285/75R16 (~33x11")

 

This was the first modification I did to my Runner. I originally had them in the 265/75R16 (31"). The MT/R's (Maximum Traction Reinforced) are at the top of the pack when it comes to off-road traction and street performance. With their soft gripping, deep (19/32") tread and extremely tough 3-ply sidewall, this is what I was looking for in tires. Being on a rocky shelf road on an incline and having a tire go flat that needs changed does not excite me in the least. So, a good set of tires should be anyone's first upgrade if they plan to do any decent amount of off-roading.

Also, sharing characteristics of a mud terrain tire, they will not cake up as easily in the mud as an all terrain tire would since the lugs have a wider void which allows them to self clean easier. Many others have indicated they don't do well in the mud, but I have to say they have performed flawlessly for me in the few times they've been in small patches, usually being able to turn out of a deep rut and make their own path.

Of course, their on-road manners shouldn't go unnoticed either. The MT/R's are top-notch as well with their relative quietness and good handling for having such an aggressive tread pattern. You won't find a bad review of these tires in the 4-wheelin' world as they are highly recommended and are the top choice if they are to be used on a daily driven rig. They typically last around 45,000 miles.

 

 

I also picked up this neat $6 gizmo from NAPA so I can check the vital signs on my shoes at any given time. Yep, sure enough, MT/R's are right at 19/32's of tread depth. This gauge also gives measurements in millimeters, which are on the other side.