Common truck tyre sizes – guide to the right size
22 August 2026
Finding the right truck tyres starts with the size. 315/80R22.5, 315/70R22.5 and 385/65R22.5 are examples of common sizes for heavy trucks and trailers, but they are developed for different vehicles, axle positions and applications.
Here we explain how to read a tyre size, the difference between some of the most common dimensions, and what you should check when choosing new truck tyres.
Common truck tyre sizes
Some frequently used sizes are:
| Size | Common application |
| 315/80R22.5 | Steer and drive axles on heavy trucks |
| 315/70R22.5 | Steer and drive axles, including regional and long-haul transport |
| 385/65R22.5 | Common on steer axles as well as trailers |
| 385/55R22.5 | Found on steer axles and trailers, among others |
| 295/80R22.5 | Steer and drive axles on various types of heavy vehicles |
This table is a general guide. The same size can be available as steer tyres, drive tyres or trailer tyres, and the correct choice is always determined by the vehicle's specification and area of use.
What does 315/80R22.5 mean?
Tyre sizes can look complicated, but the designation contains a wealth of information about the tyre.
Let's take 315/80R22.5 as an example:
315 – the tyre's nominal width is 315 mm.
80 – the tyre profile (aspect ratio). The nominal sidewall height corresponds to 80 per cent of the tyre's width.
R – radial construction, which is standard for modern truck tyres.
22.5 – the rim diameter is 22.5 inches.
For a 315/80R22.5 tyre, the nominal sidewall height is therefore approximately 252 mm (315 × 0.80).
However, the size designation does not tell the whole story. When choosing truck tyres, you also need to consider factors such as load index, speed index, axle position, and the type of driving the tyre is engineered for.
315/80R22.5 – a common size for heavy trucks
315/80R22.5 is a common dimension on heavy trucks and is available as both steer and drive tyres.
This size is used on vehicles across several transport sectors, from regional distribution and long-haul transport to heavier applications where high load capacity and durability are vital characteristics.
It is important to differentiate between tyres even if the size is identical. A steer tyre in 315/80R22.5 has a different tread pattern and different characteristics compared to a drive tyre in the same size.
If you are looking for this size, browse our range of 315/80R22.5 truck tyres .
315/70R22.5 – lower profile
315/70R22.5 shares the same nominal width and rim diameter as 315/80R22.5, but has a lower profile.
Here, the nominal sidewall height is approximately 221 mm (315 × 0.70), compared to approximately 252 mm for 315/80R22.5.
This size is fitted to many modern trucks and is commonly used in regional distribution and long-haul transport. It is available in various patterns for steer and drive axles, among others.
See our 315/70R22.5 truck tyres for available options.
315/80R22.5 or 315/70R22.5 – what is the difference?
Because both sizes are 315 mm wide and fitted to 22.5-inch rims, they may appear almost identical at first glance.
The crucial difference lies in the profile:
315/80R22.5: approx. 252 mm nominal sidewall height
315/70R22.5: approx. 221 mm nominal sidewall height
This also affects the tyre's overall diameter and rolling circumference. You should therefore never assume that these sizes are directly interchangeable simply because the width and rim diameter are the same.
Always base your choice on the dimensions approved for your vehicle.
385/65R22.5 – wide dimension for steer axles and trailers
385/65R22.5 is significantly wider than the 315 sizes and is a standard dimension in heavy road transport. This size is commonly used on steer axles as well as on trailers. Which position the tyre is intended for is indicated by the specific tyre model. The nominal width is 385 mm, and the profile corresponds to 65 per cent of the width.
For haulage companies seeking this size, we have gathered our 385/65R22.5 truck tyres on a dedicated page.
385/55R22.5 – wider tyre with a lower profile
385/55R22.5 combines a nominal width of 385 mm with a lower profile of 55 per cent. The size is used on certain steer axles and trailers, among others. Compared to 385/65R22.5, the profile is lower, resulting in a difference in overall tyre diameter.
Explore our range of 385/55R22.5 truck tyres if you are looking for this size.
295/80R22.5 – narrower option with a high profile
295/80R22.5 has a nominal width of 295 mm and an 80 per cent profile.
This size is found on various heavy vehicle types and is available for different axle positions depending on the tyre model.
Here too, it is essential to check more than just the size itself. The load index and the tyre's designated axle position must match the vehicle and its intended application.
View our 295/80R22.5 truck tyres .
Steer tyres, drive tyres or trailer tyres?
Once you have found the correct size, the next question is where on the vehicle the tyre will be fitted.
Steer tyres
Steer tyres are engineered specifically for steering axles. Key characteristics here include steering precision, directional stability and even wear.
Depending on the truck, sizes such as 315/70R22.5, 315/80R22.5 and 385/65R22.5 are frequently fitted to steer axles.
Drive tyres
On the drive axle, tyres must efficiently transfer power from the truck to the road surface. Drive tyres therefore typically feature a more pronounced tread pattern to deliver maximum traction and grip.
Both 315/80R22.5 and 315/70R22.5 are common sizes for drive axles.
Trailer tyres
Tyres for trailers and semi-trailers are subjected to different kinds of stresses. Crucial factors here include stability, wear resistance, load capacity and rolling resistance.
385/65R22.5 is a widely used dimension on trailers and semi-trailers.
Load index – size is not the whole answer
Two tyres with the size 315/80R22.5 will not necessarily share the same characteristics or be approved for the same load capacity.
This is why additional markings appear alongside the size designation on the sidewall.
The load index indicates the maximum load the tyre is rated to carry under specified operating conditions, while the speed index specifies the maximum permitted speed rating.
This is particularly critical on heavy vehicles where axle loads can be very high. Always check the full tyre specification, not just the dimensions.
Which truck tyres should you choose in winter?
For trucks operating in Swedish winter conditions, you must also check the tyre's winter capabilities and markings.
Designations used on truck tyres include M+S and 3PMSF. The 3PMSF symbol – a three-peak mountain snowflake pictogram – verifies that the tyre meets certified performance requirements in winter conditions.
The applicable legal requirements depend on the vehicle type, axle position and the time of year.
Read more in our guide Winter tyres for trucks, where we cover winter tyres in detail and what to keep in mind ahead of the winter season.
How long does a truck tyre last?
Tyre lifespan depends on far more than just the dimensions. Tyre pressure, vehicle load, wheel alignment, driving style, road surface and tyre choice all influence wear rates.
For a haulage operator, the difference can be substantial. A tyre that wears unevenly or is run at the incorrect pressure may require replacement far sooner than a tyre that is operated and maintained correctly.
In our guide to truck tyre lifespan, we explore what you can do to minimise tyre wear and achieve greater mileage from your tyres.
How do I know which tyre size my truck needs?
The safest method is to check your vehicle's technical specifications to confirm which sizes are approved.
Then verify the following:
-
tyre size
-
load index
-
speed index
-
axle position
-
operating application
-
winter markings where relevant
Furthermore, the same truck may require different tyre sizes on different axles.
If you are unsure which option is suitable, you don't have to figure it out from the sidewall markings alone. At FHDäck, we help businesses and hauliers find the right tyres based on vehicle specifications and operating requirements.
Find truck tyres by size
At FHDäck, you will find truck tyres for all types of trucks, trailers and transport operations.
Looking for a specific size? Jump straight to:
You can also explore our complete range of truck tyres to find the right tyre by size and application.
Need assistance with your choice?
Contact FHDäck and we will help you find the right truck tyres for your vehicle.
Checking tyre pressure on truck tyres
Truck driving on a country road through green fields – illustration of tyre wear and tyre lifespan.
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