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Last updated 9/03/2025 - Originally published 9/23/2020
Written by SimpleTire, Expertly reviewed by Brett Antosh
The Ford Explorer stands as one of America's most popular SUVs, and choosing the right tires can transform your driving experience from ordinary to exceptional. Whether you navigate city streets, cruise highways, or venture off the beaten path, your Explorer's tires serve as the critical connection between your vehicle and the road.
Finding the perfect set of tires requires understanding your specific Explorer model and matching it with your unique driving needs. From the base model's 18-inch wheels to the performance-oriented ST trim with its larger fitments, each Explorer configuration demands careful tire selection to maximize safety, comfort, and value.
Your tire choice impacts everything from fuel economy to handling precision, making this decision more significant than many drivers realize. The right tires enhance your Explorer's capabilities while the wrong ones can compromise performance and potentially create safety concerns.
What Are the Best Tires for Your Ford Explorer?
While there are many outstanding tires choices for the Ford Explorer, we have handpicked the top five for you, based on their performance and SimpleScore ratings. The top three choices are the exceptional tires, and the fourth and fifth ones are great and good options on the market that are more focused on value. So, take a look at the top Ford Explorer tires and pick the one that better aligns with your budget and driving needs.
Continental CrossContact LX25
The Continental CrossContact LX25 is an excellent all-season tire that can be used on the Ford Explorer. This tire is rated an excellent overall SimpleScore of 9.1 and is also backed by an up to 70,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty. Its average starting price is $188 and is tuned for longer tread life, improved wet braking, reduced noise levels, and responsive handling. Additionally, the CrossContact LX25 is also offered in Outlined White Letter (OWL) and Black Sidewall (BSW) choices.
Get Continental CrossContact LX25 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2
Next, we have a capable all-weather tire that can let you drive your Ford Explorer confidently in dry, wet, and even winter weather conditions: the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2. This all-weather tire is offered at an average starting price of $183 and is rated an exceptional overall SimpleScore rating of 9.2. The Assurance WeatherReady 2 is also covered by a 60,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty and is also Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified for use in moderate to severe winter conditions. It is built and engineered to offer outstanding all-weather traction, better handling performance in snow, consistent grip, and enhanced control.
Get Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is another great choice for your Ford Explorer, and is good for people driving in regions that witness snowfall for over 6 months in a year. The tire can tackle thick layers of snow or ice and is rated a 9.0 overall SimpleScore rating. This Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified tire comes at an average starting price of $158 and is tuned to offer strong traction and grip on snow or ice, quieter rides, and enhanced ride comfort. Its optimized contact patch boosts stability and ride control on snowy surfaces.
Get Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Firestone Destination LE3
The Firestone Destination LE3 is another outstanding choice with a great 8.6 overall SimpleScore rating and offers drivers the convenience of driving in dry, wet, and light snow conditions. This all-season tire is covered by a 70,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty. The tire’s average starting price is $153 and is optimized for impressive light snow performance, increased fuel efficiency, quieter rides, long-lasting tread life, and solid year-round traction. Indeed, in the mid-price range, the Destination LE3 is a great tire for the Ford Explorer!
Get Firestone Destination LE3 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Americus Recon CUV
Maybe you are looking for a budget-friendly tire for your Ford Explorer, but don’t want to give up on the performance part, then you must consider the Americus Recon CUV. This all-season tire earns a respectable 8.2 overall SimpleScore rating and is available at an average starting price of $72. It is also covered by a 60,000 mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty and is specially optimized for long-lasting tread life, strong year-round traction, hydroplaning resistance, and improved handling performance.
Get Americus Recon CUV tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
How Do You Choose the Right Tires for Your Driving Style?
For Daily Commuters
For those who spend their weekdays navigating city streets and highways, tires that emphasize comfort and efficiency are key. Opt for all-season touring tires that prioritize a serene driving experience with minimal cabin noise. These tires are tailored for long-distance travel, offering a plush ride that reduces driver fatigue during extended drives.
For Winter Driving
Drivers who drive in deep snow or ice must consider the winter tires as they are specially optimized to tackle low temperatures and have sipes and other features to boost traction and grip on snowy and icy surfaces.
For Performance Enthusiasts
Drivers who crave an exhilarating experience behind the wheel, particularly in high-performance Explorer models, should focus on tires that enhance handling and responsiveness. Performance tires are specifically designed to support sporty driving, delivering precise control and exceptional grip. Their unique tread patterns and specialized compounds allow for confident cornering and acceleration.
While these tires may wear faster due to their focus on performance, they provide unmatched handling characteristics for spirited driving. In warmer regions, consider summer performance tires to maximize traction in dry conditions. Choosing the right performance tire can transform your driving experience, aligning perfectly with your vehicle's dynamic capabilities.
Selecting the perfect tires for your Ford Explorer doesn't have to be overwhelming when you understand your vehicle's needs and match them with your driving style. Armed with this knowledge about tire types, sizes, and performance characteristics, you're ready to make a confident decision that enhances your Explorer's capabilities while staying within your budget. When you're ready to shop for tires online and find the best deals, we make it easy to browse options, compare prices, and have your new tires delivered right to your door.