LIGHT TRUCK TIRE TYPES
(LT) Light truck tires can come in the same size, series and tread design and their P-Metric counterparts. The only differences are built for heavier vehicles and heavier loads meaning their Load Rating are much higher. Because LT tires are built for heavy vehicles, their stiffness can give a passenger vehicle a harsh ride, and since they require higher tire pressure, they can throw off your vehicle’s TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System, a safety feature that alerts you to improper pressure in your tires).
LT tires also the tire type for off-road enthusiasts, because their extra-durable carcass provides more puncture resistance, which gives a much-needed boost in confidence when leaving the road behind.
There are light truck tire types that will meet your needs wherever you drive. These tires are divided up by the different uses of the vehicle, so you may benefit from a more aggressive tire for harsher road conditions or a smoother, longer lasting tread for highway driving.
HIGHWAY
The ahighway tire is designed to deliver good comfort and handling on the highway, as well as reliable all-season traction. It generally features a symmetrical tread pattern and circumferential grooves for good wet weather grip.
ALL-TERRAIN
All-terrain, or AT tires generally have an aggressive tread pattern containing larger tread blocks and more voids to provide traction in off-road driving conditions. Many people enjoy all-terrain tires because they have a more aggressive look with minimal sacrifice in noise, comfort, or longevity.
Most AT tires achieve this off-road traction with little to no on-road discomfort and provide highway stability. AT tires are designed to handle gravel, sand, and light mud and often feature the Mountain Snowflake Symbol.
MUD-TERRAIN
Mud-terrain, or MT tires feature extremely aggressive tread patterns with larger tread blocks and even more voids than AT tires. This pattern allows for more traction in soft terrains like deep mud and sand, while giving the tire a more rugged appearance.
The sidewalls are reinforced to resist punctures, abrasions, and tears that commonly occur when driving off-road. Mud-terrain tires are generally less comfortable on roads, and tend to be noisier than less aggressive tires. They are best for vehicles that see regular off-road driving, off-road enthusiasts, or those looking for an off-road appearance.