35x12.50R20LT tires: size explained

A tire size describes the tire's shape and the wheel it fits. It says nothing about load capacity or speed capability, which are printed separately on the sidewall.

35Overall diameter

Flotation sizes are written in inches. The first number is the tire's overall height: 35.0 in (889 mm).

12.50Section width

The second number is the tire's width: 12.5 in (318 mm). There is no aspect ratio in a flotation size.

RRadial construction

R means radial construction, where the internal cords run across the tire from one edge to the other.

20Wheel (rim) diameter

The tire is made for a wheel 20 inches across. Its overall diameter is larger: about 35.0 in (889 mm).

SidewallSidewall height (calculated)

Half the difference between overall diameter and wheel diameter: (35 - 20) / 2 = 7.5 in (191 mm).

LTLT (light truck)

On flotation sizes LT is written after the size. It means light truck: a light-truck load standard. How much a specific tire can carry is set by its load index and load range on the sidewall, not by the size.

These are nominal design dimensions. Real tires vary by brand, tread depth, wheel width, load and pressure.

We list vehicles for a size only when we have verified fitment data for them. We don't have verified vehicles for 35x12.50R20LT yet, so check your own vehicle instead.

Confirm the size on your tire sidewall or door placard first. These links open each store's own search for 35x12.50R20LT; prices and stock are on their sites.

Where winter roads call for extra traction, chains and tire socks are two options that fit over your tires. They are made for specific tire sizes, so these links open Amazon searches for 35x12.50R20LT. Whether they suit your vehicle depends on its clearance and the local rules.

Paid links to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read our affiliate disclosure.

Before you buy

• Chains and socks are sold by tire size, so match the size on your sidewall exactly.
• Check your owner's manual first: many newer cars and SUVs limit or prohibit chains, or require low-profile (often called SAE Class S) chains because of tight wheel-well clearance.
• Tire socks are a lighter-duty option; check your state's rules, because some areas only accept chains when chain controls are in effect.
• Put them on the drive wheels (or as your manual says) and follow the maker's speed limit.

These common sizes have an overall diameter within about 3% of 35x12.50R20LT. A common rule of thumb is to keep a replacement size within about 3% of the original overall diameter. Confirm any size change with your vehicle's owner's manual or a tire professional.

Side-by-side dimensions and speedometer difference for sizes close to 35x12.50R20LT in overall diameter.

• 285/75R18 vs 35x12.50R20LT-0.48% shorter than 35x12.50R20LT
• 35x12.50R20LT vs LT285/75R18-0.48% shorter than 35x12.50R20LT
• 35x12.50R20LT vs LT275/50R24-0.49% shorter than 35x12.50R20LT
• 35x12.50R20LT vs LT305/70R18-0.54% shorter than 35x12.50R20LT
• 35x12.50R20LT vs LT305/55R22+0.60% taller than 35x12.50R20LT

See how another size differs in height, width, sidewall and speedometer reading in the tire size calculator.