When navigating through the unpredictable terrains that off-road adventures throw at you, choosing the right set of mud-terrain tires becomes crucial. Especially for those who don’t let a bit of rain dampen their spirits or their off-road escapades, finding tires that offer exceptional grip on both muddy trails and wet roads is essential.
The best mud-terrain tires for wet roads combine aggressive tread patterns for off-road traction with features that enhance grip on wet surfaces. Among the top contenders are tires like the Kumho Road Venture MT51 and Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003, known for their balanced performance across various conditions, including superior wet road traction.
In this article, we delve into a roundup review of the best mud-terrain tires tailored for wet road conditions, focusing on key aspects such as wet traction, treadwear, and overall performance. We compare top models including the Kumho Road Venture MT51, Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003, and others to help you make an informed decision for your next off-road adventure.
Kumho Road Venture MT51
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.2 of 10
Wet Weather
8.7 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
All Terrain
9.3 of 10
Tread Wear
6.6 of 10
Dry Weather
8.8 of 10
Ride Comfort
7.5 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
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Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.5 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.2 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.3 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.0 of 10
Hydroplaning: 9.2 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.3 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 7.9 of 10
Road Noise: 7.1 of 10
In the quest for the ultimate mud-terrain tire that excels on wet roads without sacrificing on-road drivability, the Kumho Road Venture MT51 stands out for its remarkable performance. Engineered to conquer, the MT51 offers a superior blend of wet traction, treadwear longevity, and dry road capabilities, making it an excellent choice for drivers who demand versatility from their offroad tires.
Wet Traction: Unmatched Superiority
The Kumho Road Venture MT51’s exceptional wet traction rating of 9.2, complemented by its hydroplaning resistance, sets it apart in the mud-terrain category. This tire ensures drivers can confidently navigate through rainy conditions, offering peace of mind during adverse weather driving. Compared to the Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 and General Grabber X3, the MT51 provides a slight edge in handling and stability on wet surfaces, showcasing its prowess in delivering safety and performance.
Treadwear and Durability: Built to Last
Durability is a critical factor for mud-terrain tires, and the MT51 impresses with its treadwear performance. Though specific treadwear ratings aren’t provided in our initial discussion, the MT51 is known for its balanced design that promotes even wear, extending the tire’s lifespan. This durability is a significant advantage for drivers looking for a tire that can withstand the rigors of both off-road trails and paved roads, making it a cost-effective option over time.
Dry Traction and Handling: Confidence on and Off the Road
On dry surfaces, the MT51 offers reliable traction and handling, ensuring a secure and responsive driving experience. While it may not outperform the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 in sheer offroad grip, the MT51’s balanced performance ensures it remains competitive, offering a reassuring drive whether on highway or trail.
Other Metrics: A Balanced Performer
The MT51’s performance in other areas, such as comfort and noise, highlights Kumho’s commitment to providing a well-rounded tire. While mud-terrain tires are not typically known for their quiet ride, the MT51 makes strides in reducing road noise, offering a more pleasant driving experience than expected from a tire in this category.
Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.8 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
8.5 of 10
All Terrain
9.5 of 10
Tread Wear
8.8 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.7 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.6 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.2 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.5 of 10
Hydroplaning: 9.0 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.9 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.0 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.5 of 10
Road Noise: 7.9 of 10
The quest for the perfect mud-terrain tire that doesn’t back down on wet roads brings us to the Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003. This tire not only promises to conquer the muddiest paths but also ensures remarkable performance on wet asphalt, making it a prime candidate for drivers who traverse both the untamed trails and the rainy streets.
Wet Traction: Excellence in Adverse Conditions
With a wet traction rating of 8.8, the Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 demonstrates its prowess on soaked surfaces, offering drivers confidence and control in the rain. While slightly trailing the leader, the Kumho Road Venture MT51, in pure wet traction numbers, the Geolandar M/T G003’s performance is commendable, ensuring safety and reliability when the heavens open.
Treadwear: Going the Distance
The Geolandar M/T G003 is designed with durability in mind, featuring a tread compound that resists wear and tear, extending its life on the road and trails. This focus on longevity makes it an attractive option for drivers looking for a tire that balances off-road capability with the practicality of extended service life, offering value over time.
Dry Traction and Road Handling: No Compromises
On dry land, the Geolandar M/T G003 shines with excellent traction and responsive handling, providing a secure grip whether navigating rocky paths or cornering on highways. Its robust construction and aggressive tread design contribute to a performance that rivals the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3, ensuring that drivers enjoy a blend of adventure-ready capability and on-road manners.
Across the Board: A Well-Rounded Competitor
Yokohama has engineered the Geolandar M/T G003 to offer more than just off-road and wet road performance. Its attention to reducing road noise and enhancing ride comfort stands out in a category often criticized for harsh rides, making long journeys more enjoyable for drivers and passengers alike.
General Grabber X3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.8 of 10
Wet Weather
8.7 of 10
Winter Weather
8.5 of 10
All Terrain
9.2 of 10
Tread Wear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
8.8 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.0 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.5 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.3 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.1 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.1 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.6 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.5 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.5 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 7.7 of 10
In the realm of mud-terrain tires, the General Grabber X3 stands as a testament to engineering prowess, designed to excel in the most challenging conditions, both off-road and on wet pavement. This tire is crafted for those who demand rugged durability without compromising performance during torrential downpours.
Wet Traction: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Boasting a wet traction rating of 8.6, the General Grabber X3 ensures drivers can confidently navigate through heavy rains and slick surfaces. While slightly below the top performer, the Kumho Road Venture MT51, the Grabber X3’s ability to maintain grip and control in wet conditions is impressive, making it a reliable companion for rainy day adventures.
Treadwear: Built for the Long Haul
Durability is a hallmark of the General Grabber X3, designed to withstand the harsh demands of off-road use while also offering commendable longevity on paved roads. This balance of ruggedness and wear resistance appeals to drivers looking for a tire that not only tackles the challenges of the trail but also lasts through the seasons, providing excellent value over its lifespan.
Dry Traction and Handling: Unyielding Grip
On dry terrain, the Grabber X3 exhibits exceptional traction and sure-footed handling, whether it’s conquering rocky landscapes or powering through highway miles. Its design ensures that drivers enjoy a high level of responsiveness and stability, rivaling the performance of the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 in off-road scenarios.
A Comprehensive Performer
Beyond its prowess in specific conditions, the General Grabber X3 is engineered to deliver a balanced driving experience. Efforts to minimize road noise and enhance comfort on long drives are evident, positioning the Grabber X3 as a tire that does not sacrifice on-road pleasantness for off-road capability.
Firestone Destination M/T2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.5 of 10
Winter Weather
8.5 of 10
All Terrain
9.4 of 10
Tread Wear
8.3 of 10
Dry Weather
8.8 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.1 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.5 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.3 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.2 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.4 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.6 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.6 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.6 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.5 of 10
Road Noise: 7.6 of 10
The Firestone Destination M/T2 has been engineered to conquer the most challenging terrains while offering unparalleled performance on wet roads, making it a top choice for off-road enthusiasts who don’t shy away from rain-soaked adventures. This tire is the bridge between the untamed wild and the unpredictable urban wet roads, designed for those who demand robust performance in all conditions.
Wet Traction: A Superior Standout
With a wet traction rating that impressively stands at 8.4, the Firestone Destination M/T2 ensures that drivers can navigate with confidence during heavy downpours. Although it may not lead the pack, its performance in wet conditions is exemplary, providing a secure grip and reliable handling that makes it a dependable choice for rainy escapades.
Treadwear: Durability Meets Longevity
The Destination M/T2 is built to last, featuring a tread compound that resists the rigors of off-road use while maintaining integrity on paved surfaces. This focus on longevity is a significant plus for drivers seeking a tire that offers both the thrill of off-road performance and the practicality of extended wear, delivering value over its lifecycle.
Dry Traction and Handling: Uncompromised Performance
On dry land, the Destination M/T2 shines, offering excellent traction and stable handling, whether it’s tackling rugged off-road conditions or cruising on highways. Its balanced performance ensures that drivers enjoy a level of responsiveness and stability that rivals even the esteemed BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3, making it a versatile choice for diverse driving scenarios.
Beyond the Basics
Firestone has engineered the Destination M/T2 to provide more than just exceptional traction; it also focuses on reducing road noise and enhancing ride comfort, a notable achievement for a mud-terrain tire. This attention to detail ensures a more pleasant driving experience, even on long journeys.
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.5 of 10
Wet Weather
8.5 of 10
Winter Weather
8.0 of 10
All Terrain
9.5 of 10
Tread Wear
8.2 of 10
Dry Weather
8.9 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.0 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.6 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.7 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.1 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.5 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.5 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.9 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.4 of 10
Road Noise: 7.7 of 10
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 tire is designed for the off-road enthusiast who demands peak performance in the most challenging conditions, including navigating confidently on wet roads. This tire stands as a testament to BFGoodrich’s commitment to innovation and performance, offering a solution for drivers who require a tire that excels both in the untamed wilderness and under the torrential downpours of urban landscapes.
Wet Traction: Exceptional Grip When It Counts
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3, with a wet traction rating of 8.4, provides drivers with the confidence to tackle wet conditions head-on. While not the top scorer in wet traction compared to the Kumho Road Venture MT51, the KM3’s performance is robust, offering reliable grip and handling that ensure safety and control during rainy off-road excursions and slippery city streets alike.
Treadwear: Rugged Longevity
Constructed to endure the harsh realities of off-road use without quick degradation, the KM3 showcases BFGoodrich’s focus on creating a tire that doesn’t just perform but also lasts. The tire’s compound and tread design are optimized for extended wear life, providing value and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Dry Traction and Handling: Unrivaled Off-Road Excellence
On dry terrain, the Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 truly shines, delivering exceptional traction and handling. Its aggressive tread pattern and durable construction give it an edge in navigating rocky landscapes, loose soil, and everything in between. The KM3’s performance in dry conditions sets a high standard, offering off-road enthusiasts a tire that responds reliably and provides unwavering stability.
Comprehensive Capability
The KM3 doesn’t just excel in performance metrics; BFGoodrich has also engineered this tire to offer a reasonable level of comfort and noise reduction for a mud-terrain tire, making those long drives more enjoyable. While it’s understood that mud-terrain tires typically prioritize function over comfort, the KM3 strives to balance rugged off-road capability with everyday driving considerations.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Mud tires for trucks: Everything you need to know – Motor Trend
- Mud terrain tires: Pros and cons – Discount Tire
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right mud-terrain tires for wet roads is about balancing off-road capabilities with wet traction performance. Tires like the Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 shine for their all-around performance, offering a quiet, stable, and comfortable ride with excellent grip across various terrains.
On the other hand, the Kumho Road Venture MT51 is celebrated for its class-leading wet traction and overall value. When choosing your next set of mud-terrain tires, consider how you plan to use your vehicle across different terrains and in varying weather conditions to ensure you get tires that meet your off-roading needs without compromising safety or performance on wet roads.
Good luck and happy motoring.
