwear Limited Warranty |
| Model Number | 39545 |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18/XL 109H |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A On and Off-Road Tire for Light Trucks, SUVs, and Crossovers, 255/55R18/XL 109H
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#6 · Snow-Certified Set
6. Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of Four
- Size: 255/55R18
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: Road-focused snowy-season SUV use.
Why it ranks #6: The four-tire set is listed as 3PMSF certified and tuned for road-focused SUV and CUV use, with capability for highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces.
Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification gives the Travelstar Ecopath ATX a clear snow-use credential while its road-focused tuning favors everyday SUV and CUV driving. This listing supplies four 255/55R18 tires, a practical choice for buyers replacing a full set and seeking capability on highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces.
The Ecopath ATX balances highway use with gravel, dirt, and light off-road capability, making its stated range better suited to mixed everyday routes than a dedicated rough-terrain focus. Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification identifies its snow-performance qualification, while the listing also describes responsive handling from distinctive tread blocks. Its 255/55R18 size and 109V XL designation define the tire specification. Because this product is sold as a set of four, it supports replacing a complete set in one purchase.
- Set includes four tires.
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for snow performance.
- Listed for highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces.
- Road-focused tuning suits everyday SUV and CUV use.
- Its stated off-road scope is light off-road, not more demanding terrain.
Skip it if you regularly tackle demanding off-road terrain; the Nitto Ridge Grappler lists staggered shoulder lugs for enhanced off-road grip.
Pick this four-tire set for an SUV or CUV used mainly on roads, with gravel, dirt, and snow in the mix. Its stated off-road scope is light-duty, so it is not the match for demanding terrain.
Full product details
| Brand | TRAVELSTAR |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Travelstar |
| Part Number | TSATX010-A4S |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3-Year Road Hazzard Warranty |
| Model Number | TSATX010-A4S |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: Set of 4 Travelstar Ecopath ATX 255/55R18 109V XL All-Terrain 3PMSF Tires
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#7
7. Venom Power Trail Hunter ATS
- Size: 255/55R18
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2535 lb
Best for: Four-tire loose-terrain replacement set.
Why it ranks #7: This all-season light-truck and SUV tire is listed in 255/55R18 with a 113V XL load range, but the supplied details offer fewer specific feature comparisons.
A set of four tires with a 113V rating and XL load range makes the Venom Power Trail Hunter ATS a complete-set option for light trucks and SUVs seeking all-terrain coverage. Its tread is described as improving traction on soft, loose, and uneven surfaces, directing its appeal toward drivers who venture beyond smooth pavement.
The Trail Hunter ATS is identified as an all-terrain, all-season tire for light trucks and SUVs, supporting use across more than one season and vehicle category. Its tread design is described as improving traction on soft, loose, and uneven terrain, while shoulder elements further upgrade off-road traction. The listing supplies four tires in 255/55R18, with XL load range and a 113V rating. That set quantity can simplify replacing all four tires together, subject to vehicle fit requirements.
- Listing supplies a set of four tires.
- All-season designation suits use across seasons.
- Tread design targets soft, loose, and uneven terrain.
- XL load range and 113V rating are specified.
- The supplied details emphasize off-road traction rather than a road-comfort feature.
Skip it if you prioritize a specifically described quiet daily-road ride; the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A lists comfort and quiet operation.
Consider this four-tire set if your light truck or SUV needs 255/55R18 all-terrain coverage for soft or uneven routes. Its stated emphasis is traction off pavement, so drivers prioritizing a specifically documented quiet ride may prefer another option.
Full product details
| Brand | VENOM POWER |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire Only |
| Item Dimensions | 27 x 27 x 8 inches |
| Item Weight | 140 pounds |
| Load Capacity | 2535 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Venom Power |
| Part Number | VPTHATS08A |
| Model Number | VPTHATS08A |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: Set of 4 (FOUR) Venom Power Trail Hunter ATS A/T Truck/SUV All-Terrain Off-Road Radial Tires-255/55R18 255/55/18 255/55-18 113V Load Range XL 4-Ply BSW Black Side Wall
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#8
8. Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of Two
- Size: 255/55R18
- Rim Size: 18 in
- Load Capacity: 2271 lb
Best for: Two-tire replacement for everyday SUVs.
Why it ranks #8: It shares the road-focused all-terrain design and 3PMSF certification of the four-tire listing, but this configuration specifies a set of two.
The Travelstar Ecopath ATX listing supplies two 255/55R18 tires, suiting buyers replacing part of a set rather than sourcing four at once. Its road-focused all-terrain tread targets everyday SUV and CUV driving across highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces, with Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for snow performance.
The ATX’s road-focused tuning connects its all-terrain capability to everyday SUV and CUV use, while the stated range includes highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces. Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification gives buyers a specific snow-performance qualification to consider. Distinctive tread blocks are described as supporting responsive handling. This listing is for two tires in 255/55R18 with a 109V XL designation, making the quantity useful for a two-tire replacement rather than a complete four-tire set.
- Listing supplies two tires for a partial-set replacement.
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for snow performance.
- Road-focused for everyday SUV and CUV use.
- Listed for highways, gravel, dirt, and light off-road surfaces.
- Two tires do not provide the complete four-tire set listed with the Ecopath ATX alternative.
Skip it if you need four tires at once; the Travelstar Ecopath ATX set-of-four listing covers a complete replacement set.
Choose this two-tire listing when replacing a pair on an SUV or CUV and prioritizing everyday road use, snow certification, and light off-pavement capability. It does not supply a complete four-tire set.
Full product details
| Brand | TRAVELSTAR |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Tire |
| Load Capacity | 2271 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Travelstar |
| Part Number | TSATX010 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3-Year Road Hazzard Warranty |
| Model Number | TSATX010-A2S |
| Rim Size | 18 inches |
| Size | 255/55R18 |
| Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description | 255/55R18 |
Listed on Amazon as: Set of 2 Travelstar Ecopath ATX 255/55R18 109V XL All-Terrain 3PMSF Tires
View on AmazonAvoid a fitment mismatch before ordering
A matching 255/55R18 size alone does not confirm that a tire is suitable for your vehicle; check the required load and construction specifications too. The listings include 109H or 109V XL options, the KO2’s LT255/55R18/D 109/105R designation, and the Venom Power Trail Hunter ATS’s 113V XL rating. These designations are not interchangeable just because the nominal size matches.
Compare the complete sidewall specification with your vehicle placard or owner’s manual, and confirm any vehicle-specific requirements with a qualified tire professional. Also check how many tires the listing includes: the Travelstar products are explicitly sets of four and two, while several other listings describe a tire only.
Ordering the wrong quantity or a tire with an unsuitable load specification can leave you with an incomplete or incompatible replacement, even when the size looks right.
Match tread ambition to your real routes
A more aggressive all-terrain pattern is not automatically the best choice for a vehicle that spends nearly all its time on pavement. The KO2 and Gripmax listings emphasize rough-terrain grip, while Nitto’s Ridge Grappler combines off-road-oriented shoulder lugs with a variable-pitch design intended to support on-road comfort. At the more road-focused end, the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is designed for CUVs and smaller SUVs, and the Travelstar Ecopath ATX is tuned for everyday SUV and CUV use with light off-road capability.
The trade-off is practical: choose around the surfaces you actually encounter, rather than assuming the most rugged-looking tread suits every commute. For frequent mud, rocks, or loose ground, prioritize the products with explicit off-road features.
For mostly paved driving with occasional gravel, the crossover-oriented options may better fit the stated use case.
How to Choose a 255/55R18 All-Terrain Tire
Vehicle fit and load rating
Look beyond the 255/55R18 size and match the full tire designation and load requirement to your vehicle. Most listings specify a 109 load index, with listed load capacity of 2,270 or 2,271 pounds; the Venom Power Trail Hunter ATS is listed as 113V XL with a 2,535-pound capacity. The KO2 is an LT255/55R18/D 109/105R tire, a different construction designation from the 109H or 109V XL options.
Those differences matter when replacing tires, so use the vehicle placard or owner’s manual as the reference rather than assuming a higher number is automatically appropriate. Buyers needing the particular LT/D specification should examine the KO2; those whose vehicle requires 113V XL should check the Venom listing.
Winter credentials
If snow performance matters, prioritize an explicit winter credential instead of relying on the all-terrain label alone. The BFGoodrich KO2 is listed as severe-winter-rated with three-peak mountain snowflake status, and both Travelstar Ecopath ATX listings specify 3PMSF certification. Falken describes its Wildpeak A/T Trail as offering more winter traction than a traditional all-season tire, but the supplied listing does not state 3PMSF certification.
These details help separate stated credentials from general winter-oriented claims. Drivers who regularly encounter snow can focus first on the KO2 or Travelstar’s explicit markings, while someone seeking a crossover-oriented tire with additional winter traction may consider the Falken.
A snow symbol does not replace checking local requirements or adapting driving to road conditions.
Driving mix and tread design
Choose a tread and construction that suit the balance of paved and unpaved driving you expect. The KO2 and Gripmax describe aggressive all-terrain tread features for rougher surfaces; Gripmax also lists wide grooves for water evacuation. Nitto’s Ridge Grappler uses staggered shoulder lugs and a variable-pitch tread, while the Falken is specifically designed for CUVs and smaller SUVs.
The BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A emphasizes everyday comfort and quiet operation, including closed lateral grooves. At the road-focused end, Travelstar describes the Ecopath ATX as suited to highway, gravel, dirt, and light off-road use.
Frequent off-road drivers may favor the more terrain-focused patterns; daily drivers with occasional unpaved routes may prefer the crossover or road-oriented options.
Which 255/55R18 All-Terrain Tire Should I Choose?
For a rugged, winter-capable all-terrain choice, start with the BFGoodrich KO2: its listed terrain range includes mud, dirt, snow, sand, and rocks, and it carries severe-winter-rated three-peak mountain snowflake status. If your SUV or CUV is mostly driven on pavement, the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is designed specifically for CUVs and smaller SUVs and includes a 65,000-mile limited tread life warranty. Choose the Nitto Ridge Grappler for its combination of staggered off-road shoulder lugs and a road-comfort-oriented variable-pitch tread.
The Gripmax MaxGrip A/T highlights dirt and gravel traction plus water-evacuation grooves. For a certified 3PMSF set, consider Travelstar Ecopath ATX Set of Four; select the two-tire version only when that quantity suits your replacement plan.
Always confirm the complete required tire designation before ordering.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm that 255/55R18 tires will fit my vehicle?
Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual, tire-information placard, or current tire sidewall for the approved size and required load and speed ratings. Confirm that the complete tire specifications match your vehicle’s requirements, and consult a tire professional if they differ. A matching size alone does not confirm fitment.
Do all-terrain tires need to be replaced in pairs or as a full set?
Replace tires in the quantity your vehicle and replacement plan require. Matching tires across an axle or all four positions may matter, especially on vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive. Check your owner’s manual for replacement guidance, and verify that a two-tire or four-tire listing provides the quantity you need.
What does the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol mean for winter driving?
The three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol identifies a tire that meets a defined severe-snow traction performance requirement. It does not guarantee performance in every winter condition or replace careful driving. If winter capability matters, confirm the symbol on the specific tire listing and consider your local road and weather conditions.
How should I choose between the BFGoodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail?
Choose the BFGoodrich KO2 if you want a more rugged all-terrain option with listed terrain coverage and severe-winter-rated 3PMSF status. The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is designed for CUVs and smaller SUVs and suits drivers who spend more time on pavement. Match the choice to your vehicle and driving mix.
Should I order a two-tire or four-tire set?
Choose the two-tire Travelstar Ecopath ATX listing only if two tires suit your replacement plan and your vehicle’s guidance. Choose the four-tire set when you need four matching tires. Before ordering either listing, confirm the vehicle’s approved size and required tire specifications, including load and speed ratings.
Final Words
For a rugged all-terrain choice with severe-winter-rated 3PMSF status, start with the BFGoodrich KO2. If your CUV or smaller SUV spends more time on pavement, consider the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail. The Nitto emphasizes off-road shoulder lugs and a road-comfort-oriented tread, while the Gripmax highlights dirt and gravel traction.
Before choosing, confirm fitment and required specifications, then select a set quantity that matches your replacement plan.

