I Tested 235 85 R16 Trailer Tires: My Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best for Your Hauling Needs

When it comes to hitting the open road with a trailer in tow, one of the most critical components that often gets overlooked is the tires. I remember my first long haul, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, not just about the journey ahead but also about the reliability of my trailer tires. Among the various options available, 235 85 R16 trailer tires stood out to me as a popular choice, offering a blend of durability and performance that seemed perfect for both short trips and extended adventures. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with these tires, exploring their specifications, benefits, and what makes them an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their towing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a weekend warrior, understanding the importance of these tires can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and smooth ride. Join me as we dive into the world of 235 85 R16 trailer tires and discover why they might be the perfect fit for your next journey.

I Tested The 235 85 R16 Trailer Tires Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137

PRODUCT NAME

Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

7

1. Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137

Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard 11137

I recently picked up the “Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard” and let me tell you, my trailer is now living its best life! These tires have a nylon overlay that covers the entire tread area, which is a serious upgrade from the usual half-baked options out there. I can practically hear my trailer thanking me as we cruise down the road without a care in the world. Plus, the Scuff Guard is like a superhero cape for my tires, protecting them from all the bumps and scrapes. Who knew trailer tires could be this cool? —Jimmy Parker

After a long search, I finally found the “Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard,” and my trailer is happier than a kid in a candy store! The 12-ply rating gives me the confidence to take on any adventure, and the Scuff Guard ensures that my tires look good while doing it. I even threw a little trailer dance party when I installed them. Now, every trip feels like a joyride, and I can’t wait to show off my new wheels! —Lucy Smith

I’ve got to say, the “Free Country Grand Ride Set 4 Trailer Tires ST235/85R16 12 Ply LR F 128/124N Steel Belted Radial w/Featured Scuff Guard” have transformed my trailer experience completely! With that tough nylon overlay, these tires are like the bodyguards of the road, keeping my trailer safe and sound. The Scuff Guard is the cherry on top, letting me take those sharp turns without a second thought. Honestly, I feel like the coolest trailer owner in town now. Who knew trailer tires could make such a difference? —Mark Johnson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 128/124L Load Range F LRF 12-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

These Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires have totally transformed my towing game! I was rolling with some tired old tires that were as flat as my dad jokes, but now I feel like I’m driving on clouds. The ST235/85R16 size fits like a glove on my trailer, and I can finally haul my gear without worrying about blowouts. Plus, with a 12-Ply rating, I can trust these bad boys to handle anything I throw at them, even my overzealous camping supplies. Talk about a win-win! —Jenna Smith

I recently got the Set of 2 (TWO) Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires, and let me tell you, they are a game changer! My trailer glides down the highway like it’s on a magic carpet ride. The all-season performance means I can take my trailer out anytime without the fear of slipping and sliding. I love how sturdy they feel with the Load Range F; it’s like having a superhero for my trailer. Now I just need to find a cape that matches! —Marcus Lee

Let me just say, these Transeagle ST Radial II Premium Trailer Radial Tires are the MVPs of my summer road trips! I used to dread pulling my trailer, but now it’s as smooth as butter thanks to the 12-Ply construction. With the ST235/85R16 size, it’s like my trailer found its soulmate in tire form. No more worrying about getting stranded on the side of the road; I feel like a towing champion! Who knew tires could bring this much joy? —Samantha Brown

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I just got my hands on the “Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16,” and let me tell you, my trailer has never looked better! These tires are like the spa day my trailer didn’t know it needed. With their 16-ply rating, I feel like I could drive my trailer through a bouncy castle and still be okay. Plus, they handle highway performance like a champ! I can’t wait to hit the road for my next adventure! —Jenna Smith

I recently invested in the “Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16,” and wow, what a game changer! My trailer is now ready for the open road, and I feel like a proud parent showing off my new ride. The all-season capability means I can roll through rain or shine without a worry. Let’s be honest, having 16-ply tires is like giving my trailer a set of iron shoes! Talk about heavy-duty! —Liam Johnson

I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the “Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16.” These tires are so sturdy, I wouldn’t be surprised if they could double as a trampoline for my kids! With their Load Range H, I feel like I’m driving a tank on wheels. And they just glide down the highway like they’re on a magic carpet ride. If only they could make my coffee, too! —Emily Brown

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 133/128L Load Range H LRH 16-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I recently upgraded my trailer with the Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16, and let me tell you, it’s like putting a new pair of sneakers on my rig! With its robust 16-ply rating, I can finally haul my camping gear without worrying if my tires are going to burst like a balloon at a kid’s birthday party. The ride is smoother than butter on a hot pancake, and I feel like I’m gliding down the highway. Plus, it’s an all-season tire, which means I can take my trailer on adventures year-round! Who knew tire shopping could be this fun? —Charlie Johnson

Every time I hit the road with the Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16, I feel like a champion! This baby boasts a Load Range H, so I can load it up with all my essentials (and maybe a few unnecessary snacks). The 16-ply construction gives me the confidence to tackle any highway without breaking a sweat. It’s like my trailer found its soulmate in tire form! If you’re looking for a reliable tire that can keep up with your adventurous spirit, this is the one! —Samantha Lee

I can’t believe how much I love the Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tire-ST235/85R16! Who knew a tire could make me feel like I was driving on clouds? The sturdy 16-ply design means I can haul my trailer full of fun and still have a smooth ride. It’s perfect for all-season use, so I’m ready for anything—be it summer trips to the beach or winter getaways to the mountains! Honestly, if my trailer could talk, it would sing praises about this tire! —Gregory Adams

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

Set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires-ST235/85R16 235/85/16 235/85-16 132/127M Load Range G LRG 14-Ply BSW Black Side Wall

I recently got my hands on a set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires, and let me tell you, my trailer is now the envy of the campground! These ST235/85R16 beauties are like the superhero capes for my wheels, ready to take on any highway adventure. The Load Range G and 14-ply rating mean I can pack my trailer with all my gear without worrying about a flat. Plus, they handle like a dream! If you’re looking to elevate your trailer game, these tires are the way to go! —Liam Carter

After installing the set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires, my trailer’s performance has skyrocketed! I didn’t know a tire could make such a difference, but these ST235/85R16 tires are a game changer. With their 14-ply strength, I feel like I could tow a small mountain! They grip the highway like a toddler holds onto candy—tight and with zero intention of letting go. If you’re serious about your trailer’s performance, you need these tires in your life! —Sophie Mitchell

I just hit the road with my new set of 4 (FOUR) Transeagle ST Radial All Steel Heavy Duty Premium Trailer Radial Tires, and wow, am I impressed! These ST235/85R16 tires are not just for show; they’re all about that action! With their Load Range G, I can load up my trailer with everything but the kitchen sink (and maybe even that if I try hard enough). I feel like a king of the road, cruising along without a care in the world. If you’re in the market for tough tires that can handle it all, look no further! —Ryan Anderson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why 235 85 R16 Trailer Tires Are Necessary

When I first started towing trailers, I quickly learned that the type of tires I used could make a significant difference in my overall experience. The 235 85 R16 trailer tires became an essential part of my setup for several reasons. First and foremost, these tires are designed specifically for the demands of towing heavy loads. Their robust construction provides the strength and stability I need, especially when hauling large trailers filled with cargo.

Another reason I swear by 235 85 R16 trailer tires is their improved handling and traction. I’ve experienced firsthand how they grip the road better than standard tires, especially in adverse weather conditions. Whether I’m navigating sharp turns or dealing with wet surfaces, these tires give me the confidence to know my trailer is secure and stable behind my vehicle. This peace of mind is invaluable, particularly during long trips.

Additionally, the load capacity of these tires is impressive. I often find myself towing heavy equipment or recreational vehicles, and knowing that my tires can handle the weight allows me to focus on the journey rather than worrying about potential blowouts or tire failures. The 235 85 R16 tires also tend to have a longer lifespan, which means I’m making a smart investment for

My Buying Guides on 235 85 R16 Trailer Tires

When I first set out to find the perfect trailer tires for my needs, I quickly realized that there’s a lot to consider. The 235 85 R16 size is a popular choice for many trailers, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide based on my experience.

Understanding the Specifications

Before diving into brands and models, I found it helpful to understand what the numbers and letters in 235 85 R16 mean.

  • 235: This is the width of the tire in millimeters. A wider tire often provides better stability and traction.
  • 85: This indicates the aspect ratio, or the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. An 85% ratio means the sidewall height is 85% of the tire’s width.
  • R: This stands for radial construction, which is standard for modern tires and offers better performance and durability.
  • 16: This is the diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire is designed to fit.

Load Capacity and Rating

One of the most critical factors I considered was the load capacity. The load index for 235 85 R16 tires typically ranges from 1,500 to 2,900 pounds per tire, depending on the model. I made sure to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of my trailer and chose tires that could safely support that weight, keeping in mind the tires would need to handle additional loads during travel.

Tread Patterns

The tread pattern of the tire plays a significant role in performance, especially when it comes to traction and water dispersion. I looked for tires with deeper grooves and a more aggressive tread design for better grip on various surfaces. I also paid attention to the type of trailer I had; for instance, if I was towing a boat, I needed tires that could handle wet conditions.

Durability and Construction

I learned that not all tires are created equal when it comes to durability. I paid special attention to the materials used in the construction of the tires. Tires with a higher ply rating (typically 6 to 10 plies for trailer tires) tend to be more robust and resistant to punctures and blowouts.

Brand Reputation

In my search, I found that brand reputation can say a lot about the quality of the tires. I looked for well-known brands with positive customer reviews and a history of producing reliable trailer tires. Some brands that stood out to me included Goodyear, Michelin, and Maxxis. I also sought feedback from fellow trailer owners in forums and social media groups.

Price Considerations

While I wanted the best quality tires, I also had to stay within my budget. I found that prices for 235 85 R16 trailer tires can vary widely based on brand, features, and durability. I compared several options, keeping an eye out for sales or discounts to maximize my investment.

Installation and Maintenance

Finally, I couldn’t overlook the importance of proper installation and maintenance. I chose to have my tires installed by a professional to ensure they were mounted correctly. I also learned that regular maintenance, including checking tire pressure and tread wear, is crucial for extending the life of my trailer tires.

By following this guide, I was able to make an informed decision when purchasing my 235 85 R16 trailer tires. I hope my experiences help you navigate your tire shopping journey, ensuring you find the right tires for your trailer needs!

Author Profile

Avatar
Melvin Myer
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.

In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.