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Last updated 4/15/2025 - Originally published 4/15/2025
Written by SimpleTire, Expertly reviewed by Brett Antosh
When it comes to tackling the toughest off-road challenges, mud-terrain tires are essential. Two prominent contenders in this category are the Dynapro MT2 RT05 from Hankook and the Trail Grappler M/T from Nitto. Both are engineered to provide maximum traction and durability in demanding conditions, but they have their own distinct characteristics.
The Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 is designed with a focus on robust off-road performance, featuring an aggressive tread pattern to grip mud, rocks, sand, dirt, gravel, and uneven terrains. It often incorporates features to enhance durability and resist damage, essential for serious off-road use.
Contrarily, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T also prioritizes off-road capability but aims to balance that with a degree of on-road comfort. While delivering strong traction in challenging situations, it is designed to manage noise levels and provide a smoother ride on paved surfaces compared to some other mud-terrain options.
Both tires promise solid off-road performance while holding great on-road practicality, but which is the one that is better? Let’s compare Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 vs Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires based on our proprietary SimpleScore scoring mechanism to know the best option.
Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 tires
Introduced in 2019, the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 is a mud-terrain tire designed for off-road enthusiasts. It features an aggressive tread pattern with large blocks and stone ejectors for strong traction in mud and rocks. The Dynapro MT2 RT05 is built with reinforced sidewalls to enhance durability and resist punctures.
While prioritizing off-road performance, the Hankook mud-terrain also reduces on-road noise for a more comfortable ride. A great option for light trucks and SUVs that frequently venture off the pavement, the latest iteration of the Dynapro MT uses an integrated linking system that merges shoulder and sidewall blocks seamlessly for extra rigidity and improved resistance to impacts.
With an 8.2 SimpleScore, the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 assures great year-round performance on and off the road.
Get Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires
The Nitto Trail Grappler M/T, stemming from the renowned Trail Grappler series, caters to drivers of SUVs and pickup trucks seeking strong off-road performance at a reasonable cost. This mud-terrain tire offers a unique dual sidewall design, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicle's look.
Beyond aesthetics, the Trail Grappler M/T is built for durability, featuring an advanced rubber compound that enhances resistance to cuts, punctures, and chips. The balanced tread void ratio ensures efficient removal of water, mud, and snow, maximizing traction and stability in challenging conditions. To further enhance its strength, the tire incorporates a 3-ply sidewall construction. Available in sizes from 17 to 26 inches, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T accommodates a wide range of SUVs and pickup trucks.
Boasting an 8.6 SimpleScore, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T assures a longer service life, great grip, traction, and durability in challenging conditions.
Get Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires at the best deals for your vehicle here
Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 vs Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires on traction
Traction is arguably the most critical factor in mud-terrain tires, particularly when traveling through deep ruts, wet rocks, or slick mud. Both the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 and the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T deliver great traction that digs in and keeps your truck or SUV moving forward. However, they take slightly different approaches.
Boasting an impressive SimpleScore of 8.3 in traction, the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 helps drivers maintain a strong grip across a wide range of rugged surfaces. Its aggressive tread pattern with massive shoulder lugs and stone ejectors enhances the ride quality. Thanks to the puncture-resistant rubber and 3D engineering, the Hankook mud-terrain tire offers great off-road stability. It is a dependable performer in muddy and uneven conditions.
On the other hand, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T has a slightly higher traction score of 8.4. It offers a balanced void ratio that effectively clears mud and dirt, while its 3-ply sidewall construction improves grip and durability on rough terrain. The aggressive tread pattern resists hydroplaning on wet surfaces, helping drivers retain control in different conditions.
Comparing the respective SimpleScores, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T gains a slight edge over the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 in traction. However, the Nitto tire is well-suited for varied terrains and unpredictable trails and registers its first win here.
ADVANTAGE: Nitto Trail Grappler M/T
Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 vs Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires on durability
When it comes to mud-terrain tires, durability helps drivers drive confidently in the harshest conditions, from sharp rocks to unpredictable mud pits. Both these tires resist punctures, abrasions, and wear while delivering dependable performance. Let’s check their durability score.
The Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 features a puncture-resistant rubber formulation for protection against impacts. Its high-tensile steel belts and reinforced shoulder lugs offer a solid defense against off-road damage. Scoring 8.6 in durability, the Dynapro MT2 RT05 provides dependable rides to drivers who regularly hit rough terrains.
Contrarily, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T also scores 8.6 in durability, performing equally well on beaten tracks. Its heavy-duty performance, along with the 3-ply sidewall construction and balanced void ratio, protects the tire from sharp objects and impacts. Meanwhile, the self-cleaning attributes help clear grooves from mud, stones, and debris for added durability.
Both these mud terrain tires perform equally well in durability, resisting damage and punctures with their robust constructions.
ADVANTAGE: Tie
Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 vs Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires on longevity
Mud-terrain tires often lack the longevity aspect as they face constant damage from rocks, mud, and uneven trails. A long-lasting tire means fewer replacements, better value, and consistent performance even after thousands of miles. When it comes to tread life and overall durability, both the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 and the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T offer adequate wearability.
The Dynapro MT2 RT05 features a puncture-resistant rubber compound and high-tensile steel belts, along with reinforced shoulder lugs that resist wear even on aggressive trails. Its SimpleScore for longevity stands at 8.1, which looks respectable, and demonstrates its long lifespan with rugged capacity.
However, the Trail Grappler M/T outshines the Dynapro MT2 RT05 with a higher SimpleScore of 8.9 in longevity. Its 3-ply sidewall construction and durable tread compound give it an edge as they protect the tire from deformation under heavy loads or while driving on uneven surfaces. The Nitto mud-terrain tire has been designed to endure extreme off-road conditions and withstand long stretches of highway without rapid wear. Additionally, its optimized tread design evenly distributes the driving pressure, leading to enhanced tread life.
For those looking for extended mileage without sacrificing toughness, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T will be the better choice in terms of longevity, both on and off the road.
ADVANTAGE: Nitto Trail Grappler M/T
When to use each
Mud-terrain tires are built to excel in mud, gravel, sand, rock, and other off-roading conditions. These tires come with aggressive tread designs that allow them to conquer any terrain. Their reinforced sidewalls prevent damage, which is critical for driving in such conditions.
The Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 will be a better choice if you’re looking for a well-rounded mud-terrain tire that balances aggression off-roads and comfort on the roads. It is ideal for adventurers who switch between daily driving and exploring beaten tracks on the weekends. Its puncture-resistant build and 3D tread design give it plenty of bite on loose terrain.
If you’re a hardcore off-roader who wants maximum durability and tread life, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T will be a better choice. With a higher longevity and 3-ply sidewalls, it’s perfect for vehicles navigating steep, muddy, or rocky tracks. Although it’s slightly louder on roads, it offers top-tier strength and traction off the roads. In short, the Dynapro MT2 is best for mixed-use, while the Trail Grappler M/T should be ideally used for extreme off-roading.
If you need a dependable tire that bridges the gap between all-terrain and mud-terrain tires, check out rugged terrain tires.
Which one should you choose?
The Nitto Trail Grappler M/T emerges as a clear winner with a higher SimpleScore of 8.6 and offering better traction and longevity. However, you should check out the individual traits of these tires before choosing one. Now, let’s check out the prices of these two mud-terrain tires and understand which one offers better value.
Considering the prices of the LT265/70R17 tire size, the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 costs $288 per tire, and four such tires cost $1,152. On the other hand, the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T costs around $302 per tire, and four such tires cost $1,208 (a difference of $56).
Based on SimpleScore, you can use the Hankook Dynapro MT2 RT05 if you:
- Drive vehicles like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Honda Pilot, and Jeep Wrangler
- Are looking for stone-ejection features
- Want a more cost-effective mud-terrain tire
- Are looking for a tire that balances off-roading and city drives
You can go for the Nitto Trail Grappler M/T if you:
- Drive vehicles like the Dodge RAM 2500, Jeep Gladiator, or Ford F-350
- Prioritize better traction (8.4 vs. 8.3)
- Want higher longevity (8.9 vs. 8.1)
- Need a tire purely for off-roading
Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.
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