5 Best Tires for Towing

Choosing the right tire for towing can be a daunting task. With numerous options on the market, all claiming to offer the best combination of durability, traction, and comfort, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

To make the process easier, we’ve reviewed five top-rated tires for towing, ranging from premium to budget-friendly options. Whether you’re towing a heavy trailer or hauling equipment, finding the right tire is key to ensuring safety, performance, and value for your investment.

• The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 offers exceptional performance in all conditions, making it a premium choice for those who want the best towing experience.
• The Continental TerrainContact H/T provides a balanced mix of performance and value.
• The Vredestein Pinza HT impresses with its dependable traction and comfort in the mid-priced category.
• For those needing a durable, mid-range option, the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT delivers reliable all-season towing capabilities.
• The General Grabber HTS 60 stands out as the budget-friendly pick, offering solid performance without a premium price tag.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the features, strengths, and weaknesses of each tire, helping you find the perfect match for your towing needs and budget.

Side-By-Side Comparison

Price Comparison

Offroad Performance

Wet Performance

Dry Performance

Winter/Snow Performance

Comfort Performance

Treadwear Performance

Load Range Calculator

Michelin Defender LTX M/S2

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Customer Rating

Overall Rating

9.1 of 10

Wet Weather

9.3 of 10

Winter Weather

8.7 of 10

All Terrain

8.0 of 10

Tread Wear

9.7 of 10

Dry Weather

9.7 of 10

Ride Comfort

9.4 of 10

UTQG

Uniform Tire Quality Grade

UTQG Treadwear Rating: 820

UTQG Traction Rating: B

UTQG Temperature Rating: A

Mileage Warranty

6 Years / 70,000 Miles

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Key Performance Metrics

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 stands out as a top performer, delivering exceptional towing performance across multiple key areas. It provides outstanding dry traction, ensuring superior control and handling when towing heavy loads. This premium tire also offers excellent wet traction, giving you confidence in rainy conditions and enhancing overall stability. Additionally, its high ride quality reduces driver fatigue, making it an ideal choice for long hauls.

Key Strengths

• Dry Traction: 9.6 rating, providing exceptional grip and stability on dry roads.
• Wet Traction: 9.3 rating, offering reliable performance and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
• Treadwear: 9.4 rating, indicating excellent durability for long-term use.
• Comfort: 9.3 overall rating, combining ride quality (9.4) and noise control (9.2) for a smooth towing experience.

Overall Performance

When comparing the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 to other tires in this list, it excels in multiple performance metrics:

• Dry Traction: At a 9.6 rating, it outperforms other high-rated tires like the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.4) and Vredestein Pinza HT (9.4).
• Wet Traction: With a 9.3 rating, it matches the high standards set by top performers, ensuring safety during wet conditions.
• Winter Performance: Rated 8.5, it handles light to moderate winter conditions well, making it versatile for year-round towing.
• Comfort: Offering a superb balance between ride quality (9.4) and noise reduction (9.2), the Defender LTX M/S2 provides a more comfortable towing experience than most.
• Treadwear: 9.4 rating, ensuring long-lasting durability, especially for frequent towers.

Common Problems

Despite its strong overall performance, a few recurring concerns have been noted by users:

• Winter Performance: While it performs well in light snow, it may not be the best choice for severe winter conditions, particularly in deep snow or icy environments.
• Price Point: As a premium-priced tire, it may not fit every budget, but its performance often justifies the higher cost.

Value Analysis

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 delivers premium performance and longevity, making it a strong option for serious towing needs:

• Treadwear: With an impressive 9.4 treadwear rating, it offers long-term value, rivaling other premium options.
• Cost Justification: While it sits at the higher end of the price range, its performance metrics align with its premium status, making it a valuable choice for those who prioritize top-tier towing capability.

Bottom Line

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 offers outstanding towing performance, excelling in dry and wet conditions with a high comfort level for long trips. While its winter performance may not match dedicated winter tires, it still provides reliable traction in light to moderate winter weather. Overall, its combination of treadwear, performance, and comfort makes it an excellent premium choice for those seeking long-term value.

Continental TerrainContact H/T

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Customer Rating

Overall Rating

8.9 of 10

Wet Weather

9.2 of 10

Winter Weather

8.3 of 10

All Terrain

8.2 of 10

Tread Wear

9.0 of 10

Dry Weather

9.3 of 10

Ride Comfort

9.1 of 10

UTQG

Uniform Tire Quality Grade

UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800

UTQG Traction Rating: A

UTQG Temperature Rating: B

Mileage Warranty

6 Years / 70,000 Miles

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Key Performance Metrics

The Continental TerrainContact H/T is an excellent option in the average-priced category, offering a balanced mix of performance and value for towing applications. Its reliable dry traction and responsive steering ensure steady handling, which is crucial when hauling heavy loads. Additionally, its wet traction capabilities minimize the risk of slipping in rainy conditions, providing extra confidence while towing. The tire’s high comfort scores make it well-suited for long towing journeys, while its good off-road performance means it’s versatile enough for use on unpaved roads or job sites.

Key Strengths

• Dry Traction: 9.4 rating, ensuring solid grip and stable handling on dry roads.
• Wet Traction: 9.2 rating, offering reliable performance and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
• Treadwear: 9.1 rating, indicating excellent durability for frequent towing use.
• Comfort: 9.1 overall rating, balancing ride quality (9.3) and noise control (9.1) for a comfortable towing experience.

Overall Performance

When comparing the Continental TerrainContact H/T to other tires in this list, it delivers consistent performance across various key metrics:

• Dry Traction: At a 9.4 rating, it performs on par with other high-rated tires like the Vredestein Pinza HT (9.4) and slightly below the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.6).
• Wet Traction: With a 9.2 rating, it provides reliable performance, closely following the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3).
• Winter Performance: Rated 8.2, it offers adequate handling in light winter conditions but isn’t designed for more severe weather.
• Comfort: Its overall rating of 9.1 ensures a comfortable ride, comparable to the Vredestein Pinza HT (9.2) and Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3).
• Treadwear: 9.1 rating, which ensures a durable option for those who tow frequently.

Common Problems

While the Continental TerrainContact H/T performs well overall, some users have noted a few concerns:

• Winter Performance: Similar to other all-season tires, it struggles in severe winter conditions, particularly in deep snow or on ice. Its rating of 8.2 makes it suitable for light winter weather but not the best choice for heavy snow environments.
• Off-Road Traction: While its off-road performance is good, scoring 8.2, it may not be the top pick for those who frequently tow on challenging terrains like mud or loose sand.

Value Analysis

The Continental TerrainContact H/T offers a compelling mix of performance and affordability:

• Treadwear: With a 9.1 treadwear rating, it promises long-lasting use, providing excellent value within the average price range.
• Cost Justification: As a mid-priced option, its reliable performance in both dry and wet conditions aligns with its price point, making it an attractive choice for those who seek balanced capabilities without opting for premium-priced tires.

Bottom Line

The Continental TerrainContact H/T is a versatile tire offering solid towing performance in both dry and wet conditions. While it may not excel in severe winter weather or extreme off-road scenarios, it provides a comfortable and durable towing experience. Its combination of performance and affordability makes it a reliable choice for those needing a capable, mid-tier option for their towing needs.

Vredestein Pinza HT

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Customer Rating

Overall Rating

8.7 of 10

Wet Weather

9.0 of 10

Winter Weather

7.8 of 10

All Terrain

8.0 of 10

Tread Wear

9.0 of 10

Dry Weather

9.1 of 10

Ride Comfort

9.2 of 10

UTQG

Uniform Tire Quality Grade

UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700

UTQG Traction Rating: A

UTQG Temperature Rating: A

Mileage Warranty

8 Years from production / 70,000 Miles

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Key Performance Metrics

The Vredestein Pinza HT is another excellent option in the average-priced category, providing dependable performance for towing. Its solid dry traction and reliable steering response make it well-suited for hauling heavy loads. The tire’s wet traction is particularly impressive, ensuring a safe towing experience in rainy conditions. Additionally, its ride quality and low noise levels contribute to a comfortable and fatigue-free towing experience, even on long trips. With good treadwear, the Pinza HT promises durability and longevity, making it a great choice for frequent towers.

Key Strengths

• Dry Traction: 9.4 rating, providing strong grip and stability on dry roads.
• Wet Traction: 9.1 rating, offering excellent hydroplaning resistance and traction in wet conditions.
• Treadwear: 9.0 rating, indicating long-term durability for regular towing use.
• Comfort: 9.2 overall rating, combining ride quality (9.2) and noise control (9.1) for a smooth towing experience.

Overall Performance

When comparing the Vredestein Pinza HT to other tires on this list, it offers well-rounded performance across various metrics:

• Dry Traction: At a 9.4 rating, it is on par with the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.4) and just a step behind the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.6).
• Wet Traction: With a 9.1 rating, it ensures safety during wet conditions, closely matching other top performers like the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.2).
• Winter Performance: Rated 8.2, it provides reliable performance in light winter conditions, similar to the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT.
• Comfort: Its overall rating of 9.2 places it ahead of several competitors, delivering a smooth and quiet towing experience.
• Treadwear: 9.0 rating, which promises good durability, though slightly less than the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.4).

Common Problems

While the Vredestein Pinza HT generally performs well, some users have mentioned a few areas of concern:

• Winter Performance: Although adequate for light snow, its 8.2 rating indicates that it might struggle in more severe winter conditions, making it less ideal for those towing in heavy snow or ice.
• Off-Road Capabilities: Despite having good off-road traction (8.2 overall), its performance in mud (7.9) and sand (8.0) might not be sufficient for challenging terrains, which could be a limitation for some users.

Value Analysis

The Vredestein Pinza HT offers a compelling blend of performance and durability at an average price point:

• Treadwear: With a 9.0 treadwear rating, it offers good long-term value for regular towing, though it doesn’t quite match the premium-tier options.
• Cost Justification: Its consistent performance across various metrics aligns with its mid-tier pricing, making it a solid choice for those who want reliable towing capabilities without paying a premium.

Bottom Line

The Vredestein Pinza HT provides reliable performance in dry and wet conditions, with a comfortable and quiet ride that’s ideal for long towing journeys. While it may not be the best option for severe winter weather or extreme off-road use, it offers excellent value for those looking for a balanced, mid-priced tire that can handle everyday towing needs effectively.

Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT

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Customer Rating

Overall Rating

8.9 of 10

Wet Weather

9.1 of 10

Winter Weather

8.3 of 10

All Terrain

8.3 of 10

Tread Wear

9.3 of 10

Dry Weather

9.4 of 10

Ride Comfort

9.2 of 10

UTQG

Uniform Tire Quality Grade

UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640

UTQG Traction Rating: A

UTQG Temperature Rating: B

Mileage Warranty

6 Years / 60,000 Miles

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Key Performance Metrics

The Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT is another strong contender in the average-priced category, designed for those needing a reliable, heavy-duty towing tire. Its robust dry traction and stable handling provide excellent control when towing, while its dependable wet traction ensures you can tow confidently in rainy weather. The tire also performs well in light snow conditions, making it suitable for varying climates. High comfort ratings make it a pleasant choice for long trips, ensuring reduced driver fatigue during extended towing journeys.

Key Strengths

• Dry Traction: 9.3 rating, offering solid grip and stability on dry roads.
• Wet Traction: 9.0 rating, providing reliable performance and hydroplaning resistance in rainy conditions.
• Treadwear: 9.0 rating, indicating durable performance for regular towing use.
• Comfort: 8.9 overall rating, balancing ride quality (8.9) and noise control (8.9) for a comfortable towing experience.

Overall Performance

When comparing the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT to other tires on this list, it holds its own with consistent performance across various metrics:

• Dry Traction: At a 9.3 rating, it performs similarly to the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.4) and Vredestein Pinza HT (9.4), providing dependable handling.
• Wet Traction: With a 9.0 rating, it ensures safe towing in wet conditions, just slightly behind the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.2) and Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3).
• Winter Performance: Rated 8.2, it offers reliable traction in light snow, making it versatile enough for different climates.
• Comfort: Its overall rating of 8.9 provides a smooth and quiet ride, although it falls a bit short of the Vredestein Pinza HT (9.2) and Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3).
• Treadwear: 9.0 rating, promising durability for frequent towing, comparable to the Vredestein Pinza HT.

Common Problems

Although the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT performs well, a few issues have been noted by some drivers:

• Winter Performance: While it is suitable for light snow conditions, its 8.2 rating indicates that it may struggle in more severe winter environments, especially on ice or deep snow.
• Off-Road Traction: With an off-road rating of 8.1, its performance in mud (7.9) and sand (8.1) might not meet the expectations of those who tow on challenging off-road terrains.

Value Analysis

The Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT provides a reliable mix of performance and value in the mid-priced category:

• Treadwear: Its 9.0 treadwear rating ensures good longevity, offering value for drivers who tow frequently.
• Cost Justification: As an average-priced tire, its solid performance across key metrics makes it a smart choice for those who need a durable towing tire without stepping up to the premium category.

Bottom Line

The Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT is a well-rounded tire that offers strong performance in dry and wet conditions, along with versatile winter traction. While it may not excel in severe winter weather or extreme off-road environments, its combination of durability, comfort, and value makes it a solid option for those looking for a reliable, mid-tier towing tire.

General Grabber HTS 60

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Customer Rating

Overall Rating

8.5 of 10

Wet Weather

8.8 of 10

Winter Weather

7.8 of 10

All Terrain

8.1 of 10

Tread Wear

8.6 of 10

Dry Weather

9.1 of 10

Ride Comfort

8.7 of 10

UTQG

Uniform Tire Quality Grade

UTQG Treadwear Rating: 680

UTQG Traction Rating: A

UTQG Temperature Rating: B

Mileage Warranty

6 Years / 65,000 Miles

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Key Performance Metrics

The General Grabber HTS 60 is our top budget-friendly pick that delivers solid towing performance without breaking the bank. Its dependable dry traction and responsive steering make it a reliable option for various towing applications. Wet traction is also commendable, offering safety and control in rainy conditions. Additionally, its comfort ratings ensure a smooth towing experience, making it a versatile choice for those who need a balance between performance and affordability.

Key Strengths

• Dry Traction: 9.3 rating, providing stable grip and handling on dry roads.
• Wet Traction: 8.8 rating, ensuring reliable performance in wet conditions and reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
• Treadwear: 8.6 rating, indicating good durability for a budget-friendly option.
• Comfort: 8.7 overall rating, combining ride quality (8.7) and noise control (8.6) for a comfortable towing experience.

Overall Performance

When comparing the General Grabber HTS 60 to the other tires on this list, it provides a balanced mix of performance at an accessible price point:

• Dry Traction: With a 9.3 rating, it competes closely with higher-priced options like the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT (9.3) and Vredestein Pinza HT (9.4).
• Wet Traction: Its 8.8 rating is slightly lower than some competitors, such as the Continental TerrainContact H/T (9.2) and Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3), but still offers reliable performance for most towing needs.
• Winter Performance: Rated 7.7, it is suitable for light snow but not ideal for severe winter conditions, lagging behind more versatile options like the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (8.5).
• Comfort: Its 8.7 rating ensures a comfortable ride, though it may not be as quiet as the Vredestein Pinza HT (9.2) or Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 (9.3).
• Treadwear: With an 8.6 rating, it offers good longevity for a budget tire, though it may not last as long as premium options.

Common Problems

Despite its overall value, the General Grabber HTS 60 has some areas where it falls short:

• Winter Performance: With a rating of 7.7, it struggles in more severe winter conditions, particularly in deep snow and ice, making it less suitable for towing in harsh winter climates.
• Off-Road Traction: Its off-road rating of 8.0 means it may not handle challenging terrains as well as some other options, particularly in mud (7.7) and sand (8.0) conditions.

Value Analysis

The General Grabber HTS 60 offers a strong balance of performance and affordability:

• Treadwear: An 8.6 rating indicates good durability, offering solid value for budget-conscious buyers.
• Cost Justification: As a budget-friendly option, it provides reliable towing performance that aligns well with its lower price point, making it an attractive choice for those prioritizing affordability.

Bottom Line

The General Grabber HTS 60 is an excellent budget-friendly tire that delivers reliable performance in both dry and wet conditions. While it may not be the best choice for severe winter weather or extreme off-road use, it provides a comfortable towing experience and good longevity for the price. Its overall value makes it a great pick for those looking to get the most out of a budget tire for their towing needs.

Resources

Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires

• How to choose the right tires for towing – Les Schwab
• All about load range E tires – Priority Tire
  • Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 Product Page
  • Continental TerrainContact H/T Product Page
  • Vredestein Pinza HT Product Page
  • Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT Product Page
  • General Grabber HTS 60 Product Page

Final Thoughts

Finding the right tire for towing means balancing performance, durability, and value. Each of these five options brings something unique to the table.

• The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 leads with top-notch performance in both dry and wet conditions, making it ideal for those willing to invest in a premium towing tire.
• The Continental TerrainContact H/T strikes a great balance of performance and affordability.
• The Vredestein Pinza HT offers solid traction and comfort in the mid-price range.
• If you need a reliable all-season tire for varied climates, the Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT fits the bill.
• For those on a tighter budget, the General Grabber HTS 60 provides a dependable towing experience without sacrificing key performance areas.

Whether your priority is premium performance, versatile capability, or budget-friendly reliability, one of these tires is sure to suit your towing needs. Carefully weigh their strengths and characteristics to find the best option for your vehicle and towing demands.

Good luck and happy motoring.