In the past, overlanders and 4WD enthusiasts had to choose from a relatively small selection of proven A/T tires, but in recent years overlanding has exploded in popularity, and so too has the selection of tires to choose from. Nitto has been at the forefront of this tire revolution and is clearly on a mission to create more rubber aimed towards an adventurous lifestyle. Just last year, I shared the release of their new all-terrain light truck tire, the Recon Grappler, and today we’re taking a look at their latest offering, the A/T Nomad Grappler.
The first key distinction is that this tire is aimed primarily at smaller vehicles, such as crossovers and compact SUVs, and will be available in 25 sizes, ranging from 17- to 20-inch diameter wheels. A/T tires offer consumers a sweet spot between on-road comfort and off-road capability; this means a tread pattern that is rugged enough to tackle harsh and technical surfaces while not being so aggressive that it negatively impacts on-road comfort and performance. This is no easy task, but Nitto states that the Grappler is “designed with a bold tread pattern to provide comfort on-road and traction in off-road and snowy conditions.” In off-road situations, the Nomad is engineered with staggered sidewall lugs (there are two different sidewall styles available) and zig-zag lateral grooves for better traction (these also help to displace water). While on the highway, a combination of tapered tread blocks and triangular sipes improves handling. Road noise can be a big issue with chunkier tires, but the Nomad addresses this problem with a “variable pitch” tread pattern that assists in reducing noise frequencies. The A/T package is completed with a desirable 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating and a 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty.
I think some companies are guilty of applying the A/T badge a little too readily to road tires with marginally chunkier tread, but it’s clear Nitto’s Nomad Grappler is a dedicated all-terrain tire designed to perform in all scenarios. Only time will tell how the Nomad performs long-term, but it’s exciting to see more purposeful A/T options coming to market.
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