Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT Review

Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT Review: The All-Terrain Tire That Balances On-Road Comfort and Off-Road Capability

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an all-terrain tire designed for pickup trucks, SUVs, and off-road enthusiasts who demand a balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. This versatile tire offers a unique combination of features that cater to both daily driving and adventure-seeking lifestyles.

Engineered with Goodyear’s advanced tread compound and robust construction, the Wrangler TrailRunner AT provides exceptional durability and toughness to withstand the rigors of off-road exploration. Its aggressive tread pattern, featuring deep grooves and sturdy shoulder blocks, delivers outstanding traction on loose surfaces, such as mud, gravel, and rocky terrain.

At the same time, the tire’s optimized tread design and advanced noise-reducing technology ensure a smooth and quiet ride on paved roads, making it a comfortable choice for daily commutes and long-distance travel. The Wrangler TrailRunner AT strikes a perfect harmony between off-road prowess and on-road refinement, catering to drivers who seek a tire that can handle both adventures and everyday driving with equal confidence.

Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT

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Tire Sizes and Options

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is available in a wide range of sizes to fit most pickup trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. Rim diameters span from 15 to 22 inches, with section widths from 225 to 305 mm. This versatility ensures a proper fit for vehicles like the Ford F-150, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, and many more.

In terms of sidewall styling, Goodyear offers both outline white letter and black sidewall versions of the TrailRunner AT. The white letter option provides a classic, rugged look that many truck and SUV owners prefer. Meanwhile, the black sidewall has a more subtle, sleek appearance for those who want a more understated vibe.

For light trucks and SUVs primarily used on the street, Goodyear has the TrailRunner AT S model. This variant has a slightly different tread compound and design optimized for improved on-road comfort and reduced noise levels. Conversely, the TrailRunner AT R is geared more towards off-road enthusiasts with increased tread depth and reinforced construction for enhanced trail toughness.

No matter your vehicle or driving needs, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT lineup has an option to match. From beefy 35-inch mud tires to sleek 20-inch street radials, there’s a perfectly sized TrailRunner AT for virtually any truck or SUV.

Tread Design and Performance

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT features an aggressive tread design aimed at providing versatile performance on the highway while still offering capable off-road traction. The tread pattern consists of deep, interlocking tread blocks with sturdy shoulder lugs and lateral grooves to enhance grip on loose surfaces like mud, gravel, and dirt trails.

At the same time, the tread blocks are optimized for even wear and confident handling on paved roads. The TrailRunner AT utilizes dual-compound tread rubber, with a tougher outer layer for increased treadlife and a softer inner layer for improved grip. This compound helps balance off-road traction with on-road comfort and mileage.

The tire’s tread depth and void ratio are designed to provide excellent water evacuation and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions. The TrailRunner AT also features stone ejectors and reinforced shoulders to resist punctures and sidewall damage when venturing off the beaten path.

While not intended for extreme rock crawling or heavy-duty off-roading, the TrailRunner AT excels as an all-terrain tire for light truck owners who want a blend of on-road manners with the ability to tackle unpaved trails, forest service roads, and other moderate off-road environments. The tread design delivers reliable performance in dry, wet, and wintry conditions while providing the durability needed for occasional off-road adventures.

Dry Road Grip and Handling

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT delivers impressive dry road grip and handling capabilities for an all-terrain tire. Its tread compound is designed to provide excellent traction on paved surfaces, ensuring confident driving dynamics in dry conditions.

On dry pavement, the tire exhibits responsive steering and precise cornering grip. The tread pattern’s rigid tread blocks and optimized siping allow for reliable road feedback and predictable handling characteristics. Whether navigating winding roads or executing emergency maneuvers, the TrailRunner AT instills a sense of control and stability.

During acceleration and braking, the tire’s dry traction remains reassuring, providing the necessary grip to harness the vehicle’s power and bring it to a controlled stop. The tread’s biting edges effectively grip the road surface, minimizing wheelspin and enhancing overall driving confidence.

While not designed as a dedicated performance tire, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT strikes an impressive balance between on-road capability and off-road prowess. Its dry road grip and handling characteristics make it a versatile choice for daily driving, while still delivering the ruggedness required for occasional adventures off the beaten path.

Wet Weather Capability

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT excels in wet weather conditions, providing excellent hydroplaning resistance and reliable traction on slick roads. The tire’s advanced tread compound and design work together to evacuate water effectively, minimizing the risk of hydroplaning even at higher speeds.

During heavy rainfall, the TrailRunner AT’s deep, interlocking tread blocks and wide circumferential grooves efficiently channel water away from the tire’s footprint. This helps maintain solid contact with the road surface, ensuring confident braking and steering response in wet conditions.

Additionally, the tire’s specialized siping (small slits in the tread blocks) enhances traction by increasing the number of biting edges that grip the road. This feature is particularly beneficial when navigating through standing water or encountering sudden downpours, allowing the TrailRunner AT to maintain a firm grip on the road.

In independent wet braking tests, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT consistently outperformed many of its competitors, demonstrating shorter stopping distances and improved control during emergency maneuvers on wet surfaces. This impressive wet weather performance instills confidence in drivers, whether they’re commuting in rainy conditions or embarking on adventurous road trips through inclement weather.

Off-Road and Trail Toughness

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is engineered to tackle challenging off-road conditions with confidence. Its aggressive tread pattern and rugged construction make it a formidable choice for adventurous drivers who demand reliable traction and durability on the trails.

One of the standout features of this tire is its impressive mud and dirt traction. The deep, interlocking tread blocks with wide grooves effectively expel mud, gravel, and debris, ensuring a secure grip on loose or slippery surfaces. Whether you’re navigating through muddy trails or tackling rutted dirt roads, the TrailRunner AT delivers exceptional traction and control.

Rock crawling is another area where this tire shines. Its reinforced sidewalls and sturdy construction provide resistance against punctures and abrasions from sharp rocks and obstacles. The tire’s aggressive shoulder lugs and buttressed sidewall design offer enhanced traction and stability when traversing over rocky terrain, giving you the confidence to tackle even the most challenging off-road landscapes.

Moreover, the TrailRunner AT’s cut-and-chip-resistant compound helps protect against the hazards of off-road driving. This durable compound is designed to withstand the impact of sharp rocks and debris, minimizing the risk of cuts, chips, and premature tread wear. Whether you’re exploring remote trails or navigating through construction sites, this tire’s toughness ensures longevity and reliable performance.

Overall, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is a true off-road warrior, offering exceptional traction, durability, and protection against the rigors of rugged terrain. With its impressive mud and dirt capability, rock-crawling prowess, and resistance to cuts and chips, this tire is an excellent choice for adventurous drivers seeking a reliable companion on their off-road adventures.

Winter and Snow Performance

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is designed as an all-terrain tire, but it also delivers respectable performance in winter conditions. While not a dedicated winter tire, the TrailRunner AT can handle light snow and cold temperatures reasonably well.

In snowy conditions, the tread pattern’s deep grooves and biting edges provide decent snow traction. The tire’s compound remains pliable in cold weather, allowing the tread blocks to conform to the surface and find grip. However, as snow accumulates, the traction will eventually diminish, and dedicated winter tires may be necessary for optimal performance.

On icy surfaces, the TrailRunner AT’s braking performance is acceptable but not exceptional. The tire’s all-terrain design prioritizes off-road capabilities over pure ice traction. Drivers should exercise caution and allow for longer stopping distances when braking on icy roads.

Overall, while not a dedicated winter tire, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT can handle light winter conditions reasonably well. Its all-terrain design and pliable compound allow it to maintain traction and grip in cold weather and light snow. However, for extreme winter conditions or deep snow, dedicated winter tires may be a better choice.

Ride Comfort and Road Noise

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT strikes a nice balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. On paved surfaces, the tire delivers a reasonably smooth and quiet ride, especially for an all-terrain tire. The tread blocks are designed to minimize road noise, and the tire’s internal construction helps absorb impacts from bumps and potholes.

While not as plush as a dedicated highway touring tire, the TrailRunner AT provides a comfortable driving experience for daily commuting and long road trips. The ride remains composed over expansion joints and grooved pavement, without excessive vibration transferring into the cabin. Passengers will appreciate the reduced road noise levels, making it easier to enjoy music or conversations.

However, it’s important to note that some owners have reported increased noise levels as the tires wear down, which is common for many all-terrain tires. Additionally, the more aggressive tread pattern may generate slightly more noise compared to a traditional all-season tire, but it’s a trade-off for improved off-road traction.

Overall, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT offers a well-balanced ride quality, providing a reasonably smooth and quiet on-road experience while still delivering the ruggedness and capability expected from an all-terrain tire.

Tire Wear and Treadlife

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is designed to provide impressive treadlife and wear characteristics for an all-terrain tire. With its durable tread compound and optimized tread design, this tire can deliver extended mileage on the highway while still providing capable off-road performance.

Goodyear’s engineers have carefully balanced the tread rubber compound to offer a good mix of grip and longevity. The tread blocks are designed to resist excessive squirming and deformation, which can lead to accelerated wear. Additionally, the tire’s reinforced internal construction helps it maintain its shape and evenly distribute forces, further enhancing treadlife.

Based on real-world testing and owner feedback, the Wrangler TrailRunner AT can typically achieve around 50,000-60,000 miles of tread life when used in mixed driving conditions. However, this can vary depending on factors like your driving habits, vehicle weight, and alignment settings.

To ensure even wear and maximize treadlife, Goodyear recommends rotating the tires every 6,000-8,000 miles. This helps equalize the wear across all four tires and prevents irregular wear patterns from developing.

The Wrangler TrailRunner AT comes with a 60,000-mile tread wear warranty from Goodyear. If the tires wear out before reaching that mileage under normal driving conditions, you may be eligible for a prorated replacement credit towards a new set.

Overall, while not the longest-lasting all-terrain tire on the market, the Wrangler TrailRunner AT strikes a good balance between treadlife and off-road capability. With proper maintenance and rotation, owners can expect these tires to deliver reliable performance over their usable tread life.

Pros and Cons Summary

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Owner Reviews and Feedback

Positive owner reviews for the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT tires frequently highlight their impressive off-road traction and durability. Many drivers who enjoy overlanding, rock crawling, or tackling rugged terrain praise the tire’s ability to handle challenging conditions while still providing a reasonably comfortable on-road ride. Owners also commend the tire’s long treadlife, with some reporting excellent wear characteristics even after 40,000-50,000 miles of mixed use.

On the flip side, some owners criticize the TrailRunner AT’s on-road noise levels, describing them as louder than desired, especially on rougher surfaces. A few complaints mention disappointing wet traction, with the tires struggling to grip in heavy rain or on slick surfaces. There are also some reports of premature wear or irregular tread wear patterns from owners who may have improper tire inflation or alignment issues. Overall, however, the majority of real-world feedback from TrailRunner AT owners is positive, praising the tire’s versatile capabilities and rugged construction.

Value and Pricing Analysis

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT strikes an excellent balance between affordability and performance. While not the cheapest option on the market, its pricing is competitive when compared to other premium all-terrain tires from major brands like BFGoodrich, Michelin, and Falken.

For a set of four tires in a popular size like 265/70R17, you can expect to pay around $800-900 before installation and taxes. This may seem like a significant investment upfront, but the TrailRunner AT’s impressive treadlife and durability can help offset the initial cost over time.

Based on owner reports and Goodyear’s treadwear warranty, you can realistically expect to get 50,000-60,000 miles of use from these tires with proper rotation and maintenance. Calculating the cost per mile, you’re looking at roughly 1.5 to 1.8 cents per mile – an excellent value for an all-terrain tire capable of both on-road and off-road performance.

It’s also worth noting that Goodyear frequently offers rebates and promotions, which can further reduce the upfront cost. Shopping around and timing your purchase wisely can potentially save you hundreds of dollars on a new set of TrailRunner ATs.

While not the most budget-friendly option, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT delivers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and value that makes it a smart investment for truck and SUV owners seeking a versatile all-terrain tire.

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an excellent choice for a wide range of trucks and SUVs, both for daily driving and off-road adventures. Its versatile all-terrain design makes it suitable for various vehicle types and driving conditions.

For full-size trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, and Toyota Tundra, the TrailRunner AT provides a perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. These tires can handle the demands of hauling heavy loads, towing trailers, and tackling rough terrain without compromising ride quality or highway manners.

Midsize trucks such as the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and Chevrolet Colorado are also ideal candidates for the TrailRunner AT. These tires offer excellent traction and durability for adventurous drivers who enjoy exploring backroads, camping sites, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

SUV owners, particularly those with models like the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Chevrolet Tahoe, will appreciate the TrailRunner AT’s ability to conquer various terrains while maintaining a comfortable ride on paved roads. These tires provide the necessary grip and stability for family road trips, daily commutes, and outdoor excursions.

Additionally, the TrailRunner AT is a great choice for crossover vehicles and smaller SUVs that venture off the beaten path occasionally. Models like the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape can benefit from the tire’s versatile performance and enhanced off-road capabilities.

Overall, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an excellent choice for drivers seeking a tire that can handle both daily driving and moderate off-road adventures with confidence and reliability.

Final Verdict and Rating

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an impressive all-terrain tire that delivers exceptional off-road capability while maintaining a comfortable and quiet ride on paved roads. Its aggressive tread design and sturdy construction make it a top choice for adventurous drivers who frequently tackle challenging terrain like mud, rocks, and loose surfaces.

On the highway, the TrailRunner AT provides reliable traction and confident handling, even in wet conditions. While it may not match the on-road performance of dedicated highway tires, it strikes an excellent balance between off-road prowess and daily drivability.

One potential drawback is its somewhat reduced treadlife compared to highway tires, but this is a common trade-off for all-terrain tires designed for rugged use. With proper rotation and maintenance, most owners can expect a reasonable lifespan from the TrailRunner AT.

Overall, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT earns a strong 4.5 out of 5 rating. It’s an outstanding choice for truck and SUV owners seeking a versatile tire that can handle both off-road adventures and daily commuting with ease. Highly recommended for those with an active outdoor lifestyle who demand a tire that can keep up with their adventures.

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