Principles of Overlanding: Rugged Terrain Tires

Overland Journal Podcast host Matt Scott and Scott Brady discuss rugged terrain (RT) or “hybrid” tires as a third category between all-terrain (AT) and mud-terrain (MT), arguing RTs let ATs and MTs stay true to their strengths while better matching overlanders’ mostly-on-pavement use. They compare void ratios, noise/vibration/harshness, tread life, snow and wet-road performance, fuel-economy impacts, and load capacity, with examples from Toyo RT Pro, BFG HD Terrain, and other models. They stress how subjective tire testing is and describe past double-blind, same-vehicle testing, hoping to run an RT test later. Key buying attributes include 3-peak mountain snowflake ratings, sidewall construction (not just ply count), siping tradeoffs, and tire width choices favoring taller, narrower sizes for fit and efficiency. They critique treadwear warranties pushing harder compounds and note rising tire costs. New to Overland Journal and want to grab a subscription! Visit Overland Journal and enter code: overlandpodcast at checkout for 20% off. We thank you for being a subscriber. Tune in Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube This episode sponsored in part by General Tire See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.