When choosing the best trailer tires for your needs, it is important to understand the differences between the various types of tires. Two common types of tires are ST (specialty trailer) tires and LT (light truck) tires. If you’re shopping for 205/75R15 trailer tires or a similar size, understanding the differences between these tire types will help ensure you choose the right option for your trailer.
In this guide, we’ll explain the main differences between ST and LT tires and how to choose the right trailer tire size, such as 205/75R15, for your specific needs.
ST trailer tires vs. LT trailer tires: what’s the difference?
1.Design and construction
ST (Specialty Trailer) tires are designed specifically for trailers. These tires have stronger sidewalls and thicker treads, making them ideal for carrying heavy loads while maintaining stability.ST tires are also rated for higher loads than typical passenger car tires and can withstand the stresses of towing.
On the other hand, LT (Light Truck) tires are made for trucks and off-road vehicles and are not specifically designed for trailers. While LT tires can be used on trailers, they are typically designed for light trucks and are not optimized for the unique stresses that trailers are subjected to, such as prolonged weight distribution and constant side-to-side movement.
For example, if you’re looking for a 205/75R15 trailer tire, it’s probably an ST tire designed for trailers. If you’re going to use this tire on a light truck, you’d probably choose an LT tire.
2.Load capacity
One of the main differences between ST and LT tires is the load capacity ST trailer tires are designed to carry heavy loads, and each tire has a specific load range that corresponds to the amount of weight it can carry. For example, 205/75R15 ST trailer tires are typically rated at about 1,800 pounds per tire, depending on the tire model and its load range.
In contrast, LT tires have a slightly lower load capacity when used on a trailer. While LT tires can carry heavy loads, they are optimized for vehicles with more stable weight distribution, such as trucks or vans. When used on a trailer, LT tires may not be as stable or perform as ST tires.
Sidewall Strength and Tread Design
The sidewall design of the ST tire is reinforced to resist sway and lateral movement that can occur during towing. This design minimizes the risk of tire failure and helps ensure a smooth trailer ride. the tread on ST tires is typically stronger and can withstand the stresses of long-distance towing.
In contrast, the sidewalls on LT tires are typically more flexible and can absorb the impact of uneven road surfaces, which can result in less stability when the tire is used on a trailer.LT tires also have a different tread design, which is typically more focused on providing traction for the vehicle than on load-carrying capacity.
Choosing the Right Trailer Tire Size: Why 205/75R15?
If you’re shopping for 205/75R15 trailer tires, you’ll want to make sure you choose a tire that meets your trailer’s weight requirements and driving conditions. 205/75R15 is a common trailer tire size that offers a good balance of load-carrying capacity and ride comfort.
205 refers to the tire width in millimeters. 205 mm width is standard on many trailers and provides a solid roadbed for stable towing.
75 is the aspect ratio, which expresses the height of the tire as a percentage of the width. 75 means that the tire height is 75% of 205 mm, providing a balanced profile for the trailer.
R15 refers to the rim size, indicating that the tire fits on a 15-inch rim, which is common on many standard trailers.
Why is choosing the right trailer tires critical?
Whether you have 205/75R15 trailer tires or another size, choosing the right tires for your trailer is critical to ensuring safety and performance. Here’s why:
Safety: Using the right tires ensures that your trailer remains balanced and stable while towing, reducing the risk of blowouts and accidents.
Weight capacity: Ensuring that the tires you choose have the right load capacity (such as 205/75R15 ST tires) will help prevent damage to the tires from carrying too much weight.
Durability: The right trailer tire (such as the 205/75R15 ST tire) will last longer and perform better under the specific stresses of trailer towing.
Understanding the difference between ST and LT tires is critical when choosing the best trailer tire for your needs. For trailers, ST tires like the 205/75R15 offer the best performance in terms of load carrying capacity, sidewall strength and durability. While LT tires can be useful in a pinch, they are typically better suited for light trucks than trailers.
Be sure to consider the load rating, tire construction, and size (e.g., 205/75R15) to ensure you’re choosing the best tire for your trailer.
