What Are Trailer Tires & Why Do They Matter?

Your Guide from Girard Tirecraft – Edmonton, AB
If you regularly haul heavy loads—whether for work, recreation, or farming—then you already know that not all tires are created equal. Trailer tires are designed specifically for towing, with reinforced construction and load-handling capabilities that set them apart from standard passenger tires.
At Girard Tirecraft in Edmonton, we carry a wide range of trailer tire options and are here to help you choose the right one for your rig, cargo, and driving conditions.
What Makes Trailer Tires Different?
Trailer tires, often marked with an “ST” (Special Trailer), are made to support heavy vertical loads, not for steering or accelerating like car tires. They’re built with thicker sidewalls, more durable materials, and stiffer construction to handle the demands of towing.
While they may not need to corner like a vehicle tire, they do need to withstand heat, friction, and high pressure—especially when pulling heavy cargo at highway speeds. Using the wrong tire can increase your risk of blowouts, poor handling, and even trailer sway.
Why Trailer Tires Are So Important
Whether you’re transporting machinery, mobile homes, boats, or commercial goods, the right trailer tires can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a roadside emergency. Here’s why quality matters:
- Stronger Sidewalls = Less sway and more stability
- Reinforced Construction = Handles frequent stops, starts, and sharp braking
- Heat Resistance = Essential for long-distance hauling
- Longevity & Load Capacity = Built to take on the wear and tear of heavy use
At Girard Tirecraft, we help you select trailer tires that meet your specific load, speed, and terrain requirements.
Types of Trailer Tires
1. Radial Trailer Tires
Radial tires have plies running at a 90-degree angle to the tread, offering better heat dissipation, improved durability, and smoother rides—ideal for highway driving and long hauls.
Popular Radial Trailer Tire Options:
- Bridgestone R123 Ecopia™
- Designed for fuel efficiency and long-distance use
- NanoPro-Tech™ technology improves rolling resistance
- Tire Size: 295/75R22.5
- Load Range: G | Speed Rating: 120 km/h
- Firestone FS591™
- Built for steer and all-position use
- Lightweight sidewall design improves handling and fuel economy
- Tire Size: 295/75R22.5
- Load Range: G | Speed Rating: 120 km/h
2. Bias-Ply Trailer Tires
Bias-ply tires have plies that crisscross at 30 to 45-degree angles. They’re tougher in the sidewalls, making them perfect for lower-speed towing, rough terrain, or when your trailer sits unused for long periods.
Best for:
- Agricultural trailers
- Utility trailers
- Boat trailers
- Low-speed, off-highway use
They’re also more affordable and highly resistant to cuts and punctures—though they may not offer the same smooth ride as radial tires.
How Girard Tirecraft Can Help
At Girard Tirecraft in Edmonton, AB, we specialize in trailer tires for every use and budget. Whether you’re outfitting a commercial fleet, pulling a camper across the country, or backing your boat into the lake, we’ve got the right tires to keep you rolling safely.
Our expert team will help you:
- Choose between bias-ply and radial options
- Match tires to your trailer’s load requirements
- Install and balance your tires professionally
- Set you up for success on the road (or off it!)
Get the right trailer tires for the job.
Visit Girard Tirecraft or apply now for financing to make your next tire purchase even easier.