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7 Best Tires for UTVs and ATVs: How to Boost Performance

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Reading Time: 5 minutes

Last Updated on March 31, 2025

Best Tires for UTVs and ATVs: How to Boost Performance

Recreational Off-Road Vehicles (ROVs) are one of the fastest-growing market segments in the U.S. right now. While utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have been around for years, the rising interest in off-road models has put them back in the spotlight. The newer UTV and ATV models cater to a broader audience, including campers, dune riders, terrain services, and military and law enforcement agencies. In some cases, ATVs are more practical off-road than conventional 4×4 vehicles.

With the rise in popularity of UTVs and ATVs, specialized accessories, modifications, and tuning products have hit the market – including tires. Below, we will cover the best tire options for UTVs and ATVs and how to pick the best tire for your needs.

Best Tires for UTVs and ATVs- How to Boost Performance

ROVs – ATVs, UTVs and SXS

You have probably heard all these names, and you think they mean the same thing—a small, off-road dedicated vehicle with minimal comfort and maximum usability. However, there is a significant difference between them, and we will explain it now.

An ATV is a small, off-road vehicle designed for a single rider (sometimes two). It has handlebar steering like a motorcycle, has space for one or two people, and is faster, more maneuverable, and perfect for light work or off-road excursions.
An UTV (also called an SxS or Side-by-Side) is a larger off-road vehicle built for two or more passengers. It is often used for utility work and recreational riding. It has a steering wheel and pedals, just like a car. In most cases, it has a roll cage, cargo space, and towing capabilities, and it is far more usable for some utility work, military use, and off-road expeditions.

What To Know Before Buying UTV and ATV Tires?

There are a variety of ROV tires to choose from on the market that can accommodate different vehicle types, wheel dimensions, and road use. These tires are best categorized by the kind of terrain you’ll be driving on.

  • All-Terrain Tires –These tires are suitable for general use on various surfaces and offer a great balance between off-road usability and on-road comfort.
  • Mud Tires –These tires are designed with deep treads and large tread lugs for superior grip in muddy conditions, aggressive tread patterns for loose surfaces, a self-cleaning design, and extreme grip in deep mud.
  • Sand Tires –The sand tires have a lightweight design and scoop-style paddles for efficient sand propulsion.
  • Rock Tires – Features 8-ply radial construction, reinforced sidewalls, and superior grip for rocky terrains.
  • Hard-Pack/Trail Tires –These DOT-approved tires are designed for dirt roads and trails. They provide a firm grip on compact surfaces and are durable enough to handle high speeds on dirt roads.
  • Snow Tires – They are known for excellent cold-weather grip. They feature deep lugs for improved traction in icy conditions, and a radial design for stability in snow.
Pressure And Ply Ratings

Before listing the best ATV and UTV tires in 2025, we must address two critical details you must pay attention to: tire pressure and ply rating.

Tire pressure plays a significant role in off-road vehicles by affecting traction or stability. Lowering tire pressure increases the contact patch, allowing it to conform to uneven terrain, which improves the rubber-to-road ratio. This will help enhance the grip on snow, mud, or sand. However, if you maintain the standard psi or higher psi, you will gain stability on hard-packed surfaces, such as dirt or gravel. Most experienced off-road drivers are aware, but keep in mind that running tires at a lower psi increases risk of damaging the tire.

The other essential aspect to consider is the ply rating. Ply ratings indicate the number of layers in a tire’s construction. Generally, a higher ply rating means a tougher and more durable tire. Most UTV and ATV tires range from 4 to 10 plies, so these are the values you are looking for. Lower ply-rated tires are lighter, nimbler, and more fuel-efficient. In contrast, tires with 10-plies are much tougher but also much heavier, which can affect handling and fuel consumption. If you are not tackling extremely difficult terrain, consider tires with lower ply rating.

Best Tires for UTVs and ATVs- How to Boost Performance

Best Tires For UTV and ATV in 2025

Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 (Best All-Terrain Tire)

A lighter version of the original Bighorn, designed for all-terrain use with radial construction for improved ride comfort.

Features:
  • 6-ply radial construction
  • Deep, aggressive tread pattern
  • Excellent traction on hardpack, mud, and rocky terrain
  • Reinforced sidewalls for durability
Specifications:

ITP Mud Lite XL (Best Mud Tire)

Lightweight yet tough, this tire is built for deep mud and loose surfaces.

Features:
  • Angled, self-cleaning tread
  • 6-ply construction for added toughness
  • Lightweight design for better acceleration
Specifications:

Kenda Bearclaw HTR (Best Snow & Ice Tire)

Excellent grip in snowy and icy conditions, with deep lugs for superior traction.

Features:
Specifications:

Maxxis Carnivore (Best for High-Speed Off-Road)

A premium radial UTV tire for desert and rocky terrain.

Features:
  • 8-ply construction
  • Designed for high-performance UTVs
  • Excellent cornering grip
Specifications:

Carlisle AT489 (Best for OEM Replacement)

A versatile tire that comes as stock on many ATVs.

Features:
  • Lightweight for better handling
  • Good traction in varied terrain
  • Long tread life
Specifications:

Kenda Mastodon AT (Best for Rocky Terrain)

A rugged all-terrain tire built for durability.

Features:
  • Radial 8-ply construction for toughness
  • Designed for high-speed stability
  • Deep tread for better grip
Specifications:

GBC Grim Reaper (Best Hybrid Tire for Mud and Trails)

Hybrid tire that performs well in mud and hardpack.

Features:
  • 8-ply radial construction
  • Deep center lugs for hard terrain
  • Sidewall protection for extra durability
Specifications:

Why Tires Easy Is the Best Place for Shopping for Quality ATV and UTV Tires

In addition to being genuine tire enthusiasts and experts, Tires Easy offers exceptional deals with the best prices and terms. Our services include a 45-day return policy, free delivery, and a wide selection of high-quality ATV and UTV off-road tires. Our extensive network of over 1,000 trusted tire installers, including well-known names like Pep Boys and Monro, truly sets us apart, with free shipping to their locations. You’ll get an unbeatable deal by choosing the option with free shipping and installation. With over 7 million tires sold, we are the leading choice on the market.

Conclusion

Whether tackling muddy trails or navigating the rockiest of roads, investing in a proper set of tires will help you maximize your UTV or ATV performance. With top-tier brands like Maxxis, ITP, and Kenda leading the market, you have plenty of options to choose from for your next off-road excursion.

 

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